RCN congress

Making new connections at congress

RCN congress presents career networking opportunities

The RCN’s annual congress and exhibition is a personal and inspirational experience that can contribute to every nurse’s professional development.

Held each spring – this year from June 21-25 in Bournemouth – the event attracts upwards of 4,000 visitors and is an ideal opportunity to network, meet like-minded colleagues and learn about the latest developments in nursing. It is an opportunity no nurse should overlook.

Congress is the RCN ‘s major annual debating forum and gives college members an opportunity to comment on and influence health and social policy, as well as informing its work for the coming year.

RCN members engage in debates about nursing practice, employment issues, public health, the RCN itself and other relevant topics.

Issues debated at congress often make the headlines – it is an opportunity for the world to listen to the voice of nursing – and for nurses to make their voices heard. RCN members can discuss ideas with debate presenters, generating a real-time forum.

On Monday June 22 RCN members will get to meet the newly appointed RCN president, Cecilia Anim, and the new RCN deputy president, Rod Thomson, and hear about their priorities for the year ahead.

Only RCN members can attend debates, but anyone can visit the fringe events programme, an extensive programme of professional, educational and social events.

Latest products

The UK’s largest exhibition of nursing products and services also takes place during the week. There will be a wide variety of exhibitors in attendance and they will be available to talk knowledgeably about their services and equipment before they reach the workplace.

Those unable to attend RCN congress in person can take advantage of virtual attendance. The RCN website allows you to watch live and archived debate footage, read the latest news and event features, see photographs and films from the previous days’ activities and post your views on the RCN discussion zone.

Attending the RCN congress can offer many opportunities for interaction with other attendees. If you attend with co-workers or friends, make sure you spend time networking with other nurses and make new connections. Be sure to take business cards to exchange with people you meet and copies of your CV for potential employers.

Why nurses should attend congress

  • To be inspired by and explore new information and ideas.
  • To see a wider world view of the profession than own work environment.
  • To be rejuvenated by new inspirations, information and insights.
  • To return to work with new ideas and information to share with others.

Pre-register for congress and further information

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