16.02.18
RCN launches member survey on decriminalisation of abortions
The Royal College of Nursing (RCN) has launched a UK-wide survey, quizzing its members for their views on decriminalising abortions.
The online survey, which runs until Sunday 18 March 2018, will help the RCN to form a position on the issue in the midst of a growing national debate.
Currently, termination of pregnancy is legal in England, Scotland and Wales, within certain criteria that must be agreed by two doctors. Without this agreement, termination is a criminal offence which could result in a prison sentence.
In Northern Ireland, termination of pregnancy is illegal except in very limited cases.
The survey won’t consult on wider issues around abortions, including arguments for or against the procedure, and the RCN isn’t calling for changes to gestational limits or the right to conscientious objection by healthcare professionals.
Commenting on the survey launch, Janet Davies, Chief Executive and General Secretary of the RCN, encouraged all its members to have their say:
“Decriminalisation is an important issue for today’s society to consider and one the college is committed to having a position on.
“As the largest nursing organisation in the United Kingdom, we wish to understand the views of our members.”
Top image: KatarzynaBialasiewicz
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