Thousands have been “inspired” by the hard-work of NHS staff during the pandemic.
The NHS says it has recruited 10,000 new healthcare support workers (HCSWs) in the first three months of the year.
NHS England says it’s success is down to the so-called “Nightingale effect”, where a want to help during the pandemic has inspired many to join the health service.
The 10,000 already recruited will be joined by a further 5,000 HCSWs who will start work following successful pre-employment checks.
HCSWs usually work in hand-on rolls across the health service, assisting nurses, midwives and other healthcare professionals to provide vital care.
Ruth May, Chief Nursing Officer for England, said; “A healthcare support worker can be the perfect entry point to the NHS, offering a varied and rewarding career.
“Many of our registered nurses, midwives and allied health professionals began their careers as HCSWs, so if you like thousands of others have been inspired by the work of staff over the past year, please consider joining us.”
Prerana Issar, chief people officer, added; “Throughout the last year, the world has watched as our inspirational NHS staff have come together in the fight against coronavirus, treating tens of thousands of patients and delivering the biggest vaccination programme in history.
“The increase in staff wanting to join the NHS is in no doubt related to this ‘Nightingale effect’ of the pandemic, and we look forward to welcoming these new recruits into our workforce.”