This A Level Results Day, the NHS in London encourages male students to consider a fulfilling career in nursing or midwifery. Latest NHS data shows that men make up just 16% of the Capital’s Nurses, and that only 1% of Registered Midwives in London are male. 

If you have not been accepted into university today, or are re-thinking your options, UCAS Clearing is available to everyone. A healthcare degree like Nursing or Midwifery could open up a new world of possibilities. 

In London, there are only around 11,600 male nurses, versus 62,300 female. Meanwhile, there are just 37 male midwives, compared with nearly 6,000 women. There are numerous ways to start a career in the NHS, and anyone can apply.  

Nina Khazaezadeh, Chief Midwife for the NHS in London, said: “Male midwives bring unique perspectives and skills to our professions and we need more men to join us in this incredible calling. There is no greater honour than helping to safely deliver the next generation and being part of families’ most precious memories.” 

Having started his NHS career as a Registered Nurse, David Connor witnessed the importance of all the various roles within Midwifery and became inspired to undertake additional training to become a Midwife. Now the Director of Midwifery at Royal Free Hospital, David cares for women, birthing people and their families as they bring new life into the world. 

David said: “It is an honour to guide and support patients to feel safe and protected at such a unique moment in their life, and rewarding to complete a pathway of care – from early pregnancy to childbirth. There are many ways to get into midwifery, and a wide variety of roles beyond delivery, such as research, bereavement or community care. 

“Midwifery and Maternity Services has a very diverse workforce, from sexuality to ethnicity, and this makes it a fantastic profession to work in. Often male students are worried about whether women would like them to care for them, and I would say most people just want someone who is kind, caring and considerate.” 

Nursing and Midwifery make a real difference in people’s lives, and it can also offer incredible opportunities to work in different settings and to progress in many different directions.

Victor Sanchez-Castrillon, Director of Nursing at King’s College Hospital, first started his nursing career after witnessing the skill and dedication of the nurses who cared for his parents during their prolonged hospital stays.  

Victor said: “To any student considering a career in nursing, I’d say forget the stereotypes. Nursing isn’t limited to one type of person, it’s a profession where your skills, compassion and individuality can truly shine.  

“If you’re thinking about it, my advice is simple: there’s nothing wrong with trying something you believe you might enjoy. It could end up being one of the best decisions you ever make.” 

Those who choose to attend university to study healthcare courses could be eligible for the NHS Learning Support Fund, which will guarantee at least £5,000 a year, as well as specialist payments for studying mental health or learning disability nursing, and for parental support. 

Anthony Thompson, Deputy Director of Nursing at Croydon Health Services, is now a key clinical leader who ensures the delivery of high-quality, compassionate care, but he had never anticipated a career in nursing as a teenager.  

Anthony said: “During my teenage years I tried a few things without having a clear plan as to what I wanted to do, so would never say that I always saw myself as a Registered Nurse. After 25 years I can soundly say that joining this profession with the experiences I have gained – I made the best choice! 

“The stigma associated with being a male nurse is long gone – nursing is for everyone. You will endure challenges, but also rewards, and will have a career for life.” 

University doesn’t have to be for everyone. To gain practical on-the-job experience that makes a real difference, a health and social care apprenticeship or becoming a healthcare support worker could be a great option.  

Search ‘NHS Careers’ to find out more.