RCN Wales urges next Welsh Government to tackle 'corridor care'
It comes as the union launches their manifesto ahead of next year's Senedd Election.
The Royal College of Nursing (RCN) in Wales has launched a manifesto “Stronger Nursing, Stronger Nation” ahead of the 2026 Senedd election, calling on all political parties to prioritise nursing and patient care as a cornerstone of their campaign platforms.
The union says their manifesto outlines 4 priorities to "restore dignity, safety, and sustainability to the profession".
4 priorities for the Welsh Government:
- End corridor care
- Implement protected time for continuing professional development
- Consult on ways to reform the funding of residential nursing care
- Improvement into encouraging people to join the profession
RCN Wales says:
“Nurses don’t need more promises—they need action. Safe staffing, fair pay, and a voice in shaping the future of care aren’t optional; they’re the foundation of a healthy Wales.”
"Without the resources we need, we’re being asked to deliver world-class care with one hand tied behind our backs.”
In a survey conducted by the union, they reveal how nursing staff report feeling 'undervalued, overworked, and unsupported'.
"The Senedd must take urgent steps to protect nursing"
Quoted in their manifesto, Helen Whyley, RCN Wales Executive Director, says:
“This is a defining moment for health and care in Wales. The RCN has set out detailed, evidence-based recommendations that we expect the next Welsh Government to commit to, not in some distant future, but from day one.
"Within the first 50 days, members of the Senedd must take urgent steps to protect nursing and safeguard patient care. Within six months, they must deliver meaningful change. And within four years, we expect a reformed and resilient health and care system that respects both the workforce and the people it serves. Anything less is a risk Wales cannot afford.”
"We expect a reformed and resilient health and care system"
The Welsh Government says: “We greatly value Wales’ nursing workforce and continue to work with employers and unions to deliver the working environment and conditions our NHS staff deserve.
"We do not endorse routine care in non-clinical environments where patient privacy or dignity is compromised. However, there are occasions when the NHS faces exceptional pressures during high demand periods.
“We've provided £200m additional funding this year to improve home care and hospital discharge timelines to address these challenges, which are not unique to Wales.”
The next Senedd election takes place on the 7th of May 2026.