Your web browser is outdated and may be insecure

The RCN recommends using an updated browser such as Microsoft Edge or Google Chrome

Nursing Workforce in Scotland report

29 March 2022
In the report, which contains a new analysis of nursing workforce statistics and challenges facing workforce planning, RCN Scotland highlights how the record-high vacancy rate for nursing staff is a serious threat to maintaining high quality patient care.

The report underlines just how urgently action is needed to repair the harms caused to the nursing workforce by the COVID-19 pandemic as well as years of chronic under-investment before the pandemic.

The report sets out 10 recommendations, which include calling for:

  • A clear timetable for implementation of the Health and Care (Staffing) (Scotland) Act to be set out as a matter of urgency.
  • The Scottish government to increase investment in health and care services to employ more nursing staff and achieve safe staffing levels.
  • A commitment to continue to increase the number of nursing student places in line with workforce modelling rather than affordability. 
 

Page last updated - 06/04/2022