How the Access to HE Diploma in Nursing Helps Address the Shortage of Nurses in the UK

The UK is facing a serious shortage of nurses. According to the RCN’s analysis of UCAS data, acceptances onto nursing courses in England dropped by up to 40% in some regions between 2020 and 2023. At the same time, the NHS’s long-term workforce plan aims to increase nurse numbers, but current training pathways aren’t keeping up. This is where flexible and accessible alternatives, such as the Access to HE Diploma in Nursing, play a vital role in helping to bridge the gap.

The Nursing Workforce Reality

The RCN reports that pre‑registration nursing acceptances fell in multiple regions: North East (–40%), East of England (–22%), South East (–19%), North West (–18%), West Midlands (–14%), and London (–12%).

The RCN warns that this fall is threatening the government’s 10-Year Workforce Plan.

More recent data shows the NMC registered 853,707 nursing, midwifery, and nursing associate professionals in March 2025, up 3.3% in 12 months. However, applications to nursing courses in England fell by 0.3% in 2025 and are 26% lower than in 2021.

The trend highlights a growing imbalance between the demand for qualified nurses and the number of new students.

Why Now Is the Time to Act

With nursing vacancies rising and student numbers falling, the demand for qualified nurses has never been higher. For anyone considering a future in healthcare, now is the time to take action.

Universities increasingly value applicants with an Access to HE Diploma in Nursing because they recognise the commitment, resilience, and real-life experience adult learners bring. Enrolling in this course today can open a direct and achievable path to a nursing degree and a rewarding career, while helping to address one of the most pressing workforce challenges in healthcare.

Why Should I do an Access to HE Diploma in Nursing Now?

That drop in numbers isn’t just a statistic; it signals a tightening of traditional admission routes like A-levels. This is exactly where the Access to Higher Education Diploma in Nursing comes in.

It offers an alternative route into nursing for adults who may not have A-levels or who have been out of education for some time but still want to pursue a nursing career.

The diploma helps learners build strong foundations in human biology, health studies, psychology, and study skills. It’s designed for adult learners and career changers, offering flexible online study options that make it possible to learn while managing work, family, or other commitments.

Final Thoughts

As the UK continues to face a growing shortage of nurses, the Access to HE Diploma in Nursing offers a crucial opportunity for aspiring nurses to enter the profession through a flexible, supportive pathway.

At London Cactus College, our diploma stands out because it is guided by registered nurse assessors, offering both academic knowledge and practical insight into real-world healthcare environments. With their support, students don’t just study nursing, they begin living it from day one.

Learn more about the nursing pathway and take your first step toward a meaningful, rewarding career in nursing.