Health Education England (HEE) has sought to clarify the position of radiography students concerned about their clinical placements and status under lockdown rules.
In a statement, HEE said: ‘The Allied Health Profession students are advised that placements continue as planned. Please do not pause or cancel any placements. In addition, for students who wish to volunteer, this should be undertaken separately from your planned placement.
‘HEE is continuing to support the wider system in delivering vital services, but also need to fulfil our responsibility to look after our trainees and meet their educational and training needs.
‘Thank you to all students, academics and clinical staff supporting students in placement during the pandemic. Our priorities during this challenging time are the education of student allied health professionals, supporting their learning and maintaining the workforce supply line.’
HEE said universities and placement providers will undertake an individualised risk assessment before any placement and ensure that wellbeing support is available. Students will have access to the same testing and vaccinations as NHS staff, and can self-declare as essential workers.
SCoR interim student support officer Nichola Jamison said: 'It is encouraging to see a clear statement on student placements from HEE. In such uncertain, and ever-changing times.
‘It is important that we prioritise the educational needs of our AHP students and continue to progress them through their studies in as safe and supported a manner as possible. We want our students to become confident and competent professionals, and will continue to work on their behalf to help them achieve this. It is also important to recognise the important contributions that students are making in the current healthcare setting, and dedication to their roles.’
For full details visit: www.hee.nhs.uk/covid-19/allied-health-professions
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