The SoR has become aware that in some parts of Northern Ireland, trusts are freezing posts in order to save costs.
This is resulting in increasing problems for graduates seeking entry into the profession. The Society considers this a short sighted measure because unlike the recent situation in physiotherapy which saw an oversupply of graduates, it is about holding back vacancies desperately needed to provide the service.
“If the NI administration does not assist managers, who are themselves trying to improve the situation by agreeing new systems of work in order to free up posts and make appointments, in a very short space of time the service will be compromised, delivery will suffer and jobs will have to be unfrozen,” said Warren Town, director of industrial relations at the SoR.
There is a concern, however, that disillusioned students will already have moved out of the country. “We have seen this happen in other parts of the UK and whilst this can work for the SoR because we are then in control of the job market, it is a tragedy for students who simply want to do the job they have trained for."
The SoR is seeking a resolution and has made its thoughts known to the NHS Staff Council. “Our understanding is that there will be some easing of the situation in the very near future, which should provide students with more opportunity and improve job prospects," said Warren.
