Two-thirds of NHS nurses believe lack of staff is putting patients at risk, survey finds
A recent survey by the Royal College of Nursing (RCN) reveals that two-thirds of NHS nurses believe understaffing is compromising patient safety. The survey highlights that the growth in the nursing workforce has slowed to its lowest level in eight years, exacerbating the challenges posed by an ageing population. The RCN is urging the government to implement mandatory minimum staffing levels to address these concerns.
- ▪64% of nurses reported that the number of registered nurses on their last shift was below safe levels.
- ▪22% of nurses indicated that staffing was well below what was needed, leading to compromised care.
- ▪The growth in the nursing workforce has slowed to its lowest level in eight years, with a significant disparity compared to the increase in doctors.
- ▪NHS leaders are warning of potential service cuts due to financial constraints, with 64% expecting to reduce services this year.
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The growth in the nursing workforce slowed last year to its lowest level in eight years, figures released by the RCN show. Photograph: Jeff Moore/PAView image in fullscreenThe growth in the nursing workforce slowed last year to its lowest level in eight years, figures released by the RCN show. Photograph: Jeff Moore/PANursingTwo-thirds of NHS nurses believe lack of staff is putting patients at risk, survey findsUnion to urge ministers to bring in mandatory minimum staffing, as ageing population increases demand for careDenis Campbell Health policy editorMon 18 May 2026 01.00 EDTSharePrefer the Guardian on GoogleAlmost two-thirds of nurses believe there are too few of them working in the NHS to keep patients safe and give them proper care, a survey has revealed.Understaffing and the…
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