The CNWL People Plan focuses on attracting, including, and retaining a diverse, skilled workforce committed to compassionate care. The People Plan is grounded in the Trust's core values, promoting collaboration and an inclusive work environment, to create a safe, engaging space where staff can thrive and excel.
Some of our workforce Initiatives include the 21 Century Leadership program, which has successfully developed leadership skills across the Trust, and targeted programs such as the volunteer-to-career pathway.
The Volunteer to Career (VtC) program is a unique opportunity for CNWL staff to kick-start their healthcare career through volunteering.
Zahra’s journey with the Trust's Programme began like that of anyone searching for their place in the world. Inspired by CNWL’s core values and a conversation with her supervisor and Lead group facilitator, Zahra found the courage to evolve from a Recovery Support volunteer to something more: a CNWL NHS employee in a Health and Wellbeing Community Connector role.
Despite her initial enthusiasm, Zahra had her fair share of doubts. Rejection had been a familiar sting, and the clear path forward seemed clouded at times. But the VtC programme started to change that for her.
Zahra developed her skills and learned how to showcase her abilities in interviews using the STAR method, turning potential interviews into opportunities for demonstration. Beyond career development, Zahra also found her volunteering experiences to be transformative on a personal level.
Zahra's advice to anyone considering the VtC programme is: “Go for it. It’s a chance to grow, to learn, and to open doors you never thought possible. Never give up,” she encourages. Zahra's journey exemplifies the impact and power of dedicated support, hard work, and just a dash of bravery. Read her full story.