These 44 actions, the result of two years of collaborative work, set out a clear and ambitious roadmap for the Scottish government and other stakeholders to tackle one of the most pressing challenges in our health and care system — retaining and recruiting the nursing workforce.

At the heart of these recommendations is a simple but powerful principle: creating a culture that truly values nursing. That means recognising your skills, your experience, and your clinical judgment, and ensuring you have a working environment that supports your wellbeing and enables you to thrive.

Too often, the needs of nursing staff are overlooked. Your own wellbeing is set aside as you respond to the needs of patients and residents, while navigating the daily pressures of a system under pressure. The implementation of the Taskforce recommendations is an opportunity to change that—to reset and make a real difference to the working lives of nursing staff now and in the future.

We are committed to holding the Scottish Government to its promises. And as we move into an election year, we’ll be campaigning to ensure that the next government continues this vital work.

A Message of Thanks

As we approach the festive season, I want to take a moment to thank each and every one of you for your dedication and professionalism throughout the year. Your commitment to providing the best care, often in challenging circumstances, is truly inspiring.

I hope you find time to rest, recharge, and spend precious moments with loved ones. Wishing you a peaceful holiday season and a healthy, hopeful start to 2026.