12 February 2026

This Pathway establishes a clear and regionally consistent framework for career progression and professional development for the cancer nursing workforce. By promoting high standards of practice and equipping the workforce with the specialist skills required to deliver safe, effective, and person-centred care, the initiative seeks to improve the overall experience and outcomes of people living with cancer across Northern Ireland.

The Pathway, which was launched on World Cancer Day, provides a well-defined, structured career progression route from Senior Nursing Assistant roles through to Advanced and Consultant-level practice.

Health Minister Mike Nesbitt said:

“We cannot achieve meaningful reform of our health & social care system unless we focus on our workforce, with an emphasis on retention, career progression, and professional development. Ensuring colleagues feel valued and supported professionally in turn helps create the conditions for them to confidently deliver the high quality, evidence-based care that meets the health needs of our population. It is fitting that this Pathway is being launched on World Cancer Day as the role of nurses, senior nursing assistants, and cancer support workers is fundamental at every stage of the care journey for each person diagnosed with cancer.The development of this clinical career pathway is critical in the strategic vision and transformational leadership for nursing, and complements the Career & Development Model for Nursing and Midwifery which I launched in December.”

 

The Pathway was commissioned by the Department’s Chief Nursing Officer, Professor Maria McIlgorm, and produced by the Northern Ireland Practice & Education Council for Nursing and Midwifery (NIPEC). It is aligned with the priorities contained within Prof McIlgorm’s five-year vision for Nursing and Midwifery, by providing an agile and responsive career pathway, aligned to levels of practice, to support workforce development.

Professor McIlgorm said:

“On this World Cancer Day, I want to recognise both the profound impact of cancer on our society and the exceptional dedication of our cancer nursing workforce. Every day, these professionals deliver expert clinical care, vital emotional support, and compassionate guidance to individuals and families in their most vulnerable moments. This Pathway has been shaped through close collaboration with nursing leaders, educators, clinical teams, and people living with and beyond cancer. This framework strengthens recruitment, retention, and professional development across cancer services, ensuring a skilled workforce who are equipped to deliver safe, person‑centred care. By investing in our nurses, we invest in better outcomes and experiences for everyone affected by cancer.”

Professor Linda Kelly, NIPEC Chief Executive, said:

“I would like to extend my appreciation to all who have contributed to the development of the NI Cancer Nursing Clinical Career Pathway. This is an exciting opportunity for the profession to lead the way and make significant impact on the outcomes for every person affected by cancer. This career pathway recognises the expertise of cancer nurses and provides a clear supportive framework in which to grow, lead and thrive throughout their careers.”