The power of connection

“It’s great to feel we’re not alone”.

This statement came via some feedback from a nurse who had attended our recent roundtable event. They had come to realise, through discussion, that an issue they had been having in their organisation was experienced by others in the group. They were reassured to know it wasn’t just them that was challenged by it.

As RCN Wales has developed relationships with organisations and our members across independent health and social care (IHSC) settings in Wales, I have seen this sentiment play out. I've also seen how members can support each other once connected to each other. There is power in these connections. I really love seeing nursing staff talking to other nursing staff, solving problems together or simply helping each other out.

I understand that when our work is so focused on our individual organisation, it’s difficult to find the time to look up and see what is going on in other areas. But there is so much we can learn from each other.

Our work in Wales seeks to connect nursing staff across IHSC together, to share good practice and challenges, to develop peer support relationships, and to build our collective voice in order to articulate our value.

Remember: you are not alone! I look forward to making more of these meaningful connections with you and providing opportunities for you to connect with your colleagues around Wales this year.

Why not join us at our next IHSC roundtable discussion?

The roundtable will be facilitated by my colleague, Majella Kavanagh, RCN Wales Independent Sector & Community Advisor), and Nicki Hockly, Bryn Celyn Care Home General Manager. We'll be exploring the RCN Nursing Workforce Standards and how they can support you and your teams and Nicki will be sharing her story and experience of implementing the RCN Workforce Standards in her workplace.

Date: Tuesday 2 July 2024

Time: 1.30-4pm

Location: Dyfodol, Grove House, Grove Place, Swansea  SA1 5DF

More info: email Sian.Wilson@rcn.org.uk by Friday 21 June if you'd like to find out more and book your place. Please also indicate if you'd like to attend a tour of the facility beforehand at 1.15pm. This event is open to RCN members and non-members.

I hope to see you there!