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Two NHS trusts are offering newly qualified nurses "honorary contracts" or asking them to work below the minimum wage.

North Tees and Hartlepool NHS Trust and County Durham and Darlington NHS Foundation Trust are offering preceptorship contracts to nurses who are unable to secure jobs, the Nursing Standard reports.

Nursing graduates and diplomates from the University of Teesside can choose between the North Tees Trust traineeship - which offers an estimated hourly rate of £2.60 - and the County Durham traineeship which pays nothing.

Lin Clarkson, Royal College of Nursing (RCN) acting officer for the northern region, said: "This is morally and ethically wrong and we have raised the issue with both trusts. It is not only about pay but also delivery of care."

But a spokesperson for the nursing and midwifery council (NMC) confirmed that the situation was far from perfect;

"We regret that some newly qualified registrants are facing difficulties in finding paid posts. However, given that this is the case, we welcome periods of voluntary preceptorship which may enable new registrants to consolidate their learning. We realise the situation is far from ideal."

Last week, NHS employers launched an action plan to help newly-qualified nurses and staff who have been made redundant find work. The schemes - labelled 'keep in touch' - will provide information about new job opportunities.