You chose to study for a career in healthcare because you want to make a difference. Now it’s time to take the next big step towards a future where you can lead positive change for those you care for and your colleagues.
UNISON is the biggest team in health and social care with over 500,000 members working across all parts of the UK. We’re constantly making a difference, whether it’s defending NHS services or challenging racism in our workplaces.
We want to empower you to work with us as the next generation of leaders in healthcare.
Are you passionate about equality and fair treatment? Do you want to see more services developed for an unmet health need? Are you frustrated by how staff and students are treated in your workplace?
Then apply for the ‘UNISON Future Health Leaders programme’ and learn how you can make change happen.
This annual programme will accept a limited number of UNISON healthcare students from around the UK for a programme of training and activity throughout the year.
You’ll meet and question inspiring healthcare leaders, undertake local campaigning activities, improve your activist and advocacy skills, learn about healthcare policy and how to influence it, and develop your understanding of key equality issues. The programme will give you the skills and links to work with UNISON to lead real change in healthcare.
Application process
Programme summary
- Six events throughout the year, starting with a face to face event at Quayside House in Leeds on 19 March and ending with a face to face event at UNISON Centre in London on 23 November
- Four half-day online commitments at pre-determined times with interactive engagement, learning and debate
We know protecting time off can be challenging for healthcare students but to get the most from the course you will need to ensure you can protect the time for these sessions.
Progressing through this programme will give you useful networking opportunities, develop your skills and be an excellent addition to your CV for your future career.
Topics that will be covered will include;
- Developing an understanding of equalities and how to be an advocate or an ally
- Understanding healthcare policy and how to achieve change
- Debating and influencing
- Learning directly from interaction with inspiring health and union leaders
- Creating and leading campaigns
Eligibility criteria
Eligibility criteria:
- A member of UNISON
- Undergraduate student on any healthcare course leading to a career in healthcare
- Must have the capacity to attend 6 sessions between March and October 2026 (1 full day session in Leeds, 1 full day session in London and 4 half day sessions online)
To apply please complete the online application form by clicking the button below.
Applications will close at 5pm on 30 January 2026.