Number of foreign nurses arriving in the UK from outside the EU surges by 80 per cent

The number of nurses arriving to the UK from outside the EU has increased by 80 per cent since relaxing language tests.

Figures compiled by the Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC) show an average of 440 non-EU nurses joined the register each month between April and June, compared with an average of 237 a month in the previous nine months.

The English language tests were relaxed by the NMC in November over concerns they were too hard even for Australian nurses.

Previously, nurses had been required to sit the rigorous International English Language Testing System exam. But under the new rules they can provide evidence of previously passing easier English exams.

Emma Broadbent of the NMC said: ‘It’s pleasing to see an increase in nurses and midwives from outside the EU.’

The figures coincide with a report by a leading think-tank warning nursing shortages are one of the NHS’ ‘biggest threats’. An analysis by the Health Foundation claims that an average of one in ten nursing posts are unfilled, equivalent to 35,794 vacancies.

Figures compiled by the Nursing and Midwifery found an average of 440 non-EU nurses joined the register each month between April and June, compared with an average of 237 a month in the previous nine months