House of Commons · Written Ministerial Statement
Support for the nursing workforce
11 February 2026 · Department of Health and Social Care
Proposed by Wes Streeting Lab Ilford North
Summarised by AI from the official record, so it can contain mistakes.
At a glance
Key points
- The government announces measures to improve pay and support for nursing professionals in the NHS.
- Graduate nurse salaries will be increased, and band 5 nursing roles will be reviewed for fairer job descriptions and pay bands.
- A national preceptorship standard will be established to enhance support for new nurses.
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.