In reply to C Henson's letter about the National Health Service (January 14), I can only say that if it wasn't for the agency nurses, many of our hospitals would grind to a halt, but I do agree £200 million is 'over the top'.

As an NHS nurse who is, thankfully, approaching the end of a career in nursing, I feel it is time to speak out on the issues that are causing distress and low morale today. It's not just about money, that's just the tip of the iceberg. These are the main problems that could be rectified:

More involvement from the top brass, eg to visit the ward areas, to be made aware of potential problems, and generally to be more in touch with us.

To have more respect from middle management, recognition of experience, skills, and loyalty for many years' service.

A re-constructed package deal to include more permanent contracts, flexible shifts, to encourage nurses back into work again; plus a decent wage, right across the board.

Unsociable hours, increments paid to NHS Trust contract holders.

A review of ward staffing levels, eg one trained member of staff, supported by untrained staff is unacceptable, and unsafe by anyone's standards.

These are just a few of the many serious problems that must be addressed if the NHS is to survive into the next century.

I have felt like quitting many times, but I find it very hard to walk away from nursing 30 years down the line.

Name and address supplied.

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