RCN response to the report by the Commission on Dignity in Care for Older People

Published: 29 February 2012

The Royal College of Nursing (RCN) today (29 Feb) responded to the report for consultation by the Commission on Dignity in Care for Older People. RCN Chief Executive & General Secretary, Dr Peter Carter said:

“There is much to welcome in this report, particularly the recognition that many older people have complex needs that require dedicated nursing care. We also welcome the focus on the vital leadership role of the ward sister or charge nurse, and the need to empower them so that hospitals can provide the highest possible standards of patient care.

“However, worryingly the Dr Foster Hospital Guide last year found wide variations in staffing levels across the country, while we know some Trusts are cutting staff numbers by up to a quarter and axing a third of nursing posts in order to save money. It is absolutely critical that hospitals and care homes employ safe numbers of nurses with the correct skill mix. This is the key challenge that must be met if hospitals and care homes are to meet the growing health needs of the population. We would once again urge the Government to take on board the need for guaranteed safe staffing levels as a matter of urgency.”

Notes for Editors

1. For further information, please contact the RCN Media Office on 020 7647 3633, press.office@rcn.org.uk or visit  http://www.rcn.org.uk/newsevents/media

2. The Royal College of Nursing (RCN) is the voice of nursing across the UK and is the largest professional union of nursing staff in the world. The RCN promotes the interest of nurses and patients on a wide range of issues and helps shape healthcare policy by working closely with the UK Government and other national and international institutions, trade unions, professional bodies and voluntary organizations.