RCN Congress is the pinnacle of the RCN’s event calendar with thousands of nursing staff from across the UK gathering to debate, learn, and network, with high-profile speakers, fringe events and an exhibition.

The roles of Chair and Vice Chair are vital to ensure its smooth running. Items on the debate and discussion agenda are put forward by members and include topics about what matters most to them in their nursing practice. Previous debates have included issues as varied as corridor care, digital transformation and assisted dying.

Members can vote on debates to be taken forward as future work for the RCN, pivotal for influencing government policy and cementing best practice.

New Chair of Congress, mental health nurse Clare Manley, brings strong leadership skills from her senior clinical role in the NHS, serving on the Congress Agenda Committee, as a branch chair and RCN steward, and as a former student member on the RCN Trade Union Committee.

Clare said: “I’m honoured to be elected as Chair of RCN Congress. My ambition is to ensure Congress remains a place where every member feels they belong, can contribute with confidence and have their voice heard.

“I’m committed to safeguarding the values members cherish most while supporting changes to improve accessibility, inclusion and engagement. I look forward to working with members and colleagues delivering a Congress that’s welcoming, representative and firmly focused on the needs of our profession.”

Supporting Clare in the role of Vice Chair, Dawn Marr is also a registered mental health nurse.

She previously served as a member of the RCN Students Committee and the Scotland Board and is currently an accredited RCN steward. Through these roles and time spent on the Congress Agenda Committee, Dawn is motivated by the need to address a diverse range of issues across the nursing profession and advocating for members’ voices in all settings.

“I’m so excited to be Vice Chair of RCN Congress,” said Dawn. “The event’s been a significant part of my RCN journey, and I’m proud to have contributed through a range of roles so far.

“As Congress continues to evolve, I’m honoured to ensure debates are inclusive, well managed and accessible, while supporting members to feel heard, valued and empowered to influence change.”

Clare and Dawn start their roles immediately and stay in them until the end of Congress 2028.

RCN Congress takes place in Liverpool from 24 to 28 May 2027. Look out for updates on how you can book your place or propose a debate.

Top image: Clare Manley (left) and Dawn Marr (right) pictured speaking at RCN Congress. Photography by Steve Baker.