‘Continuation of Welsh NHS Bursaries provides strong support for trainee nurses, in contrast to the lack of support in England’ says Cynon AM

Vikki Howells AM has congratulated Welsh Government Health Secretary Vaughan Gething AM for confirmation that NHS bursaries for eligible student nurses, midwives and allied health professionals will continue to be available in Wales in 2017/18, saying they will provide strong support for those in training.

Students who start their training in September 2017 for an eligible health related programme will be able to access the funding. The bursary will be based upon individuals committing in advance to taking up the opportunity to work in Wales, post qualification, for a period of two years.

This is unlike the NHS in England, where the bursary will not be continuing.

Longer term arrangements for student support for health related subjects will be considered alongside the recommendations arising from the independent review of higher education funding and student finance led by Professor Diamond.

Vikki Howells AM said:-

“I welcome the news from the Welsh Government that NHS bursaries will be staying in Wales.

“I believe it shows the Welsh Government is committed to our NHS here in Wales, by ensuring future NHS staff are getting the training and development they need.

“The continuation of NHS Bursaries in Wales will also attract more health professionals across the country and throughout the UK to come to Wales to train, work, and live.”