Independent sector in Northern Ireland

Many of our members in Northern Ireland are employed in the independent sector, also known as independent health and social care (IHSC). This includes all members working in settings outside the HSC, such as nursing homes, independent hospitals, nursing agencies, hospice services, general practices and more.

As the voice of nursing, we’re committed to connecting, engaging and representing nursing staff, no matter what sector or setting you’re employed in. This page signposts to useful information and resources about IHSC in Northern Ireland. For more general information about IHSC across the UK, please see our ‘Nursing across independent health and social care’ page.

If you can’t find what you’re looking for, please contact Brenda Rushe, our Lead Nurse for Independent Health and Social Care in Northern Ireland, at Brenda.Rushe@rcn.org.uk.

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Royal College of Nursing · Reps in action: How Learning Reps are transforming the independent sector

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June 2024

IHSC networks in Northern Ireland

Our member-led networks in Northern Ireland provide professional networking opportunities and support for members in IHSC. This includes the Primary Care Network, the Independent Sector Nurse Managers Network (ISNMN) and the Independent Sector School Nurses Network. For more information, join our Independent Sector Network Facebook group or contact Brenda Rushe at Brenda.Rushe@rcn.org.uk.

Independent Sector Network Facebook group

General nursing resources

Most of the resources on our website are relevant to all members – no matter what sector or setting you’re employed in. This includes many of our advice guides and subject guides, as well as the clinical information on RCN Learn.

16 blog posts

Gary Mitchell 1 Jun 2023

I am thrilled to share with you the findings of our recent research study on advance care planning in nursing homes during the COVID-19 pandemic. As a co-author of this study, I believe our findings hold great significance for your day-to-day practice, providing valuable insights into improving care and communication with care home residents and their families.
Sharon Smyth 26 May 2023
Personal reflections on winning the RCN Nurse of the Year Independent Sector Award 2022

Winning an award in recognition of work accomplished is indeed the highlight of any career, but I would add that winning when you are least expecting it makes it even more incredible!
Connie Mitchell 26 May 2023
What it means to be an RCN NI Network Lead

I joined the RCN membership in September 1983 as a pupil nurse and have maintained my membership throughout my nursing career. However, my engagement levels increased after I attended “The Leading For Care” programme in 2013.
Rosaline Kelly 18 Apr 2023
Why understanding Deprivation of Liberty is essential for Registered Nurses

The dreaded “DoLS”! The words “deprivation of liberty application” can make registered nurses feel anxious, exasperated, or pressured. Unless you are a person like me, who just loves all of this stuff!
Rosaline Kelly 17 Apr 2023
Understanding a rights based approach

The 21st century requires embedding the delivery of care, treatment and services in a rights based approach which places the person in our care at the centre of decision-making.