Join us for an exciting event that forms part of the ongoing training for all activists. This is your chance to share experiences, develop your skills, and discuss the challenges and opportunities shaping our work. Together, we’ll strengthen our activist community and prepare for the future. This is a unique opportunity for workplace reps, branch officers and MSW advocates to:

• Learn from your peers
• Engage in dynamic discussions
• Hear the latest employment relations updates
• Stay informed on the latest developments within the RCM

Branch activism awards 

We’re excited to announce the branch activism awards, celebrating the incredible collective efforts of RCM branches across the UK. These awards recognise branches that have gone above and beyond to make a real difference, whether through campaigning, organising events, promoting learning, or driving positive change.

Branches are invited to submit entries for one or more award categories. All submissions will be judged by members of the RCM Executive Team, and the winners will be announced on 23 April 2026 at the activist conference.

Categories

• Branch workplace campaign of the year
• Branch event of the year
• Learning campaign or event
• Health and safety campaign or event
• Equality, diversity and inclusion campaign or event
• Branch communications award

Venue parking 

Apply now

Deadline for entries 28 February 2026

Please note: The entry process must be anonymous. Do not include your name or NHS organisation name or Branch in the submission. Your contact details can be included during the online entry process.

Who can enter?

The awards are open to all RCM activists and they may enter for more than one category.

Entry tips: How to prepare a winning branch activism award submission

1. Start early
   The standard of entries continually improves, so give yourself plenty of time. Draft your entry well ahead of the deadline and ask someone to review it and provide feedback.
2. Sell your success
   Treat your entry like a professional proposal. Keep it focused and logical so judges can clearly see your achievement. Include your objectives, a brief background for context, and outline how you delivered the project and its benefits. End with a concise summary of key points.
3. Show organisational value
   Submit entries where results are clear and measurable. If benefits haven’t materialised yet, consider waiting until next year. If you entered previously and were unsuccessful, re-submit with stronger evidence of impact.
4. Keep it real and factual
   Use supporting data from colleagues, departments, or service users. Include testimonials from senior personnel and relevant external references. Stick to facts and explain what was involved.
5. Ensure anonymity
   Entries must be anonymous to ensure fairness. If your entry can be identified, it may be disqualified. Contact details can be included during the online submission process.
6. Be proud and creative
   Showcase your branch’s personality and culture. Make your entry innovative, engaging, and easy to share among judges. Aim for a compelling read that stands out.

What are the judges looking for?

If you have a passion for activism these are the awards for you. The judges are looking for innovation, creativity, championing workers rights and excellent communication skills. Review the descriptions of the awards and ensure that you have highlighted how your branch has supported members, improved their workplaces or developed their skills,

Your written submission

In order to ensure a smooth and efficient entry process we ask that you follow some simple rules:

• Please limit submission forms to the word limit of 500 words. If your entry does exceed this word limit you run the risk of being disqualified.
• Make sure your entry is anonymous.  Include all of your contact details during the entry process.
• Make sure that you are completing the correct entry/nomination form for your category to avoid disqualification
• You must use the submission form provided – other forms cannot be accepted.

How to prepare your entry

Each category has a submission limit of 500 words. Do not feel that you must use all 500 words, this is simply a limit. Use as much space as you feel you need to fully answer every aspect of the category criteria.