What's happened
Despite a record number of registered nurses and midwives in the UK, recruitment is slowing, leading to concerns about workforce shortages. Experts warn that increasing numbers of nurses are leaving the profession, exacerbated by a decline in new entrants and international recruits. Urgent reforms are needed to address these issues.
Why it matters
What the papers say
According to The Independent, Professor Nicola Ranger of the Royal College of Nursing highlighted that the profession is experiencing a 'devastating increase in people leaving within five years of joining.' The Guardian echoed this sentiment, stating that planned government reforms 'stand no chance' without addressing recruitment and retention issues. Meanwhile, the South China Morning Post reported on the broader context of nursing shortages in Malaysia, where nurses are leaving for better opportunities abroad, reflecting a global trend that could impact the UK as well. This interconnectedness of nursing challenges across countries underscores the urgency for effective policy responses.
How we got here
The UK nursing workforce has seen growth in registered professionals, reaching 841,367 as of September 2024. However, recruitment challenges persist, with fewer new nurses entering the field and many leaving within five years. Recent regulatory changes have also impacted international recruitment.
Common question
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More on these topics
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The Royal College of Nursing is a membership organisation and trade union with 450,000 members in the United Kingdom. It was founded in 1916, receiving its royal charter in 1928. Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II is the patron.
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The Nursing and Midwifery Council is the regulator for nursing and midwifery professions in the UK. The NMC maintains a register of all nurses, midwives and specialist community public health nurses and nursing associates eligible to practise within the U