The Royal College of Nursing has been closely involved in the early development of ACCEND, leading on from the creation of the Career Pathway and Education Framework for Cancer Nursing and the accompanying Higher Education Toolkit. This work was led by Professor Vanessa Taylor, former member of the RCN Cancer Forum Committee, whose expertise helped shape the foundations of the national programme.

We continue to champion the adoption of ACCEND across the UK and actively encourage our members to use the framework within their workplaces to support professional development, workforce planning, and high quality cancer care. We recognise that implementation approaches vary across Wales and Scotland, and we advise members to speak directly with their local cancer nursing leads for the most accurate and up to date guidance.

The RCN Cancer Forum and the RCN Professional Lead for Long Term Conditions have also met with cancer nursing representatives in Northern Ireland and fully support the development and implementation of the Northern Ireland Cancer Nursing Clinical Career Pathway. This ensures that members in Northern Ireland are equally supported to access clear, consistent, and progressive career development opportunities aligned with ACCEND principles.

Hayley Leonard, Chair of the RCN Cancer Forum Committee 2026