President of the Barbados Nurses Association (BNA), Dr Fay Parris, is warning that the future of Barbados’ healthcare system depends on how nurses are treated.
Speaking at the BNA’s 2025 Nurses Week seminar, held on Wednesday under the theme Caring for Nurses Strengthens Economies, Dr Parris urged a commitment to concrete reforms.
“Today, we gather under the theme Caring for Nurses Strengthens Economies, a theme that underscores the undeniable connection between nurse well-being and the sustainability of our healthcare system,” she said. “At the Barbados Nurses Association, we recognise that investing in our nurses is not just about improving their individual careers, but it’s about securing the future of healthcare in Barbados.”
Parris outlined the BNA’s multi-pronged approach to strengthening care for nurses, beginning with safe staffing and fair compensation.
“We continue to push for policies that ensure safe working conditions, appropriate nurse-to-patient ratios, and equitable compensation that reflects the immense value of our nursing profession.”
She noted that the BNA’s advocacy extends beyond workplace conditions to encompass broader well-being strategies, including mental health and self-care.
“We also recognise the importance of mental health and wellness support, recognising the challenges nurses face,” she said. “We look to partner with persons who provide mental health support and promote self-care for nurses as an important part of ensuring that we don’t only depend on others to look out for our well-being… but we find avenues that we can care for ourselves and each other.”
The association, she added, is also committed to fostering professional growth and stability through education, financial assistance, and mentorship, and facilitates opportunities for such.
In a significant move to protect nurses’ rights, the BNA has invited the Ministry of Labour to participate in the seminar to address ongoing concerns about workplace safety—an issue that has drawn national attention.
“This is an issue that keeps arising within the public arena and we want to be on the forefront of managing this aspect,” Parris said. “So we need to understand all of the laws and protocols that relate to making sure that we have a safe work environment.”
She affirmed the BNA’s ongoing collaboration with policymakers to ensure that nurses’ rights are protected and that the profession is treated with the respect it deserves.
“We also work closely with policymakers to ensure the rights and workplace protections are upheld, fostering environments where nurses feel respected and valued.” (SZB)
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