Chronic wounds are a complex and challenging health problem for all concerned, but most importantly for patients who have to live with them. Chronic wounds impact negatively on patients’ quality of life, often accompanied by a loss of independence and, in many cases, a sense of hopelessness. The global prevalence of wounds is predicted to rise with an ageing population, and rapidly increasing numbers of people with obesity and diabetes. In an NHS with escalating costs and a shortage of qualified nurses, it is not sustainable for nurses to continue to manage all wounds. By incorporating shared decision-making and involving patients in their own care, it will be possible to improve outcomes for all concerned.