North Swindon MP, Justin Tomlinson has welcomed the news from UCAS (University and College Admissions Service) that it has received 48,830 applications to nursing courses in England, an increase of more than one third from the same point last year
Official UCAS figures show a rise in applications from 35,960 in 2020 to 48,830 people applying for nursing courses in England. This follows the Government’s work to deliver on the manifesto commitment for 50,000 more nurses in the NHS.
Last year, the government introduced a new training grant for eligible nursing, midwifery and allied health profession students of at least £5,000 a year, which does not need to be paid back. Nursing students will also benefit from additional financial support for childcare and for those who study specialisms which typically have fewer applicants such as mental health or learning disability nursing. Eligibility for this is in line with existing criteria for tuition fee and maintenance support from the Student Loans Company.
Justin also welcomed the news last year, which the number of people accepting a place on a nursing course increased by 27% compared to 2019. Health Education England is working with health and education sector partners to make sure there are enough places for all suitable applicants who will go on to take up vital jobs in the NHS or social care sector. The figures from this year also show a 41% increase for male applicants, as well as a 50% increase in applications from 25-34 year olds.
North Swindon MP, Justin Tomlinson said:
“I welcome this news, which I am sure will come as a relief to health professionals in England. The Government is making good on its manifesto commitment to 50,000 nurses in the NHS, and this represents a huge investment in the future, as students complete their enrolled courses, before taking up positions all across the NHS.”
Minister for Care, Helen Whately said:
“I’m delighted to see such an incredible boost in this year’s applications, with more mature applicants helping to contribute to a diverse and truly representative nursing workforce. Thank you to everyone who has stepped up to support our health and social care services.
These are the nurses of the future who will help the NHS and social care recover from this pandemic and continue to deliver world-class care to patients for years to come.
These figures are a testament to the work of Health Education England and UCAS in highlighting nursing as a rewarding and accessible career path, as well as the remarkable achievements of all health and care professionals over the past year.”
