Individuals who enrolled in an eight-week pre-employment program have successfully transitioned to new careers within the NHS. The program, operated by Inspira in partnership with the North Cumbria Integrated Care NHS Foundation Trust, aims to provide job seekers with employability skills and practical work experience.

The program guarantees a job interview for a Health Care Assistant position at the North Cumbria Integrated Care NHS Trust upon completion. Angela Hall, a former teacher of 21 years, enrolled in the program in Carlisle with the aim of pursuing a career in healthcare.

“This was a really great pathway into the NHS and gave us a strong foundation of knowledge and skills to begin our careers in healthcare. The placement days were so useful in understanding the role of a Health Care Assistant in an acute setting. I’m really glad I made the decision to enrol,” she explains.

“I worked in Primary Education since 2002 as it worked around my family life when my children were young. As I enter middle age I wanted the opportunity to try an alternative career now I am no longer constrained by childcare.”

Fresh path

After completing her training, she secured a permanent role as a Health Care Assistant. The Step into Work training program offers targeted training and practical work placements on a ward with other Health Care Assistants. The course covers various topics including communication skills, safeguarding, teamwork, and career journeys.

The program aims to provide individuals with the necessary skills and knowledge to pursue a career in healthcare. The most recent intake of ten students saw eight successfully gain employment, including three who secured permanent roles.

“The change we’ve seen in people attending this course has been amazing,” the team explains. “It’s a different kind of approach to training, as we aim to get people employed at the end of it – we want to see those results and those happy faces knowing their hard work paid off.”

“The Step into Work programme helps to build confidence, skills and knowledge. It is perfect for people who have always wanted to pursue a career in health, are maybe looking to change careers, are lacking experience, or have applied before and been unsuccessful.”