The RCN also represents the UK on the International Council of Nurses. The Royal Charter was granted in 1928. The College of Nursing opened for business with 34 founder members. This is the RCN's ruling body, democratically elected by you the members. It's 25 representatives include 14 from England and two each from Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales.
Students have two elected representatives.
The other three members are the RCN president, deputy president and chair of RCN Congress. RCN Council is responsible for the policies of the RCN and the General Secretary is responsible for implementing that policy. Council takes account of resolutions carried by RCN Congress and recommendations from its standing committees. RCN Congress Congress is the RCN's main annual debating forum. It plays a major part in shaping policy and initiating activity through resolutions and matters of discussion.