RCN centenary walk raises £5,000 for nurses in need

RCN staff, members and supporters are having a well-earned rest after collectively completing an epic 1,500-mile walk to mark the college’s centenary.

The walkers carried a replica Florence Nightingale lantern to every RCN office location in the UK, in aid of the RCN Foundation, living up to the college’s moto Tradimus Lampada – We Carry the Torch.

The walk began in Exeter in April and was tackled in sections before a group of 50 crossed the finish line in Belfast, Northern Ireland on 21 October.

Nurse support

RCN organisational development adviser Matthew Batten devised the idea to raise £5,000 for the RCN Foundation, which supports nurses in need in the UK and overseas.

The charity helps staff get back on their feet after being unable to work for reasons including illness, financial hardship, domestic abuse or disability.

Ambitious plan

Mr Batten said: ‘This project was our most ambitious staff event to date, and I am delighted that all the hard work has paid off.

‘A journey of this length is no easy feat, but RCN staff embraced this unique opportunity with incredible enthusiasm.

‘This is a monumental achievement and I am proud of everyone who contributed to this centenary celebration.’