A new approach to healthcare is being introduced in West Yorkshire which will see students supporting professionals.

The West Yorkshire Health and Care Partnership has announced its student-supported services model, which is designed to increase healthcare placement opportunities for students, as well as tackling waiting times.

The model involves 'multi-professional' students providing care in a supervised environment, overseen by a registered clinical professional.

For example, two pairs of students delivering care in two clinic rooms could be overseen by one registered professional who provides support as and when required.

The model is said to be adaptable across professions including nursing, midwifery, podiatry, occupational therapy, and physiotherapy.

Clinics will be delivered across West Yorkshire at venues including GPs, patients' homes, and community centres.

Expectant mum Sadika attended a 28 week check-up at a student-supported midwifery clinic, and commented: "I was met by two lovely student midwifery nurses; they had smiles on their faces and were very enthusiastic.

"They were really caring and they listened to my concerns and they were able to get a solution for me.

"I didn’t notice any difference to a qualified midwife in comparison to the student midwives."

More information about student-supported services is available on the newly launched website: https://student-supported-services.org/