Staff are connecting with local students to inspire future careers in health and social care.
NHS Lanarkshire’s Careers Ambassador Programme – run in partnership with the Inspiring the Future platform – was launched in October 2023.
To date, all 43 secondary schools in Lanarkshire are involved, reaching over 3,200 young people through 190 connections on the platform. The initiative gives students valuable insight into the wide range of NHS roles, helping them make informed career decisions while challenging common misconceptions.
Ambassadors support careers fairs, mock interviews and Q&A sessions, and share their career journeys.
Lynda Crooks, a Training Coordinator in Biochemistry, shares her experience as a careers ambassador:
Why did you sign up?
My manager suggested it. As I already train university placement students, I’m familiar with the academic and registration routes into our field.
What are the benefits?
I enjoy talking to students about their aspirations. With younger pupils, hands-on activities make the sessions engaging and fun. These events also contribute to my continuing professional development, which is essential for my role.
What events have you been involved in?
I’ve attended two STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) events at Lanarkshire colleges and given talks at my children’s primary school for their World of Work topic. I bring simple science activities, give a short presentation about blood sample analysis and answer questions. At STEM events, we share a stall with the pharmacy team and offer course information, activities and advice on the Institute of Biomedical Science (IBMS) and the Health and Care Professions Council accreditation processes.
Why is it valuable for students?
It gives them a realistic view of NHS careers, including lesser-known roles like biomedical science. For example, not all university courses are IBMS-accredited – an important detail students should know early on.
Why should the NHS engage more with young people?
It encourages students to explore NHS careers and understand how the organisation works.
If you’re interested in becoming an ambassador, you can:
- Commit as little as three hours per year
- Attend sessions virtually or in person
- Choose activities that suit your interests and schedule
All staff, from any role or band, are welcome.
Sign up at: www.inspiringthefuture.org/volunteers
Email: NHSLEmployability.HubTeam@lanarkshire.scot.nhs.uk.
