As many as one in 20 nursing positions are unfilled in Scotland, leading to concerns about patient safety.
New workforce data published by ISD has shown that the nursing and midwifery vacancy rate is currently 5.2%, the highest number of vacancies ever reported.
‘Again we are seeing record numbers of vacancies across the NHS in Scotland. This is further indication that the Scottish Government and health boards have failed to future proof the workforce,’ said Royal College of Nursing (RCN) Associate Director Norman Provan.
‘Faced with gaps in their teams, nursing staff are working under enormous pressure and constantly being asked to do more with less. Without strategic long-term planning and ensuring nursing staff are paid fairly for the work they do, patients won’t get the care they need.’
Since March there have been increases in vacancy rates for district nursing (5.5%), adult (5.3%) and mental health (4.4%). Vacancy rates in health visiting (7.3%) and paediatric nursing (7.1%) remain high. These same specialties also had the highest numbers of posts vacant for three months or more.
‘We have asked the Scottish Government to ensure their proposed bill on ‘safe and effective staffing in health and social care’ supports improved workforce planning and safeguards patients by guaranteeing the right staff, in the right place, at the right time,’ added Mr Provan.