In episode 4 of Stories from Social Care Leaders, we step back to explore the national landscape of social care nursing – how it is understood, how it is changing, and what it needs to thrive. Joining us are Rhian Smith, Director of Nursing & Healthcare at Hoop Recruitment in Wales; Dr Gary Mitchell MBE, Reader in Education and Director for Postgraduate Taught Education at Queen’s University Belfast; and Jane Douglas, Queen’s Nurse and long‑standing leader across care homes, local authorities and dementia‑focused services in Scotland. Together, they unpack what “social care nursing” means within their regions, challenge persistent misconceptions, and reflect on why this area of practice deserves clearer definition and stronger recognition. The conversation moves through opportunities and autonomy, shifting roles, workforce development, international recruitment, and the future shape of education and career pathways. As our guests look ahead, they share their hopes for a more confident, better supported, and nationally understood social care nursing profession … one equipped to lead change across the next decade.