October 1, 2015 10.22 am This story is over 106 months old

Newly recruited nurses keen to “make a difference” in Lincolnshire hospitals

Staffing boost: Ninety newly qualified nurses from across Lincolnshire have started work in hospitals across the county this week after a lengthy recruitment drive.

Ninety newly qualified nurses from across Lincolnshire have started work in hospitals across the county this week after a lengthy recruitment drive.

United Lincolnshire Hospitals NHS Trust has worked closely with the University of Lincoln, the Open University and other neighbouring universities to encourage the new recruits to choose Lincolnshire hospitals.

Some 65 nurses have joined Lincoln County Hospital, 23 have joined Pilgrim Hospital in Boston and two have started work at Grantham Hospital, with two more expected at a later date.

Jake Bontoft on Ashby ward at Lincoln County Hospital said: “I’m really looking forward to making a difference on the ward and the training I’ve received so far has really built up my confidence.

“Over the last three years I’ve seen significant improvements made at ULHT and have been really supported during my placements.”

The trust is also attending recruitment fairs, hosting a round of open days and the first cohort of return to practice nurses started their courses with ULHT last month.

The nurses training on the Return to Practice course in Lincolnshire. Photo: Steve Smailes for The Lincolnite

The nurses training on the Return to Practice course in Lincolnshire. Photo: Steve Smailes for The Lincolnite

Liz Ball, Deputy Chief Nurse, said: “We are so pleased to be welcoming the new nurses to our hospitals. It’s a great accolade that they have chosen our trust, particularly as this is often based on the experience they received during their work placements, so for them to come back shows we are a great place to work.”

Mel Kerr, working in A&E at Pilgrim, said: “I love a challenge and I wanted to work in the emergency department because you never know who is going to come through the doors.

“The training I have received so far has really prepared me for what to expect. The staff have been fantastic and I know I’ll be supported in the department.”

Leanne Franklin, at Grantham Hospital, added: “My placement has been fantastic, there is a diverse range of patients that come through the door which means no two days are the same.

“There’s a really friendly atmosphere throughout the hospital and staff work really hard to make Grantham the best it can be for patients and staff.”