BBC News
·Jul 2026
NHS long-term damage warning as graduates still without jobs
An expert warns that NHS Wales could face long-term damage as hundreds of newly qualified nursing, midwifery and paramedic graduates struggle to secure jobs due to improved staff retention and funding constraints. Students describe uncertainty and concerns about career prospects, with some considering moving abroad. Workforce forecasts made during the pandemic overestimated vacancies, leading to paused university courses and an oversupply of graduates. The Welsh government is coordinating national support and exploring solutions, while similar issues are emerging across the UK, prompting job guarantee initiatives in England and Scotland.