Where will clinical nurse specialists be placed on Agenda for Change?

The imminent introduction of a new approach to pay and career development known as Agenda for Change will raise and dash many nurses' expectations. Among them clinical nurse specialists (CNS) could have a lot to gain if they are able to convince employers that they should be in the highest pay band. Already nurse consultants (NC) are in the top band, but the question needs to be asked as to whether this is simply to fulfil political directives, or whether it is because they match the job evaluation criteria? The political context for the introduction of Agenda for Change and for NCs is outlined, as is the professional debate about higher level practice. Job evaluation factors and the career progression framework are discussed, and suggestions are made regarding how to compare job profiles. If CNSs do not present themselves as expert practitioners, they will not be paid or recognized for what they might already do.