The county's biggest employer, Gloucestershire Hospitals NHS Trust, is recruiting up to 90 new healthcare support workers.

The recruitment drive is part of an initiative aimed at delivering high quality care to patients at Cheltenham General and Gloucestershire Royal Hospitals. The hospitals are looking for both apprentices and individuals that may not have had previous care experience, with opportunities available to people of all ages.

Professor Steve Hams, director of quality and chief nurse, said: "At a time when the public's appreciation and admiration of the NHS has never been higher, we want to add to our team and are interested to hear from individuals who feel they have a natural talent for caring, an interest in making a difference to our local community and a willingness to learn.

"Diversity and inclusion is core to who we are and how we work. We welcome, embrace and respect diversities of people, identities and cultures as we strive to provide the best care for everyone."

Grace Smart, bank healthcare assistant, said: "I started off as a healthcare assistant in a nursing home, but I wanted to find out what it was like working in a hospital setting. I successfully got a job at the Trust. It's an emotionally rewarding career because you feel like you make a difference."

Mark Gibbs, trainee nursing associate, said: "I spent 23 years in the British Army and on retirement from there I wanted a different challenge. I started off as a healthcare assistant because I believe that's where a majority of the interaction takes place and it's a great place to learn."

Sophie Morgan, apprentice maternity care assistant, said: "I owned a dance school, but because of Covid I had to reassess work. The reason why I choose to go down the apprenticeship route is because I haven't worked in healthcare before and I really wanted to develop. I want this to be a lifelong career for me.

"You also get a guaranteed interview to become a trainee nursing associate. So that will help if you want to develop as a nurse."

Gloucestershire Hospitals NHS Trust is hosting a virtual event next Tuesday (9th March) 10-10:45am. This will be an open, friendly opportunity for candidates to ask more questions about the role and speakers will talk about the opportunities available including the training and progression.

To join the virtual event, register here.  

Watch the promotional video here.    

Apply for the jobs here.