The Scottish Government is launching a significant initiative to provide over 250 paid placements within the NHS, specifically targeting parents at risk of poverty. This programme aims to offer a clear pathway to employment and career progression, thereby contributing to the eradication of child poverty across Scotland.
Roles available will span various essential functions within the NHS, including porters, caterers, healthcare support workers, administration assistants, and assistant technical officers. These placements, typically lasting between 6 to 18 months, will be distributed across 18 health boards nationwide.
Social Justice Secretary Shirley-Anne Somerville met with Mairead Doyle, a past participant of a similar NHS Lanarkshire programme, during a visit to Kirklands HQ. Ms Doyle has since achieved significant career advancement, now holding a Band 4 position as Management Secretary.
Ms Somerville stated, “Eradicating child poverty is the Scottish Government’s top priority and we know that fair work in the NHS will offer a real route out of poverty for families. We are equipping parents with the skills and experience needed to have a long and successful career, with the opportunity for real progression, while strengthening the NHS workforce of the future. This project scales existing successful models already delivered by NHS boards and I’m pleased that we’re able to extend this opportunity to hundreds more families across the country.”
“"The Parental Employability Programme gave me the confidence and support I needed to return to work after several years away from employment. Through the programme I secured a role with NHS Lanarkshire and have since progressed to a Band 4 position. It has had a positive impact on both my career and my family, and I’m grateful for the opportunity it provided."
The NHS Lanarkshire Demonstrator Programme, a precursor to this national rollout, has already supported 136 parents and individuals facing long-term unemployment. The programme has demonstrated high success rates, with over 77% progressing into positive destinations, including direct employment within the NHS, and recent cohorts achieving nearly 88% positive outcomes.
Jacqui Jones, Deputy Chief Executive and Director of HR at NHS Lanarkshire, commented on the initiative's broader impact: “The NHS is one of the largest employers in Scotland and employment is one of the strongest drivers of good health. By creating opportunities for local parents and families to gain skills, experience and jobs, we are helping people thrive, building a workforce that reflects our communities, and making a positive difference to the health of Lanarkshire.”
