This story was first published in digitalhealth.net
Report shows fewer nurses now than in 2010
Over the last five years the total number of posts has increased by 6,434. However, despite the production of more posts, the increase in the total nursing workforce is only 1,470, and the number of employers filling those posts has fallen by 1,845 - meaning that fewer nurses are providing more care.
Dr Peter Carter, chief executive of the RCN, said: "While the health service has spent the last five years running on the spot, demand has continued to increase."
Dr Carter continued: "Unlike many problems facing the health service, the solution to the nursing workforce is very simple, and is a matter of political will. With more people wanting to nurse than ever, the next Government has the power to increase training places and expand the supply of nurses. If it does not, it will be failing a generation of patients."
Bryn Sage, CEO of Inhealthcare, said: "With ever increasing demands being placed upon the NHS from the growing and ageing population, a large nursing workforce is absolutely essential to ensure that patients can receive the care they need. Whichever government comes into power this year, increasing the amount of nurses should be a top priority."
The report also highlighted the number of potential nurses that are keen to enter the profession. Figures from UCAS, the applications body for higher education, showed that over 50, 000 people applied for the 21, 205 places available for nursing students.
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