RCN Congress 2026 was a fantastic opportunity for the District and Community Nursing Forum to champion the voices of community nursing staff and the people we care for every day. Across the week, Forum members took part in debates, events and discussions that highlighted both the challenges and the opportunities facing community nursing.

One of the key debates we supported focused on improving access to palliative and end of life care across the UK. As community nurses, we see first-hand the difference that high-quality care can make to people and their families at some of the most difficult times in their lives. Much of this care is delivered at home, where skilled and compassionate nursing helps people remain comfortable, supported and cared for in the place they choose. The debate reinforced the need for greater investment, workforce development, and fair access to services, regardless of where people live. 

The Forum also supported discussions around lone working and health and safety. Community nurses often work independently, travelling between patients' homes and managing increasingly complex care needs. Staff safety must always be a priority, and Congress provided an important platform to highlight the need for practical measures that help nurses feel safe and supported while delivering care in the community.

Another issue that resonated strongly was the impact of rising fuel costs and wider cost-of-living pressures on nursing staff. For district and community nurses, travel is an essential part of their job. Many colleagues cover significant distances each day, often facing increasing fuel and vehicle costs. The Forum supported calls for fair reimbursement and pay, recognising that supporting the nursing workforce is vital for recruitment, retention and the delivery of high-quality patient care.

Alongside the debates, Forum members shared examples of innovation, leadership and best practice from community services. Through news updates, articles and conversations with delegates, we helped raise awareness of the vital role community nursing plays in prevention, early intervention and supporting people to remain independent at home.

We were also delighted to host a sustainability learning event focused on sustainable clinical practice in community nursing. The session sparked excellent discussion and showcased practical ways community teams are reducing waste, improving efficiency, and embedding sustainability into everyday care. It was encouraging to see so much enthusiasm for making healthcare greener while maintaining the highest standards of patient care.

Looking back, I am incredibly proud of the contribution made by Forum members throughout Congress. Whether advocating for better palliative and end of life care, championing staff safety, highlighting workforce pressures or leading conversations about sustainability, the District and Community Nursing Forum ensured community nursing had a strong voice.

Congress reminded us that when nurses come together, we can influence policy, share learning and drive positive change for our profession and the communities we serve.