Responding to the Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC) Spotlight on Nursing and Midwifery 2025 report, Professor Sandy Harding, RCN Wales Associate Director of Nursing, Policy and Professional Development, said:

“We welcome the determination and commitment shown by our existing nurses in Wales with more than half surveyed saying they are satisfied with their day-to-day work and motivated by making a difference to people’s lives. However, the findings also present a stark reflection of the poor health of nursing in Wales. Too many nurses are not recommending the profession to others, are struggling and are facing abuse and discrimination in the workplace.”

“This is compounded by ongoing concerns around pay which continues to lag behind responsibility, workload and the rising cost of living, leaving many nurses feeling undervalued. At the same time, access to protected time and funding for continuing professional development remains inconsistent, undermining both career progression and the long-term sustainability of the workforce. RCN Wales believes this is unacceptable and we will continue to support nurses and fight for fair pay, meaningful investment in professional development and better working conditions across Wales.”

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Notes to editors:

The Royal College of Nursing (RCN) is the voice of nursing across the UK, including around 35,000 members in Wales. The RCN promotes the interests of nursing and patients on a wide range of issues and helps shape health care policy.  

For more information, contact the RCN Wales communications and media team on 02920 680 769 or mediawales@rcn.org.uk