A health worker at the West Cumberland Hospital in Whitehaven has been awarded a scholarship to fulfil his lifelong dream of becoming a doctor.
Simon Pritchard, who has worked at the hospital since he qualified as a physician associate in 2018, has been awarded the University of Central Lancashire 2021 Dr Kate Granger Scholarship, which covers all tuition fees for the duration of the five-year MBBS bachelor medicine bachelor surgery degree at the university.
It means Simon will return to study at UCLan for the fourth time, having completed a postgraduate certificate in medical education last year, being part of the university’s first ever physician associate cohort three years ago and gaining an undergraduate degree in sports science in 2014.
The 29-year-old said: “I’ve thoroughly enjoyed my career as a physician associate, working in a close-knit hospital and community where I’ve seen an excellent continuity of care.
“My experience means I have a good grounding in the medical profession and understand how interprofessional relationships can work to bring maximum benefits to patients. Becoming a doctor has always been a dream and I feel ready to take this next step in my career.”
The Kate Granger Scholarship was established specifically for Cumbrian students to honour the memory of the doctor behind the #hellomynameis campaign, who campaigned for better patient care while suffering from terminal cancer.
“It is a huge privilege to be offered a scholarship in Dr Granger’s name and be part of her legacy” Simon said. “Her focus on patient-centred, compassionate care is something I feel strongly about.”
The scholarship is one of two medical degree scholarships offered by the university aimed at students based in Cumbria and East Lancashire, with a focus on promoting social mobility and widening participation.
Dr Katie Poulton, consultant and clinical lead of acute medicine at West Cumberland Hospital, was Simon’s clinical and educational supervisor.
She said: “Simon has been an incredible asset to our department and to the Trust in his role as a physician associate.
“He is hard-working, ambitious and is absolutely dedicated to ensuring our patients receive the best care possible. He is a keen teacher and has worked alongside many of our newer team members and students, helping develop their confidence and providing excellent learning opportunities.
“We all wish Simon the very best in his future career and hope to welcome him back in the not too distant future, this time on placement as a medical student.”
Simon, who lived in Whitehaven for almost four years and played for Whitehaven Amateur Football Club, will complete some of his training within North Cumbria Integrated Care NHS Foundation Trust during his five-year course. He hopes to eventually specialise in neurology and acute medicine.
Simon added: “I’m an ambitious person and ultimately I want to work as a consultant in this specialist field as it’s something I’m very passionate about.”
