The RCN's position

The NHS trade unions, including the RCN, and the TUC have strong reservations that the TCS process may lead to fragmentation of NHS services and increased use of the private sector to deliver public services for private profit. There is also a threat to NHS job security and potential job losses.

The RCN believes that any change in local services should represent the best interests of both NHS patients and staff. 

The RCN believes any proposals for change in local services, including social enterprise, should be considered on a case by case basis, on its merit in the local context and assessed against the RCN's principles.

Involving RCN members throughout any changes will be critical to ensuring that the staff who know best about what works locally to deliver quality services, have their voices heard. PCTs must engage with trade unions including the RCN to ensure input and involvement in any proposed changes, including new employment models. It is important that all trade unions work together to ensure that changes in local health services represent the best interests of patients and staff. 

The RCN believes equality impact assessments must be undertaken as part of any options appraisal.

The RCN believes that there should be a nurse director on the board of every primary care trust.