Six years after providing critical care to then-Prime Minister Boris Johnson during his severe bout with COVID-19, Jenny McGee, the intensive care nurse who treated him, says nurses are at a breaking point. McGee’s experience and her subsequent resignation in 2021, have grow a focal point in ongoing debates about staffing levels, pay, and respect for nurses in the United Kingdom. The issues, as she describes them, remain strikingly similar to those that prompted her departure, and are currently fueling industrial action within the profession.
McGee, speaking in recent interviews, highlighted the immense pressure faced by nurses on a daily basis. She described wards as “terribly, terribly understaffed,” with approximately 50,000 vacancies across the country, according to her estimates. This shortage directly impacts the quality of care nurses are able to provide, leaving them feeling unable to deliver the level of attention patients deserve. The core of the problem, she asserts, is a lack of adequate compensation. “We just seek to be paid a fair wage,” McGee stated, emphasizing that nurses aren’t seeking exorbitant sums, but rather a wage that allows them to live comfortably and reflects the vital role they play in the healthcare system.
The Walkout and the Pay Dispute
McGee’s comments approach on the heels of the first-ever national walkout by nurses who are members of the Royal College of Nursing (RCN). Tens of thousands of nurses participated in picket lines across England, Wales, and Northern Ireland, demonstrating their support for the RCN’s dispute with the government over pay. The RCN is advocating for a 19% pay rise, which McGee believes is “not out of the question” given the dedication and hard work nurses have consistently demonstrated, particularly throughout the pandemic. She argues that nurses have repeatedly proven their value and deserve a wage that aligns with both inflation and the demands of their profession.
The nurse’s perspective is rooted in personal experience. McGee resigned from her position in 2021, citing the government’s pay offer and what she perceived as a general “lack of respect” for the nursing profession. Her decision, made after caring for Johnson at St Thomas’ Hospital in London in 2020, underscored the growing frustration among nurses who felt undervalued and overworked. The Independent reported on her resignation at the time, detailing her concerns about the state of the National Health Service (NHS).
Beyond Pay: A System Under Strain
While pay is a central issue, McGee’s concerns extend beyond financial compensation. She points to the overwhelming pressure and responsibilities placed on nurses, leading to burnout and an exodus from the profession. “We’re seeing that nurses are leaving the profession in droves,” she explained. This staffing crisis creates a vicious cycle, further increasing the workload for those who remain and exacerbating the challenges of providing quality care. The situation, she believes, is unsustainable.
The issues raised by McGee resonate with broader concerns about the state of the NHS. Reports consistently highlight the strain on resources, long waiting lists, and the difficulties in recruiting and retaining healthcare professionals. The pandemic, while demonstrating the dedication of NHS staff, as well exposed existing vulnerabilities within the system. The long-term effects of the pandemic, coupled with rising inflation and an aging population, are placing unprecedented demands on healthcare services.
The Lasting Impact of Caring for Boris Johnson
McGee’s story is inextricably linked to her role in caring for Boris Johnson during his hospitalization with COVID-19. While she doesn’t dwell extensively on this period, it undoubtedly shaped her perspective on the importance of healthcare and the sacrifices made by frontline workers. Her experience provided a firsthand view of the severity of the virus and the critical role nurses play in saving lives. The Stuff article notes that her story continues to spark discussion, particularly in New Zealand, about the lessons learned from the pandemic and the need to support healthcare workers.
The ongoing dispute between the RCN and the government remains unresolved as of March 3, 2026. Negotiations are continuing, but a breakthrough has yet to be reached. The situation is being closely watched by healthcare professionals across the UK, as well as by patients and the public. The outcome of these negotiations will have significant implications for the future of nursing and the overall health of the NHS.
The next scheduled action in the dispute is a further round of talks between the RCN and government representatives on March 10, 2026. The RCN has indicated that further industrial action may be considered if a satisfactory resolution is not reached. Readers are encouraged to follow updates from the Royal College of Nursing for the latest developments.
If you or someone you know is struggling with the emotional impact of the pandemic or the challenges facing the healthcare system, resources are available. The NHS offers a range of mental health support services, and organizations like Mind (https://www.mind.org.uk/) provide information and support for those experiencing mental health difficulties.
What do you think about the challenges facing nurses today? Share your thoughts in the comments below, and please share this article with your network to raise awareness of this critical issue.
