1.  The RCN lobbied to get AFC included in the new GMS Contract.   Para 4.19 refers to the benefits of the principles of AFC being implemented.   Although the contract recommends that AFC is implemented there is absolutely no mandate to make GPs do this for their employees.

2.  The RCN has published, 'Nurses Employed by GPs RCN Guidance on Good Employment Practice' available from RCN Direct at 0845 772 6100 (order number 002 435).   This can also be found on the RCN website which includes a huge amount of information on Agenda for Change.

3.  The RCN has written to The Secretary of State for Health, England and the equivalents in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland urging action to be taken to persuade GPs to implement AFC.

4.  The RCN has met (and continues to) with the RCGP and GPC on this matter and views are exchanged on what action can be taken to ensure that nurses employed by GPs have similar terms and conditions of services as nurses employed by the NHS.

5.  A joint RCN/GPC letter reminding GPs of the necessity of ensuring that their nurse employees have the best of terms and conditions - which include the AFC principles is soon to go to all LMC Chairs.

6.  National and Local RCN Officers are able to give support and advice to GP employed nurses on this matter.

7.  The RCN ensures that Nursing Standard, PHC Journal and all relevant RCN forum newsletters include up to date information.

Action is constant and on going.  In the event of more change the RCN will adapt its campaign to ensure that we are being as effective as possible.

Lynn Young