Helpforce Champions 2023 Finalist - Central and North West London NHS Trust
2nd October 2023
Nominated for Best volunteer to career programme 2023
This transformative programme empowers healthcare volunteers to launch rewarding careers. Since its launch in October 2022, it has shown remarkable results, as seen in a Band 5 Volunteer to Career coordinator's own inspiring story.
Central and North West London NHS Trust (CNWL) created three new volunteer roles in an acute mental health ward, opening the door to 16 volunteers. They also established seven Autism Specialist Volunteer roles at another acute service, demonstrating their commitment to inclusivity and offering diverse opportunities for personal and professional development.
The programme is like a personal tour guide for careers. No more getting lost in a maze of job options - they steer volunteers straight to their desired destination. So far, they've helped 11 volunteers reach their career goals and 10 more are cruising towards training. One volunteer reached a band 7 role, while another promoted to a higher band in just 3 months!
CNWL collaborate with local and NW London organisations, including local authorities, community groups, employment services, and H4AII Community to recruit volunteers and connect with underrepresented groups. They also work with Refugee Recruitment NWL, supporting refugees and asylum seekers, with 2 currently active volunteers. They attend fairs and employment events to offer a route into employment for local communities.
The programme boasts a highly praised SOP, widely shared with other Trusts, thanks to recognition from Helpforce. The Volunteer to Career website provides resources, and they're continually improving it with features, such as an animated video and "Time Machine" game. The VtC logo and tagline, "Ignite Your Passion, Empower Your Future," embody CNWL’s dedication to creating a positive volunteer experience leading to career opportunities.
“The Helpforce Volunteer to Career programme is like the yellow brick road of collaboration. Instead of a group of misfits traveling to meet the Wizard of Oz, we have stakeholders, staff, and volunteers banding together to make a real difference. We've even got our own version of the Emerald City - People Services!”
Through partnership working, CNWL have onboarded volunteers for bank roles, offering quick opportunities to enter the world of entry-level positions as HCAs and tackling staff shortages. They also take part in HSC recruitment days, encourage unsuccessful candidates to apply to Volunteer to Career. This outreach has proven successful as many candidates have joined the Volunteer to Career programme.
To foster a sense of community, CNWL organise monthly "A Day in the Life" webinars, like a CNWL family reunion! Staff share their job, environment, training, and achievements with Cadets, volunteers, and staff creating a collaborative, community-focused programme. Work shadowing and networking opportunities arise from these events.
“Volunteer to Career at CNWL NHS is like a rare book in a library-valuable, but often overlooked. Just like that dusty old book on the top shelf, it offers hidden gems of knowledge and support to those seeking a career in health and care.“