Royal College of Nursing | |
 | |
| Predecessor | College of Nursing Ltd |
|---|---|
| Founded | 27 March 1916 |
| Headquarters | 20 Cavendish Square, London W1G 0RN[1] |
| Location |
|
General Secretary | Professor Nicola Ranger |
Key people | Dame Sarah Swift Sir Arthur Stanley (founders) |
Publication | Nursing Standard |
| Website | www |
The Royal College of Nursing (RCN) is a registered trade union[2] and professional body in the United Kingdom for those in the profession of nursing. It was founded in 1916 as the College of Nursing, receiving its royal charter in 1928. Queen Elizabeth II was the patron until her death in 2022, King Charles III continued the royal connection and became patron in 2024.[3] The majority of members are registered nurses; however student nurses and healthcare assistants are also members. There is also a category of membership, at a reduced cost, for retired people.
The RCN describes its mission as representing nurses and nursing, promoting excellence in practice and shaping health policies.[4] It has a network of stewards, safety representatives and union learning representatives as well as advice services for members. Services include a main library in London, and regional libraries. The RCN Institute provides courses for nurses.
- ^ "Contact | Royal College of Nursing". The Royal College of Nursing.
- ^ "Trade unions: the current list and schedule". gov.uk. 14 July 2020. Retrieved 14 October 2020.
- ^ "HM King Charles announced as new RCN patron | News | Royal College of Nursing". The Royal College of Nursing. 10 May 2024. Retrieved 29 May 2024.
- ^ Peate, Ian (10 July 2013). The Student Nurse Toolkit: An Essential Guide for Surviving Your Course. John Wiley & Sons. ISBN 978-1-118-39392-5.