More than 250 paid NHS placements are being rolled out across Scotland as part of the Scottish Government’s ongoing drive to tackle child poverty while strengthening the future healthcare workforce.
The initiative will offer opportunities across 18 health boards, with roles including porters, caterers, healthcare support workers, administration assistants and assistant technical officers. The placements are specifically aimed at parents who are at the greatest risk of poverty, providing a pathway into sustainable employment within Scotland’s health service.
Typically lasting between six and 18 months, the placements will give participants valuable workplace experience, skills development and the opportunity to progress into long-term NHS careers.
The programme expands on successful employability models already operating within NHS boards and is designed to support families into fair work while addressing workforce needs across the health service.
Shirley-Anne Somerville, Scottish Social Justice Secretary, said:
“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 programme is expected to deliver benefits beyond employment, helping create a more representative workforce while supporting local communities and improving health outcomes.
At NHS Lanarkshire, one of the participating health boards, leaders highlighted the wider social impact of creating employment opportunities for parents and families.
Jacqui Jones, Deputy Chief Executive and Director of HR at NHS Lanarkshire, said:
“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."
The move comes as health leaders continue to focus on workforce recruitment and retention challenges, while supporting the Scottish Government’s wider ambitions to reduce poverty and improve social mobility. By creating accessible routes into NHS careers, the scheme aims to deliver both economic and health benefits for families across Scotland.
Image credit: iStock
