Young people looking to support their local NHS and get a foot on the career ladder are being offered the chance to earn while they learn through a range of job and training schemes – including apprenticeships.

An open evening will be held later this month, giving 16 to 30-year-olds the chance to find out more about the opportunities available to join South Tyneside and Sunderland NHS Foundation Trust.

Attendees will be able to learn about the different employability programmes the Trust can offer in health care and administration.

The schemes will see them supported as they develop their interview skills, learn about the importance of teamwork and ensure their English and maths qualifications are up to scratch.

The team will look to match their interests and aspirations with a role they will thrive in, ensuring the NHS has the staff it needs to offer the best possible care and services for the future.

Dennis Little, the Trust’s Head of Workforce Development and Education, said: “We are looking for people who have got the right aptitude, the right attitude and the passion to come and work for the NHS.

“Healthcare is undoubtedly one of the most rewarding areas to work in at the moment. We will look to give candidates the support they need, so that might be with their English and maths, they might need help to build their confidence or they might need a bit of work experience before they approach an apprenticeship.

“Anyone aged between 16-30 years of age is invited to come along to this event to find out more. You don’t need to bring anything with you, just need a willingness to find out more and an enthusiasm to learn and get involved.”

The open evening will be held on Tuesday November 30 from 4.30pm to 6.30pm at the City Campus of Sunderland College.

It is a drop in session, but those planning to attend are asked to book a place by emailing stsft.princestrust@nhs.net.

The project will also help to support other NHS trusts and councils in the region.

Anyone interested in joining the NHS can visit the NHS Jobs page https://www.jobs.nhs.uk/ while information about joining the Trust can be found via https://www.stsft.nhs.uk/join-our-team