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Support for the nursing workforce
11 February 2026
Type
Written Ministerial Statement
Department
Department of Health and Social Care
TAGS
At a Glance
Issue Summary
The statement addresses the undervaluation of nursing professionals in the NHS and announces measures to improve pay, support, and recognition.
Action Requested
The government commits to increasing graduate nurse salaries, reviewing band 5 nursing roles for fairer job descriptions and pay bands, establishing a national preceptorship standard, and reviewing evidence for further action. These actions aim to transform the nursing profession by ensuring nurses receive appropriate compensation and support.
Key Facts
- The NHS will prioritise increasing graduate pay in upcoming discussions on pay structure reform.
- Every band 5 nurse's role will be reviewed by employers over a set timeframe, with additional national funding available for salary uplifts.
- A single national nursing preceptorship standard will be established as part of the professional strategy for nursing.
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Assessment & feedback
Summary accuracy