Dr Ade Tams: The NHS – A great place to work and train

By Dr Ade Tams AdeTams

I’m really proud to work in the NHS? Why? Well, I really don’t know where to start, there are so many reasons, but then I would say that as the Head of Workforce Planning and Recruitment for an organisation that’s rated as Good by the independent regulator, the Care Quality Commission (CQC).

Of course, contributing to successful outcomes for our patients and their families and carers really does give me the feel good factor but the range and diversity of career options means that I can plan a long career within the NHS. I know that I will arrive at work and be part of a highly supportive team.

Perhaps what I like most of all is the challenge – the NHS is constantly changing – in a positive way, with challenges and no two days are ever the same. Knowing that I’m contributing to something great really does make a difference.

The NHS in Lincolnshire is really flying the flag for what a great county we are in to live, train and work. When we are promoting our vacancies we always try to include information about what a diverse county we live in, and talk about the many things the county has to offer, no matter what lifestyle you choose to live.

The NHS is the fifth biggest employer in the world, employing around 1.7 million people and the NHS is THE biggest employer in Europe.

For those interested in working for one of the most iconic employers in the county, the best way is to sign up to NHS jobs – that’s where all of NHS vacancies are advertised.

It’s an easy system to use – it’s just like a live CV. Once you’ve applied, if shortlisted, you’ll be invited to an interview – where we’ll assess your skills and experience, but most importantly your core values.

Naturally, we want everyone who works with us to shine, but we will also want to know that you have the core values of the NHS at heart. After that, you’ll have pre-employment checks and that’s it! You’ll have a full induction into the NHS, learning all about your organisation and the wider NHS, meeting fellow colleagues and get up to speed with all of our systems and policies – there are quite a few!

For people who are passionate about making a difference, the NHS offers a huge range of exciting and challenging opportunities. With more than 300 different careers on offer, there is a job for you no matter what your interests, skills or qualifications.

Within Lincolnshire, there are options in mental health and learning disabilities, hospital services, working from GP practices, or working in the community.

Career options span a wide range of roles, ensuring the delivery of direct patient care, including domestic services, healthcare support, nursing, medical or you could work in a support function such as IT, finance, human resources to name but a few.

No matter which area you work in, you’ll have great satisfaction that you are doing the best for our patients, service users, families and carers. The NHS in Lincolnshire really cares about its staff and the national NHS staff survey published showed that NHS staff working in community, mental health and learning disability services in Lincolnshire feel supported by their managers and would recommend their organisations as a place to work and receive treatment.

One of the best ways to embark on your career is through an apprenticeship – you get paid whilst you learn. Within the NHS, you’ll receive some of the best training available, which will also lead to nationally recognised qualifications.

Current apprenticeship opportunities are advertised online here. The NHS also runs a highly successful and rigorous graduate scheme – it’s not for the faint hearted, but you are guaranteed to be trained to the highest level and are more than prepared for a career within your chosen area. We have career options from apprentice to board level.

So, if you’re looking to work in a fast-paced, dynamic, challenging but highly rewarding organisation – where you’ll feel great at the end of your shift, I can’t recommend the NHS enough. Apply to us today and see where your career can really take you!

Dr Ade Tams is Head of Workforce Planning and Recruitment at Lincolnshire Partnership NHS Foundation Trust.