The first phase of the plans focuses on strengthening the mix of skills within teams by increasing registered nurse roles.

The investment would cost around £534,000 a year and is expected to be partly offset by savings through reduced reliance on temporary workers, who help cover short-term gaps in staffing.

New roles will be filled in stages, in line with service need and graduate nurse availability.

Karen Jessop, chief nurse, said: ‘This investment recognises the safety-critical role of registered nurses. International evidence shows that higher registered nurse staffing is consistently linked to lower mortality, fewer adverse events and a better experience for patients. Ensuring we have the right number of skilled registered nurses is fundamental to delivering safe, high-quality care.

‘By strengthening our permanent workforce in a planned and sustainable way, we are building stronger services for the future.'

The trust says it will continue to invest in recruitment, training, and development.