A career in mental health or learning disability services can sometimes be challenging but it is immensely rewarding. As with all NHS organisations, there are a wide variety of roles and careers available within our Trust.
We have a limited number of clinical and non-clinical placements available and unfortunately cannot accommodate all the requests we receive. In order to make the process manageable, we are working with a small number of schools within Gloucestershire – currently offering two work experience ‘weeks’ each year.
Work experience with us provides an opportunity for year 12 students to gain an understanding of the various work roles within our clinical teams and settings along with the service they provide to their clients or it may involve working within one of our non-clinical teams which support the delivery of clinical services, such as finance or administration etc.
Ways of getting experience
Getting some relevant experience is one of the most important things you can do to help find a career in health. Some work experience placements offer a hands-on experience, while some provide insights, observation and work shadowing. All can provide a valuable experience for students looking to move into a career in the NHS.
“Having the chance to do work experience within the NHS has made my understanding of what they do much better.”
Work Experience Student
What will I do during my work experience?
On your first day with us you will have an introduction to the week. We will explain what to expect and what we expect from you. Our staff are very knowledgeable about the area they work in and they will happily answer any questions you have. Don’t be afraid to ask them anything; there really is no such thing as a ‘silly question’.
Depending on where you are for the week will determine what sort of experiences you will get, but all are valuable and will give you a real insight into the workings of our Trust and healthcare more generally.
You will also have the opportunity to be trained in Basic Life Support which is an essential skill to have as it could help you save a life one day!
On your final day you will have a chance to feedback to each other what you have learnt through short presentations.
How do I apply for work experience?
If you wish to apply for a work experience opportunity – please talk to your careers advisor / teacher about their selection process and if your school is currently working with us, the careers advisor will request you to complete an application form prior to nominating a small number of students for our placements.
Unfortunately, we are unable to accept any work experience requests that are submitted outside of the above criteria.
Working in a community team means no two days are the same. All of us bring our own expertise and personalities to the team, making it a fun and stimulating environment to work in.
Community Mental Health Nurse
More people in England work for the NHS than any other organisation.
There are over 350 different careers ranging from healthcare assistants, nurses, doctors through to administrative staff and gardeners. Many people are not aware of the range of opportunities available.
For more information on the careers in the NHS in England please visit:
www.nhscareers.nhs.uk
www.stepintothenhs.nhs.uk/careers