Your web browser is outdated and may be insecure

The RCN recommends using an updated browser such as Microsoft Edge or Google Chrome

Effective nursing requires a shared understanding of what comprises safe staffing and good decision-making.

The RCN Foundation is responding to the need for further knowledge and understanding around leadership in nursing. We do this by funding projects that equip junior nurses and midwives to develop their leadership abilities and decision-making skills.

As part of our commitment to respond to urgent needs identified within nursing and midwifery, we have funded studies that increase the evidence base for what makes for effective leadership within a nursing and midwifery context.

This work sits alongside our reports on mental health and wellbeing among the nursing and midwifery teams. Through our work, we aim to support early-career nursing staff to be confident and supported as they apply their knowledge to make decisions that safeguard their patients.

Two nurses check medication dosage on a tablet

RCN Foundation funds research study exploring nurses' professional judgement

The RCN Foundation funded Cardiff University to undertake a qualitative comparative study of nurses’ use of professional judgement in nurse staffing systems in England and Wales.

nurses-with-paperwork-in-hospital

Leadership framework for Band 5 nurses

What do Band 5 nurses want from their own leadership development? The RCN Foundation funded Northumbria University to create a Band 5 leadership development framework.

Nurses in PPE discuss a patient

Healthy leadership in nursing during COVID-19

The RCN Foundation is funding Queen Margaret University research into nurses’ and midwives’ experience of leadership during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Has the pandemic changed leadership in nursing?

Dr Sarah McGloin reflects on a panel discussion about leadership within nursing during the height of the pandemic.