East Suffolk and North Essex NHS Foundation Trust (ESNEFT) is offering job-seekers a helping hand into a fulfilling career thanks to a new project highlighting the variety of roles which are available in medical diagnostics.
The pilot scheme will see around 130 learners from all ages and backgrounds given the chance to take part in a free 12-week programme of masterclasses and work placements.
Called the ‘pathways to diagnostics trailblazer’, the project is being run in partnership with Colchester Institute and has been paid for with £471,379 from the Government’s Community Renewal Fund.
During the programme, those taking part will learn more about the opportunities available in medical diagnostics, which includes roles in phlebotomy, pathology, endoscopy and medical imaging.
After successfully completing the course, they will be invited to apply for jobs with ESNEFT – including at the new Community Diagnostic Hub at Clacton Hospital – and will be offered a guaranteed interview.
Rosie McVitie, pathways to diagnostics programme manager with ESNEFT, said: “This is a really exciting project which we hope will provide people with a useful stepping stone into a rewarding career.
“There are so many opportunities available in diagnostics, but often people aren’t really aware of just how varied and interesting these roles can be. We hope to give them a valuable insight through this initiative so that they can decide which areas appeal to them the most before taking part in an interview and hopefully going onto join our team.”
Tomas Kasiulis, pathways to diagnostics trailblazer project manager at Colchester Institute, said: “As a vocational college, our goal is to provide local people with the skills and knowledge to secure the jobs most needed in our communities. Working in close partnership with ESNEFT, we are pleased to be able to connect local people with local jobs, whilst supporting a new facility that will enable Tendring residents to gain quicker and easier access to vital diagnostic services.”
Although the project has already begun, spaces are still available on cohorts starting during February and March. Expenses relating to work placements will be covered, with further support available on completion of the programme.
For more information, email ncs@colchester.ac.uk or call 01206 712825 or 01206 814292.
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