A RECRUITMENT drive has seen 50 new health workers start work in north Cumbria.

Some of those who have taken up roles - including nurses, midwives, physiotherapists and paramedics - have relocated from other parts of the UK.

The move follows a push by the newly-created North Cumbria Integrated Care NHS Foundation Trust (NCIC) to target recruitment events.

New student midwives have also started placements, with roles including those at places including Carlisle’s Cumberland Infirmary and in community healthcare operations.

Filling vacancies and training healthcare teams of the future has been frequently flagged as one of the major issues facing the NHS in north Cumbria.

Work to support the new recruits includes a mentoring programme - preceptorship - to support newly qualified clinical staff, as well as those who are returning to practice.

A transition programme has also been development for newly-qualified medics to build their skills.

Gill Long, the trust’s head of nursing for clinical education, said: “We were delighted to welcome so many newly qualified staff.

“We are working hard to build up our workforce for the future and we hope that by providing these programmes of support we can help our new staff settle into both the Trust and their career.”

Staff nurse Elsa Ferreira, who is originally from Portugal, joined in February to complete further training in nursing.

She said: “When I graduated from university, I needed further qualifications to become a qualified nurse in England so I started working as a healthcare assistant. This allowed me to practice my clinical skills and also gave me time to adapt and gain confidence in the role.

“Following this, I had the opportunity to complete the preceptorship programme that is offered to newly qualified nurses. This included a one week induction with some lectures about nursing which really helped me understand any cultural differences between nursing practice in Portugal and in England. me a huge amount of support at the beginning of my new life in England and I know I can contact her anytime if I need support regarding my work.

“I am now working on Beech B ward at Cumberland Infirmary where I have been made to feel very welcome by all the staff. I have received a lot of help from the ward regarding my transition and I want to give a big thanks to them as I consider them now part of my family.”

In addition to the newly qualified staff, trust bosses also recently welcomed 13 new student midwives who will on placements across community and acute midwifery services.

Head of midwifery Jane Anderson said: “I’m sure that as they begin their placements our teams will welcome them and make sure that they have the very best experience. I’m proud that our trust can help support the next generation and hope that some will consider remaining.”