According to new data published by the NHS this week (https://digital.nhs.uk/catalogue/PUB30042), more than 550 school nurses have been lost to the profession since 2010, almost a fifth of the total NHS workforce in England.
The fall has gathered pace in recent months, with more than a hundred posts lost so far this year.
The data comes from the NHS's HR and payroll system and covers nurses in both primary and secondary schools.
The RCN has called on the Government to provide local authorities with the funds needed for fully-staffed school nursing services to allow every child to attend school safely.
Despite 2014 guidance from the Department for Education stating that all children with health conditions should be supported to go to school, the number of school nurses has fallen from 2,987 to just 2,433 full time NHS posts in England.
Register now to continue reading
Thank you for visiting Nursery World and making use of our archive of more than 35,000 expert features, subject guides, case studies and policy updates. Why not register today and enjoy the following great benefits:
What's included
-
Free access to 4 subscriber-only articles per month
-
Unlimited access to news and opinion
-
Email newsletter providing activity ideas, best practice and breaking news
Already have an account? Sign in here
