The new taster programme gives job seekers an insight into the role of a healthcare assistant.
Jobseekers in Buckinghamshire are being given a fresh start and new hope thanks to Buckinghamshire Healthcare NHS Trust.
A collaboration between the Trust, JobCentre Plus and Buckinghamshire College Group allows job seekers to undertake a new six-week ‘Positive Steps’ taster programme that gives job seekers an insight into the role of a Healthcare Assistant.
The programme is designed to improve practical skills and guarantees them an interview for a permanent job after successful completion.
A career change.
Each week of the programme includes three days working in a clinical setting, one day a week at Buckinghamshire College undertaking a BTEC Level 1 Introduction to Health and Social Care, and one day a week of self-study and reflection.
54-year-old Mark Ferris was made redundant after 30 years in the IT industry just as the COVID-19 pandemic started.
Mark said: “I’d been thinking about a career change and looking after my elderly parents had made think about moving into care.
“On my placement I began looking after patients from the very first day, paired up with an experienced senior colleague on the morning care round. I was hooked immediately and loved every minute.
“There was lots of on job-the-job training and a great team spirit. I’m now in a position to make a real difference to people’s lives and feel really valued.”
No entry requirements.
Rose Kennedy, Matron for Inpatients at Amersham Hospital, was keen not to lose Mark after the taster experience ended: “Healthcare Assistants need to be caring, compassionate and thrive as part of a team, so Mark fitted straight in to our BHT family.
“Positive Steps is open to people from all ages and backgrounds and there are no set entry requirements. We look forward to welcoming more people like Mark in 2022.”
Those interested in applying for Positive Steps can contact their work coach at your local JobCentre Plus or email [email protected].
