Scottish Government urged to bring in paramedic bursaries
The Scottish Government is facing demands to support student paramedics amid claims many are “living on the breadline”.
Labour is calling on ministers to pay a bursary to those studying to become paramedics, in the same way that payments are given to student nurses and midwives.
Party education spokesman Iain Gray insisted it was “unacceptable” that student paramedics are losing out.
The Scottish Government previously announced nursing and midwifery students would receive a bursary of £10,000 in 2020-21, with the cash designed to help with the costs of accommodation and living expenses.
Mr Gray said: “Student paramedics are vital to the running of our NHS and have met the challenge of the coronavirus pandemic head-on.
“We cannot thank them enough for their efforts, and yet many student paramedics are living on the breadline.
“This is unacceptable. It is time for the Scottish Government to recognise the vital and selfless work that student paramedics do and provide them with a bursary.
“Student paramedics help those in need selflessly and on a daily basis: they deserve a fair deal.”
Published: by Radio NewsHub