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Early Career Nurse network

A community of early career nurses - connecting, learning and shaping the future of nursing together.


Welcome to the Early Career Nurse (ECN) Network

The Early Career Nurse Network brings together nurses in the first five years of practice, and nursing students approaching registration. Through peer support, networking and shared learning, we champion the voice of early career nurses and influence the issues that matter most to you.

Why join the Early Career Nurse Network?

  • To meet like-minded colleagues.
  • Explore current challenges and opportunities with your peers.
  • Share experiences, insights and expertise.
  • Help shape future priorities and activities that matter to early career nurses.
  • Discover who we are, what we do and how you can get involved.

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.

ECN Network Open Evening

Would you like to become part of a supportive community of early career nurses who learn, share, and grow together?

Join us for our online open evening on Wednesday 25 November, 6-7pm and:

  • Meet like-minded colleagues
  • Explore current challenges and opportunities
  • Share experiences and expertise
  • Help shape future priorities and activities
  • Discover opportunities to get involved.

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

RCN Member in library

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.

nurse standing on ward by bedside monitor 350x170

Day in the life

Watch these short films and discover what life’s like as an early career nurse.

Resources

Nurse with tablet computer

NRN handbook

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

Male advisor in an office talking using a telephone headset

Get help

Free, confidential advice, representation, and support on a range of issues that affect you at home and at work.

Get involved

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

Library

Learning resources for ECNs

With Europe's largest nursing library resource, RCN Learn and more, discover the resources available to you.

NQN money guide

Financial wellbeing

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

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 £8.53 per month for newly registered nurses in their first year of registration with the NMC.

Join a community of newly registered nurses working to progress professionally and uplift the nursing profession.

You are the future of nursing - and with RCN membership, you’ll have the largest legal team of any UK trade union, a dedicated 365-days-a-year support line and Europe’s largest nursing library at your fingertips. By joining with other members, you can develop your own skills and knowledge to drive change and influence the future of nursing.