As a Nursing Support Worker, I am passionate about making sure our voices are heard. Nursing Support Workers bring a wealth of knowledge, skills, and experience to the professions we support, and it is important that we have a strong voice within the RCN.

My own journey with the RCN has shown me just how much Nursing Support Workers can achieve when we get involved. I started as an RCN Learning Representative and Steward, supporting members and promoting learning and development opportunities. Those roles helped me build confidence, develop new skills, and understand the difference we can make when we step forward and speak up.

Since then, I have had the privilege of serving as Vice Chair and now Chair of the RCN Nursing Support Worker Committee. Through these roles, I have represented Nursing Support Workers nationally, contributed to discussions on education, career development, workforce issues, and professional recognition, and ensured our voices are heard where decisions are being made. I have also represented Nursing Support Workers at RCN Congress, speaking up on issues that matter to our profession.

One thing I am particularly passionate about is making sure Nursing Support Workers know that the RCN is for them, wherever they work. Nursing Support Workers are employed across independent hospitals, care homes, community services, mental health services, learning disability services, hospices, charitable organisations, and many other settings. Although our workplaces may look different, we all play a vital role in delivering high-quality care and supporting the people we care for.

Getting involved does not mean you have to take on a national role. There are many ways to make a difference, whether that is attending branch meetings, voting in elections, joining a committee, or becoming a Learning Rep, Steward, or Safety Rep. Every contribution matter, and these opportunities can help you develop new skills, build confidence, expand your network, and influence the issues that affect you.

I would encourage every Nursing Support Worker to consider getting involved. Throughout my own journey, I have seen first-hand the impact Nursing Support Workers can have when we come together, share our experiences, and support one another. Our profession deserves to be recognised, respected, and valued, and that starts with us having a voice.

The RCN is your college too. Don't sit on the sidelines - get involved, have your say, and help shape the future of Nursing Support Workers.

Together, our voice is stronger, our influence is greater, and our contribution cannot be ignored.