All 4th year student nurses who are on rostered work placements are paid at the approved rate as detailed on the HSE payscale of €21,794 (annualised - psychiatric nursing specialism) and €21, 322 (annualised - all other nursing specialisms). I can confirm that these existing arrangements and paid rostered placements will be maintained for those entering 4th year in September 2020.
In addition to the above, the Department has provided supports to student nurses earlier this year to protect their education while clinical placements were affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. Clinical placements are expected to re-commence in September.
Work has also been undertaken to provide specific Infection and Prevention Control (IPC) guidance for the facilitation of clinical placements and movement between clinical areas. This also supports the students to work part time and move between organisations safely. The recent IPC guidance issued on 17 August 2020 to the Higher Institutes of Education (HEIs) and HSE service areas supports safe movement of students between clinical areas for placements. It also supports them working part-time in other areas and sectors (including, for example, in nursing homes).
Finally, there is a travel/accommodation allowance which amounts to €50.79 a week to support those students to access the clinical placements they require.
