More than two thirds of students or newly qualified nurses and midwives believe they have missed out on important learning experiences during the coronavirus pandemic.

The UNISON findings also show that 56 per cent of final year students worry they’re not as prepared for qualification as they should be, according to a snapshot survey of those in the UK who completed their studies in the pandemic.

Many student nurses and midwives had their studies disrupted as a result of deployment to hospital wards and the addition of other responsibilities during the pandemic.

UNISON says the government and NHS leaders now need to give greater support to the newly qualified health staff as they grapple with difficult workloads in their first full-time roles.

Inadequate support has been a major issue for many nurses and midwives beginning their careers. Three fifths (60 per cent) of those in work said the pressures have already made them consider leaving their jobs. A similar proportion (62 per cent) say they are regularly anxious and stressed by their roles. Nearly nine in ten (89 per cent) agree guaranteed, regular and paid ‘protected time’ – that means time away from clinical work – for learning and development, and for looking after their own well-being, is useful or essential.

The same proportion believe it would be useful or essential for their employer to guarantee time to adjust to their new jobs where they are not considered part of the staff.

The survey findings are backed up by focus group discussions held by UNISON with student nurses, practising nurses and educators.

Stuart Tuckwood, UNISON national officer for nursing, said: “Unprecedented demands have been placed on student nurses and midwives during Covid. Constructive and meaningful support in the workplace is vital for those newly qualified so they can fulfil their potential. Some may lack confidence because they’ve missed out on some training opportunities.

“Health service leaders promised no student would be disadvantaged by their experiences during the pandemic. They must now support students who came to the rescue of the NHS when asked. This is to ensure they not only stay in their new roles but also thrive.”