The first online Annual General Meeting (AGM) of the RCN was held on 6 August, with almost 800 members discussing key issues affecting the nursing workforce.
The AGM is an opportunity to reflect on what the RCN has achieved over the past year and for members to ask questions about the running of the College, trade union matters and issues of a professional nature. This year, the AGM also presented a chance to recognise the efforts of nurses, nursing support workers, students and those returning to practice during the COVID-19 pandemic.
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RCN President Anne Marie Rafferty chaired the event and in her opening remarks told members how proud she is of the nursing profession and its response to the pandemic.
‘These past months have showcased the best of nursing. It has highlighted to the public, policy makers and our colleagues, the expertise and agility of nursing and our capability to adapt to rapidly changing sets of circumstances,’ said Ms Rafferty.
‘Nursing staff have gone above and beyond with an outstanding level of finesse and commitment.’
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Members were able to submit questions before the event and during the meeting. More than 200 questions were submitted. Topics covered included the professional identity of nursing staff and the impact of COVID-19, but the issue of fair nursing pay dominated discussions. Participants shared frustration and anger that nursing pay doesn’t reflect the true value of nursing staff. The current NHS pay deal runs until April 2021, but the RCN is calling on the government to bring next year’s pay discussions forward so nursing staff can receive a meaningful and early pay rise.
‘This pandemic has shone a light on our profession, and we have risen to the challenge. All of you, working in all settings and sectors, go above and beyond to provide excellent care every day,’ said RCN Chief Executive and General Secretary Dame Donna Kinnair.
‘I am determined to campaign on your behalf and influence those in power, so they take action and invest in nursing now. We will not wait for change any longer.’