A student who studied in Ellesmere Port has been commended on her placement as a health care cadet with the North West Ambulance Service (NWAS).
As part of her health care cadet programme, Lucy Gerrard, 19, completed an extended diploma in health and social care at West Cheshire College as well as a placement for NWAS.
The cadet programme, run in partnership with the Skills for Health Academy North West based on Merseyside, allows its learners to study in college whilst gaining valuable experience within NHS trusts as well as independent health care areas.
Lucy says: “I decided to join the health care cadet programme as I love helping others and really want to make a difference. I learnt invaluable skills whilst studying at the college, which helped me to gain a placement within the health sector.
Hospital placements
“As well as my placements with NWAS, I have also had placements within the Countess of Chester Hospital. In both areas I had to communicate with patients, show respect, maintain dignity and support individuals with tasks they may find difficult due to age or illness.
“Within NWAS I had the opportunity to observe procedures such as cannulation, blood sugar checks, respirations and referrals for vulnerable adults.
“I also gained an in-depth knowledge of all aspects of the job from administration through to aiding staff members with tasks.”
Grateful for support
She continued: “I’m really grateful for every single second I get to work within the health care environment and it’s great to know that my skills and maturity levels are growing from strength to strength. I wouldn’t be at this level without the support I initially gained from the health care cadet programme.”
Kath McQue, health and social care tutor at the college added: “Lucy’s dedication to the industry is fantastic.
“Her friendly spirit and hardworking nature have helped to get her to where she is today. I wish her every continuing success in the future.”
