Nurses represent the largest professional group within the NHS, yet their contribution to workforce transformation, system leadership, and neighbourhood health is often overlooked in strategic planning and decision-making. This session brings together perspectives from nursing leadership, workforce development, and frontline practice to explore the untapped potential within the nursing workforce and the opportunities this presents for the future of healthcare. Drawing on real-world examples, the panel will discuss workforce intelligence, career pathways, leadership, retention, and innovation in Primary Care and community settings. Attendees will gain practical insights into how nursing can be better recognised, developed, and empowered to address workforce challenges, improve patient outcomes, and support sustainable, multidisciplinary models of care.

• Understand the strategic value and untapped potential of the nursing workforce.
• Explore how nursing leadership can drive service transformation and system change.
• Learn from practical examples of innovation, workforce development and career progression.
• Identify opportunities to better utilise and support nursing talent within local systems.