Advertisement

COVID-19 has ‘changed the perception of social care nursing’

The chief executive of the Nursing and Midwifery Council has claimed the current pandemic has changed people’s perception of social care nursing and could even inspire new entrants to the profession.

Speaking at ‘The New Normal’ – a virtual conference for challenging times in social care – hosted by Care Talk, Andrea Sutcliffe said social care nursing ‘doesn’t receive the same level of support and public acknowledgement it deserves’.

‘I’m clear that we must continue to make the most of the huge opportunities we’ve now got, as a consequence of the immensely difficult times we’ve had, by standing up for social care nursing – not just in terms of older people, but in the interests of those people living with mental health problems, learning disabilities and physical disabilities who rely and depend on highly skilled nursing care too,’ said Ms Sutcliffe.

‘One of the things that drives me to distraction is the perception of social care not having the same level of skill or value compared to those working in the acute sector,’ she added.

‘But the pandemic has meant we are now busting that myth. I encourage everyone to continue to share and promote some of the brilliant examples of practice and leadership happening in so many social care settings day in, day out, to inspire others.’

‘The statement we issued last year highlighting the importance and expectations we have for everyone on our register is also another way people can use what we stand for as a regulator to amplify their own voices in advocating and recognising social care nurses.

‘Most importantly of all, improving the perception and recognition of social care nursing is a shared responsibility for all of us who lead, manage and work in health and care services.

‘It is incumbent on all of us to promote, champion and strengthen our social care nursing community – who really are the heart of our local communities – now and for the future.’

Photo Credit – Geralt (Pixabay)

Comments

Subscribe
Notify of
guest
0 Comments
Oldest
Newest Most Voted
Inline Feedbacks
View all comments
Help us break the news – share your information, opinion or analysis
Back to top