Return to Practice nurse (RTP)

Nurses leave the profession for a variety of reasons; some have children or start a new career.  Many want to return but don’t know where to start.

There are now a couple of routes available to return:

You may need to undertake a return to practice programme if you’ve previously been a registered nurse and wish to return to the profession.  The course is funded by Health Education England.

As an alternative you may be able to return following successful completion of CBT and Test of competence.  Again, there is funding available from Health Education England.

Here at Bedfordshire Hospitals we are keen to support you on your journey back, either by:

• providing clinical placements for Return to Practice Course
• employment route. This is an exciting opportunity in which you will be offered employment whilst you undertake the course or complete CBT and Test of Competence.

For more information visit the Health Education England (HEE) ‘Come Back’ website to find out why some nurses have decided to RTP and hear their experiences.

Or visit Health Careers for more information including FAQs and an email guide.

For queries relating to the Luton and Dunstable Hospital please contact:

Alison Lovatt (Alison.lovatt@ldh.nhs.uk) or

Jill Randell (Jill.randell@ldh.nhs.uk)

For queries relating to Bedford Hospital please contact:

Emma Johnson (Emma.Johnson@bedfordhospital.nhs.uk)