Success of employment programme helping people back to work
An employment programme is celebrating its first successes in helping people find jobs in the NHS.
Elizabeth Andrews has already been helped by the Anchor Programme’s latest scheme. She was unsure where to turn when she was made redundant after 30 years in her previous job.
Now, with the help of the Widening Access Demonstrator Scheme, Elizabeth, who is 62 and lives in Southend, has gone from cars to care.
She said: “I had been in my job at a car sales company for 36 years and during that time everything had changed within the jobs market.
“The process of applying and interviewing for a job was completely different then. I did not have to fill in application forms and the interview was more of an informal conversation, so I did not really know where to turn when I was looking for work again.”
A trip to her local library to use the computers to look for a new job changed everything when staff suggested she speak to the Trust’s Anchor team. They visit each week to advise about the programme.
The team helped Elizabeth find a training placement within the Trust and offered support and guidance when a job opportunity became available.
“I had a CV, but they helped me write a statement letter and then emailed me every week with job vacancies I might be able to apply for.”
After a successful work placement on reception in the Therapies Department, Elizabeth applied for a role as a booking clerk at Southend Hospital.
Following a successful interview she has recently started work there.
“I don’t think I would have stood a chance without the Anchor Programme and all the help and support they gave me. It has really helped boost my confidence too,” adds Elizabeth.
The Trust, and Mid and South Essex Integrated Care Board, secured Government funding in 2025 to launch the scheme to support people who may have difficulty finding a job.
The scheme supports people in setting up work placements, advising on writing CVs and job applications and in preparing for interviews.
Kevin Garrod, Local Value Lead and the Anchor Programme for the Trust, said: “It is very important, as health and social care providers, that we offer local work opportunities and support local economic growth, health, and prosperity.
“We know good health is affected by a wide range of things, and being able to work and earn is one of those.
“We want to help more people like Elizabeth find employment in the NHS and would encourage anyone who is unemployed or on a zero-hours contract to get in touch.”
Contact mse.anchor@nhs.net to find out more about the Anchor Programme.