New nursing assistants for Taunton Hospital

Somerset College in Taunton has teamed up with Musgrove Park Hospital to supply a new role.Musgrove is supporting the training of 30 new 'Assistant Practitioners' who will start this September and the new post attracted over 100 applicants.

The training combines clinical placements at the hospital with a new, two-year foundation degree at Somerset College.

Amanda Morgan, one of Musgrove's Associate Directors of Nursing, said: "This new role combines practical experience of working in the hospital and academic study to ensure that staff are equipped with the skills and knowledge they need.

"Once qualified, these staff will provide vital support for our nursing staff in delivering high standards of patient care.

"It also offers career progression to any of our care assistants and other support staff who want the challenge of extending their roles."

An open event held at Musgrove in March attracted over 100 people and 130 candidates have since applied for the 30 places, which are equally split between internal and external candidates.

Among the successful applicants is Jill Newman, from West Buckland, who has worked at Musgrove for just over four years and is currently a Clinical Support Assistant in the Early Pregnancy Advisory Clinic.

"It's a great opportunity, because I'm ready for an exciting new challenge," she said.

"I've been waiting for something to come along and this is fantastic – I can carry on working and earning, which is great, because it fits with my family life.

 "I love working at Musgrove and this training will enable me to support the nursing staff, move on in my career and – most importantly – provide a better service for our patients."

Rachel Davies, Principal of Somerset College, said: "We are delighted to have established this new course in partnership with Musgrove Park Hospital, and I am sure that the Assistant Practitioners will be an essential part of the whole nursing care for patients".