Nursing career challenges and expectations in Scotland: What are the important factors to job seekers choosing a career?
This morning, our CEO, Jane Wylie-Roberts, appeared on Radio Scotland with Kaye Adams, where they discussed the barriers to entering nursing as a profession and why we are seeing a drastic decline in the number of applications to study nursing at universities in Scotland.
Throughout the segment, it was said how rewarding nursing can be, and how it comes with plenty of career opportunities, whether that may be working in the community, in a hospital, or on cruise ships! However, along with a decline in the number of applications to study, there has been a change in the applicant demographic as well, with fewer school-leavers applying, and more mature students ready to take the step into the world of nursing. With the demographic change in nursing applicants, it appears it may be time to consider if the structure of the nursing pathway and long-term career is suitable. With many applicants having children at home and other responsibilities, are the bursaries enough to provide for families? Are 12-hour shifts sustainable? Are nurses given the support to manage the stress and toil that comes with the job?
It appears that an assessment and restructuring of the vocation may be necessary in order to promote and improve recruitment within the nursing profession. Let’s take a look at some of the factors that appear to be most important for job seekers (including and out with nursing) at the moment…
Flexibility – more now than ever, especially after the COVID lockdowns, employees want flexibility in their roles. Whether this is remote or hybrid working, or flexible starting/finishing times, it’s evident that many young employees want the freedom to decide when and where they work.
Trust – having a reasonable amount of independence and autonomy in a role can be a huge focus for young people. They do not want to be micromanaged and want to feel trusted to manage their own workload.
Prospects – growth is a huge factor when deciding on an employer. Candidates want to know that they will have the opportunity to develop their skills and climb their career ladders. When employees begin to feel stagnant, they tend to be open to opportunities elsewhere.
Salary – of course, given the current economic climate, salary is a heavily important factor. The cost of living is increasing significantly, and job seekers are looking for market-competitive salaries that increase alongside inflation.
Company culture and ethics – it is increasingly evident how crucial company culture is to prospective employees. In today's landscape, inclusivity and diversity stand as paramount values. Individuals seek workplaces where they feel accepted and supported, and where reasonable adjustments can be made to demonstrate this acceptance.
Value – feeling appreciated and valued in one's role holds a lot of importance for many individuals in the workforce. When employees feel undervalued, it not only diminishes their morale but also serves as one of the primary catalysts for seeking job changes. Recognising and acknowledging employees' contributions not only boosts their sense of worth but also fosters a positive work environment where productivity and loyalty increase.
Sustainability – in today’s society, we are witnessing a remarkable shift towards environmental consciousness, with an increasing number of individuals prioritising green practices. Many now seek employment with companies that demonstrate awareness of their environmental footprint and actively engage in efforts to reduce carbon emissions while fostering sustainable operations.
It's evident that nursing, which is a vital component of our healthcare system, is undergoing significant shifts in its applicant demographics and the expectations of its workforce. The radio segment highlights the need for a reassessment of the nursing pathway and long-term career structure to accommodate the evolving needs of potential candidates, particularly in terms of family support, work-life balance, and stress management.
Moreover, the broader job market landscape presents clear indicators of what today's job seekers prioritise, and these factors resonate not only within nursing but across various industries, signifying a larger societal shift in workplace values and expectations.
In moving forward, it's essential for stakeholders within the nursing profession, educational institutions, healthcare systems, and policymakers to collaborate on strategies that address these challenges. By fostering environments that prioritise the well-being, growth, and fulfilment of nurses and other professionals, we can not only improve recruitment efforts but also lift the quality of patient care and the overall resilience of our healthcare systems.
To hear the discussion take place, slide to 10.36 on the BBC Scotland programme linked here: https://www.bbc.co.uk/sounds/play/m001wj79
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