Working With Humanitarian Organisations: A Guide For Nurses, Midwives And Health Care Professionals

The Royal College of Midwives (RCM), The Royal College of Nursing (RCN), Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) and Voluntary Service Overseas (VSO) launch the publication of a guide for healthcare professionals wanting to work overseas with humanitarian organisations. The challenges for healthcare professionals working in the humanitarian field overseas are unique. This guide provides a no-holds-barred insight into the realities of the work, helping healthcare professionals to make sensible and informed choices. Dame Karlene Davis, General Secretary of the Royal College of Midwives, said: "Midwives from the UK can and do make a real contribution to the health and wellbeing of mothers and babies overseas. This guide will be an invaluable resource for those aiming to do humanitarian work and use their skills and experience to improve the lives of others." Dr Peter Carter, General Secretary of the Royal College of Nursing, said: "I am delighted to announce the launch of this invaluable guide for nurses and other healthcare professionals contemplating working overseas. "Nurses have a long history of overseas work, be it caring for the poorest in society, training local staff in developing countries, helping to set up sustainable health systems or responding to emergency situations. There will always be a need for experienced professionals to share their knowledge and skills with those in need." This publication looks at the different strands of aid work; the destinations involved; the skills needed - as well as the means to develop those skills; training courses available; a list of organisations that can be contacted; and career development. It also includes some great case studies, plus an extensive list of useful contacts. This guide is due to be launched at a joint RCN/RCM/MSF/VSO conference: Working overseas - your skills can make a difference taking place on June 15 at RCN headquarters in London. It will also be available to download at

(Author: http://www.rcn.org.uk/publications)

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