Some £15 million is to put towards a programme to improve recruitment of practice nurses, it has been announced.

NHS England promised that its programme would also provide support for existing practice nurses.

This includes an expansion in leadership and career opportunities, it promised, together with induction programmes, training and mentoring for nurses joining general practice for the first time.

For the first time practice nursing is to be included in a national return to practice programme for nurses.

NHS England also promised to improve the profile of nursing in general practice and to offer clinical placements for undergraduates.

Dr Arvind Madan, NHS England director of primary care, said: “This support plan will go a significant way in supporting general practice, helping deliver the care that matters most to patients.”

England chief nursing officer Professor Jane Cummings said: “Nurses working in general practice may not have always received the recognition they deserve in the past but they are central to our plan to improve care for patients and ensure the NHS is fit for the future.

“That is why I am determined to ensure that there is a proper career development programme for those who choose this vital path and make it an attractive first choice for newly-qualified nurses as well as helping experienced staff take advantage of the flexibility it offers to re-enter the workforce.”