The Royal College of Nursing (RCN) has said its annual conference next month will be held online only, following “serious allegations of sexual harassment”.

       A statement 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.”

       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.”

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