UK government seeks evidence to protect nurse title in law

The UK Department of Health and Social Care has launched a public call for evidence on how to legally protect the title “nurse.” The consultation invites views from patients, the public, regulators, trade unions, employers, educators, charities, social‑care bodies and organisations that currently use the term. It aims to stop the misuse of the title, make it a criminal offence for unqualified individuals to call themselves a nurse, and enhance patient safety. The move follows a pledge made over a year ago and follows campaigns by nursing leaders such as Professor Alison Leary, Dr Crystal Oldman and MP Dawn Butler, whose Nurse (Use of Title) Bill was introduced in early 2025. Health and Social Care minister Baroness Gillian Merron said the title carries huge trust and must be protected. The evidence‑gathering period runs until the end of September, after which ministers will decide on next steps.