RCN statement on pensions

Published: 25 July 2011

Responding to reports that Health Secretary Andrew Lansley has raised concerns over proposed pension changes, Royal College of Nursing Chief Executive & General Secretary Dr Peter Carter said:

“We are pleased to see that the Secretary of State for Health acknowledges just how damaging these proposed pension changes could be to dedicated nurses, particularly the idea that staff could need to work a full 48 year career to receive a full pension. Nursing is demanding in so many different ways and for many, the idea of continuing to carry out back-breaking work until the age of 68 is unthinkable.

“We would urge the Government to carefully consider this letter and work closely with organisations such as the RCN to deliver fair pensions for public sector workers.”

-Ends -

Notes for Editors

1.For further information, interviews or illustrations please contact the RCN Media Office on 0207 647 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 organisations