Good news for anyone eyeing a nursing or midwifery career in the UK — the government has just introduced a “graduate guarantee” that could make securing your first #NHS job much easier.

Under the new plan, NHS trusts in England can now recruit based on future staffing needs instead of waiting for vacancies to pop up. This is big because, in some areas, there are three times more graduates than available roles, leaving many qualified people without work.

What’s changing?
• Every newly qualified nurse and midwife will have a clear path into the NHS.
• A dedicated online hub will guide students through the application process.
• An £8m boost will temporarily turn vacant maternity support roles into entry-level midwifery positions.

Why this matters for the diaspora
Many Nigerians in the UK — and even those planning their move — know the struggle of finishing studies but being stuck job-hunting for months. This change could mean:
• Faster recruitment after graduation
• More chances in areas that were previously “over-saturated”
• A better spread of healthcare staff across the country

Health Secretary Wes Streeting said:


The Royal College of Nursing and Royal College of Midwives have both welcomed the move, calling it a relief for students eager to start work — especially at a time when maternity services and patient care are under pressure.