YOUNG people who completed training as part of The Prince’s Trust programme were so impressive they have been offered permanent roles at Basildon University Hospital.
Matthew Forbes and Libby Wilkes are both working as catering assistants, while Ben Brindley is a porter.
All three first came to the Trust as part of the ‘Get into Healthcare’ programme run in partnership with The Prince’s Trust. But they impressed bosses Cathy Crouch and Michael Noakes so much during their two week placement they were offered a role within the hospital.
Michael Noakes, portering manager, said: “It can be intense working as a porter because the team is under a lot of pressure to get a lot done. Ben’s work ethic and commitment really shone through and he has become a valued member of the portering team. So much so that when the new Prince’s Trust trainees begin in July, I’ve asked Ben to mentor them through the process.”
The Prince’s Trust ‘Get into Healthcare’ programmes supports young people aged 16 to 30 to develop their skills and knowledge to be able to work in the healthcare sector. It gives young people who are work ready but lack specific competence in a healthcare setting, a mixture of practical training and experience which will help them to get a job or an apprenticeship.
Rachel Gray, Talent for Care coordinator, said: “We are pleased to support the ‘Get into Healthcare programme and it’s great that we were able to offer these young people a role, with the chance to further develop their skills.”
Richard Garnett, programme manager for The Prince’s Trust said, “As well as providing training and experience, our Get into programmes instil young people with the self-belief they need to find a job and kick-start their careers. Congratulations to the young people on these programmes who are now making great strides towards a successful future.”
