Pendleside Hospice is keen to support young people in our community, in order to promote accessibility and to advance our workforce strategy. We recognise that young people are effective ambassadors for the hospice.

In 2015/16 we introduced;

1. An apprenticeship programme

2. A work experience scheme.

Apprenticeship programme The apprentices work in three different areas of the hospice;

• Day Services – social care student

• Clinical Administration – student administrator

• Kitchen and Domestic Service – catering student.

All apprentices work alongside experienced staff to gain job-specific skills. Learning is supplemented by training provided by local colleges, as they work towards nationally recognised qualifications.

The apprentices bring energy and innovation to the hospice, which is appreciated by our patients. It is rewarding to know that we are providing practical skills, experience and knowledge in their chosen careers that will help them to develop both personally and professionally.

Work experience scheme Pendleside Hospice has introduced a structured approach to work experience aimed at young people interested in a career in health and social care. This consists of learning forums and work experience in our three clinical areas. For those who hope to undertake medical training, there is the opportunity to shadow a member of our medical team for the day.

Learning forum workshops;

• Overview of hospice and palliative care

• Death, dying and bereavement

• Ethical decision making in palliative care.

The workshops are interactive and it was interesting to hear the young person’s view of death and dying, which will be used to help map service development.

This new initiative allows Pendleside to respond to the large volume of work experience requests we receive. It has provided many young ambassadors in our community championing the work of the hospice.