We completed our banding review application as a grouped (batched) submission, which we found to be an extremely beneficial approach. As we all undertake the same role, with the same duties and responsibilities from shift to shift, completing the application together allowed us to present a consistent and accurate picture of the role we deliver. 

For a long time, staff within our department had felt that the responsibilities, knowledge and level of practice required within our role extended beyond what would traditionally be expected of a band 5 post. However, we had never had a clear road to follow in challenging how our role has changed over the years. The band 5 review process gave us the opportunity to formally reflect on our role, identify the responsibilities we undertake and evidence the level at which we are working. 

The application itself was a significant undertaking. It took us over a year to complete, with six of us working collaboratively throughout the process, but it really gave us the opportunity to examine our role and ensure that we were accurately representing what we do. Defining our role within the application and the word limits was not always straightforward, and there were many occasions when we revisited, edited and reworked sections before we were satisfied with them. 

Completing the application as a group was particularly valuable during the more challenging stages of the process. There were times when we felt like giving up, but the support we gave one another made a real difference in helping us move through these difficulties. Ultimately, it was this sense of teamwork and mutual encouragement that kept us motivated and helped us to persevere when the process felt most difficult. 

Though the guidance provided by the RCN is clear, comprehensive and well structured, we found that the application itself could be easily misunderstood, particularly for those who are unfamiliar with the review process and the way in which roles need to be evidenced. 

This was where the support of the RCN proved invaluable. In particular, the guidance and support from our local RCN representative was instrumental in helping us understand the process and ensuring that we remained focused on what needed to be evidenced. His support, particularly as we approached the final stages of our submission, gave us the confidence to continue and helped us navigate some of the more challenging aspects of the application. We remain incredibly grateful for the time, guidance and encouragement he gave us throughout the process.

Having now successfully achieved our uplift to band 6, the significance for us goes far beyond the financial aspect. It is about having our role formally recognised for what it is and acknowledging the level of responsibility, knowledge, skills and contribution that we bring to our department. It is reassuring to know that the role we have been undertaking has now been appropriately recognised and correctly banded. 

We would strongly encourage other band 5 nurses who feel that their role may not accurately reflect the level at which they are working to consider undertaking the review process. For us, the journey was challenging, lengthy and at times frustrating, but ultimately, it was incredibly worthwhile. Most importantly, it has provided recognition of the role we deliver every day.