The Royal College of Nursing banned free alcoholic drinks at its Brighton annual congress after reports surfaced of a "boozy, sexualised culture" at past events.

A review of previous events found that extra-martial affairs were common and some attendees had an "expectation of sex".

Following an investigation by Bruce Carr KC, who found the possibility of vulnerability and alcohol-related exploitation, this year's congress took measures to ensure a safe environment.

Rules were put in place, and access was given to a well-being hub, safe spaces, counselling, and mental health first aiders.

Their new rules say: “As part of our responsibilities to provide a safe environment, the RCN policy is that the RCN will not purchase alcohol for participants.

“There will be no provision by the RCN of alcoholic drinks at receptions or dinners.”

The event in Brighton was attended by around 2,700 members of the nursing union.

A spokesman for the Royal College of Nursing acknowledged their commitment to the safety and wellbeing of all members and confirmed that they learned from and acted on the findings of the review by Bruce Carr KC.

In October 2022, the damaging internal report was leaked to the Guardian, exposing bullying, misogyny and a sexual culture at the Royal College of Nursing (RCN) where women were at risk of "alcohol and power-related exploitation."

The report revealed that the RCN's senior leadership was "riddled with division, dysfunction and distrust" and condemned the male-dominated governing body as "not fit for purpose."

The RCN's annual conference, known as congress, also came under grave scrutiny as Carr raised concerns about an "inappropriate sexual culture" where exploitation of vulnerable individuals was a risk.