Working class being urged on to NHS job ladder

The government wants the NHS to "offer a ladder out of poverty and into work for working class people"

People from working class communities in Swale and Thanet are being encouraged to find jobs in the NHS.

The government has confirmed a new £5m national pilot scheme to help get those worst hit by unemployment in places such as Kent on to the health service career ladder.

The programme will provide training and skills development to the long-term jobless, unpaid carers, the over-50s, disabled individuals, care leavers and young people not in education.

Health Secretary Wes Streeting said: "The NHS should be acting as an engine of growth and employment within the very communities it serves."

Focussing on an initial 1,000 people across the country, there may also be work placements available at various health and care employers in order to provide insights into career opportunities at entry level.

Working alongside local organisations, with mentors and ambassadors to maximise engagement, the scheme follows Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer's recently launched 10 Year Health Plan to reform the NHS in England.

"The 10 Year Health Plan is committed to tackling health inequalities and we're making sure people in Swale and Thanet, no matter their background, have a way out of the inactivity trap," said Streeting.

"We are delivering an NHS fit for the future and offering a ladder out of poverty and into work for people in working class communities."

Nikki Teesdale and Karen Sharp, directors of the Medway and Swale and East Kent Health and Care Partnerships, said: "This is about health, aspiration, and opportunity.

"Across our coastal communities, too many people face persistent challenges from poor health and low educational outcomes to economic inactivity.

"This programme gives us a powerful opportunity to address these inequalities through community-led support, meaningful partnerships and targeted action that reaches those who need it most."