Representing Defence Nursing at RCN Congress: The Power of Debate and Resolution

Attending the Royal College of Nursing (RCN) Congress in Liverpool as a member of the Defence Nursing Forum Steering Committee and a voting member was both a privilege and a valuable opportunity to contribute to the future direction of our profession.

RCN Congress is one of the most important events in the nursing calendar, bringing together nursing staff from across all fields, specialities, and regions of the United Kingdom. It provides a unique platform where members can debate issues affecting nursing, influence policy, and help shape the work of the RCN. For those attending as voting members, Congress is much more than a conference—it is a democratic forum where the voice of nursing can be heard and translated into meaningful action.

Congress provides insight into the diversity of perspectives represented within the debating hall. Nurses from clinical practice, education, leadership, research, community services and primary care. Listening to these varied viewpoints reinforces the breadth and complexity of modern nursing while highlighting the shared challenges faced across the profession.

The debates themselves are the heart of Congress. They provide an opportunity for members to discuss issues that matter deeply to nurses, patients, and healthcare systems. Whether the subject is workforce wellbeing, professional development, patient safety, equality, staffing levels, or the future of healthcare delivery, the debate process ensures that members can voice their opinions, challenge assumptions, and share evidence from practice.  What makes these debates particularly important is that they are not simply discussions. They directly inform the resolutions that Congress votes upon. Resolutions represent the collective position of the membership and can influence the priorities, campaigns, and policy work undertaken by the RCN and help shape the future.

As a Defence Nursing Forum Steering Committee member, it was especially important to ensure that the unique experiences and perspectives of defence nurses were represented. Defence nursing spans a diverse range of environments, from primary healthcare and occupational health to operational deployments and specialist clinical roles. While many of our challenges mirror those faced by colleagues across the NHS and independent sectors, defence nursing also operates within distinctive organisational and operational contexts. 

Beyond the formal debates and voting, Congress offers opportunities to network, learn, and collaborate and catch up with old friends and colleagues.

Reflecting on my experience in Liverpool, I was reminded of the strength that comes from collective professional voice. Congress demonstrates that when nurses come together to debate important issues and vote on resolutions, they can influence change at local, regional, and national levels. The passion, expertise, and commitment shown by delegates throughout the event highlighted the vital role that nursing plays in shaping healthcare policy and improving outcomes for patients and communities.

For defence nurses, engagement with Congress is an important way to ensure our unique experiences contribute to wider professional discussions. By participating in debates, supporting resolutions, and exercising our voting rights, we help ensure that the voice of defence nursing remains visible within the broader nursing profession.

RCN Congress 2026 in Liverpool was a powerful reminder that every voice matters, every vote counts, and meaningful change often begins with informed debate.