Change to the RCN Indemnity Scheme

The Royal College of Nursing (RCN) has written to members employed in general practice to advise them of a change to the RCN indemnity scheme.  The change will take effect from 1 January 2012 and will not affect members' ability to practice.  The change is a technical one and simply means that defence organisations  (such as the Medical and Dental Defence Union of Scotland (MDDUS) which provide indemnity cover for general practice employers can no longer claim any of their costs from the RCN, if the employee found at fault is an RCN member.  This change brings general practice employers into line with the NHS, which accepts "vicarious" liability for the actions of all NHS staff.

If you have not received a copy of the letter from the RCN or would like further information, the letter and responses to frequently asked questions about the change are available on the RCN website at

http://www.rcn.org.uk/support/legal/change_to_indemnity_scheme_january_2012 or you can phone RCN Direct on  0345 772 6100.

The RCN is also encouraging its members to make sure that their membership details are correct - you can update your details at www.rcn.org.uk or phone RCN Direct (as above).

Clare Mayo

RCN