How did we collect this data?

This information comes through a number of different routes, starting with intelligence from our members working around the country. Intelligence is initially gathered from the regions and countries. The RCN checks this against other sources of information including board papers, public statements and media reports. The vast majority of organisations provide only topline figures – very few are breaking this down into which specific job roles might be cut.  However, we do know that a number of Trusts have had discussions about nursing jobs. All data shown on this website includes a date specified when it was collected.

Using  the Frontline First website, we are now encouraging nurses to tell us about what is happening where they work.  Nurses can share any intelligence they have, as well as suggestions for cost-saving innovations via the online tools.

In Scotland:

The financial figures for each board are based on Scottish Government information on Revenue Allocations for 2010-11 (http://www.scotland.gov.uk/News/Releases/2010/03/11093526) and information on planned cost savings supplied by NHS boards  to the Scottish Parliament Health & Sport Committee (http://www.scottish.parliament.uk/s3/committees/hs/inquiries/Budget1011/NHSBOARDALLOCATIONS2010-11.htm).  However, it should be noted that the cost savings figures included here are likely to be an underestimate of the total cost savings required in 2010-11 budgets, as the answers boards gave to Parliament may not have included all sources of planned recurring and non-recurring savings. 

The workforce figures for each board are from NHS Board Projected Staff In Post (WTE) Changes In 2010/11 published by the Scottish Government in June 2010 (http://www.scotland.gov.uk/Resource/Doc/924/0099600.pdf).  These figures are NHS Board estimates as at 1 June 2010 and are subject to change.  Figures are provided as whole time equivalents (WTE).  Whole time equivalent (WTE) adjusts headcount staff figures to take account of part time staff.