RCN welcomes launch of NHS Constitution
Published: 21 January 2009
Commenting on the launch of the NHS Constitution for England, Dr Peter Carter, Chief Executive & General Secretary of the Royal College of Nursing said:
“The launch of a constitution to enshrine the principles and values of the NHS is welcome news. The pledge to ensure access to free NHS treatment is particularly necessary in a time of widespread financial complexity and challenges, both within the healthcare system and wider society.
“The constitution appropriately addresses violence towards NHS staff and reiterates the importance of providing a clean and safe working environment. On behalf of our members, we hope that the constitution can make a real difference to protecting NHS staff.
“We recognise the constitution introduces a legal right to choice, however, we believe it is the timely access to high quality information and support that is key.
“In practice the implementation and continuous evaluation of the constitution will be critical in ensuring it is truly beneficial to both patients and staff.”
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Notes for Editors
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
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.