§ Mr. LansleyTo ask the Secretary of State for Health if he will make a statement on the adequacy of clinical placements for student nurses. [175316]
§ Mr. HuttonThe work force directorates of strategic health authorities (SHAs) commission nurse training places from higher education institutions (HEIs). They are jointly responsible for the adequacy of student placements they provide.
The recent increase in the number of nurses in training has led to some pressure on clinical placements. Work is therefore under way to improve the range and quality of practice placements. SHAs and HEIs are actively engaged with local employers in expanding the opportunities available for students.