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RCN congress to be online-only amid 'serious allegations of sexual harassment'

Review of safeguarding and policies will also take place, council says

Review of safeguarding and policies will also take place, council says

RCN Congress 2021 will be held between 18-20 September

The RCN will hold its annual congress online only following 'serious allegations of sexual harassment'.

The college's ruling council decided to scrap the in-person part of the event in Liverpool and make the meeting fully virtual after seeking independent legal advice.

A review of all safeguarding policies and procedures will also take place, the college said.

All congress events now online-only

RCN congress, the college's policy-setting meeting where members from across the UK debate key nursing issues, is due to be held in Liverpool from 18-20 September.

Voting members were to meet in person with non-voting members to attend using an online platform.

However, now all delegates will watch, discuss or vote on agenda items such as NHS pay, 12-hour shifts and the impact of long-COVID online only.

Unanimous decision protects all attendees

RCN council chair Carol Popplestone said the council had 'acted fast and took a unanimous decision that protects all attendees'.

'We know that many members planning to attend were looking forward to seeing each other in person for the first time in two years,' she added.

'But this decision was made with members' safety at the top of our minds. That is what we are here to safeguard at all costs.'

She added she was determined that congress would still be 'its usual fascinating mix of debates, events and speeches.'

Further logistical details will be made available next week for members who were due to attend in person.

The college, which has more than 465,000 members, is leading a 'summer of action' in the run up to congress in protest at the planned 3% pay rise for nursing staff in England and Wales.

It is unclear if the announcement will affect any planned events.


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