As a nurse, I know how important ongoing education is – not just for our own professional development, but for the patients, families, and communities we serve. That’s why I’m so excited to share with you the opportunities now available through the RCN Foundation Spring Grants programme.
These grants are a fantastic way to access funding for further study, new qualifications, and additional skills training – helping you take the next step in your career while making a real difference to patient care.
What Are the RCN Foundation Spring Grants?
The RCN Foundation offers a range of education grants – from £500 to £1,600 – designed to support nurses, midwives, nursing associates, healthcare support workers, maternity assistants, and students. Whether you’re planning a postgraduate qualification, professional training course, or essential CPD, there’s a grant that could help lighten the financial load.
Importantly, you don’t have to be 天美传媒 member to apply. If you're passionate about developing your career and delivering excellent patient care, you’re eligible to apply.
Applications close at 5pm on 12 May, so now is the time to start thinking about your next move.
What Grants Are Available?
There’s a wide variety of grants to suit different stages and areas of practice, including:
- Professional Bursary Scheme – Grants up to £1,600 for CPD, open to UK registered nurses, midwives, nursing associates, healthcare support workers, and maternity assistants.
- Next Generation Grant – Up to £1,000 to support living costs for graduates from any discipline starting nursing, midwifery, or a direct-entry nursing associate programme.
- Marcia Mackie and Rae Bequest Grants – For nurses in Northern Ireland wanting to enhance patient care, with grants of up to £1,600 (Rae) and £1,000 (Marcia Mackie).
- Mair Scholarship – Aimed at occupational health nurses in Scotland, with £500 available for CPD.
- Leathersellers Foundation Grant – Up to £1,600 for non-mental health registered nurses working with children and young people struggling with mental health challenges.
- LV= Education Grant – Up to £1,600 specifically for healthcare support workers, healthcare assistants, nursing support workers, maternity support workers, and care home assistants.
Each grant is tailored to help you move forward, whether you’re early in your career, looking to specialise, or enhancing the skills you already have.
Why It Matters
Access to education and training is critical, but financial barriers can make it hard for many of us. The RCN Foundation is offering more than just funding – they are investing in our futures, and in the future of health and care.
When I think back to my own journey in nursing, there have been so many points where a little bit of extra support would have made a huge difference. These grants could open the door to new opportunities, whether it's pursuing a dream course, changing direction, or simply feeling better equipped to deliver outstanding care.
How to Apply
Applying for a grant might feel daunting, but it’s a straightforward process – and the team at the RCN Foundation are there to support you. Take some time to explore the grant options, think about your goals, and prepare a strong application showing how further study will help you and your patients.
Remember: you must be planning to start your studies between 1 September 2025 and 1 September 2026 to be eligible. So, if you're dreaming of starting a new course or qualification soon, now’s your chance!
If you’re thinking about developing your skills, boosting your career, or bringing even better care to your patients, I can't encourage you enough: go for it. These grants are here to help you unlock your potential.
before the deadline at 5pm on 12 May!
Claire
