Wondering what the most common career change for nurses UK is? Read on to find out.
Nursing is one of the most rewarding but also one of the most demanding professions. Long shifts, emotional strain, and high-pressure situations can take their toll, and it’s no surprise that many nurses start thinking about a change.
Recent data by NMC for the Royal College of Nursing has shown that the number of UK-educated nurses leaving the register in England has risen significantly. Between 2021 and 2024, nurses leaving within 10 years of registration increased by 43%, while those leaving within five years surged by 67%. This highlights growing concerns over nurse retention in the UK.
And it’s not surprising, with “poor physical and mental health, burnout or exhaustion” being cited as the main reasons nurses are leaving their posts, it’s clear that significant improvements need to be made in the healthcare sector for such highly qualified individuals to want to remain.
So, if you’re tired of working as a nurse, you’re not alone. In fact, many healthcare professionals decide to take their skills into a new career while still making a difference in people’s lives.
The good news? There are plenty of options! Whether you want to stay in healthcare in a different capacity or move into something completely new, your experience and expertise as a nurse are valuable in a range of industries.
In this guide, we’ll explore the most common career change for nurses UK and the paths that might be the right fit for you.
Why Do Nurses Consider a Career Change?
As previously mentioned, there are a variety of reasons why nurses feel the need to leave the profession. These include:
- Burnout – Long hours and emotional exhaustion can lead to feeling drained and unfulfilled.
- Work-life balance – Shift work can make it hard to maintain a routine, see family, or enjoy hobbies. Check out our tips on how to strike a healthy work/life balance.
- Limited career progression – Some nurses feel stuck in their roles with few opportunities for advancement.
- Physical strain – Nursing is physically demanding, and injuries are common.
- Emotional toll – Constantly dealing with illness, loss, and stressful situations can take a toll on mental health.
The thing is, nursing is more than just a job for most people who enter this profession—it’s a calling. But the skills you develop in this role will not go to waste. They are highly valued across a variety of sectors. So, if you’re feeling any of the above, just know that there are other options out there. A new career for a nurse could be the fresh start you need.
➡️ Bonus reading: When an Employee Burns Out: Employer’s Guide
Transferable Skills Nurses Can Use in a New Career
One of the best things about being a nurse is the huge range of skills you develop along the way. Many of these skills are highly desirable in other industries, which means you already have a strong foundation for making a change. Here are just a few examples of transferable skills:
- Communication – Nurses are excellent at talking to people from all walks of life.
- Problem-solving – You’re used to thinking on your feet and making quick, informed decisions.
- Empathy – The ability to connect with others and understand their needs is valuable in many roles.
- Organisation – Managing multiple patients, treatments, and schedules takes serious organisational skills.
- Crisis management – Handling emergencies with a clear head is a rare and sought-after skill.
With these strengths, you’re already a great candidate for a wide range of jobs beyond nursing.
Most Common Career Change Options for Nurses in the UK
If you’re considering a nurse career change, here are some of the most popular options:
1. Health Play Specialist
If you still want to work in healthcare but prefer a different role, becoming a Health Play Specialist could be a great fit. This job involves using play to help children understand and cope with medical procedures. It’s a rewarding way to stay in a hospital setting without the high-pressure demands of nursing.
Salary: £19,700 – £37,900 (NHS Band 3-6)
2. Health Visitor
A Health Visitor works with families and young children to support early development and wellbeing. If you love working with children and want to make a positive impact outside a hospital, this role could be ideal.
Salary: £32,300 – £45,800 (Band 6-7)
3. GP Reception or Administration Staff
If you’re looking for a change of pace but still want to use your medical knowledge, working as a GP receptionist or in practice administration can be a great alternative. You’ll still interact with patients and use your expertise, but in a less hands-on way.
Salary: £20,500 – £26,500
4. Occupational Health Nurse
This role involves working with businesses to ensure employee health and safety. You might carry out health assessments, provide advice on workplace wellbeing, and help prevent occupational injuries.
Salary: £35,000 – £50,000
5. Teaching & Training
If you enjoy mentoring new nurses or training staff, why not take your skills into education? You could teach nursing students, provide professional training, or work in health education.
Salary: £30,000 – £45,000
6. Medical Writing & Research
Do you have a knack for explaining complex medical concepts? Medical writing could be a great fit. This career involves creating educational content, research papers, and training materials for healthcare organisations like the NHS, pharmaceutical companies, and publishers.
Salary: £30,000 – £50,000+
7. Pharmaceutical or Medical Sales
If you enjoy the science behind medicine but want a more commercial role, pharmaceutical sales could be a great option. You’ll use your medical knowledge to promote products to healthcare providers.
Salary: £40,000 – £60,000 (including bonuses)
How to Successfully Transition to a New Career
Making a career change after nursing can feel daunting, but with the right approach, it’s completely achievable. Here’s how to get started:
- Identify what you want – Do you still want to work in healthcare, or are you looking for something completely different?
- Research roles – Look into job descriptions, required qualifications, and salary expectations.
- Update your CV – Highlight your transferable skills and experience in a way that suits your chosen career. Read our CV writing tips for further help.
- Consider additional training – Some roles may require extra qualifications, but many employers provide training. Here are the 5 best retraining courses for adults.
- Network – Speak to others who have made the transition, connect with professionals in your chosen field, and seek advice. Learn our top networking tips.
- Start applying – Once you’ve found the right fit, start looking for opportunities and preparing for interviews.
Applying for Alternative Careers for Nurses
A new career for a nurse doesn’t have to mean starting from scratch. With your skills, experience, and knowledge, you have countless options available. Whether you want to stay in healthcare in a different role or move into a brand-new industry, there’s a path that’s right for you.
If you’re ready to explore alternative careers for nurses, head over to the Refreshing a Career Nursing jobs board for all the latest opportunities in your area.
Check out our blog for the latest industry insights and career change news.
Have a question? Feel free to contact our team.
