QiS standardised across Wales to strengthen neonatal nursing and improve care for babies

Addressing variation and strengthening consistency

Prior to standardisation, variation in how QiS programmes were delivered and interpreted across Wales led to inconsistencies in training outcomes. This presented challenges for workforce mobility and risked creating variation in professional preparation across services.

The newly agreed standards provide a consistent foundation for neonatal nursing practice. All nurses completing a QiS programme in Wales will now meet the same high standards, ensuring parity in knowledge, competence and confidence regardless of where they train or practise.

This cohesive approach supports safer cross-boundary working, enhances patient safety and contributes to a more consistent experience of care for babies and their families across neonatal units.

Supporting a skilled and flexible workforce

The standardised QiS recognises the complexity and specialist demands of neonatal care. It provides a robust, transferable qualification that supports nurses’ professional development and career progression.

Importantly, the national standards enable neonatal nurses to move more easily between health boards and geographical areas, with confidence that their specialist education is recognised and valued throughout Wales. This increased flexibility will strengthen workforce resilience and support services to respond effectively to changing demand.

Workforce voice at the centre

Engagement with frontline neonatal nurses has been central to the development of the new standards. Their expertise, insight and lived experience have directly informed the standards, ensuring they are practical, relevant and reflective of the realities of neonatal practice.

The standardisation of the Qualified in Specialty represents a major step forward for neonatal nursing in Wales. By strengthening professional development, improving workforce mobility and reinforcing consistent standards of practice, initiative ultimately enhances care for some of the most vulnerable patients in the health system.

Rebecca Boore, Associate Director for Workforce Transformation, Nursing & Midwifery at HEIW commented, "The launch of the Qualified in Specialty (QiS) standards marks an important moment for neonatal care in Wales.