Description
Traditionally, workforce development strategies in the NHS have been focused on fields which have problems with retention or recruitment such as learning disability and primary care nursing (Buchan et al, 2019). Studies which consider the personal and professional development of children’s nurses are often not transferable as they are based in countries other than the UK, they focus on newly qualified staff who are yet to experience significant varied post-registration development, or they focus on staff who have already experienced career progression and are working at advanced nursing levels. As Band 5 nurses make up the majority of the NHS workforce, their development is key, for improved recruitment and retention, as well as achievement of the NHS’ Long Term Workforce Plan goals.This presentation will share the findings of a piece of research which used a phenomenological methodology to explore the perceptions of Band 5 Children’s Nurses working in the NHS. 16 Children’s Nurses were interviewed twice, over a period of several months. The findings demonstrate that development is vital to the Children’s Nurses’ role and identifying that improved support from NHS Trusts, their managers, and their colleagues is key to ensure that there are resources and the culture necessary to support children’s nursing careers. The findings of this study provide an opportunity to understand the experiences of children’s nurses in their personal and professional development and provide insight into future workforce development strategies for this essential nursing group.
| Period | 24 Apr 2024 |
|---|---|
| Held at | Royal College of Nursing, United Kingdom |
| Degree of Recognition | National |