A report published by the Royal College of Nursing (RCN) found almost half of nurses (42%) believe low staffing levels affect patient care at least once a week, and two-thirds consider current numbers of staff are insufficient to meet patient needs.

The survey showed a third of mental health nurses' time is spent on administration and clerical duties, with 73% of those who work in the community and 59% of those working in hospitals believing that too much time is spent on paperwork.

More than half (52%) of the respondents said they worked excess hours several times a week.

A total of 43% of those questioned said acquired skills such as psychological therapy, family-centred approaches and prescribing, were not being used.

But the majority (70%) said nursing was a rewarding career, with 48% reporting they would recommend it to others.

RCN general secretary Dr Peter Carter said: "This survey shows that mental health nurses are facing serious obstacles to delivering the kind of care that their clients deserve.

"Nurses shouldn't be spending a third of their time on paperwork, this time would be much better spent with their clients.

"We need to ensure nurses are fully supported by appropriate staffing levels and proper access to the training they need to update and maintain their skills.

"This survey is a warning that without proper staffing levels, morale drops, career development falters and patient care suffers."