The RCN says new figures released by the Universities and Colleges Admissions Service (UCAS) are a damning sign of the UK government’s failure to invest in, and value, the nursing profession.
The stats released today (9 February) provide a snapshot of the number of applicants so far for courses which begin in autumn this year. They show that the number of applicants to nursing courses in England is down 18% compared to the same point last year. By the January deadline, 27,370 people had applied to study nursing at course providers in England, compared to 33,410 at the same point last year.
The decline is worse in Scotland, where the number of applicants to study nursing at Scottish institutions has fallen by 24%. In Wales, applicants have fallen by 22% and in Northern Ireland by 17%. Overall, across the UK, there has been a decline of 19% since January 2022.
RCN General Secretary & Chief Executive Pat Cullen said: “These figures are damning for the UK government. Not only are they losing record numbers of experienced nurses from the NHS, but they are compounding the problem by deterring the next generation.
“With tens of thousands of unfilled nurse jobs across the country, ministers should urgently consider a set of measures to turn this situation around. Nursing staff, today’s and tomorrow’s alike, need to know they are valued and that starts with fair pay. They must fund tuition fees and living costs for all nursing students.”
The figures show there has been a significant fall in the number of mature applicants to nursing courses, with UCAS polling on student attitudes showing that cost of living factors are making applicants re-evaluate their choice of subject based on value and future career prospects.
There was a sharp rise in the number of applicants to nursing courses during the COVID-19 pandemic, but now applications to courses like law and computing are seeing increased interest.
Pat described these trends as “deeply concerning” for the future of nursing. “During the pandemic, people were drawn to apply to study nursing by the professionalism that was showcased,” she added. “These figures show that has been reversed entirely. Ultimately, it is patient care that will continue to suffer.”
The RCN is campaigning for a pay rise for nursing staff of 5% above inflation to recognise their training, qualifications, skills, responsibilities and experience. Show your support for our Fair Pay For Nursing campaign.
