Volunteer to Career in Primary Care – A pathway to health and social care professions
In the ever-evolving landscape of health and social care professions, new pathways into careers in health and social care need to be developed to engage our regions workforce. With a focus on nurturing skills, offering diverse experiences, and fostering a supportive environment, Volunteer to Career is a stepping stone for individuals aspiring to venture into Health and social care.
One of the most compelling aspects of volunteering in health and social care is its accessibility. It opens its doors to anyone passionate about contributing to the well-being of others while also giving new graduates an insight into a range of careers. Whether you’re a school leaver exploring career options or someone considering a career change, volunteering welcomes all with a desire to make a difference. This inclusivity is a cornerstone, providing a platform for diverse individuals to explore and pursue their aspirations.
What makes this system particularly promising is its success rate. Nationally run initiatives have showcased an impressive 60% conversion rate from volunteering to employment or further education. Such statistics underscore the efficacy of this approach in nurturing talent and channelling it into meaningful career paths, but it takes dedicated focus and drive from each individual organisation in order to support volunteers through the programme.
In Norfolk & Waveney, two pilot Volunteer to Career programs are in operation. The first focuses on primary care encompassing dentistry, pharmacy, and general practice, while the other focuses on the East of England Ambulance Service. These programs offer tailored experiences, providing volunteers with an in-depth understanding of these specific domains, fostering expertise and enthusiasm within these critical sectors.
The significance of initiatives promoting volunteering cannot be overstated in the context of developing the workforce across health and social care. They serve as a vital bridge, addressing the growing need for skilled professionals in these sectors. By nurturing talent and providing practical experiences, these programs contribute significantly to fortifying the backbone of our healthcare system.
Volunteer to Career in Norfolk & Waveney provides an opportunity to create a diverse workforce, while also creating new paths and roles within individual organisations reaching out to those who before may have thought a career in health and social care was not for them.
For more information, as either a potential volunteer or host GP, Dentist or Pharmacy, please contact nwicb.primarycareworkforce@nhs.net