New collaboration supports nurses and midwives to lead sustainable healthcare
A new programme of CPD opportunities is supporting NHS Scotland’s nursing and midwifery workforce to build the knowledge and skills needed to deliver more sustainable, high-quality care.
Developed through a collaboration between NHS Scotland Assure and the UK’s Centre for Sustainable Healthcare, this pilot initiative has been commissioned as part of NHS Scotland’s response to the Climate Emergency and Sustainability agenda, and aligns with the national strategy’s ambitions.
Building capability to meet real-world challenges
Designed specifically for nurses and midwives, and aligned to the Nursing and Midwifery Council framework, the programme focuses on practical application — helping staff respond to the complex environmental and social challenges facing healthcare today.
Participants will develop the skills and confidence to:
- Integrate environmental and social considerations into everyday decision making
- Identify and deliver quality improvement opportunities
- Lead sustainable change across teams and services
With learning tailored to different career stages, the programme supports nurses and midwives from early career through to senior leadership.
By building capability across the workforce, it aims to strengthen the role of nursing and midwifery in shaping a more sustainable, resilient health system.
Kathryn Brechin, Director of Nursing at PSD Scotland, said:
Kathryn Brechin, Director of Nursing at PSD Scotland, said: “Nurses and midwives play a critical leadership role in delivering care that is high-quality, values‑based and sustainable. Sustainability is not an add‑on to healthcare; it is integral to how we improve quality and inform resource decisions. By equipping NHS Scotland’s nurses and midwives with the skills to lead sustainability and quality improvement, we are helping to deliver better outcomes for patients, support our workforce, and build a more sustainable health system for the communities we serve.”
Information about the courses, can be found via the Centre for Sustainable Healthcare.