The Staffordshire Training Hub is pleased to announce that funding is available through the Independent Prescribing (IP) Bursary.
The purpose of this scheme is to provide a one-off payment of up to £2,500 to a Primary Care Network (PCN) towards either:
- the cost of an Independent Prescribing course, or
- 50% (45 hours) of Independent Prescribing supervision costs.
The bursary amount was increased with effect from 01 January 2026 to reflect rising university course fees. This increased bursary amount applies to applications from this date onwards.
Eligibility criteria
The following roles are eligible to apply for the IP Bursary:
- Clinical Pharmacist
- Dietitian
- Occupational Therapist
- Paramedic
- Physiotherapist
- Podiatrist
- Mental Health Worker (if registered with NMC, HCPC or GPhC)
Applicants must also meet the following criteria:
- The applicant must not be a qualified Independent Prescriber at the time of employment, as supervision would have been provided elsewhere.
- Applicants already in post must have either commenced an IP course or hold a confirmed place on an upcoming IP course.
- The applicant must not have previously received an IP Bursary from the Staffordshire Training Hub.
- Pharmacists are only able to use the IP Bursary towards 50% of Independent Prescribing supervision costs. In line with NHS England guidance, the cost of the Independent Prescribing course for pharmacists is funded by NHS England. Further details can be found on the NHS England website.
Please note
- General Practice Nurses must apply for the Supported Independent Prescribing Programme.
- Paramedics may apply for either the Independent Prescribing Bursary or the Supported Independent Prescribing Programme.
TO APPLY
Please note that funding is limited therefore bursaries will be offered on a first come first served basis.
If you are interested and meet the above criteria please complete the application form below and return it to the Staffordshire Training Hub team at arrs.traininghub@nhs.net.