The 2026 RCN Congress has come and gone, leaving behind lasting memories and valuable lessons. Representing the Perioperative Forum in Liverpool for the past two years has been a truly rewarding opportunity that I thoroughly enjoyed and will not forget. It was a fantastic opportunity to learn, listen, and engage with nursing colleagues from across the United Kingdom. Returning to Liverpool for a second time felt familiar and relaxing, but the week was filled with a packed program of activities, discussions, and networking opportunities.

The Congress began with the traditional branch meeting and quiz session. It was wonderful to reconnect with colleagues from my branch and participate in the quiz, which provided a fun and enjoyable start to the week. These informal gatherings are always a great way to strengthen professional relationships and build a sense of community.

The main Congress program officially commenced on Monday with the opening ceremony and an address from the RCN President. This was followed by a series of debates that continued throughout the week until the closing session on Thursday. The debates covered a wide range of important issues affecting nursing and healthcare, providing delegates with opportunities to share experiences, challenge ideas, and influence the future direction of the profession.

One of the most valuable aspects of Congress was the opportunity to learn from the diverse experiences and perspectives of colleagues working in different healthcare settings. The discussions were insightful, inspiring, and often thought-provoking.

I had the opportunity to engage in a meaningful discussion with our Forum Chair, Angeline. We reflected on the challenges currently facing the forum and shared constructive ideas on how to improve and move forward.

Overall, attending the Congress was a rewarding experience. It reignited my passion for nursing, strengthened my commitment to professional advocacy, and reminded me of the power of nurses working together to drive positive change. I left Liverpool feeling motivated, encouraged, and hopeful about the future of our profession.

The 2026 RCN Congress was more than just a conference, it was a reminder of the strength, resilience, and collective voice of nursing.