A new study suggests the NHS may be able to slow the loss of experienced nurses by improving the everyday conditions they work in, with workplace culture, compassionate leadership and manageable workloads emerging as the strongest factors shaping whether staff stay or leave later in their careers.
What the research found
The study, which involved almost 2,000 NHS nurses aged between 45 and 54, found that supportive relationships between colleagues, flexible working arrangements and lower administrative pressure were repeatedly ranked among the most important job features. Researchers said these factors mattered alongside pay and wider workforce policy, rather than being secondary concerns.
According to the report, around half of NHS nurses are aged 45 or over, and those with more than 20 years of experience are among the most likely to leave or retire early. The findings therefore point to retention as a major workforce issue, especially as the service continues to face pressure from shortages and burnout.
Why experience matters for patient care
The researchers argued that keeping seasoned nurses in post is essential not only for staffing numbers but also for safe patient care, the preservation of clinical expertise and the mentoring of younger colleagues entering the profession. They said experienced staff play a vital role in supporting the delivery of high-quality care across the health service.
Lead author Dr Zoé Ejebu said the results show that if the NHS wants to stop its most experienced staff from leaving early, it must invest in team culture, compassionate leadership and workload management. Professor Shabbar Jaffry added that improving workplace conditions should sit alongside recruitment, fair pay and broader workforce planning.
What NHS employers are being urged to do
The study’s recommendations include strengthening team collaboration, expanding flexible working options and reducing workload pressures through safe staffing levels and fewer administrative demands. The authors said the goal should be to create environments where experienced nurses feel supported, respected and able to deliver the best possible care.
Published on 12 August 2026 and reported by News Medical, the research adds to growing concern over retention across the NHS workforce. Its message is straightforward: for many nurses, staying in the profession may depend as much on how work feels day to day as on the headline terms of employment.
Source: News Medical report
