RCN Wales responds to latest UCAS figures

In response to the latest Universities and Colleges Admissions Service (UCAS) figures for applications to nursing courses in Wales, Helen Whyley, Director, RCN Wales, said:

“It is bitterly disappointing to see a sharp decrease in UCAS applications for nursing across the whole of the UK including here in Wales. A massive decrease of 20 percent since last year should be a major concern for the Welsh Government.

At a time when health and care services are facing significant pressures, we need an expansion of the nursing workforce, and to get that nursing must be seen as an attractive and sustainable career choice to students. There needs to be an emphasis not only on fair pay and flexible working arrangements, but also on career progression opportunities and continued professional development in keeping with modern ways of living.

The Welsh government ‘Train Work Live’ campaign clearly needs to go further. Also, there needs to be an enhancement to the NHS Bursary as well as recruitment bonuses for nurses as given to other professionals. These recent UCAS figures need to be the wake-up call for Welsh government to urgently deliver its’ National Workforce Implementation Plan before it’s too late.”

Ends

Notes to Editors 

• According to applicants by country of provider, Wales reported the sharpest decrease in the number of applicants in 2023, with 870 fewer applicants (-20.7%). 
• The Royal College of Nursing (RCN) is the voice of nursing across the UK and is the largest professional union of nursing staff in the world.

• For more information, please contact the RCN Wales Communications Hub on 02920680769.