Torbay and South Devon NHS earns national Silver Award for work experience

Torbay and South Devon NHS Foundation Trust has been recognised nationally for its work to support people into health and care careers, achieving the NHS England Silver Award for Work Experience.

The award highlights the commitment of staff across the organisation who give their time to welcome work experience learners, explain their roles and help people gain a real understanding of what it’s like to work in health and care.

Every year, colleagues from a wide range of services support school students, young adults and adults changing careers. Through everyday conversations, encouragement and the willingness to share skills, they help learners build confidence, try something new and explore future career pathways.

As the largest employer in Torbay and South Devon, the Trust plays an important role in creating opportunities for local people. Work experience is a key part of this, supporting wider participation and helping individuals who may not otherwise have considered a career in health and care.

Amber Watson, Work Experience Administrator, led the Trust’s submission for the Work Experience Quality Standard, bringing together examples from teams across the organisation.

Amber said: “This is a real team achievement. The feedback we received highlights just how much our colleagues care about giving people a good experience. I want to say a big thank you to everyone who makes time to support learners — the Silver Award is a lovely recognition of that commitment.”

The Silver Award reflects the strengths of the Trust’s current work experience programme and also provides helpful guidance on areas for future improvement.

Jess Piper, Acting Chief People Officer, said: “We are extremely proud of this achievement and of the colleagues who make work experience possible. Their kindness, enthusiasm and support open doors for people of all ages, helping to grow the health and care workforce of the future.”

Joe Teape, Chief Executive, added his thanks to everyone involved: “This award belongs to all our colleagues who welcome learners into their teams. We’re proud of what we’ve achieved together.”