Stronger Nursing, Stronger Nation: Nurses demand action ahead of 2026 Senedd election in new RCN manifesto

Rooted in the experiences of frontline nursing staff and insights from our member survey, the manifesto outlines four urgent priorities to restore dignity, safety and sustainability to the profession: to end corridor care, protect patient safety, strengthen care at the heart of the community and ensure the right number of nurses in the right settings to meet the health demands of the Welsh public.

Read and download the manifesto in Welsh and English.

One nurse told RCN Wales: “Nurses don’t need more promises – they need action. Safe staffing, fair pay and a voice in shaping the future of care aren’t optional; they’re the foundation of a healthy Wales.” Another highlighted the unsustainable pressure the workforce is under: “Without the resources we need, we’re being asked to deliver world-class care with one hand tied behind our backs.”

Helen Whyley, RCN Wales Executive Director, said: “This is a defining moment for health and care in Wales. The RCN has set out detailed, evidence-based recommendations that we expect the next Welsh Government to commit to, not in some distant future, but from day one.

“Within the first 50 days, members of the Senedd must take urgent steps to protect nursing and safeguard patient care. Within six months, they must deliver meaningful change. And within four years, we expect a reformed and resilient health and care system that respects both the workforce and the people it serves. Anything less is a risk Wales cannot afford.

“The future of the Welsh NHS depends on the wellbeing and empowerment of its nursing workforce. This manifesto is not just a list of demands – it’s a blueprint for rebuilding trust, safety, and sustainability in our health system.

“With the 2026 election drawing closer, the RCN is calling on all political parties to engage seriously with our manifesto and to listen carefully to the people keeping health and care services afloat. This is more than a policy document. It is a direct appeal from the nursing workforce to those aspiring to be in power: support us, or risk losing us.”

 

The launch took place at the Senedd, with Members of the Senedd, RCN Wales branch officials, members, representatives, stewards and student ambassadors from across Wales  in attendance to bring urgent actions for nursing to the heart of Welsh Government.

The NHS in Wales is facing a winter of industrial discontentment, with the strain evident across the profession – from nursing students and health care support workers to seasoned professionals. The manifesto makes clear: current efforts are not enough to save the nursing profession in Wales.

What you can do to help

Using our election manifesto webpage you can:

• share our manifesto on Bluesky, Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, Threads or TikTok - and don't forget to tag RCN Wales and #StrongerNursing in your posts
• download our campaign materials and share in your networks
• make sure you are registered and ready to vote in the 2026 Senedd elections and have your say on who is making decisions for nursing.

Visit the election manifesto webpage.