A brighter path ahead

Much has changed and much has stayed the same. The COVID-19 pandemic has brought about a lot of change, both in words and deeds. The overall thinking about, and engagement in, our own health and that of those unknown to us as well as our colleagues, friends and relatives has increased. A greater concern for the greater good and a generosity of spirit has been witnessed by many. A change that is to be heralded is in the applications for nurse training, which have increased by 34% in England—from 35 960 to 48 830, with an increase in male applications of 41% and an increase in mature applicants (Department of Health and Social Care, 2021). This is a significant and positive move towards a diverse and representative work force. This is going to be critical for the future, with the Government manifesto commitment for 50 000 more nurses in the NHS. We will always need nurses and a significant amount of nurses have expressed the desire to leave or retire. Let us hope that this current trend of interest and appreciation of nursing continues.