MillionPlus highlights role of modern universities at ministerial roundtable on NHS workforce

MillionPlus, the Association for Modern Universities, was pleased to attend a ministerial roundtable on the NHS workforce plan today (22 April), alongside Ministers Karin Smyth and Jacqui Smith as well as other sector stakeholders.

The discussion provided an important platform to highlight the pivotal role modern universities will play in delivering the government’s workforce ambitions, including supporting the three strategic shifts outlined in the forthcoming NHS Ten Year Plan.

MillionPlus used the roundtable to showcase the strong partnerships they have developed with NHS Trusts, local colleges and private providers. These collaborations have enabled the creation of innovative health programmes tailored to local workforce needs, while also expanding access and progression routes for learners from disadvantaged backgrounds.

Rachel Hewitt, Chief Executive of MillionPlus, said:

“Modern universities are central to delivering the NHS workforce of the future. Our members educate a significant proportion of the UK’s nurses and other healthcare professionals, and are deeply embedded in their local health ecosystems.

“The roundtable was a valuable opportunity to discuss with Ministers how our universities are already working in partnership with NHS providers and colleges to expand capacity, widen participation and respond flexibly to local skills needs.

“As we look ahead to the publication of the workforce plan, it will be vital that the voices of healthcare educators are heard. Addressing the regulatory and financial pressures facing both universities and students will be key to ensuring we can continue to grow and sustain the NHS workforce pipeline.”

MillionPlus looks forward to continuing to work closely with the government and sector partners to support the successful delivery of the NHS workforce plan.

ENDS

Notes to editors

1. For further information or to arrange an interview, please email press@millionplus.ac.uk
2. MillionPlus is the Association for Modern Universities in the UK, and the voice of 21st century higher education. We champion, promote and raise awareness of the essential role and impact of modern universities in the UK’s world-leading higher education sector. More information can be found at www.millionplus.ac.uk
3. What are modern universities? Modern universities are long established centres of higher education in their communities with roots that stretch back decades, if not centuries. Many gained university title following legislation agreed by parliament in 1992. They make up almost half of the UK university sector with over a million students studying at modern universities every year.
4. Think Modern: Innovation, ingenuity and inclusion from Britain's modern universities – facts and stats