In a bid to further boost NHS workforce numbers, NHS England is urging students and those looking for a new direction in life to consider the university clearing system and kickstart a career in healthcare.
The NHS campaign, in which health chiefs are urging soon-to-be graduates to pick a career in nursing and midwifery, comes as A-level students wait for their results this Thursday.
Best decision I ever made
Figures indicate that more than 33,500 people in England have already applied for nursing degrees while almost 7,300 have gone down the midwifery route.
“Nursing is one of the most rewarding and diverse careers going and alongside midwifery, these professions offer people the chance to make a real difference to people’s lives every day,” said England’s new chief nursing officer, Duncan Burton.
He added that joining the NHS as a nurse was the best decision he ever made.
There has been a 20% drop in the number of people taking up nursing degree apprenticeships across the last two academic years, with half considering quitting their degrees too. According to the Royal College of Nursing, the main reasons for this are:
- financial difficulties;
- a lack of teaching and supervision; and
- mental health issues.
Future of the NHS
Analysis from the Nuffield Trust has suggested the financially supporting students could be the key to them picking more healthcare-related courses. The NHS Long Term Workforce Plan aims to increase adult nursing training places by 80% by 2030/31. There are also plans to train more nurses and midwives via apprenticeships.
“To those looking to begin a career in health and social care – you are the future of our NHS,” said health secretary Wes Streeting. “Whether you’ve always wanted to work in this field or you’ve just discovered it, clearing is a great opportunity to explore the variety of roles on offer.”
He added: “The NHS saved my life and I will forever be grateful to the dedication of its hard working staff. Join the team and together we can save our NHS.”
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