[I]n recognition of the work being undertaken to train nursing cadets, Carlisle College has named North Cumbria University Hospitals NHS Trust as ‘Employer of the Year’.
The Trust was nominated by the health and care social team to receive the award, which was presented to Gill Long, head of nursing for clinical education and practice development, and Christine Blacklock, practice education facilitator, at the Carlisle College awards ceremony last night (Thursday 21 June).
The Trust was selected to receive the award in recognition of the on-going support provided in delivering the curriculum with the nurse cadet programme.
The Nursing Cadet scheme, which launched in 2016, helps students decide on a career route into health – including nursing and support-level roles – whilst gaining valuable hands-on experience with patients at the Cumberland Infirmary, Carlisle.
As part of their course the students must complete placements in different health settings to give them a wide range of experiences. This takes place alongside classroom learning at Carlisle College.
Gill Long, head of nursing, clinical education and practice development at the Trust, said: “The nurse cadet scheme is an excellent programme that allows college students to gain on-the-job experience working with patients. It’s been two years since it launched and has made great progress, many people have worked very hard to see this come to fruition and succeed.
“It’s a real honour for the Trust to be awarded Employer of the Year, and I’d like to thank all of the people who worked hard towards this achievement – it’s well deserved!”
Suzanne Wannop, curriculum manager for health and social care at Carlisle College added: “We are delighted to present the Employer of the Year award to the very worth winners, North Cumbria University Hospitals NHS Trust, recognising the value of the hands-on experience the Nurse Cadets scheme provides our students. The scheme also provides a great example of how Carlisle College can work with employers to meet their future needs for qualified staff and help develop skills within the region.”
