Health students

Join UNISON as a health student for just £10 a year.

Studying and training to be a nurse or health professional is exciting but can be stressful and challenging at times also.

You are often providing direct patient care but have essays to worry about whilst managing your clinical placements and supporting yourself through your studies.

That’s why it’s important not to struggle alone. UNISON is the biggest trade union in the NHS and our branches and networks are always available to support you if you need help.

We understand the financial difficulties facing students and the debt many have to take on and have always campaigned strongly for living bursaries and against the charging of tuition fees.

At UNISON we also have many exciting education and learning opportunities and roles for you to get involved in to help us campaign. Read more about our health student network and about support during your placements below.

Join for just £10 a year

Join the strongest team in the NHS and get access to all of this for only £10 a year while you are a student.

As a student member you have access to all the many benefits of UNISON membership and are also entitled to support and representation if you continue working part-time in a role covered by UNISON.

Join now

As a student, you will also get 40% off the cost of an annual subscription to Nursing Times, the leading magazine for nurses in the UK that is packed full of essential reading for your studies. Just use promo code ‘UNISON’ to claim your discount.

NHS Learning Support Fund

If you are commencing studies on an undergraduate healthcare course in England, you are likely to be entitled to some financial support from the NHS Learning Support Fund.

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Clinical placements for healthcare students

Check out our resources for healthcare students on clinical placements.

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The UNISON leadership programme for health students

You chose to study for a career in healthcare because you want to make a difference. Now it’s time to take the next big step towards a future where you can lead positive change for those you care for and your colleagues.

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UNISON Student Advocates

The UNISON Student Advocate role is an exciting opportunity for you to step up for health students.

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Student Learning Month

We’re committed to helping all members develop and learn through the UNISON College, and Student Learning Month is a great opportunity to access workshops on skills that will help you in your studies and your career.

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Resources