Facing the challenge of practice development in community nursing

The large number of job titles associated with practice development within nursing can cause confusion as to the exact role of the person working within the development sphere. However, there is a recognized need for these development roles in the absence of clinical managerial positions and within the climate of continuing changes in the NHS. This article explores the skills required for practice development and is, in part, a reflective account of the work achieved over a 2-year period. The authors argue for clarity of purpose and continuing commitment from within the organization in order for these roles to achieve some degree of recognition, with specific reference to a community health care setting.