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Early Career Nurses network

Created by ECNs for ECNs, we aim to add the unique perspective of the newly registered and early career to the voice of nursing while providing peer-to-peer support and guidance at the beginning of the nursing journey.


Welcome to the Early Career Nurses (ECN) Network

The Network brings together ECNs and students approaching graduation. Formally named the ‘newly registered nurse (NRN) network’, we’ve expanded our reach to support beyond NRN, up to 5 years post NMC registration. See below and discover more about who we are, what we do and how we can help with resources and guidance from those who’ve gone before. As well as how you can get involved too.

If you’d like to join this network, click the ‘join this network’ button above, and enter your email below to receive your welcome email.


The information you provide in this form will be stored by the RCN. Please view our privacy policy to find out more about the information we collect and how it is used.

Webinar: Leading your first shift in charge (December 2024)

ECN network live events

Our live events for early career nurses can assist you with some of the challenges and questions you may have.

Watch our informative events to learn about:

  • Finances after graduation
  • Applying for and getting your first role as a registered nurse
  • Leading your first shift in charge
  • Transitioning from student to newly registered nurse.

Visit our webpage for further information and upcoming live event dates.

What we do 

Nurse with tablet computer

About us

Find out more about the ECN Network and how we can support you.

Blogs

Read the latest views from the ECN network curators in our blog.

Public Health Forum Our Work

Our work

Discover what we're working on now and what we're planning for the future
NRN network member

Day in the life of an NRN

Watch these short films from RCN ECN network members to discover what your future career in nursing could look like.
Public health forum meet the team

Meet the team

Find out more about our committee members 
Library

Career resources

Our careers resources can help you improve your employability and become job-ready.

Resources

Nurse with tablet computer

NRN handbook

Providing guidance on the foundations of good practice, preceptorship, your employment and more.

NQN money guide

Financial wellbeing

Access this an online resource to help ensure you are making the most of your money when you graduate.

Get involved

Find your local RCN Branch today to become more active in the RCN and get support.

Library

Library

The RCN is home to Europe's largest available nursing-specific collection of resources.

Members at RCN Congress

Congress

Join us in Liverpool for the nursing event of the year.

Forums and networks

Join one or more of our forums and networks and make a vital contribution to the professional voice of the RCN.  

50% discount membership - just £8.41 per month for newly registered nurses in their first year of registration with the NMC.

By joining the RCN as a newly registered nurse (NRN), you’ll benefit both professionally and personally. We’re here to help with difficulties, as well as your development – with the largest legal team of any UK union, a 365-days-a-year helpline, access to Europe’s largest nursing library, member discount offers and much more.