RCM calls for Government to give English student midwives their bursaries back as Scotland announce increase

on 09 October 2018 Bursaries and Scholarships RCM Scotland

Today the First Minister of Scotland has announced an increase in bursaries for student midwives and nurses, something the RCM in Scotland has been lobbying for. In England, student midwives and nurses do not get a bursary and have to pay their own tuition fees.

Commenting, Suzanne Tyler, Executive Director for Services to Members at the Royal College of Midwives (RCM), said: “The announcement is simply great news for student midwives in Scotland, and those thinking of becoming a midwife there. It frankly should shame the Government in England who have taken away bursaries for England’s student midwives, who also have to pay tuition fees.  This leaves them tens of thousands of pounds in debt when they qualify. 

“This is even more worrying given the large shortage of midwives in England, and sits at odds with the Government’s commitment to bring 3000 more midwives into the NHS in England.

“The RCM repeats its call for this Government to give our student midwives and nurses their bursaries back. So that we can attract people into the profession and so that the Government can meet their promise of 3000 more midwives for England.”

To contact the RCM Media Office call 020 7312 3456, or email media@rcm.org.uk.

Note to editors

The RCM is the only trade union and professional association dedicated to serving midwifery and the whole midwifery team. We provide workplace advice and support, professional and clinical guidance and information, and learning opportunities with our broad range of events, conferences and online resources. For more information visit the RCM website at https://www.rcm.org.uk/.

 

 

ENDS