In a joint letter to the Secretary of State for Health, the three councils, together with the Russell Group, Council of Deans of Health, GuildHE, London Higher, MillionPlus, Universities UK and University Alliance urge the government to prioritise education, training and research in the new 10 Year Workforce Plan. The letter sets out how close partnership with universities will be essential to expanding training places, modernising curricula and ensuring that the future workforce is equipped with the skills needed for a rapidly changing health landscape.

The letter also highlights the critical role of clinical academics, who combine teaching, research and patient care and calls for immidiate action to address the decline in their numbers. Clinical academics are central to maintaining innovation, high-quality training and excellence in patient care across the health service.

Dr Katie Petty-Saphon, CEO of the Dental Schools Council, said:

“To meet the nation’s healthcare needs, workforce planning must recognise the central roles of education, training and research within the NHS strategy. As the professionals responsible for delivering this education and training, we are committed to working with government to support the health service with the skilled staff it desperately needs. Importantly, clinical academics must also be included in this discussion to ensure they have the support needed to keep the NHS competitive, forward-thinking and at the cutting edge of innovation.”