As a future registered nurse, your involvement in all things nursing is crucial. But with so much in your diary, and deadlines looming, where do you start? Here are five simple steps you can take today.
1. Join our campaigns
It’s no secret the UK needs more nursing staff, and every nursing student deserves a solid start. If you agree, get involved in our campaigns covering what matters: from fair pay, to safe staffing, to job guarantees on graduation. They really do make a difference.
By signing up to our campaign supporter email list, you will receive the most up-to-date news on campaigns and simple digital actions you can take to speak up for the profession.
When campaigning makes a difference
Despite nursing shortages in the workforce, many of our student members told us it was tough finding their first role after graduation. But recently, the tireless campaigning of our nursing students delivered a win for newly registered nurses in England, where the problem was particularly highlighted.
The Westminster government heard our demands and has launched a nurse and midwife Graduate Guarantee in England.
But the fight continues. Nursing students across the UK often report financial hardship when completing their degrees. This sadly means that many choose not to stay in the profession.
Find out more about the situation in each country and sign up to get the latest campaign news.
Government policies affect all areas of nursing and will have an impact on all elements of your future career – don’t shy away from getting political.
If you care about the big nursing issues and want to raise awareness with those in power, use our guide to lobby your MP or local representative.
2. Run for the students committee
The RCN UK Students Committee provides a voice for thousands of our student members.
Did you know there is a student member of council? And through them, the committee can influence RCN policy and strategy on vital matters relating to nursing students and your education.
Find out more about the RCN UK Students Committee, look out for opportunities to stand, and share your views, ideas or concerns with them today by emailing students@rcn.org.uk.
3. Share your story
While the Graduate Guarantee scheme in England is a step in the right direction, we know that challenges still remain for newly registered nurses searching for a job. If you’re currently applying for a newly registered nurse role, why not send us a short selfie video describing your experiences?
Your stories are one of the most powerful tools we have to fight for change – we might end up sharing it on our social media to support our campaigns.
If you’ve got an experience you’re burning to share, you can also contact the RCN Magazine team with your idea at rcn.magazine@rcn.org.uk. There’s a chance it could get turned into a feature or video, reaching thousands of readers and viewers.
You can discover other students’ stories and follow RCN Students on Instagram.
4. Attend one of our events and join a forum
Coming along to one of our events is a great chance to learn, connect with others and help shape nursing now and in the future.
Don’t miss the biggest event in the nursing calendar: RCN Congress 2026, taking place from 18 to 21 May. It’s the place to network, hear from interesting keynote speakers and take part in vibrant debates about issues affecting nursing. And it’s free to attend.
With a day dedicated to students, and the buzzing location in Liverpool, we hope you'll leave Congress feeling energised, inspired, and ready for the next step in your nursing journey.
The RCN Students' Festival is also on the horizon. Hold 13 June in your diary for a day of celebration, networking and learning for nursing students taking place in Manchester. Look out for further details coming soon.
In the meantime, join one of the RCN professional forums. These provide a great platform to contribute in consultations, to network with your peers, and to explore career development opportunities.
5. Become a student ambassador
Do you feel passionate about making a difference for nursing students in a similar boat to yourself?Are you keen to speak up for the student nursing community, and take our campaigns further?
Do you want to strengthen the voice of nursing and encourage others to join the RCN?
If you answered "yes" to these three questions, you may have what it takes to become an RCN student ambassador. Find out more.
Finally…
Look out for opportunities to be involved in the RCN locally. From becoming an RCN rep when you’re a registered nurse, to campaigning or attending a branch event, find out what’s happening close to you.
And don’t forget to follow us on social media. You’ll find us on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, LinkedIn, Bluesky and TikTok.
