"New found" respect for NHS leads to record number of students applying for nursing
UCAS figures show a 34% increase in applications to nursing courses in England
Last updated 19th Feb 2021
Student nurses across the West Midlands are hailing a "new found" sense of respect for the NHS as a key factor in the massive increase in applications to study nursing at UK Universities.
New figures from UCAS show the number of people applying for undergraduate nursing courses, with a view to working for the NHS, has risen by more than a third compared to this point last year.
UCAS has received 48,830 applications to nursing courses in England, up from 35,960 at the same point last year, representing a 34% increase.
The government's manifesto pledged to increase the number of registered NHS nurses by 50,000 by 2025.
Last year, 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 for England also show:
- An increase in applications of more than 50% among 25 to 34 years olds and 43% among 35 and overs
- A 41% rise in male applicants
We've spoken with students across the region, they hope this high influx on new nurses coming through will help relieve the pressure off the NHS.
Harriet Devlin, 3rd year children's nursing student at Birmingham City University
Harriet said: "It's amazing! I think it's so powerful how we've seen this rise in applications. I think it's definitely a step in the right direction. There's been a real sense of community as well since the pandemic started, especially within the NHS and I think these numbers are just reflecting that. We welcome these applications, keep them coming.
"The pandemic has really started to challenge people's ideals on what it is to be a nurse. In the past I don't think nurses have been given the credit for how hard and technical their job is. I think since the pandemic people have realised and it's shown "yes we actually save lives.
"I've seen nurses at breaking point and people being on endless nights and overtime and not being able to see their kids as much as they'd like so hopefully this influx of nurses coming through will help relieve this."
Robert Martin, 1st year learning disabilities nursing student at Coventry University
Robert said: "I think the increase in applications for nursing is a direct reflection of how amazing are and have been throughout the COVID pandemic. I think people are looking at nursing now as more attractive career. A career to help, to care and to look after people, which is just amazing
"The year that we've had has just been horrendous for everybody and I think it gives you time to take stock and reflect and understand the role people have within the NHS is amazing and we do respect them and a lot of people do want to get involved in that because they see it's something special."
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