Health students hit by debt

UNISON is warning of a looming recruitment crisis in the NHS, with mounting debts forcing half of all health students to consider quitting their studies.

A survey published by the union today reveals that almost a quarter of health students owe more than £10,000.

It has worrying implications for the future health of the NHS, said UNISON head of nursing Gail Adams.

"With one third of nurses due to retire in the next 10 years, and the number of health professionals coming from overseas to work in the UK falling, urgent action is needed to avoid a serious skills shortage, " she said.

The union is calling for a comprehensive review of the current bursary system to determine how to offer more financial support to health students.

This could include a return to paying health students a salary, suggested Ms Adams.

The survey found:

• 50% of students considered leaving their course due to financial difficulties;
• nursing diploma students are starting their careers owing an average of 40% of their annual salary;
• financial pressure on black and ethnic minority students is more severe with 74% considering leaving;
• 90% of health students are in debt; 23% have debts of over £10,000.