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Nursing workforce expansion

The RCN, UNISON and Unite ÃÛÌÒÖ±²¥“ trade unions representing nursing students ÃÛÌÒÖ±²¥“ have reached agreement with the Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC) and Chief Nursing Officers across the UK to enable nursing students like you to help your NHS colleagues deal with the unprecedented challenge of COVID-19.

You will be getting advice and guidance from your own union, but together we wanted to outline the major principles of these agreements.

These are that:

  • Nursing students can choose whether or not to go onto clinical placements under these conditions ÃÛÌÒÖ±²¥“ and you should not feel pressured to do so.
  • Student safety is the priority and that means you are entitled to the same support and protection as all NHS staff. You can expect to be supervised and work within your level of competency.
  • Your education and career are important. You will be supported in your learning and will not be pushed into joining the full register until you are ready.
  • You should not lose out financially. Chief Nursing Officers have committed to ensuring that you will not be disadvantaged whichever choice you make.

Your unions stand behind you because we value your contribution to the NHS. We are there for you and will offer you support and guidance every step of the way.

RCN, UNISON and Unite Logos