What is a trade union?   

A trade union is an organisation of workers formed to protect and improve their working conditions. Trade unions provide representation to support their members, ensuring all workers are treated fairly by their employers. However, unlike other trade unions, the Royal College of Nursing is designed solely for nurses, so all our benefits are geared towards the nursing community.

What does that mean for me?

What that means for you is that you get to stand with over 435,000 other RCN members. You'll get support when and where you need it most, whether that's protection and representation at work, free employment and legal advice or support in your learning and career development.

Why the RCN?

The Royal College of Nursing is the world’s largest trade union and professional body for nursing. It is also a professional association. This puts us in a unique position to stand up for nurses and health care support workers, and work to improve terms and conditions and the working environment for members, which ultimately leads to better patient care.

We challenge when we see things that are unfair or do not seem right. We negotiate over pay, terms and conditions. And when you need us, RCN Direct is available to all members providing help and advice at the end of a phone.