Form paid clinical placements for medical students to reduce financial barriers

Background

UK medical students face financial hardship during unpaid clinical placements with covering travel and living costs. We urge Parliament to introduce paid placements or a national stipend, and fully fund expenses to ensure fair access, reduce inequality, and support the future NHS workforce.

Additional details

Medical students must complete full-time clinical placements but receive no pay, depite facing significant costs for travel and accommodation. This is creating unfair financial strain, particularly for students from lower-income backgrounds, risking debt or dropout. We want the government to act to ensure equal opportunity, protect wellbeing, and prevent financial strain from limiting access to the profession. Supporting students is essential for maintaining a diverse, sustainable NHS workforce.