RCN Bulletin 324: February 2015

NHS pay offer:

page 3

HANDLING COMPLAINTS NEWS DIGEST P3 CONGRESS COUNTDOWN ANALYSIS P4 SUPPORTING SURVIVORS FEATURES P10 ISSUE NO. 324 FEBRUARY 2015 NURSING COUNTS RCN GENERAL ELECTION PRIORITIES P8

ELECTIONS.RCN.ORG.UK NEWS DIGEST

The RCN represents nurses and nursing, promotes excellence in practice and shapes health policies.

Editors: Kim Scott/Daniel Allen Editorial: 020 7647 3627 Email: [email protected] Web: www.rcn.org.uk/bulletin Address: 20 Cavendish Square, London W1G 0RN Classified advertising Services stretched Scotland investment Tel: 020 8423 1333 Fax: 020 8872 3197 The NHS is struggling and stretched The RCN has welcomed the Scottish Email: too thinly, the RCN has said in Government’s announcement that [email protected] response to a report from the King’s £100 million is to be invested in the Fund, which found that pressures on NHS over three years to tackle Acceptance of an advertisement We must make does not constitute an A&E are causing serious knock-on delayed discharges. Theresa Fyffe, effects for other services. Waiting sure the money RCN Scotland Director (pictured), endorsement of a product, makes a difference service or company, either by times for treatment are getting longer said this is an important first step in the RCN or RCN Publishing. as the NHS struggles with demand, starting to tackle the pressures in the report says. The RCN believes hospitals. However, she warned: “It For RCN country and problems are most visible in A&E is only one element of the pressure regional contact details visit but the whole NHS is affected. on beds and we must make sure that www.rcn.org.uk or call RCN the money is used for the purpose it’s Direct on 0345 772 6100. intended for and makes a difference.” Termination response © Copyright 2015. RCN Publishing Company Limited and The RCN has responded to a The Royal College of Nursing. Northern Ireland Department of China delegation For full copyright statement visit Justice consultation on proposed A delegation of Chinese health www.rcnpublishing.co.uk. Printed changes to the law on the termination managers visited the RCN to find on environmentally friendly paper of pregnancy. The response indicates out more about the College’s work from sustainable forests. broad support for the proposed on children’s and women’s health legislative changes covering lethal and gain an understanding about foetal abnormality, rape and sexual how the RCN influences policy in crime. It also backs the possible these areas. The 18-strong party alteration in the law to establish, for requested the visit after seeing the the first time in Northern Ireland, a RCN publication: Defining Staffing legal right of conscientious objection Levels for Children and Young for nurses and other health People’s Services. They plan to use Financial advice at professionals, an issue consistently these standards as a blueprint for highlighted by the College. delivering improved services when the click of a button they return home. Investing doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive. NHS England A new low cost online Welsh award open investment service from Members who transferred into NHS Lighthouse could be just what England in April 2013, and those who Members in Wales are encouraged you’re looking for – it makes have started working for the to apply for the Chief Nursing Officer online investing simple. Why organisation since, are asked to (CNO) for Wales’ Betsi Cadwaladr not use it for your Individual ensure that their new employment Scholarship Foundation Award. Savings Account (ISA)? Visit details are up to date. “Without the Open to registered nurses and www.rcn.org.uk/xtra for more correct employer details we can’t get midwives, the award of £1,500 will information. in touch with members affected by be presented to the applicant who change,” said Sue Bucksey, RCN has achieved excellence in Employment Relations Adviser. leadership, clinical practice, research www.rcn.org.uk/myrcn or education. www.rcn.org.uk/wales

WWW.RCN.ORG.UK/BULLETIN RCN BULLETIN FEBRUARY 2015 Members consider NHS pay offer

Direct satisfaction Members are to vote on whether to The RCN says the offer is the best accept the latest government that can be negotiated and goes Nearly all members are satisfied proposal to settle the ongoing pay some way towards meeting the with services provided by RCN dispute. Vice Chair of RCN Council original demands in the dispute. Direct. In two recent surveys, Lors Allford said: “At an emergency members were asked to rate their The membership Council meeting we agreed But the College warned that there experience of calling the RCN should have the unanimously that the membership is more to do. Dr Peter Carter, RCN Direct membership and advice final say should have the final say.” Chief Executive, said: “The contact centres. In both cases, Government must recognise that the overall satisfaction rate was The new offer from the Government the only solution to the 90 per cent. Members were also came after sustained campaigning recruitment crisis, which is more likely to recommend the and lobbying work by the RCN and hammering staff morale and RCN to someone else than in the other NHS unions. Details are patient care, is a sensible long-term previous year. included in consultation emails and workforce strategy with fair pay at letters to be sent to members who its core.” work for the NHS in England. Complex complaints The proposal honours the As previously reported in RCN recommendation of the independent Bulletin, different arrangements are The way complaints are handled in NHS Pay Review Body (PRB) for a in place in Wales and Scotland. the NHS is still too complex, MPs consolidated one per cent pay rise for No offer has been made in have said. A report by the all staff up to band 8c. A consolidated, Northern Ireland. Commons health select committee or permanent, pay rise is taken into said there should be a single, easily account when calculating allowances Meanwhile, the RCN What if...? identified gateway for complainants and pensions. campaign to defend pay and to ensure their concerns are conditions will continue. Members handled by the most appropriate The Government has also proposed in selected NHS workplaces in organisation. an increment freeze in 2015/16 for England and Northern Ireland are staff on and above band 8a but has being encouraged and assisted to The RCN welcomed the report, offered a longer-term commitment seek time off in lieu or payment for saying it should help clarify to the PRB. excess hours worked. processes for members. The College stressed that every patient complaint is a valuable opportunity for the NHS to review its service and to improve standards of care.

The RCN also backed the recommendation that NHS staff who raise concerns must be properly supported. A new RCN guide makes it easier for members to assess whether a situation they have witnessed or experienced should be raised as a concern. Download Good Practice for Get the latest news Handling Feedback from on pay at www.rcn.org.uk/publications www.rcn.org.uk/whatif Pay deal: members to decide

RCN BULLETIN FEBRUARY 2015 WWW.RCN.ORG.UK/BULLETIN ANALYSIS

Bournemouth beckons for lively debates

Booking will soon open for RCN Stuart McKenzie (pictured), who Congress 2015, which this year this year will chair Congress for the returns to Bournemouth first time, urged members to book their place early. “If you’ve never Congress is a massive event in the been to Congress before, I can College’s calendar. Through a series promise you that attending for the Attending for the of member-led debates and first time will be an experience you first time will be discussions, it shapes professional won’t forget,” said Stuart. “And for an experience nursing practice and the direction those who are regulars, all of us on He added: “The general election has you won’t forget of RCN activity for the year ahead. the Congress Agenda Committee put health care firmly in the media will be striving to make this year’s spotlight and we fully expect that all As well as the main agenda, event more memorable than ever.” the political debate we are Congress features a diverse range witnessing at the moment will of events aimed at helping The committee is currently trigger many suggestions from members develop professionally. considering all the suggestions members about topics that could For all the There is also a huge exhibition submitted as possible items for make emergency agenda items.” information you need featuring employers, recruitment inclusion on the Congress agenda. about RCN Congress, agencies and suppliers, and Stuart said: “We’ve had some really RCN Congress takes place at the including details of countless opportunities to network interesting ideas from the submitting Bournemouth International how to book, visit with colleagues from all parts of entities and we’ll be announcing the Centre from 21 to 25 June. It is free www.rcn.org.uk/ the UK. agenda next month.” to attend. congress

Members benefit from RCN legal expertise

New figures show a successful Legal Services. “We have once again have endorsed them, saying they year for RCN legal team demonstrated our expertise and were either very satisfied or satisfied value for money. with the service they received. The last 12 months have proved to be immensely successful for RCN “Our figures show that having RCN The RCN’s legal team started 2015 lawyers who have fought to defend membership and therefore by winning a six figure out of court rights and provide protection for representation significantly We have unique settlement in a negligence claim for members throughout the UK. increases the likelihood of getting a specialist a member injured at work. ‘no case to answer’ outcome at the knowledge for the In 2014, the team recovered more NMC, and decreases the chances of If you are a full member, student or than £7 million in compensation for any case even getting as far as a kinds of cases we career-break member, health care members in England, Northern hearing. You are also more likely to take on assistant or nurse cadet, you are Ireland and Wales.* RCN in-house recover compensation in courts and entitled to legal advice and, in lawyers worked on more than 2,000 tribunals. appropriate circumstances, regulatory and employment cases representation on any matter of law throughout the year. In this time, “The RCN’s own lawyers, and the that occurs in the course of your the Nursing and Midwifery Council barristers used by the College, are employment. “If you think you might (NMC) cleared a large backlog of highly experienced and have the need legal advice or representation, cases so the RCN’s team was unique specialist knowledge for the you should first contact RCN Direct particularly busy representing kinds of cases we take on, as is or your local RCN steward or safety members at hearings. reflected in our outcomes,” he added. Get in touch if you representative for advice,” said Chris. need help. Visit “It’s been a busy but successful year,” Ninety-eight per cent of members www.rcn.org.uk/ *Figures for Scotland will follow later said Chris Cox, RCN Director of who have used RCN legal services support/legal in the year.

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Circle withdrawal ‘deeply worrying’

RCN steps in to help members ©Tim George facing uncertainty Keys ‘under the RCN representatives are offering mat’ used to support to members working at Hinchingbrooke Hospital in burgle homes Cambridgeshire after private company Circle Holdings withdrew According to research from its 10-year contract after just conducted by LV=, the two years. Hinchingbrooke was the RCN’s approved provider of first NHS hospital to be taken over home insurance, thousands by a private company under new of homeowners are being commissioning rules. worried by the developments. burgled with their own “The RCN has been asking the house keys, as thieves use The RCN described the news of the management of the hospital to withdrawal as “deeply worrying” meet with nursing staff to discuss keys hidden in easily and said it highlights the major their concerns for the last 18 accessible places. financial crisis facing the NHS, and months, but this hasn’t happened. Our priority is Despite a general decline in the daily pressure facing staff. Dr to ensure staff burglaries, official police Peter Carter, RCN Chief Executive, “The morale of staff at this are supported figures show that more than said: “At the time Hinchingbrooke challenging time cannot be ignored. 6,000 burglaries take place was taken over, many considered Local representatives have been every year where the thief this kind of arrangement to be the doing invaluable work and will way forward for the health service. continue dialogue with the trust as uses a key to access the This announcement shows that right now our priority is to ensure property. private sector involvement is not staff are supported to deliver the Many people have a relaxed always the answer.” excellent standard of care they want attitude to home security to provide for patients.” and nearly one in three Karen Webb, Director of the RCN (29 per cent) regularly leave Eastern Region, said the College In 2012 the RCN warned against the a key hidden outside their will be supporting members approach taken by Circle. home, which can be easily accessed by an opportunistic thief. LV= is urging homeowners RCN comments on new NMC code to tighten up their home security by keeping their doors locked when they are Revised code published after be helpful for the NMC to add other, out and their keys safe from extensive consultation more expansive documents linked to opportunistic thieves. the code so registrants had access to The Nursing and Midwifery more specific advice. RCN Principal RCN members Council (NMC) released a new code Legal Officer Roz Hooper said: “After receive an for nurses and midwives last week commenting in detail on the code, following feedback from the RCN I’m pleased that our issues have been exclusive and other stakeholders. The code, largely dealt with.” discount on which comes into effect from 31 March, has six new sections. The NMC will be sending copies of home insurance the code in the post to registrants in from LV=. Visit The RCN has welcomed additional early March. Members are advised www.rcn.org.uk/ guidance on social media and duty of to make sure address details held for Read more at candour but has suggested it would them are correct. www.nmc-uk.org/code insurance

RCN BULLETIN FEBRUARY 2015 WWW.RCN.ORG.UK/BULLETIN OPINION WRITE TO US: CONTACT DETAILS ON PAGE 2

What you’ve been saying Nurse appreciation President in the press I had a recent stopover in hospital and all Good to see Cecilia Anim @cisanim President the nurses and doctors of all levels were of @theRCN being featured in the @guardian Feedback wonderful. I was dreading it but so fortunate that my experience was a good one. You all Elizabeth Anionwu, via Twitter deserve knighthoods and more money. Teresa Doherty Thank you. Well said @cisanim respect nurses & listen to RCN Archive and Information them, the voice of nursing Services Manager on a useful Julia Hartstill, via Facebook Twitter account Stuart McKenzie, via Twitter Northern thanks She’s so right, it’s about investing in and looking to the future – more than just Please can I say a big thank you to Greg firefighting continuously. Canning and his team at the RCN Northern Region? Timothy Murray, via Facebook

Greg represented me in a seven-year dispute for back pay, first from Gateshead and then Energising events South Tyneside trusts. Following a grievance If you think the RCN libraries are procedure I was awarded the full amount. The energy is palpable at the #MarySeacole just for borrowing books, then think alumni event. again. Our four libraries run a range of It was a long battle and I am sure the trusts felt services which highlight historical and that I would go away if they procrastinated Sarah Amani, via Twitter contemporary themes in nursing. long enough. The RCN was involved for three To celebrate National Libraries Day on years, before resolution. 7 February, the RCN is launching a new Great energy at RCN PNA forum discussing Twitter account: @RCNLibraries. This is Thank you to Greg and the team. forward planning for primary care nursing. yet another way for members to keep up to date with the latest evidence you need for your practice. 8 Name withheld, by email Karen Storey, via Twitter You may already know that we have RCN libraries in London (pictured), Edinburgh, Cardiff and Belfast, but you Hot topic can also access most of our collections – What solutions are there to current problems facing A&E departments? online or by post – and get advice from information professionals from your home or workplace. “We need to look to solve the problems “The other reason for high bed occupancy outside emergency departments if we are is the lack of social care provision resulting On Twitter, we’ll be featuring some to relieve the symptoms within it,” says in delayed discharge for frail elderly of our collections, including personal Chair of the RCN Emergency Care Forum patients. There is also a huge variation stories and images from our archives, as Janet Youd. “This is not an A&E crisis. The well as news and highlights from library around the country of GP availability with and archive events and exhibitions. real issue is the inability to admit acutely ill some patients attending emergency people to inpatient beds in a timely manner. departments out of frustration.” You can still access our collections and This results in crowding in the department learning resources at www.rcn.org.uk/ with the subsequent impact that new Cardiology nurse practitioner Sue Marriott library where you’ll find full phone, emergency patients are unable to be moved agrees. “I think solutions involve ensuring webchat and email contact details. in for examination and treatment. patients can access their GP in a timely We want to hear about what you think. fashion, further public education about the Follow us on Twitter @RCNLibraries “The reason for the lack of available inpatient purpose of A&E and enhancing community and tell us what book shaped your beds is complex. Many trusts have reduced health and social services to facilitate nursing world. their bed numbers, with a plan to move admission avoidance and timely, safe more care into the community, but the discharge. Acute hospital beds should be www.rcn.org.uk/library resources required have been insufficient. for acutely ill patients,” she says.

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a quick Flex your muscles question Parliamentary candidates competing ♥ Which nursing issue for power will be dependent on your From receives insufficient support so make the most of your media attention? vote on 7 May the heart “Community” Neil Thompson The general election is still more than three months away and judging Eamonn Clabby “Child mental by media coverage so far, by the time Former RCN Congress health” Ambassador Fiona Cassells 7 May arrives prospective MPs will have left no NHS stone unturned in “Nurses’ health” the hunt for a few more votes. Lesley Pallett There’s nothing new in that. Every argue that in the weeks that remain time an election is called, the state of before the election each of us has a the nation’s health services is placed duty to get involved. Nurses and under forensic scrutiny. The health care assistants are the people political parties trade blows and who drive the NHS, the ones who Quote of promise that only they can make the know it best. There are also a lot of the month future bright. us. In every constituency in the country, the votes of nursing staff “We can make our Some of us may tire of this claim can make a difference. votes count more and counter-claim but I think it than ever before” I’ve volunteered as an RCN confirms that the NHS can help win Over the page there’s information Congress ambassador whenever Michael Brown, votes and lose them. about the RCN’s election manifesto. Congress has been held in Chair of RCN Please try to find time to read and Liverpool, and I have always Council, on the The election is a brilliant opportunity act upon it. The outcome of the had a brilliant time. general election for the nursing profession to general election matters – to you highlight the issues that matter and and your families but above all to I’m an RCN learning to tell parliamentary candidates how your patients. representative, I work we think an effective, patient-centred full-time and I’m a carer too, health service should be run. Visit elections.rcn.org.uk so I have my work cut out. 3 My big challenge is definitely time – there’s never enough things It’s easy to feel disengaged from Dr Peter Carter of it. But that doesn’t stop me I believe mainstream politics but I would RCN Chief Executive contributing. 1. Everyone has the Rather than focus on the things right to fair pay Convince me What I’ve been reading I can’t do, I try to focus on for valued work. what I can do – like help out at 2. All people have Congress. It’s a great experience the right to be Convince me that nurses do not In The Fever: How Malaria Has because you get to meet the treated with need to be academic. If academic Ruled Humankind for 500,000 Years, world and his wife – people you dignity and means the ability to think and solve Sonia Shah recalls childhood visits wouldn’t normally meet. It’s respect. really enjoyable working with problems then these are crucial to India, where relatives laughed at the other ambassadors and RCN 3. Measure society skills our profession cannot be her bleeding bites. She questions staff and, above all, meeting by how it tackles without. Patients’ needs have and researches malaria’s history poverty and the delegates, who we have a really way it treats the changed and will continue to do so. and looks behind the science in positive interaction with. young and Nursing must change too and being pursuit of answers on why it has vulnerable. academic is essential if we want to never been eliminated. I applaud My Congress highlight last continue to meet our patients’ her detective skills and reminder of year was that I got to meet Sir Graham Revie, health requirements. the power of nature and resilience Robert Francis and give him Chair of the RCN of a tiny parasite. my tuppence-worth, which as a UK Stewards former whistleblower was great. Committee Sandra Grieve, Catherine Hughes, independent travel health www.rcn.org.uk/congress advanced nurse practitioner specialist nurse

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Make your vote count RCN members can really influence the shape of the next parliament by standing up for what is important for nursing staff. Lynne Pearce reports

“These are powerful stories that illustrate how our members are being seriously affected by what’s happening in their professional life at the moment. They also talk about the changes they would like to see for a better future,” says Will. What we want For Michael, the manifesto provides a clear statement of what the RCN wants from the next government. “We should use it to find out the views of local candidates on the issues that matter to us,” he says.

To that end, he advises members to contact their candidates through the Nursing Counts website asking them to pledge their support for the RCN’s manifesto.

“This means that members and their families can cast their vote in the way they believe is best for nursing The nursing profession has a real To help members decide where to and the future of the NHS.” opportunity to influence the place their cross on polling day, the In numbers outcome of the general election on RCN has launched a manifesto, • 37 days between Michael says all three priorities are 7 May, says the RCN. Health will calling on the new government to 30 March, when important for nursing staff. “Patient be central to the debate and it’s a address three key areas. These are to: parliament is care is central to our manifesto. dissolved, and contest which is viewed by experts However, to get this right there’s a • improve patient care election day on as one of the most closely fought need to put an end to boom and • value nursing 7 May and difficult to predict in bust workforce planning for the • 650 seats living memory. • invest in health and care. NHS,” he says. “We need the right available for “Our manifesto is based completely staff in the right place at the right election “This year we can make our votes on what members have told us are time if we’re going to keep the • 194 seats have a count more than ever before,” says the most important issues for them,” NHS safe for future generations.” majority of 10 Chair of RCN Council Michael explains Will Hardy, RCN per cent or less Brown. “In many constituencies the Parliamentary Affairs Manager. (BBC) Fair pay for NHS staff is also high on size of the local MP’s majority is “We had an extensive consultation his agenda. “It’s not right to expect • Approximately smaller than the number of RCN process, with more than 10,000 nursing staff to subsidise the 1,800 members members we have in that area. members sharing their views in a of the nursing provision of patient care in the face When we add our families, friends specially devised survey.” workforce in of fewer staff, diminished services and those who use our health every and increasing numbers of patients, services, you can see we have the Many of those who took part also constituency. as has been the case for the last five chance to make a real difference.” submitted their own testimonies. years,” says Michael.

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Why nursing counts The RCN’s manifesto,Nursing Counts, has three overall priorities, each underpinned by three specific demands. In many constituencies the Improve patient care size of the local • Ensure safe staffing levels across MP’s majority is all settings smaller than the number of RCN One nurse who has been in the profession for 30 years said: members we have “I have never known frontline staff in that area to be under so much pressure. Current staffing levels do not allow for safe patient care.” • Give nurses access to training • o Listen t staff

Value nursing • Give nursing staff the fair pay they deserve • Put a stop to the downgrading of nursing skills and experience Invest in health and care feeling their trust in the NHS as a • Guarantee no more cuts to the good employer is wasted.” One member commented: “Where nursing workforce • Implement workforce planning else do people have to accept less that matches the needs of money and be demoted, having “The Government needs to wake up patients qualified and continued with and realise that budget cuts will development throughout their never improve patient care. More career? When will we earn the registered experienced nurses on the respect that we deserve?” floor will,” said one member. Where can you find • Protect the future of nursing • Increased resources for out more? community health care One student nurse said: “I started my Pledge your support, find out first year bright eyed and bushy One community nurse urged: the latest news and get top tips tailed, excited about being a nurse. “Honestly invest in community care to help you put pressure on By the second year I had been told and don’t just pay lip service. District your local candidates to sign many times not to do nursing, and nursing is a beautiful art and up to the RCN’s priorities. seen so many articles in the papers maintaining people in their own about ‘bad nurses’ that now, in my home the best option for most. Download a copy of the RCN’s third year, I would be completely manifesto and watch a short demoralised, if I did not constantly “However, it is in crisis and needs film on theNursing Counts remind myself of the gratitude that major investment as nurses are website: elections.rcn.org.uk some patients have expressed to me.” elections.rcn.org.uk moving out due to lack of morale,

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Regaining control Forensic nurse examiner Emma Durmaz provides frontline support to victims of rape and sexual assault. She speaks to Sophie Lowthian about her role

things have become too much and you need to step back – sensing that is part of being a nurse. I always think there’s no point in stressing over things you can’t change. Instead It’s vital we help you must try to make a difference to people regain a the things you can. By helping our sense of control clients as best we can we are making a positive difference to their lives.”

Emma explains that in the USA a high percentage of sexual health examinations are undertaken by nurses and the role is widely recognised, while in England only about 20 to 30 nurses are employed as forensic nurse examiners. “But it’s a © Southwest News Service role that is growing across the UK. As it’s a relatively new specialty it’s quite exciting to be involved as it evolves. “A lot of people don’t realise that scrupulous,” adds Emma. The sexual assault isn’t about sexuality, it’s examination, which can take up to “There’s no reason why a nurse can’t essentially about control,” says RCN four hours, is undertaken with a do this work just as well as a doctor. member Emma Durmaz, a forensic crisis support worker. “The two of us Nurses often take a more holistic nurse examiner and the clinical work closely together through all approach so it’s a job well suited to us.” manager at the Glade sexual assault stages to ensure the best support referral centre (SARC) in Worcester. possible. Organisation, precision and Annie Norman, RCN Criminal good documentation are all crucial.” Justice Nursing Adviser, says Emma The centre, which sees approximately is a great example of a nurse 250 people each year, is one of 42 Making a connection delivering compassionate, holistic SARCs across the UK, providing care to people who are at a seriously support for victims of sexual assault Emma says there are emotional and low point in their lives. “Through the and rape. operational challenges. “The work that Emma does and other emotional load can be hard but I love nurses like her, victims can be helped “The people we see need to rebuild my job. Looking after one person at a to be survivors and look more their confidence so it’s vital we help time is definitely a positive aspect of positively towards their future.” them regain a sense of control,” the role – you have a chance to build Emma says. “We support them to a therapeutic relationship and make make decisions about their a connection with someone,” she examination and treatment plan. says. “When a client leaves saying Forum member? ‘You’ve made me feel empowered Join the RCN Nursing in “The most important thing to keep in today’ you know you are doing Criminal Justice Services mind is that in six to 12 months we something worthwhile.” Forum and the RCN Forensic want to have an individual who is Nursing Forum at emotionally well – or at least heading In terms of looking after her own Got a story to tell? www.rcn.org.uk/forums that way. It’s very much an attention- emotional wellbeing, Emma says Email to-detail job – you’ve got to be debriefing helps. “You know when [email protected]

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Money in your pocket Members could claim up to £300 in tax relief by following some simple advice from the RCN Welfare Service, says Sharon Palfrey

If someone said they would pay you £86 to complete a short form and put it in the post, you would probably jump at the chance.

But when staff in the RCN Welfare Service team speak to members about their financial concerns they find only a small percentage of employed nurses, midwives and health care assistants (HCAs) claim the tax relief available to them.

“In these times of financial austerity, there are very few members who can afford not to claim the money they are entitled to. Remember, it costs nothing and it’s a very simple process,” says RCN Welfare Adviser Claire Cannings. The average annual tax relief for Your questions basic rate taxed nurses who pay RCN subscriptions, Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC) fees and Who can claim? Where do I send my form? a flat rate for cleaning uniforms is All members who are UK tax payers can claim Send your claim form to: HMRC, PAYE and Self £86. This figure will be even higher tax relief on their RCN membership fees. Assessment, PO Box 1970, Liverpool L75 1WX. if you have a subscription to Nursing Standard. What can I claim for? How much will I get? You may be eligible to claim tax relief on a range This will depend on a number of factors And don’t forget, if this is the first of payments including: including how much your annual fees cost and time you have applied; you can • RCN membership fees your tax situation. As a guide, members who are claim not just for the current year UK tax payers can claim up to 20 per cent on • NMC registration fees but also the previous four years. their RCN membership fees. This could mean you receive a • your uniform (including shoes and tights) cheque from HM Revenue and • laundry costs for your uniform. Are there any time limits? Customs (HMRC) for up to £300. The time limit for making a backdated claim is How do I claim tax relief? generally four years prior to the current tax year, “With attacks on nursing pay A claim form is included in your annual RCN but this may depend on your personal coming from all directions, I would membership pack. Or download a form from circumstances. There are also deadlines for urge all members to make sure they www.rcn.org.uk/membership/taxrelief getting your claim to HMRC. claim,” says Claire. “And while HCAs don’t currently pay How do I claim for previous years? Where can I get more information? professional fees, they can still claim Contact RCN Direct Membership Services on Telephone HMRC on 0845 300 0627 or visit for their RCN subscription and 0345 772 6100 (select option one). www.hmrc.gov.uk/incometax/how-to-get.htm other flat rate allowances, so it’s very much worth all members applying.”

WWW.RCN.ORG.UK/BULLETIN RCN BULLETIN FEBRUARY 2015 FEATURE

Research in practice As the RCN Research Society prepares to hold its annual international conference in April, Lynne Pearce investigates its relevance to frontline nursing staff

“Conferences like this are so important because they help to connect all areas of nursing and research together,” says Jill. “Nursing is such a broad profession and it can Research unites often feel like you’re doing a very us in a common different job from your colleagues. aim of finding But research unites us in a common evidence for aim of finding evidence for practice practice that that improves patient care.” improves Professor Michael Traynor is chair patient care of the conference’s scientific committee. “Many of those who come along are already involved in research or doing research degrees, but the conference is open to everyone. It’s a very welcoming environment that’s friendly, inclusive and informal,” he says. For those who think research has often puts process over humanistic little to do with the practice of elements,” she explains. “There’s been a lot of scrutiny of nursing, think again, says one of the nurses recently,” he adds. “The RCN International Nursing Research Attracting around 400 nurses from conference will focus on evidence- Conference keynote speakers. all over the world – including the based discussions that go way USA, Australia, the Far East, the beyond people’s opinions. Speakers “I think sometimes practitioners Middle East and Europe – the who are leaders in their field will be feel that conferences like this aren’t annual three-day conference starts directly addressing the predicament for them – they are too lofty, on Monday 20 April and takes place that nurses find themselves in.” academic and not applicable to at the East Midlands Conference practice,” says Professor Jill Maben, Centre in Nottingham. What makes the conference stand who is Director of the National apart is the academic rigour of the Nursing Research Unit at King’s A varied programme contributions. “Only the very best get College London and a member of in,” says Michael. “Because every the RCN Research Society. “But it’s Alongside three keynote speeches, abstract is subject to peer review.” the questions that arise from around 200 concurrent papers are practice that we need to research. presented on topics as diverse as Networking is another important My own work is embedded in the reducing malnutrition in nursing aspect. “A lot of people make new current debates about nursing.” homes; caring for refugees; and networks and professional contacts,” career planning for nurses over 50. says Michael. “Those who are working Jill’s presentation will look at some There are also fringe events. This in research can meet and have of the challenges of humanising year these will feature nurses conversations with leaders in their health care for patients. “Many of involved in clinical research, field. Old friends are reunited too. the things we know patients value former Mary Seacole Award Last year I met someone that I’d – such as kindness, compassion and winners and past recipients of For more information trained with 30 years ago. I come away being with someone who is dying the Florence Nightingale visit www.rcn.org.uk/ feeling exhausted but also informed, – can feel invisible in a system that travel scholarship. research2015 energised and, above all, inspired.”

RCN BULLETIN FEBRUARY 2015 WWW.RCN.ORG.UK/BULLETIN FORUM FOCUS HIGHLIGHTING THE WORK OF THE RCN’S SPECIALIST FORUMS AND NETWORKS

Working together to benefit patients

having haemodialysis for 18 months have shared stories and I have learnt and died waiting for a kidney- about aspects of nursing people pancreas transplant. with diabetes and kidney disease that I would not have found in a Like so many nurses and doctors clinical paper. who went into the field of diabetes In the past I to prevent complications, I am now was content to A group of diabetes nurses from meeting a growing number of recognise the around the country who have an people facing the reality of kidney interest in renal disease have joined RCN Diabetes Forum Committee disease and the prospect of dialysis. experts and forces to try to work together to Member Siobhan Pender highlights move away improve practice, share ideas and the importance and advantages of I acknowledge my lack of expertise learn from each other. collaborative working in this area, and how in the past I was content to recognise the renal The group, called the ReD Forum, Seventeen years ago, when I started team as the experts and move away. is looking for like-minded people, my career as a paediatric diabetes so if you are a diabetes nurse nurse, I only gave kidney disease a I now think this approach was specialising in kidney disease and passing thought. I was there to stop wrong. I believe all diabetes nurses would like to be a part of it please diabetes complications from need to have a competent contact my fellow committee happening in the first place. knowledge of renal disease and its member Jo Reed at jo.reed@ management right up to and after Download Starting imperial.nhs.uk Fast forward to 2015 and, sadly, as transplantation. Injectible Treatment in an adult diabetes specialist nurse, Adults with Type 2 This is an edited version of a longer I’m reflecting on the recent death of To challenge my mindset I decided Diabetes: RCN Guidance blog post. To read the full version a 31-year-old man I had known to embrace the expertise of our from www.rcn.org.uk/ visit www.rcn.org.uk/ since the age of seven. He had been hospital diabetes renal nurse. We publications diabetesforum History of Nursing Society plans ahead

Committee Member Dianne including a joint study afternoon with 1906-07. We are making Yarwood shares some highlights the Defence Nursing Forum called arrangements with the Cavell from the past few months and looks Frontline Nursing: Then and Now. Nurses’ Trust and the chair of the forward to 2015 Norfolk Cavell 2015 Two further lectures are planned for Commemoration Partnership. Last year was a busy year for the the next couple of months, We are always RCN History of Nursing Society, as including one in Edinburgh. April We are always keen to build links keen to build we kicked off our commemoration will see the launch of a new with other RCN forums and societies links with other of the 100th anniversary of the start exhibition and lecture series which and are working with the Mental RCN forums of the First World War. will run until October. Health Nursing Forum on an exhibition on the history of mental August saw the launch of our events Looking further forward, 12 health nursing. This will be held in series and an exhibition, Frontline October will mark the 100th the RCN Library and Heritage Centre Nurses: British Nurses of the First anniversary of the execution of in London from October and will be World War, in the RCN Library and Edith Cavell, the British nurse who accompanied by a series of events, Heritage Centre, to mark this was shot by the Germans for including the launch of a mental Find out more about important anniversary. helping allied soldiers escape from health nursing history timeline. the RCN History of German-occupied Belgium. We Nursing Society at So far we have held four successful hope to hold an event in Salford, For exhibition and event details visit www.rcn.org.uk/ events at RCN headquarters, where Miss Cavell worked from www.rcn.org.uk/library historyofnursing

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Get blogging Fertility conference What I’m The RCN Fertility Nursing Forum New ways of communicating with is holding a conference and thinking RCN forum members are currently exhibition next month. Fertility being explored. Nursing: Managing Future Expectations will take place from Dominic Walsh Since October, regular blogging 10am to 3.30pm on Saturday 7 RCN Diversity Champion training sessions have been run for March at RCN headquarters in forum committee members at RCN London. The event will help extend headquarters in London. These are your knowledge and understanding proving popular and the first few blog of key issues in fertility nursing. It posts have already been published, so will enhance the professional and check your forum website to see if educational development of fertility your committee has got involved. nurses, midwives and health care assistants working in licensed and Blogs offer a more efficient, timely non-licensed fertility departments and democratic way of in the UK. Visit communicating than electronic www.rcn.org.uk/fertility15 newsletters, which can take months If you’re a to put together and distribute, and committee member February is Lesbian, Gay, often place a heavy workload on a who hasn’t yet Ebola latest Bisexual and Trans (LGBT) single editor. The RCN is keen to attended a course, History Month. It’s an hear from you, so if you have an idea sign up today. Email The RCN has been working closely opportunity to celebrate the for a blog post please contact your laura.brignell@rcn. with Public Health England to lives and achievements of the forum steering committee. org.uk for details. ensure systems and processes are in LGBT nursing community, and place to support and protect RCN to champion and promote better members and other health care care for patients. And although workers working with patients with this month is designated LGBT Definition of nursing Ebola. The RCN’s webpage on Ebola History Month, the RCN works is updated regularly. Visit to promote equality in all www.rcn.org.uk/ebola for details areas and tackle homophobia The RCN has updated itsDefining on the current situation and throughout the year. Nursing publication. information on what the College is doing, including the creation of a To celebrate, the RCN is holding The document describes what the virtual Ebola reference group. its annual evening reception RCN believes to be the essence and on Wednesday 18 February six defining characteristics of from 5.30pm to 7pm at RCN nursing. The College says that Congress call headquarters in London. We’ll while other health care professions be joined by a number of guests share some of these characteristics, The RCN Older People’s Forum is including James Taylor, Head of they are uniquely combined seeking applications from its Policy at LGBT charity Stonewall. as nursing. members to represent the forum at It’s a chance for us to celebrate this year’s RCN Congress. Forum the many milestones reached The publication describes what Vice Chair Iain McGregor said: in the battle for equality and nursing is, clarifies the role of the “Congress is the most important inclusion, as well as to think nurse and identifies areas where event for the RCN, and particularly about the shape of the challenges research is needed. for the professional forums. We to come. I hope you’ll be able to would love to hear from members join us. Please email diversity. The definition also reflects nursing’s across the UK, either expressing an [email protected] to confirm diversity which includes the care of interest to attend or voicing your your attendance. people who are healthy and those thoughts on the agenda when it’s who are sick, and of groups of Visit www.rcn. published.” Email iainmcgRCN@ www.rcn.org.uk /diversity people and individuals. org.uk/publications activist.com for more information.

RCN BULLETIN FEBRUARY 2015 WWW.RCN.ORG.UK/BULLETIN EVENTS FIND MORE DETAILS OF THE EVENTS LISTED BY VISITING THE REGION AND COUNTRY PAGES OF THE RCN WEBSITE OR GO TO WWW.RCN.ORG.UK/EVENTS

Learning Reps: The Role of the To book a place email RCN Learning Representative in [email protected] Talking the talk Raising Concerns About Nursing and Health Care. South East on obesity and This event will provide an www.rcn.org.uk/southeast opportunity for you to Guildford malnutrition understand your representative Wednesday 18 February Tuesday 17 March role in terms of the context for The Circle Bar, Yvonne Arnaud RCN HQ, 20 Cavendish Square, speaking out and supporting Theatre, Millbrook, Guildford London W1G 0RN others to raise concerns about GU1 3UX nursing and health. Free health care support worker For more information email lunch and learn session. This joint RCN and RCGP study day will provide practical training [email protected] Topics to include: the Care for all non-specialist nurses and doctors working in primary care. Certificate, dementia care, Featuring a workshop format plus interactive work book and London employment rights, reflective templates, this event will enable staff to incorporate www.rcn.org.uk/london accountability and the RCN First evidence based approaches to obesity and malnutrition within London Steps programme. RCN members routine consultations. The course will focus on supporting Friday 6 March, 6.30-10pm and non-members welcome. behaviour change using motivational interviewing techniques, Governors Hall, To book your place email addressing issues such as goal setting, helping patients with St Thomas’ Hospital, Westminster [email protected] severe and complex obesity, and approaches for staff with a Bridge Road, London SE1 7EH weight problem themselves. Mary Seacole winter supper South West lectures for International www.rcn.org.uk/southwest For information and to book visit www.rcn.org.uk/rcnrcgp15 Women’s Day. Torquay A fundraising event to mark Tuesday 3 March, 6.30pm International Women’s Day RCN office, Torbay Hospital, Scotland Conwy Business Centre, jointly presented by the Mary Lawes Bridge, Torquay TQ2 7AA www.rcn.org.uk/scotland Junction Way, Llandudno Seacole Memorial Association RCN Torbay Branch meeting. Edinburgh Junction, Conwy LL31 9XX and Mary Seacole Memorial All members who live or work in Thursday 26 February, 12.15pm Two RCN Wales seminars. Statue Appeal. Visit http:// the Torbay area are welcome. For (includes sandwich lunch) In the morning, the Mental tinyurl.com/ompfj2r more information or to book: RCN Scotland HQ, 42 South Capacity Act 2005 and [email protected] Oswald Road, Edinburgh EH9 2HH deprivation of liberty safeguards North West Member consultation event. and in the afternoon, www.rcn.org.uk/northwest West Midlands A meeting with the RCN safeguarding vulnerable adults. Manchester www.rcn.org.uk/westmidlands Scotland Board to seek members’ Call 02920 680713 or email Thursday 26 February, 9am-4pm Dudley views on the use of member [email protected] The Place Aparthotel, Ducie Friday 13 February, 2pm information, member awards, Street, Manchester M1 2TP Falcon House, The Minories, Congress review and branch East Midlands The Role of the Rep: Representing Dudley DY2 8PG resources. Email luci.pollard@ www.rcn.org.uk/eastmidlands Equally – Delivering Excellent Courage: Raising Concerns rcn.org.uk or call 0131 662 6131. Boston Equality Representation in the – the 6 Cs in Practice. Wednesday 18 February, 7pm Workplace. An RCN Black Country local Northern Ireland Committee Room 1, Pilgrim All representatives are welcome learning event presented by RCN www.rcn.org.uk/ Hospital, Sibsey Road, Boston, to attend this joint RCN Regional Officer Dee Holbrook. northernireland Lincolnshire PE21 9QS Northern, North West and This event will focus on Belfast RCN South Lincolnshire Branch Yorkshire & the Humber regions maintaining patient safety, raising Wednesday 25 February, meeting. continuing learning and concerns and being accountable 9.30am-4pm Members are invited to attend development event. Email for your own practice. RCN Northern Ireland HQ, 17 the branch’s regular meetings to gaynor. [email protected] Windsor Avenue, Belfast BT9 6EE find out about the work of the Yorkshire & RCN Northern Ireland health care RCN in South Lincolnshire and Northern the Humber assistant conference – The Way help shape priorities for action. www.rcn.org.uk/northern www.rcn.org.uk/ Forward. Sunderland yorkshireandhumber Email [email protected] for more Eastern Monday 9 February, 1-3pm Leeds information. www.rcn.org.uk/eastern RCN Sunderland Office, Avalon Wednesday 18 February, 2-4pm Bury St Edmunds House, St Catherine’s Court, RCN Leeds Office, 9 Bond Wales Thursday 5 March Sunderland Enterprise Park, Court, Leeds LS1 2JZ www.rcn.org.uk/wales Meeting Room, RCN Eastern Sunderland SR5 3XJ West Yorkshire Branch meeting. Llandudno Junction Region, Abbotsgate House, Bury Retired nurses’ group meeting. For more information email Friday 27 February St Edmunds, Suffolk IP32 7AU All retired members are welcome. [email protected]