THE NHS in the North West is calling on anyone not sure of their career path after A Level results day to consider a career in the NHS by becoming a mental health or learning disability nurse.

Exam results for A Levels, T Levels and BTEC courses are being announced today (Thursday 14 August) and the NHS is reminding students who may be reconsidering their options that a future in healthcare could be the life-changing career they are looking for.

Already this year, 33,540 people in England have applied for a degree in nursing across a broad range of specialities.

Jean Hayles, Head of Nursing in NHS England North West’s Workforce, Training and Education Directorate, said: “A nursing degree in mental health or learning disability is more than just a career. It’s a calling to champion equality and independence, and supporting people at their most challenging moments.

“Nursing is a diverse profession, and mental health and learning disability nursing offers hands-on training with the opportunity to make a real difference to people’s lives through different placements while learning.

“If you’re still undecided what your next steps are, or perhaps rethinking your original options, I would urge you to consider applying for a mental health or learning disability nursing course through UCAS clearing, and to search NHS nursing careers to find out more.

“You can also register your interest in an NHS career and we’ll support you every step of the way.”

Those who choose to attend university to study nursing could also be eligible for the NHS Learning Support Fund, which will guarantee a grant of £5,000 a year, as well as specialist payments for studying mental health or learning disability nursing.

Adam Howorth, a mental health student at the University of Cumbria, worked in the charity sector for 10 years before wanting to care for people with mental health issues.

“During my 10 years in the charity sector, I realised I had a genuine interest in caring for people with mental health issues. This passion motivated me to pursue nursing training,” he said.

“Throughout this training, my dedication to caring for individuals with mental health problems has only grown, particularly in dementia care and psychosis in-patient settings, which I focused on in my dissertation…”

“I believe the most important lesson I have learnt from this nursing journey is to build my resilience and recognise the significance of establishing healthy working relationships with colleagues…”

He added: “Nursing is not for everyone, the experiences that we have within practice are not the regular experiences of the average public. We care for people at their best and worst moments, while maintain our own lives and studies. But despite everything I can’t see myself in a more rewarding, supportive and truly fulfilling profession.”

Latifah King is at Edgehill University who opted for mental health nursing having been in contact with mental health nurses when younger.

“When I was looking for a course that would fill my need to help, I found mental health nursing,” she said.

“I was a recipient of their services when I was younger and wanted to follow in their steps. Being a mental health student, comes with some challenges you’d think weren’t possible. In my studies at Edgehill University…it is a team, one where understanding and empathy really shine through,” she added.

Molly Bolton is a mental health student at the University of Cumbria. She said: “Prior to starting the BSc Mental Health Nursing course, I had limited experience and felt unsure about what to expect. Now, I can’t imagine not being in this role. This role is raw and challenging and simultaneously rewarding and fulfilling.

“I feel so privileged that I am able to support and look after people in some of their most vulnerable moments, and I have learned so much about both myself and others whilst doing so. It isn’t easy, and some days are harder than others, but the impact we can have in our role makes everything worth it. When people ask what I do for a job, I feel so proud to say that I am a future mental health nurse.”

Zoe Hamlet, a mental health nursing student at the University of Liverpool said: “I decided to study mental health nursing to reduce the stigma and help people who may be struggling. One thing I will take from my learning is to persevere, trust and rapport need to be earned but when you get it, it’s so rewarding.

“Nursing is a challenging degree, it’s hard (unpaid) work on top of academic work, but helping people in their journey and making a difference to someone’s experience with mental health services is an unmatched feeling and something I want to do for the rest of my life.”

Tanya Gregory, a learning disability nursing student at Edgehill University. She said: “Learning disability nursing is more than a career – it’s a calling to be the voice, the hope, and the drive for change. Yes, there are challenges, but every challenge is a chance to make a difference. You’ll witness courage, celebrate progress, and know that your work truly matters.

“If you want a role where your passion changes lives every single day, this is it. You’ll witness courage in the face of adversity, celebrate progress that once felt impossible, and know that your work has a direct impact on someone’s quality of life. This is a profession where compassion meets action, and where your passion can change lives every single day – including your own.”

Students will get world class training that supports them every step in their career. UCAS clearing is now open and prospective students will be able to apply for courses until 20 October. Entry requirements will vary, but students are advised they will likely need at least two A Levels or equivalent.