Shadow Education Minister Jamie Halcro Johnston is to press the Scottish Government to urgently review its policy on bursaries for student paramedics.
The subject, which is to be debated in the Scottish Parliament tomorrow, has arisen as the role of the students has become more critical in dealing with frontline medical emergencies at a time when recognised paramedics have become a shortage occupation.
A campaign – Pay Student Paramedics – has recently been established to argue the case for more generous support for the students.
The Conservative MSP said: “As a result of Covid-19, students are entering the paramedic profession on placement at a time of great pressure.
“Their work demands very close interaction with the public under sometimes very challenging circumstances. On placements, they are generally working alongside qualified paramedics on normal shift patterns, also limiting their ability to work while learning.
“I really think this needs to be acknowledged and consideration given to putting student paramedics on an equal footing with their equivalents working in nursing and midwifery.”
