There are now a record number of consultants, nurses, midwives and ambulance service staff employed in the NHS in Wales, new statistics published today show.
This was published under the 2016 to 2021 administration of the Welsh Government
The figures have been welcomed by Health Secretary Vaughan Gething, who said the increase is a clear demonstration of the Welsh Government’s commitment to Wales’ National Health Service.
The statistics show that there are now more than 90,000 people (headcount) employed by the NHS in Wales, up 1,880 (2.1%) since 2016 – a record high.
They also show the total number of full time equivalent (FTE) directly employed NHS staff increased by 1,629 (2.1%) over the last year to 77,917, up from 76,288 in 2016.
The statistics also show:
- The number of FTE hospital consultants was 2,466, up by 97 (4.1%) from 2,369 in 2016 – a record high
- The number of FTE qualified nurses, midwives and health visitors was 22,612, up 134 (0.6%) from 22,479 in 2016 – a record high
- The number of FTE ambulance staff was 2,084, up by 39 (1.9%) from 2,045 in 2016 – a record high
- The number of FTE scientific, therapeutic and technical staff was 12,799 – up by 370 (3.0%) from 12,429 since 2016 – a record high.
“I’m really pleased there is now a record number of staff working in the Welsh NHS, a clear demonstration of this government’s commitment to our health service. More qualified nurses, more hospital consultants and more ambulance staff is evidence of a government that is investing in the future of its health service.
“The good progress we’ve made around staffing, announced today, is a positive, but we recognise there’s always more work to be done. That’s why we’re investing in the education and training of healthcare professionals in the Welsh NHS, ensuring we develop the workforce of the future.
“I’ve also confirmed that NHS bursaries for student nurses, midwives and allied health professionals in Wales will continue – demonstrating our commitment to ensuring the health service has the staff its needs for the future.
“Through our successful Train, Work and Live campaign, we will continue to do all we can to encourage more health professionals to Train, Work and Live in Wales.”