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The exterior of the RCN HQ building in Cavendish Square

About us

Who we are and what we do

The Royal College of Nursing is the world’s largest nursing union and professional body.

We represent over half a million nursing staff and students in the UK and internationally. Our members are spread across over 100 branches in 12 countries and regions, with 2,000 of them acting as workplace representatives.

500,000+

members
2,000

workplace representatives
12

countries and regions

How we work

We’re both a trade union and a professional body for nursing staff. Our Council is responsible for our governance, working with our committees and country and regional boards. Our Executive Team is responsible for delivering our strategic and operational plans. 

Our structure and governance
RCN leader Nicola Ranger at RCN headquarters in London

How we support our members

Our expertise covers all areas of nursing, from clinical practice and policy to workforce standards and employment relations. This puts us in a unique position to support our members across a huge range of professional, personal and legal issues.

Our support services
Man working in call centre

How we influence for change

Together with our members, we work with all governments across the UK. This includes all political parties and elected representatives. Our goal is to make sure your voice is heard by decision makers to get the best outcomes for you and your patients.
Our influencing work
Nurses protesting fair pay at Westminster

Where we started

We began in 1916 as the College of Nursing – a professional organisation with just 34 members. Since then, we've evolved into the largest professional association and union for nursing staff in the world with over half a million members.
Our history
A black and white photo of an RCN demonstration with nursing staff holding signs saying 'Pay nurses now' and 'RCN - Is your NHS safe?'

Work for us

Interested in working for us? Use our careers site to search for your next role.

Press office

Find our latest press releases and statements, as well as contact details for our national, country and regional media teams.
Staircase of the Royal College of Nursing office on Cavendish Square

More about us

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