Have you heard about the NHS Ambassadors programme?
This fantastic programme encourages people working or studying in healthcare to volunteer one hour of their time per year to speak in schools and colleges about their roles or participate in careers events and activities.
Events often take place in schools or further education colleges, however events are also held virtually. Attending events is completely voluntary, therefore Ambassadors are free to only attend the type of event they wish.
The programme aims to:
- attract the future healthcare workforce by getting young people interested in different roles and professions within the NHS
- develop the talent pool and ensure a skilled workforce in the future
- help young people make informed choices and consider the full range of roles and professions within the NHS, help to dispel myths and ensure young people have a realistic view of the world of work and the routes into it
- ensure the future workforce is representative of the communities it serves.
To mark the 75th anniversary of the NHS in July 2023, 20 NHS Ambassadors spoke to Year 8 and 9 students about their careers in digital, data and technology. This was a excellent opportunity to broaden the student’s understanding of the range of careers that the NHS can offer. James Freed, Chief Digital and Information Officer for NHS England, spoke at this event discussing the developing role of digital, data and tech jobs in the NHS.
You can learn more about this event here.
NHS Ambassadors reported many benefits including:
- Value they felt they brought to young people
- New skills or experience gained
- A sense of challenge and achievement
- Increase in their own confidence
- Feeling part of a community