Keeping up to date

Welcome to another edition of the BJN Nutrition Supplement, where the National Nurses Nutrition Group (NNNG) and the BJN support one another to enhance the knowledge of practitioners of all health and care professions, so that the nutritional care of patients continues to improve.

This edition is another example of how varied and diverse the field of nutrition and nutrition support is. From blended diets for children and young people to food audit and sustainability, it demonstrates just how wide a knowledge base is required for those working either within the specialty of nutrition support or alongside it. We are no longer working in organisations that only focus on the delivery of care; there are also investments in supporting and preserving the wider community, in addition to an increased awareness of the financial and environmental implications of all the decisions we make and the care we give.

For those colleagues who are either lone specialists at their organisation or in a very small team, the opportunities for keeping up-to-date with innovations with current clinical practice can sometimes be hard to find, but is essential if policies are to reflect up-to-date, safe practice. The NNNG and its umbrella organisation BAPEN are immensely helpful and supportive. By becoming a member of the NNNG, you immediately qualify for free membership of BAPEN, which allows you free access to all the guidelines from both organisations. There is also the opportunity for professional networking with a wider range of UK colleagues. The NNNG has a members-only discussion forum where you can reach out to colleagues for advice – or offer support to others, all from the comfort of your computer.