More than 130 people in the Bristol area are receiving mentoring, training and practical support through North Bristol NHS Trust to help them find work as part of its innovative Commitment to Our Community programme.
The programme is helping to break barriers to employment by reaching out to people in the community that are unemployed and living in the more socio-economically deprived areas of Bristol.
Among the people who have benefited from the programme is Paul Bush, a refugee who has found a fulfilling career in healthcare, and Tyron D’Mello, who overcame transport challenges with a subsidised bicycle.
At a recent event, the Trust brought together staff, leaders, and community representatives to celebrate progress of the programme and share ideas for further strengthening its outreach work with people facing barriers to work.
Sarah Margetts, Deputy Chief People Officer at North Bristol NHS Trust (NBT), said: “We’re incredibly proud of the impact we’ve made so far.
“Our work is about more than just filling roles—it’s about changing lives, breaking down barriers, and ensuring that the NHS is a place where everyone can contribute and succeed. These achievements are a testament to our commitment to inclusion and our deep connection with the community.”
Driving Real Change: Key Achievements
The Trust shared significant updates on its initiatives, highlighting transformative progress:
- Reaching the Community Where It Matters Most: There have been visits to six local schools and teams have attended more than 30 events designed to support job seekers, including those for women re-entering the workforce and parents balancing being a parent alongside their career aspirations. These efforts have inspired individuals to sign up to the programme and explore ways on building confidence and skills to pursue a career in the NHS.
- Creating Meaningful Work Experience: Flexible and supportive placements have opened doors for individuals facing unique challenges, such as disabilities or economic hardship.
- Empowering Through Mentoring and Training: More than 130 individuals have been supported, helping them build the confidence, skills, and knowledge needed to apply for a variety of jobs and apprenticeship opportunities and 16 successful candidates have recently started roles at NBT as a result.
Tyron D’Mello, Outpatient Receptionist, who joined NBT after involvement through the programme, credits the practical support he received with helping him thrive: “The support I received was amazing. From skills training to a £150 bike discount, the Trust helped me overcome the challenges of commuting and building my confidence. I wouldn’t be where I am today without their help.”
Dre Williams, Community Engagement Officer at NBT, emphasised the importance of these efforts: “At North Bristol NHS Trust, we’re not just offering jobs but we’re building futures. Our approach is designed to support individuals at every step, ensuring they feel confident, capable, and valued. Seeing the transformation in people’s lives is the ultimate reward.”
In addition, a Ukrainian refugee, Paul Bush shared that his “path to becoming a healthcare apprentice at North Bristol NHS Trust has been challenging but rewarding” and “I feel that this career has provided me with a purpose to pursue my goals in life.”
A Vision for the Future
Looking ahead, we are committed to expanding our reach and impact through Commitment to Our Community. Upcoming initiatives include:
- Developing new pathways for apprenticeships and accessibility.
- Expanding the role of career ambassadors to engage with schools and underrepresented communities.
- Continuing to explore innovative ways to connect with and inspire future NHS professionals.
“This work is about far more than recruitment,” added Sarah Margetts.
“It is about creating a culture of opportunity and inclusion, where everyone feels empowered to reach their potential. By investing in our community and listening to the voices that matter, we are building a stronger, more inclusive NHS.”
As one of the largest employers across BNSSG, North Bristol NHS Trust remains dedicated to transforming lives and communities through opportunity and care.