East Suffolk and North Essex NHS Foundation Trust (ESNEFT) are offering job-seekers a helping hand towards a fulfilling career with the NHS thanks to a new project which aims to highlight the variety of roles which are available in medical diagnostics.
The pilot scheme will see around 130 learners from a range of ages and backgrounds take the first steps towards a new role in healthcare, as they take part in a free 12-week programme consisting of masterclasses and work placements.
Run in partnership with Colchester Institute, the Pathways to Diagnostics Trailblazer project has received £471,379 from the UK Government through the UK Community Renewal Fund, with the aim of providing local residents with the opportunity to acquire skills to support local job opportunities created within the new Community Diagnostic Hub at Clacton Hospital.
The programme will provide individuals the opportunity to learn more about the pathways available in medical diagnostics, which include roles in phlebotomy, pathology, endoscopy and medical imaging. Successful completion of the course will result in a guaranteed job interview where they will be able to apply for various roles with ESNEFT.
Rosie McVitie, Pathways to Diagnostics Programme Manager with ESNEFT spoke highly of the programme. “This is a really exciting project which we hope will provide people with a useful stepping stone into a rewarding career.
There are so many opportunities available in diagnostics, but often people aren’t really aware of just how varied and interesting these roles can be. We hope to give them a valuable insight through this initiative so that they can decide which areas appeal to them the most before taking part in an interview and hopefully going on to join our team.”
Tomas Kasiulis, Pathways to Diagnostics Project Manager at Colchester Institute said. “As a vocational College, our goal is to provide local people with the skills and knowledge to secure the jobs most needed in our communities. Working in close partnership with ESNEFT, we are pleased to be able to connect local people with local jobs, whilst supporting a new facility that will enable Tendring residents to gain quicker and easier access to vital diagnostic services.”
Although the first cohort of the programme is already underway, spaces are still available on the next scheduled starts in February and March. Work placement related expenses will be covered and further support is available on completion of the programme.
For more information, email acs@colchester.ac.uk or call 01206 712825 or 01206 814292.
