Health workers and charities unite to urge rethink on NHS bursaries

Health workers and charities got together today to warn the government that its plans to abolish NHS bursaries and introduce student loans for those studying to become health professionals in England risks reducing the supply of vital health workers, when they are needed more than ever. They warn that the plans are “a short-sighted attempt to solve a long-term and complicated problem. “Moreover,” they warn, because the plans have not been properly risk-assessed, “continuing with them as they currently stand would be nothing short of reckless”. UNISON general secretary Dave Prentis joined representatives from more than 20 health unions, charities and professional colleges in signing an open letter thatĀ urges the government to halt its plans to change student funding for nursing, midwifery and allied health professions. The letter cites warnings from experts about the consequences of the move and urges Prime Minister David Cameron to fully consider their impact on patient care in England. The signatories highlight a “worrying” lack of clarity, or consultation, about the effect that funding changes could have on those who need to train for more advanced or specialist roles, such as health visitors or district nurses. There are more patients with multiple chronic conditions and more care needs moving to the community, they say, which means these roles are increasingly important for the health service and the uncertainty is of great conce...
Source: UNISON Health care news - Category: UK Health Authors: Tags: Article News health care healthcare NHS NHS bursary NHS students nursing students save the NHS bursary Source Type: news