Despite its grand title, the Taskforce’s purpose was simple: to improve the working environment for nurses and midwives and set out a coherent retention and recruitment strategy for Scotland’s nursing & midwifery workforce. The Taskforce was established following sustained RCN lobbying, and our influence shaped many of the 44 final recommendations. Since publication, we have been pushing for Ministers to commit to implementing the Taskforce recommendations by clearly identifying the investment needed to deliver them. 

But one year later, progress has been far too slow. Members tell us every day that unsafe staffing and a feeling of being undervalued are making them reconsider whether they should continue in nursing. Yet the Scottish government has not acted with the urgency required, despite repeated assurances that Ministers are committed to implementation. The lack of a clear delivery plan and dedicated funding to deliver the recommendations is deeply disappointing. 

There are, however, some emerging signs of momentum. With the appointment of a new Chief Nursing Officer, we are beginning to see greater recognition of the scale of the challenge and what must be done to fix it. This must now translate into action, not just aspiration. 

Key recommendations waiting to be delivered include ensuring staff can reliably take the breaks they are entitled to, better support for staff wellbeing and reviewing absence allowances in workforce planning tools so they reflect the realities of modern nursing. Work is also underway to explore new routes into the profession and to review the nursing student financial package - an essential step in attracting and retaining the next generation of registered nurses. 

Our message in our new Scottish Parliament election manifesto is clear: care can’t continue to come at the cost of those who provide it and we can’t miss this opportunity to make real improvements for the profession. The Taskforce recommendations must be implemented, and Government must fund the changes required. 

Whatever Government is elected must pick up this work with renewed energy. Our members need to see real, measurable progress in 2026. 

With nearly 40% of RCN Scotland members actively planning to leave their job, the stakes could not be clearer. Scotland cannot afford further delay in tackling the recruitment and retention crisis faced by our health and social care system.