This week WeRPN joined the Minister of Long-Term Care, the Honourable Natalia Kusendova-Bashta for a crucial announcement highlighting the Ontario government’s new investments to strengthen nursing in long-term care. This provincial investment is designed to attract 4,000 new nurses to the sector and support career advancement opportunities for another 4,000 current professionals through initiatives such as the Nursing Partnership for Learning, Employment, Development, Growth and Experience (PLEDGE) and Jumpstart Opportunities in Nursing in Long‑Term Care (JOIN LTC).
Earlier this year, WeRPN participated in consultations with the Ministry on key ways to enhance recruitment and retention in the sector. WeRPN applauds government for taking action on many of the recommendations put forward by our association.
“WeRPN is pleased with the Ontario government’s comprehensive approach to supporting nurses in long-term care settings — the majority of which are RPNs”, said Dianne Martin, CEO of WeRPN. “This critical funding will not only attract more nurses to the sector but also ensure they are well-supported and encouraged to build lasting careers, translating to better, more consistent care for long-term care patients.”
These commitments—together with programs like WeRPN’s BEGIN program—represent significant progress in supporting our LTC nursing workforce. By bolstering recruitment, expanding career pathways, and enhancing professional development, these initiatives will help ensure Ontario’s seniors receive exceptional, compassionate care while reinforcing the resilience of our healthcare system.