The Department of Health is soon to launch a consultation over the implementation of the new funding mechanism for health students.
In last year’s Autumn Statement, Chancellor George Osborne announced that NHS student bursaries would be scrapped and replaced with a loan system.
At the time, the proposals were widely condemned by the SoR. Chief Executive Richard Evans said: “It reveals a lack of understanding of the depth of the workforce crisis in the NHS.
“Independent studies such as the recent Cancer Research UK report show that years of neglect have affected workforce planning and led to shortages in diagnostic imaging services.
“The failure to keep up with demand is already being felt and a coherent programme is urgently required to increase the number of professionals being trained.”
The Society will inform members when the consultation is launched in due course, but we urge all managers, educators and departments to share their views.
You can reply to the consultation directly, or alternatively contact [email protected]