NHS Western Isles Pledges Support to Developing the Young Workforce

NHS Western Isles is proud to pledge our support to Developing the Young Workforce (DYW) and join organisations across Scotland in creating opportunities for young people. The DYW Pledge is a commitment from employers to support Scotland's young people to succeed in the world of work through jobs, apprenticeships, further and higher education, training programmes and work experience.

We believe that preparing young people for the workplace is a team effort, and we are committed to working in partnership with DYW to continue providing inspirational opportunities. By engaging directly with schools, we can help young people understand and develop the skills they need to succeed. Activities like class talks, work experience and career events will help us bring the curriculum to life and broaden young people's awareness of the diverse career pathways available within NHS Western Isles.

Offering meaningful work experience and placements is a key part of our pledge. Providing these opportunities allows us to offer vital experience to those preparing for work, including young people who may face additional barriers to employment. This doesn't just help young people achieve their potential, it directly benefits our organisation by bringing in fresh perspectives, supporting equality, diversity and inclusion and giving us early access to future talent.

In a recent Board Meeting, Gordon Jamieson, Chief Executive Officer, said: “We are undertaking significant work to provide young people with meaningful experience in healthcare, and the number of opportunities available has grown substantially, particularly over the past year. These opportunities give young people valuable, hands‑on experience and the chance to make a real contribution. Few organisations offer opportunities at this kind of scale, across such a wide range of roles and functions, and we hope this investment will encourage more people to choose careers in healthcare and, ultimately, to remain and build their livelihoods here.”

Furthermore, investing in a skilled workforce through apprenticeships is essential for our future. Work-based learning opportunities, such as Modern and Graduate Apprenticeships, allow us to attract fresh talent, upskill our existing employees and develop the workforce of the future. Apprentices learn on the job while working towards recognised qualifications, which helps us improve productivity, retain skilled staff and ensure we have the capabilities required to deliver high-quality care.

Two of our current Modern Apprentices share what drew them to an Apprenticeship within NHS Western Isles.

Caitlin Morrison, who is currently working with the Clinical Governance & Professional Practice team, said: “I chose to do a Business Admin Modern Apprenticeship with NHS Western Isles as I knew I wanted to gain valuable office experience and develop my administrative skills, whilst supporting the organisation and community. I had experience living on the mainland and attending University; however, I learned that it wasn’t ideal for me. I found a great opportunity to work whilst learning and gaining a qualification, without moving away to study. Through the support of Louise and the Clinical Governance and Professional Practice Team, I am constantly learning and developing my skills, whilst enjoying my tasks and work."

Hannah Maclean, who is part of the Organisational Development & Learning team, said: “I chose to do a Modern Apprenticeship with NHS Western Isles because it gave me the opportunity to learn new skills while gaining valuable experience. I wasn’t sure what I wanted to do when I left school, but I knew I didn’t want to go to University. This opportunity was perfect for me as I can gain qualifications and earn at the same time. I really enjoy being part of the Organisational Development and Learning team and supporting the wider organisation to deliver healthcare services to the community." 

We look forward to working alongside our local DYW team to continue the good work in delivering these opportunities and champion the young people of the Western Isles.