Responding to today’s announcement1 by the Government to continue the freeze on tuition fees and to deliver a financial package of support to help students with living costs, BMA medical students committee co-chair, Raymond Effah said:
“While it is welcome that the Government has committed to freezing tuition fees for another two years, their package of support falls short for the many medical students who will be struggling financially this year.
“The maintenance loan rise of 2.8% is nowhere near enough to match the rising levels of inflation as many will face difficult financial decisions to simply afford to live. If medical students have no choice but to prioritise paid work over their studies, this could negatively impact their career trajectory along with their wellbeing as the pressures become insurmountable.
“The woefully low amount of money students receives from NHS Bursary, as highlighted in our survey2, means that even those in receipt of these additional funds will struggle to make ends meet.
“At a time when the NHS is crying out for more doctors, the Government must be more forthcoming with support to ensure that as many students as possible can complete their studies and go on to train as doctors. This includes a commitment to increasing the NHS bursary to a level matching inflation and living costs, and a removal of the cap on maintenance loans.”
Notes to editors
The BMA is a professional association and trade union representing and negotiating on behalf of all doctors in the UK. A leading voice advocating for outstanding health care and a healthy population. An association providing members with excellent individual services and support throughout their lives.
- Government press release announcing financial package for students and continued tuition fee freeze.
- BMA medical student finances survey 2022.
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