The results of the RCN Research Society’s survey into the impact of COVID-19 on the nursing and midwifery workforce are indeed worrying but it is little wonder that nursing staff have reported feeling depressed, anxious and stressed during the COVID-19 pandemic.
We know from RCN members in Wales that there had been issues in gaining access to suitable and sufficient personal protective equipment (PPE) and we have been closely monitoring this situation; we welcome the Welsh Government’s weekly coronavirus briefing with us. There continues to be insufficient access to COVID-19 testing for health and care workers, meaning that many nurses and nursing support workers have been unnecessarily self-isolating, putting further strain on an already overstretched workforce. This week the RCN conducted a survey asking our members to tell us how effectively COVID-19 testing is being rolled out to them and their families; the results will be published shortly.
Our fantastic nursing workforce has been unstinting in their dedication as they have stepped up to the many challenges presented by COVID-19. The Welsh Government and employers must use these survey findings to inform their strategies going forward. Nursing staff just want to do their jobs and they must feel supported to do so. We encourage our members in Wales who are finding their mental health affected by the coronavirus pandemic to contact us for support and advice.
RCN members can contact RCN Direct for advice and support on 0345 772 6100 or visit rcn.org.uk/get-help
