"The fact that more than half of those leaving nursing say they left earlier than they had planned is extremely concerning. Although the nursing workforce in Wales continues to grow, the pace has slowed compared to previous years. Mental health nursing grew by 1.3 per cent (down from 2.3 per cent). RCN Wales is calling for sustained investment in nursing, a long-term workforce strategy, and improved working conditions to help retain experienced staff. Ms Williams said: "Every nurse who leaves the profession early represents years of experience that patients and services can ill afford to lose."