Events by Royal College of Nursing

Strong leadership is essential at every level of nursing, from the bedside to the boardroom. This RCN Wales workshop in Cardiff is designed to empower nursing staff with the tools and confidence to lead innovation within their teams and organizations. In a rapidly changing healthcare landscape, the ability to spearhead service improvements and advocate for patient safety is a core competency for the modern nurse. This interactive session moves beyond theory, focusing on the "real-world" skills needed to manage change and inspire colleagues. The workshop will cover various leadership styles, with a particular focus on "Compassionate Leadership"—a model heavily promoted within NHS Wales. Participants will engage in workshops that help identify their own leadership strengths and areas for growth. A key segment of the day will be dedicated to "Innovation in Action," where members can present ideas for service improvement and receive feedback from peers and leadership experts. This is an ideal environment for those looking to transition into management or specialist roles. Furthermore, the workshop addresses the "Politics of Nursing," exploring how local leadership can influence broader health policy. By understanding the sociopolitical context of healthcare in Wales, attendees can better navigate the challenges of resource allocation and workforce planning. This event is not just for those in formal leadership positions; it is for any nurse who wants to be a catalyst for positive change in their workplace. The day concludes with a networking session, allowing participants to build a supportive community of like-minded innovators across Cardiff.

Effective communication and meticulous record keeping are the cornerstones of safe and professional nursing practice. The Royal College of Nursing is hosting this comprehensive seminar at their Ty Maeth facility in Cardiff to address the evolving standards required in modern healthcare settings. As nursing roles become more complex and autonomous, particularly in Advanced Practice, the legal and professional implications of documentation have never been more critical. This seminar is designed to provide practical, evidence-based guidance for registered nurses and healthcare support workers. The first half of the day focuses on the principles of "Best Practice in Record Keeping." This includes navigating the transition from paper-based to electronic health records (EHR), maintaining confidentiality under GDPR, and ensuring that records are "fit for purpose" in legal or regulatory reviews. Expert speakers will walk through real-world scenarios and case studies where documentation was the deciding factor in patient outcomes and professional accountability. The afternoon session delves into "Advanced Practice in the Independent Sector," a growing field in Wales. This segment will explore the specific challenges faced by nurses working outside the NHS, including clinical governance and the scope of practice. For those pursuing or currently in advanced roles, the seminar provides a vital update on the RCN's professional framework and how to demonstrate competence through documented evidence. This event offers 6 CPD hours, making it an essential date for those approaching their NMC revalidation.

The RCN Wales Nurse of the Year Awards is the most prestigious event in the Welsh nursing calendar, celebrating excellence, innovation, and dedication within the profession. Held in the heart of Cardiff at the City Hall, this gala evening recognizes the extraordinary individuals who go above and beyond to provide exceptional care to the people of Wales. After a rigorous nomination and shortlisting process throughout the spring, the winners will be announced during this high-profile ceremony. The 2026 awards ceremony places a special emphasis on "Global Nursing," aligning with the International Nurses' Day theme. Categories span across various specialties, including Community Nursing, Leadership, Mental Health, and Research. The event is not just a celebration but a showcase of how nursing research and clinical practice are evolving to meet the complex needs of a modern population. It highlights the pivotal role nurses play in the multidisciplinary team, often leading the way in digital health integration and patient-centered care models. Guests will enjoy a formal dinner, keynote speeches from influential healthcare leaders, and the opportunity to celebrate with peers from across the country. The evening serves as a powerful reminder of the value of the nursing profession and the impact of the RCN's advocacy. For many, being nominated is a career-defining moment, and for the attendees, it is an evening of inspiration that reinforces the pride and passion inherent in nursing. The event also attracts significant media attention, bringing the achievements of Welsh nurses to the national stage.

The Royal College of Nursing (RCN) Cardiff and the Vale Branch invites all members to attend their crucial monthly assembly at the RCN Wales headquarters. These meetings serve as the democratic heartbeat of the nursing profession in Wales, providing a structured yet open forum for nursing staff, midwives, and healthcare support workers to voice their concerns and contribute to the local healthcare agenda. As we move into May 2026, the focus of these meetings shifts towards the immediate impact of the 2026/27 NHS Wales pay award and the implementation of safe staffing levels across local wards. Attendees will have the opportunity to engage directly with branch officials and regional representatives. The agenda typically includes updates on national RCN campaigns, local workplace issues, and professional development opportunities. In the wake of the recent Welsh Government elections, this meeting will specifically address how the RCN's manifesto for nursing is being received by newly elected Members of the Senedd (MSs). It is a space where the "corridor care" crisis is discussed not just as a headline, but as a lived reality, with members sharing strategies for maintaining patient safety under pressure. Beyond policy and politics, the branch meeting is a vital source of peer support. Nursing can be an isolating profession; meeting with colleagues from different trusts and independent sectors allows for a cross-pollination of ideas and emotional solidarity. Whether you are a student nurse looking for guidance or a veteran practitioner wanting to influence policy, this meeting is your platform. Refreshments are provided, and the atmosphere is designed to be welcoming and inclusive.

The RCN Wales Political Leadership Programme is a premier two-day intensive course designed to empower nursing professionals to navigate the complex intersection of healthcare and politics. In an era where health and social care services in Wales are at the very top of the legislative agenda, this programme provides a vital exploration of how the political environment sets the context for individual practitioners and their healthcare organisations. Participants will dive deep into the mechanics of how health and social policy are shaped within the devolved Welsh government. The curriculum is delivered through a blended learning approach, combining high-level interactive discussions with practical workshops. Led by experienced lobbying, campaigns, and media practitioners, the programme also features influential guest speakers, including current and former politicians, political experts, and pioneering nursing leaders. The course is specifically designed for nursing staff of all roles—including registered nurses, midwives, and healthcare support workers—but is also highly valuable for those in related health and social care fields. Attendees will learn to engage with strategic policy and gain the practical tools necessary to influence the wider healthcare agenda. By the end of the programme, delegates will have a sharpened edge on strategic issues, allowing them to better represent their services and lead with a stronger professional voice at both local and national levels.