Dear Aunt Madison,
Here's advice from our resident agony aunt on how to fund a career change to in-flight nursing.
'I'd love to do the in-flight nurses training course, but …'
It has long been an ambition for me to become an in-flight nurse, but every time I look into the training I get put off by the hurdles to be overcome - namely financial and distance.
I do not believe in having everything handed to me on a plate. I believe that hard work is the way to achieve your goals. When I studied for my degree seven years ago I worked full time, studied part time and didn't complain that I was studying on my days off as my employer was paying for the degree and it was a qualification that I kept for life.
I would love to do the in-flight nurses training course and would take annual leave from my present job in order to study. However, why does it cost £500 and why is the training always in London?
I cannot afford to pay for training and travelling costs while taking annual leave and paying all my bills at home. All that on one salary - mine - and I know I am not alone.
I would love to be a member of the IFNA and use my skills in this manner, contributing to the team. Can you offer any advice at all?
Look forward to hearing from you,
S
Aunt Madison replies:
Dear S,
Thank you for your letter. I'm sorry to hear of your difficulties with becoming a flight nurse, but there is help at hand.
First - as part of the RCN In-Flight Nurses Association (IFNA) Forum, you have access to information about flight nursing on the RCN website, bi-annual newsletters and regular study days. These allow members, whether current flight nurses or potential flight nurses, to gain information from each other.
We have freelance flight nurses and nurses working in assistance companies attending, who can provide excellent information. They often are a good networking source for jobs in the industry.
The majority of companies are based around the major airports of Heathrow and Gatwick, as this tends to be the most logistical area. There are a couple of companies who use flight nurses further afield, such as Manchester and Bristol.
Obviously, training is a key part to any new role, but often the companies themselves will provide initial "in-house" training that can provide you with the basics of the role and then you can look to undertake more comprehensive training once able.
Until recently, the RCN In-Flight Course was available, but this is currently on hold. In the meantime you may want to consider contacting some of the companies that use flight nurses and assessing whether they have further training that you could undertake in your own time.
For any financial assistance, have you considered seeking sponsorship or a bursary? Our new forum may be able to offer bursaries in the future (look for updates in future newsletters). Alternatively, if your current workplace has a need for the knowledge that comes with being a flight nurse, they may be able to offer some assistance.
Good luck and let IFNA know how you get on.
Aunt Madison