Trailblazing scheme gives people a chance

TRAILBLAZING Newham University Hospital NHS Trust is celebrating the news that it has been shortlisted for a national award.

One of just three contenders waiting to discover if they have won the Guardian Public Service Award in the category of Diversity and Equality, the acclaim recognises the Trust’s life-changing initiative which helps local students who would not otherwise be able to do so, to fulfil their dream to become Doctors.

The Newham Doc scheme began in September 2003 and is delivered in partnership with Barts and The London School of Medicine and Dentistry.

Some 18 local young people have been involved in the one-year placement scheme so far, plus a further four who were recruited this month. Participants are able to access training at the Medical School. Some of the students have since graduated and begun their careers as qualified doctors in the NHS.

Winners will be announced on 23 November, at a ceremony in Old Billingsgate, London.

Graeme Jolly, Director of Workforce and Governance, said: “We are extremely proud of our Newham Doc students and absolutely delighted to be among just three organisations nationwide to be shortlisted for this prestigious award.