Royal College of Nursing responds to plans to boost the nursing workforce to tackle covid-19
Responding to Government plans to boost the nursing workforce Dame Donna Kinnair, Chief Executive and General Secretary of the Royal College of Nursing said:
"The UK is currently in an unprecedented emergency situation and we know nursing staff want to play their part in trying to combat the Covid-19 outbreak. As one of the largest professional nursing trade unions in the world, we are advising the nursing regulator on new guidance around expanding the nursing workforce during the outbreak.
“The UK Government has announced the intention for final year students to be able, if they wish, to spend the last six months of their degree in clinical placement. We have been clear that this must be a matter of individual choice for students, and that they must benefit from appropriate terms and conditions, as well as appropriate support and supervision during the placements. This includes being fairly remunerated and only being asked to carry out duties they are comfortable with.
“Recently retired nurses will also be allowed to return to practice under some circumstances. Anyone wishing to return must have full employment protection and be paid according to complexity and responsibility of role. Retired nurses who wish to return must be supported and provided with training, as well as given full employment status and protection.
“We will also support members currently working in non-clinical roles who are willing to return to clinical practice during the outbreak.”
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