Petition: Fair Pay Increase and Proper Recognition for Nursing Associates

We are calling on the Government to urgently review and increase the pay of Nursing Associates within the NHS.

Nursing Associates are highly trained healthcare professionals who provide essential, hands-on patient care every single day. They support people in some of their most vulnerable moments, carrying out complex clinical duties, monitoring patient conditions, assisting with treatments, and providing compassionate care that families rely on.

Despite this responsibility, the pay does not reflect the reality of the role.

Too often, Nursing Associates feel as though their work is not taken seriously or fully valued. They are trusted with significant clinical responsibilities and expected to perform at a high professional standard, yet their pay does not match the level of skill, accountability, and emotional labour required.

Many Nursing Associates feel frustrated and disheartened, knowing they bridge a crucial gap in the NHS workforce but remain under-recognised and underpaid. This lack of fair pay is not just a financial issue — it affects morale, retention, and how valued staff feel within the system they are committed to serving.

We are asking for:

An immediate review of Nursing Associate pay bands
A fair pay increase that reflects the responsibility and clinical skill of the role
Clear recognition of Nursing Associates as an essential part of the nursing workforce
Consistent pay and progression across all NHS trusts
Nursing Associates deserve more than being “in between” roles. They are vital to patient care and the safe running of services.

A fair pay increase is not a luxury — it is recognition of the work they already do, every single day.