Warnings of nursing shortages across our region following Brexit

Thousands of nurses across the region could be at risk following Britain's vote to leave the European Union.

The Royal College of Nursing (RCN) says many South West employers are already struggling to recruit without bringing in talent from abroad.

They say staffing levels across the West could be badly affected if immigration rules change following Brexit.

EU NURSES WORKING IN THE SOUTH WEST:

The RCN say there are likely to be many more than these as many choose not to provide information on their nationality.

In addition, private sector health providers and care homes also rely on EU staff to deliver their services.

The College is now calling on the government to protect the future of EU nurses already working here.

A debate will take place in the House of Lords debate today - Thursday - on the impact of the vote to leave the EU on safe staffing levels in the NHS.

The Lords will also be debating other risks to the NHS workforce such as the Government’s proposals to change student nurse funding.