Union Urges Swifter Action to Address Nurse Retention Crisis in Scotland

The Royal College of Nursing Scotland has issued a warning, stressing the urgent need for faster action to enhance nurse retention across Scotland.

Highlighting persistent workforce challenges within the NHS, the union has expressed concern over the slow progress made in tackling the issue.

Earlier calls in May for a retention strategy came in response to a decade-high number of nurses leaving the profession. Despite efforts, an update by the RCN reveals that improvements have been "much slower than needed."

The union's research exposed stubbornly high vacancies in hospitals and care homes, coupled with unfilled nursing program slots in Scottish universities for the past two years. Colin Poolman, RCN Scotland director, emphasized the significance of their recommendations in addressing the nursing workforce crisis.

Health Secretary Michael Matheson acknowledged the financial strain on health and social care, citing the most challenging pressures since devolution. The government's efforts to recruit 1,250 nurses, midwives, and allied health professionals by the year-end and the collaboration with RCN in developing alternative career pathways signify steps toward resolving this critical issue.