NHS launches recruitment drive to recruit nurses and midwives back to the profession

Nurses and midwives leave the profession for a variety of reasons. Some have children or start a new career, while others retire. Many want to come back but don’t know they can or where to start. Some are worried that processes may have changed and there might be new technology.

‘Once a nurse, always a nurse’ campaign, a strand of the national We are the NHS recruitment campaign, aims to remind nurses and midwives that the fundamental qualities of being a nurse/midwife remain the same and are as valuable as ever. It’ll also support them on their journey back with useful information on the routes back in, the support available and tips on applications and interviews.

Routes back into practice

There are three routes back into nursing/midwifery currently available:

• Complete one of the Return to Practice (RTP) courses on offer - where each course is fully funded, with the returner receiving at least £1,000 to cover costs such as books, travel and childcare.
• The NMC Test of Competence which is also fully funded.
• Readmission for nurses who meet the NMC requirements.

Sharon Swords, a recent return to practice nurse, said:

“I left nursing over twenty years ago but I always knew I would come back. I researched the return to practice course and realised I could do it alongside my day job. I didn’t know what to expect but as soon as I got back on to the ward for my first placement, the buzz I felt was phenomenal. I am so pleased to be back. Nursing is what I do, it’s what I am.

“If you still have that passion to help people, then believe in yourself and go for it. Your skills are still needed which is why I am so pleased to support Health Education England’s campaign.”

Return the career you love. Search ‘return to the NHS’ or visit www.nhs.uk/return-to-practice.

Nurses and midwives can also sign up our email guide on returning to practice at www.healthcareers.nhs.uk/return-to-the-NHS