Sam’s Story
Having been unemployed for over five years, Sam was beginning to think her dream of becoming an NHS nurse was never going to come true. Much of this period had been spent acting as a carer for a close family member, and it was this experience that ignited her passion for supporting others. Still, Sam found it very difficult to identify a pathway that offered a clear way forward.
That was until she was referred to our Pre-Employment NHS Workshop; a dedicated programme offering specific training that prepares new candidates for roles within the service. Through training with her tutor, Sam was able to recognise the skills her time as a carer – and previously as a hairdresser- had enabled her to develop. She discovered how these skills could be transferred into an NHS career and gained confidence that her disability – partial deafness in both ears – would not be a barrier to employment – something that had worried her in the past.
After completing her programme and gaining a number of qualifications, Sam was offered a two-week placement at Broadgreen Hospital (above). She absolutely loved her time in this role, working alongside the Ward Manager to complete daily tasks. It was the first time in years that Sam had felt part of a team and she simply did not want the placement to end. So, with her confidence now better than ever, she asked to stay. The Ward Manager was just as keen to keep Sam on board!
Sam has been an absolute delight on the ward, she has been very attentive and very keen to learn and it has been a pleasure to teach her the daily ward work. Sam has fitted in with the team very well and I wish her well for the future.
Sam’s Ward Manager
The good news keeps on coming from Sam too – as we’ve just received word that she has been offered an unconditional place on a two-year foundation nursing degree by Edge Hill University!
Zieta’s Fresh Start
We have another great NHS story to share – from a learner who has taken her training and experience within the ward out into a new role with the charity, Brainkind.
Much like Sam, Zieta had been unemployed long-term when she arrived for another of our NHS Workshops. Having worked in everything from Retail to Social Support, Zieta knew she had the skills to flourish in a new career but, despite her best efforts, her job applications were leading nowhere.
Through NHS training she gained the self-belief to change her story and the firsthand healthcare experience to improve her CV and make her application to Brainkind a success.
