Has anyone been able to do a degree whilst working in the NHS?

[JenniferYellowHat1980]

Since leaving teaching I've been working in the NHS in a low paid technical role. I'd really like to retrain in a different discipline from the one I'm currently working in and am thinking of applying for a couple of jobs I've seen. Either would be a sideways move and I'd be doing it with a view to gaining experience of the role I'd like to retrain in (allied health profession, not nursing).

Has anyone been able to do a degree whilst actually employed by the NHS? I've considered the standard student finance route but the income would be so low that our home would go to wrack and ruin while I studied as we couldn't afford anything but the basics.

I've heard of a few people doing this locally but just wondering how common it it really.

Do you want work to fund it?

Yes if possible. I know it can be done but I don't know whether it's a rarity.

I have worked as an OT assistant for 17 years. Now my children are older was considering doing OT degree part time over 4 years continuing with my job and going to uni. Sadly the budiet where I work won't allow for this . Should have done it years ago when they were begging me to do it!!
Think it just depends on trusts!

I know someone who was working as a Radiography Assistant and did a degree alongside her job (funded by the NHS). Was a few years ago and in London.

No PT courses available reasonably local (I'm open to travelling but only within 50 miles).