260 more nurses and 80 more doctors working in NHS in Dorset – “fantastic”, says Health Secretary
The number of nurses working in the NHS in Dorset has increased by over 260 over the past year, new data shows, while the number of doctors has risen by over 80.
Health and Social Care Secretary Matt Hancock described the latest NHS Workforce Statistics, published last week, as “fantastic” and reiterated the government’s commitment to deliver 50,000 more nurses by the end of this Parliament.
The number of nurses in Dorset, including health visitors, has increased by 262 from 3,891 to 4,153 – up 6.7%.
Poole Hospital NHS Foundation Trust (15.4%) and Dorset County Hospital NHS Foundation Trust (10.8%) are among the top performers in the region.
The number of doctors in Dorset has risen by 89 from 1,333 to 1,422 – also up 6.7%.
Poole Hospital NHS Foundation Trust (8.9%) and Royal Bournemouth and Christchurch Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust (7.4%) have both seen notable increases.
Mr Hancock said: “As a nation, we are immensely proud of our health and care staff, who work round the clock to keep us safe.
“It is fantastic that there are over 13,700 more nurses and 7,800 more doctors working in our NHS, and by the end of this Parliament we will deliver on our commitment of 50,000 more nurses.
“While this virus remains a perilous threat, it is critical that the public observes the restrictions in their area so our NHS and care staff can continue to do their incredible work.
“Help us to help you, so the NHS is always there for us in our hour of need.”
Across the South West, the number of nurses has increased by over 1,800 and doctors by over 670.
Alongside the workforce stats, the latest UCAS figures show there are record numbers of people accepting a place to study nursing in England, with a 23% increase on the same time last year, or 5,000 more student nurses.
In the summer the NHS People Plan set out how the NHS would put staff wellbeing at its heart with a new recruitment, retention and support package.
It sets out practical support for wellbeing such as safe spaces to rest and recuperate, wellbeing guardians and support to keep staff physically safe and healthy.
Last week the NHS announced £15million to strengthen mental health support for nurses, paramedics, therapists, pharmacists and support staff.
Staff will get rapid access to expanded mental health services that are being rolled out across the country as part of efforts to deal with the second wave of coronavirus.
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