RCN employment standards mark first anniversary with new member resources

Last year, we launched the RCN Employment Standards for Independent Health and Social Care Sectors, which outlines the seven standards we expect from employers of nursing staff in these settings. The RCN is reminding members of the vital protections they offer.

Fair pay, and terms and conditions – including pay scales, job evaluation schemes and equitable policies for staff – are included in the standards.

We’ve developed new resources including a workplace poster and crib sheet for RCN reps, to help promote the Employment Standards and encourage conversation about how they can be used in workplaces.

The standards came from a resolution at RCN Congress. They're a direct result of the experience of our members and a vital resource to ensure staff are protected and employers know the standards they should be meeting.

Those working in independent health and social care (IHSC) settings are such a vital part of the nursing workforce. Their importance has never been greater, as governments across the UK want to move more care into the community – meaning those working in the independent sector will have an even larger part to play in health and care. 

It has never been more important for those working in IHSC settings to know they are entitled to be protected at work. The standards are also there to help guide commissioners of care, to know what standards they should expect from their contractors.

Despite the valuable role of IHSC nursing staff, there remain tens of thousands of vacant posts, with experienced staff leaving and some of the most vulnerable patients missing out on the care they need.

Even with the standards in place, we know some people working in these settings can face exploitation. Reports include agencies selling fake jobs, locking staff into unfair contracts, and withholding passports over arbitrary charges. The standards aim to empower nursing staff to recognise their rights and seek help when needed. 

RCN General Secretary and Chief Executive Professor Nicola Ranger said: “Everyone who works in health and care deserves to be treated with respect and for their employer to meet the highest of standards.

"The RCN Employment Standards are there for employees to know their rights and where to get help when they need it. I would urge all those working for independent health and social care providers to use the help and advice they provide, not only to protect themselves but also to show to their employers what is expected of them. I also encourage all employers to adopt the standards as a minimum.

"As well as helping some of our members at work now, the standards have been used to lobby the Westminster government on the Employment Rights Bill currently making its way through parliament.

"It is our Employment Standards that are driving change for all health and care staff. They have already delivered progress, and I would urge all our members to keep using them to ensure employers continue to deliver for the nursing workforce.”