go to a uni like brooks where you can start on the diploma (yr 1 and 2) ad do year 3 as a top up to the dergee. then you get the best of both world (placement and funding wise) and come out with a degree.
you do need a degree, to be honest, if you wanna progress in your career. my aunty did a diploma 20 years ago. 5years ago she was given a regional managers position but last year the nhs told her that even though she had worked her way up to this position that she would have to be let go unless she completes a degree part time. the nhs are paying for the degree but it is proof that a diploma will only get you so far. 20years of service and her job (if she doent complete her degree) could be taken over by a nurse with a degree who has only do 5-10years service.