Employing over 6,600 people, across three hospital sites in Doncaster, Mexborough and Worksop, almost one quarter of the workforce is made up of nurses and midwives. Newly-qualified practitioners are integral to the Trust’s ability to deliver high quality patience care and as such the organisation is looking to recruit the next generation of NHS workers.
Holly Fawley is a Staff Nurse at Doncaster Royal Infirmary, and one of the organisation’s newest recruits having joined the Trust in mid-September, she said: “I’d really recommend DBTH as a place to work – everyone that I have worked with so far has been really friendly, welcoming and supportive, making the transition from student to fully-qualified nurse that little bit easier.”
All newly qualified nurses employed at the Trust take part in a ‘Preceptorship Programme’, a scheme to provide support to nurses in their first year in post to help develop skills, maximise potential and empower them to make a real difference to patient care. Recognised for its innovative and pioneering approach, it was nominated this year nominated for an award by the Nursing Times.
Holly continues: “The Preceptorship Programme at the Trust has been so beneficial in giving me the opportunity to meet with other newly qualified nurses, as well as acting as a forum in which we can share our experiences. The programme involves clinical, classroom-based learning which you could then apply to the ward. It really helps and I would recommend it those soon-to-qualify!”
To help promote the Trust as a place to work, all final-year nursing students are invited to visit the local hospitals, to find out more about career opportunities across DBTH. Taking place on 17 and 21 October between at Bassetlaw Hospital and Doncaster Royal Infirmary respectively, the drop-in sessions are an opportunity to find out more about the Trust, the innovative work which takes place at its various sites and how soon-to-be-qualified students can apply to join the team.
David Purdue, Deputy Chief Executive and Director of Nursing, Midwifery and Allied Health Professionals, said: “As a Teaching Hospital which trains 30% of all health care professionals in the area, we take pride in attracting and developing the next generation of nurses and midwives as they begin their career in the NHS, instilling our compassionate and caring values, while giving our new starters the skills and confidence to reach their full potential.
“If you are looking to start your career within the NHS, please think of choosing DBTH as your employer of choice and attend our open days to find out more about what we can offer you as a Trust.”
To find out more about the Trust’s Newly Qualified Nurse Open Days head to www.dbth.nhs.uk to find out more.