Royal College of Nursing cancels in-person annual conference after ‘serious allegations of sexual harassment’
Review being conducted ‘as a matter of urgency’
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.The Royal College of Nursing (RCN) has said its annual conference due to be held in Liverpool next month will be held online only, following “serious allegations of sexual harassment”.
In a statement published online, it said: “In light of serious allegations of sexual harassment and after independent legal advice, elected members of the RCN Council met and decided the best way to safeguard members attending Congress is to move this year’s meeting to a fully virtual event.”
It added: “As a matter of urgency, RCN is undertaking a full review of all safeguarding policies and procedures as part of our cultural change.”
It did not provide details of the allegations, but said it took a “zero tolerance approach” at all times.
Chair of RCN Council, Carol Popplestone, said: ““We know that many members planning to attend were looking forward to seeing each other in person for the first time in two years. But this decision was made with members’ safety at the top of our minds. That is what we are here to safeguard at all costs.”
She added: “I am absolutely determined that congress will still be its usual fascinating mix of debates, events and speeches. Getting together virtually won’t stand in the way of that.”
The RCN represents more than 465,000 nurses, student nurses, midwives and nursing support workers in the UK and internationally.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments