Where can I obtain further information on careers within the NHS?
Further information and advice can be obtained from NHS Careers. You can visit their website on http://www.nhscareers.nhs.uk/ or phone 0845 6060655 to speak to an advisor.
How do I apply?
Please download the work experience application form, which is available from this website, or contact Voluntary Services to request a paper copy (email: voluntary.services@meht.nhs.uk ). Then complete and submit to Voluntary Services for consideration (address is on the form). Please be aware that submission of an application is not a guarantee of placement.
What is the hospital looking for in a good application?
We are looking for students who show a particular interest in the department chosen. Please inform us of any hobbies or interests that would be relevant and list all qualifications currently being studied. Remember - are you studying the relevant qualifications needed to eventually work in this area?
We want to see evidence to show that you are genuinely interested in a future career within the hospital environment, therefore the more relevant information you can provide, the better.
Why is there an age restriction of students in clinical areas?
Students must be a minimum of 16 years old to obtain a placement in a clinical area, such as the wards or clinics. This is raised to 18 years in other areas, such as theatres.
This age restriction is due to the Health and Safety (Young Persons) Regulations (1997). This legislation applies nationwide and entrusts certain duties onto the employer to protect young persons on their premises, whether they are employed or undertaking in a work experience placement. Under 16 year olds are still classified as children under law and, as a result, there are certain areas where it is not deemed appropriate for them to be based.
As well as protecting the student, we also have to ensure that measures are in place that will protect the patients dignity, privacy and security.
Can I apply for more than one placement?
We receive hundreds of applications for placements each year and the demand for work placements is always high. We aim to run a fair scheme that gives everyone the opportunity to apply for a placement and, as a result, aim to keep numbers down and help as many people obtain a placement. We therefore ask for one application per person.
What if the department I am interested in does not offer placements?
Unfortunately, not all departments can offer work shadowing/experience placements. If you find the department you are interested in is not featured on our site, we would ask you write to Voluntary Services, enclosing a completed application form, detailing the area of interest.
Please be aware that some departments within the hospital are unable to offer placements due to the nature of work carried out.
Why can it take up to 8 weeks for a decision to be made on my placement?
We receive hundreds of work experience applications each year, with the demands on the ward managers, consultants and departments offering placements this can take delay applications being considered.
In addition, you should note that some departments are very popular and get booked up extremely quickly. In particular, this applied to work shadowing with a doctor for A’Level students in preparation for applying for medical school. It is advisable to make enquiries up to six months in advance, for placements such as these.
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