Our news

Dozens of residents from across north east London have taken their first steps into NHS careers through our Barts Health paid pre‑employment placement scheme, delivered on behalf of North East London ICB and funded by NHS England as part of the Widening Access Demonstrator. 

Since November, we’ve completed all 48 of its three‑month London Living Wage placements. Our scheme supports residents most affected by unemployment, including people from ethnically diverse backgrounds and those with learning disabilities, offering experience in both clinical and corporate settings. 

Participants worked 22.5 hours a week in areas such as outpatient administration, HR, pharmacy, research and paediatrics, supported by tailored training and one‑to‑one coaching to help them build confidence and navigate NHS recruitment. 

Many described the experience as a turning point. 

Divya, based in the gynaecology outpatients at Whipps Cross Hospital, said: “The team were approachable, willing to answer questions, and provided guidance whenever needed. This support made a big difference and helped me feel confident in my role and responsibilities.” 

At Newham Hospital, we welcomed Ehsanulla, who is now progressing onto Bank work with the Governance team. He told us: “This program can be a pathway of finding hope and contributions for so many others out there like me who have the potential, skills and capacity but need little guidance and help.” 

Others spoke about how the scheme helped them connect with NHS values. Syed, who joined the paediatrics team at Newham and now plans to apply for a role with us, said: 

“From the nurses who showed me how small gestures of kindness made enormous differences to anxious parents, to my fellow administrators who patiently guided me through complex processes - everyone demonstrated that they truly cared about excellence.”   

And many, like Rohey, a clinical research administrator, were able to gain qualifications to support their future careers. 

“I have been able to gain certification on Good Clinical Practice (GCP) and Informed Consent from the National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR), which are important certifications for anyone working in research.”, said Rohey. 

These stories reflect the strong outcomes of the programme and are a credit to all those who supported our participants, including Poplar Housing and Regeneration Community Association, who provided pre-employment training.  

Nine participants have already moved into roles across Barts Health, while others are volunteering, applying for posts or continuing to build their experience. 

Following its success across Newham, Waltham Forest and Redbridge, the scheme will expand into Tower Hamlets from April 2026, offering another 30 placements to local residents. 

If you live in Newham, Waltham Forest or Tower Hamlets and want to gain paid NHS experience through our placement scheme, please contact shelina.begum4@nhs.net