Apprentice urges others to follow their dreams

Manuela Mundy said she would encourage others to "take the leap" and start a new career

The first orthotics apprentice at Wolverhampton's New Cross Hospital has urged others to "never give up on your dreams", after starting the course aged 50.

Manuela Mundy has been a ward assistant and a health care assistant with the hospital before working at the National Institute for Health and Care Research.

But she said she wanted a rewarding, patient-facing role so has decided to switch careers.

"It’s never too late, it’s never too difficult and nothing is impossible," she said.

“I wanted to gain a qualified skill and start a job which is not just a job but also a real passion and something that gives me a lot of satisfaction," she said.

“It is such a nice feeling at the end of the day to know that I have made a difference to someone’s life by helping to alleviate the pain. I love helping people. “

Orthotics cover the use of artificial devices such as splints, braces or insoles to assist patients.

At the end of her three-year apprenticeship with the University of Derby, Ms Mundy will be awarded a Level 6 degree, the hospital trust said.

"Although it feels challenging making a career change and returning to academic learning at a later age, I am feeling optimistic because I always have the support and encouragement from my fantastic team," she said.

She added: “Never give up on your dreams, because mine started at 50 years old."

Dr Nicky Eddison, consultant orthotist and orthotics service manager at the trust, said: “I am delighted to welcome Manuela as the first apprentice orthotist in our trust.

"Apprenticeships are open to people of all ages, backgrounds, and career levels, they enable local people to access a range of career opportunities by providing them with the opportunity to earn whilst they learn.”