Today, nursing staff across our region face daily challenges that would have been unthinkable a generation ago: unsafe staffing levels, practices like corridor care, declining standards, and low pay. These pressures impact on nursing staff as well as patients.

When I began my nurse training, one of the first things my friends and I did was join the Royal College of Nursing. At the time it felt like the ‘right thing to do’ and just another step on the journey.

Looking back now, it was one of the most important decisions I made early in my career.

One thing that has not changed: when nursing staff stand together, our voice gets louder. Through the RCN, we can take on the biggest issues, campaigning for fair pay, safe staffing, and better patient care. In times like these, being part of a trade union is not just helpful, it is essential.

Most new members join because a colleague or friend told them about the protection the RCN provides. But membership offers so much more, from workplace representation and legal support to learning resources, library, careers guidance, counselling, and forums.

Being an RCN member means joining the largest nursing-specific union and professional body in the UK. And you have already taken that vital step.

Now, it is easier than ever to share those benefits with others. If you are a member in the northern region, you can refer a friend or colleague to join the RCN and you will both receive a reward as a thank you.

It is a simple way to support your colleagues, strengthen our collective voice, and enjoy a small perk for helping grow our community.

Visit our Refer and Reward page to find out more and start spreading the word to collect your rewards.