Fears for the NHS as number of student nurses falls by more than a third in parts of England

Fears for the NHS as number of student nurses falls by more than a third in parts of England By Xantha Leatham, Deputy Science Editor Published: 00:32, 28 October 2024 | Updated: 00:47, 28 October 2024 e-mail View comments The number of new nursing students has fallen by up to 40 per cent in part of England, threatening NHS rescue plans, analysis shows. The Royal College of Nursing (RCN) warned the number of people studying to become nurses has collapsed in every region between 2020 and 2023. It said large swathes of the country are being left behind by a failing education system and called for better financial incentives for prospective students.

The data, from the university admissions service UCAS, revealed that in the North East – the hardest-hit region – acceptances on to pre-registration nursing courses have plummeted by 40 per cent. The number of new nursing students has fallen by up to 40 per cent in part of England (Stock Image) The Royal College of Nursing (RCN) warned the number of people studying to become nurses has collapsed in every region between 2020 and 2023 (Stock Image) The RCN is now urging the Government to introduce a loan forgiveness model for students who commit to working in the UK following graduation and funding for living costs (Stock Image) How much do nurses get paid? In England, nurse pay varies depending on experience, education, location, and the type of nursing. Here are some general salary ranges Newly qualified nurses: Start at Band 5 .