The Biggest Skills Shortages in Healthcare

One thing that has been particularly highlighted by the events of the last couple of years, both Brexit and the Covid-19 pandemic, is that the NHS is reaching crisis point when it comes to staff shortages, giving those who want to get into nursing or take a healthcare management degree, plenty of opportunities.

The most recent figures show an alarming crisis is emerging within all areas of the healthcare sector, and if this is not addressed very quickly then the position will only get worse. According to official figures, there are currently 110,192 unfilled positions in England alone across all health services, and this shortage includes 39,652 nurses. This equates to 10.3% or one in 10 empty posts in nursing.

An Incredibly Rewarding Role

While this may seem disheartening to those considering a career in nursing, it really shouldn’t. The vaccine programme for Covid-19 has been an incredible success. In fact, the take-up rate has been very high, and amongst the highest in Europe. This means that whilst we are still seeing positive cases, hospitalisation is not nearly as high as it was. Now the NHS needs to pull out all the stops to try and reduce their waiting lists which stood at a staggering 6.07 million patients in December 2021, These are figures that it is estimated are not likely to see a decrease until early in 2024, which means that now more than ever, it is really important to fill those skills shortage areas in the healthcare system.

For those individuals who are already partway through a qualification in nursing, and those who are considering studying for a qualification in the field, the prospects are fantastic. There is every chance that you will be able to find a role as soon as you have completed all of your studies. And there are roles in all different fields within healthcare available at the moment, particularly within nursing.

FdSc Nursing Associates (TNA) at the University of Bolton – A Career in Nursing

If you have been contemplating a career in nursing, then there really has never been a better time to take those first steps and consider enrolling in the studies that will help you take the first steps towards a truly rewarding career.

At the University of Bolton, we offer an FdSc Nursing Associates (TNA) course as well as a healthcare science degree that can lead to a fantastic career with plenty of prospects. We have state-of-the-art facilities and specialist lecturers, many with working experience within the sector. We believe we offer the perfect setting for gaining those vital qualifications, whether you’re looking to step into nursing or get a healthcare management degree.

The University of Bolton has been voted 1st in the North West for student satisfaction for the fourth year running*. We offer a welcoming university experience that is inclusive and always puts the needs of the student first, giving them every chance opportunity to experience #UniAsItShouldBe.

If you would like to learn more about the university and our nursing courses starting in April 2022 (or perhaps you’re looking to take a healthcare science degree?), we would be happy to talk to you. You can email enquiries@bolton.ac.uk at any time, or call our friendly advisors on +44 (0)1204 900 600, where we’ll ensure you get the help and support you’re looking for. Take a look at our courses here.

*Complete University Guide 2022, 2021, 2020, 2019