RCN report reveals scale of Wales nursing crisis and urgent steps to stabilise the workforce

The report reveals at least 1,481 registered nurse vacancies across NHS Wales and sets out 13 urgent steps to address workforce shortages, reduce agency spend and tackle discrimination.

Nursing in Numbers 2025 is available to view in full in English and Welsh.

Read the report in English.

Read the report in Welsh.

RCN Wales Executive Director Helen Whyley said: “These figures are a stark warning that our nursing workforce is still under intolerable strain and still not getting the respect it deserves. With at least 1,481 nurse vacancies, skyrocketing agency fees, and relentless unpaid overtime, this situation is unsustainable."

Nursing in Numbers 2025 sets out 13 urgent steps, including protecting the registered nurse role; improving workforce data and planning; full transparency on corridor care; halting hospital bed cuts; fairer pay and progression; investment in social care staff; and expanding nursing student places with better support and clearer national plans for specialist and post-registration training.

Helen Whyley said: “Patients in Wales deserve safe, consistent care. Our brilliant nursing workforce deserves fair pay, safe staffing levels and protection from abuse. The Welsh government and NHS Wales must take the recommendations we’ve set out in our report and act on them now to keep nursing staff in Wales and restore public confidence in our services.”

RCN Wales stands ready to work with policymakers, employers and education partners to deliver practical solutions that fill vacancies, reduce agency spend and eradicate discrimination. Immediate investment, alongside a clear future proofed strategy, will be essential to secure a stable nursing workforce and protect patient care across Wales.

How you can help

• Read the report and share it with colleagues and local networks.
• Share this news story or our Nursing in Numbers posts on social media.
• Use the report findings and recommendations in meetings with employers and policymakers.