Improved training is the key to expanding the number of practice nurses, according to a new report.

There should also be efforts to improve the profile of the role, according to Health Education England.

The report says that nurses in general practice should have access to accredited training.

It calls for practice nurse educators to cover all areas of England and for the promotion of mentor training.

It also calls for a nationwide standard education programme for nurses wanting to return to practice.

GP Dr Peter Lane, who chairs the HEE general practice workforce group, said: “The highly-skilled general practice nursing workforce of today provides an essential high standard of care to their local populations and are invaluable members of primary care teams.

“This report offers some clear guidance and steps that can be taken to improve GPN recruitment and retention, and encourage nurses to return to the profession by setting out how best to respond to the current and anticipated workforce challenges at both strategic and local levels.”

Professor Lisa Bayliss-Pratt, from Health Education England, said: “There is already some great work happening locally such as training hubs that enable nurses to develop their skills in specialist areas and progress their careers within general practice.

“We want to make sure that this type of best practice is shared.”