Activate Your Future Employer Spotlight: Kate Greenwood

Why did you and Cambridge University Hospitals (CUH) want to get involved with this programme?

We always want to inform people about the different careers in the NHS. Even if they don’t end up working for us long-term, it’s a brilliant opportunity to help the local community and support people into roles.

It is also rewarding for our workforce; the managers and staff who support these placements who get a lot out of sharing what they do and it often sparks a desire for further training in our own staff, such as coaching or mentoring.

Do CUH have a history of supporting these types of schemes?

Yes, we’ve run similar programmes for years. The goal is always the same: offer entry-level training and opportunities with the hope that people will eventually move into permanent roles with us.

I often bump into staff around the hospital who started on one of these programmes ten years ago and are still here today. It’s great to see that journey.

Why is it important for large organisations to invest in young people this way?

I think a taster of a role is so beneficial. Many young people don’t apply for jobs because they have no idea what the role looks like; they can’t visualise it. Having a scheme like this takes the pressure off. They realise, “I could do this job.” It helps us find the right people, those who may have lacked confidence initially, but have exactly the talent we need.

Also, as a company or organisation, by not offering it you miss out! These young people can offer you something brilliant, you just don’t know and often neither do they, until they do the placements.

What has been the most rewarding part for you personally?

Seeing the end result. At the start of the programme, some participants weren’t sure about their placements, but by the end, they were incredibly positive. They saw how their specific role fit into the wider hospital environment. Some have even stayed in touch with the staff they shadowed, becoming friends.

What impact do you see this having on the young people’s confidence?

It’s amazing to watch them grow. Some come in shaking on their first day because they find it so intimidating. After a few days, they realise we’re just human beings. Once they see that, their confidence sky-rockets.

You’ve mentioned the idea of being an “anchor institution,” can you tell me a bit more about this?

Large employers, especially hospitals, should be here to support the local community. There is a big push nationally for these schemes and it’s nice to say we are leading on that. When I speak at apprenticeship networking events, other employers are always keen to hear more. It makes us look good, but more importantly, it makes us feel good.

We are supporting the future workforce we need.

What would you say to a young person thinking about applying to programmes like Activate Your Future?

Absolutely do it! You have nothing to lose. It helps you network and pushes you out of your comfort zone, but in a way that isn’t scary. You can either end up loving what you’re doing on the placement, or you’ll be able to say that it is not the type of job you want and do something completely different. It helps open up opportunities and focus more on what it is you do want to do.