10,000 Black Interns Programme – 2024

My name is Alicia, and I am a 3^rd year Podiatry student at the University of Southampton. With a strong passion for health equity and a commitment to driving inclusion and diversity, I have been determined to pioneer a positive change within healthcare. Joining the Southwest Leadership and Talent team with NHS England through the 10,000 black interns programme, was the perfect opportunity for me to continue contributing to a meaningful change within healthcare.

This internship took on a personalised approach to facilitating my learning and development as a healthcare professional. My interests and learning goals were identified from the start of the programme and the team was dedicated to ensuring that I received the right support from the right people and had access to all the relevant resources to aid in my growth and development as a healthcare professional. Throughout my internship, I had the opportunity to network with professionals within the Podiatry field. This connection allowed me to discuss current advancements and new initiatives within Podiatry, enabling me to contribute to meaningful discussions and offer a fresh perspective to drive positive change. This experience has provided me with a deeper understanding of how to raise the profile of Podiatry and support the Podiatry workforce to meet the growing healthcare demands. Contributing to the well-being of the population and improving healthcare services is immensely fulfilling.

One significant project, that I was involved in, was analysing Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) data for the South-West regions. I analysed the staff surveys, the Workforce Race Equality Standard (WRES), and the Workforce Disability Equality Standard (WDES) for the South-West regions.  It was very eye-opening to learn about the disparity metrics within the EDI data and the trends displayed over time. The analysis of this data is essential for developing data-driven interventions to create a more inclusive and diverse working environment for staff and patients. After analysing the data, I proposed targeted interventions to help address some of the identified issues. This project allowed me to develop key project management skills, including time management, problem-solving, and analytical skills, making me more confident to take on future projects independently. I was also involved in creating social media content for the NHS Twitter page to raise awareness of the leadership academy resources available to NHS staff. This project honed my ability to communicate effectively and engage a broader audience which is crucial for today’s digital age.

One of my key learning outcomes before starting my internship was developing my leadership skills within healthcare. The importance of effective leadership became apparent to me during my healthcare placements as a Podiatry student. Throughout this internship, I had access to various training and courses, which dedicated time to strengthening my leadership abilities and exploring different leadership styles which I can apply both in my daily life and a professional setting. These experiences were incredibly beneficial in shaping me into a well-rounded and versatile healthcare clinician.

In conclusion, my internship with NHS England through the 10,000 black interns programme has been an enriching experience. It has equipped me with essential skills, broadened my professional network, and deepened my understanding of healthcare dynamics. I am very grateful to have had this opportunity and I am excited to continue my journey making a positive impact in the field of healthcare. I would strongly encourage other organisations to get involved with the 10,000 black interns scheme as it is transformative to nurturing the talent of future generations and providing that opportunity to young black students!

My internship with NHS England in the Workforce, Training, and Education department has been an incredible journey of growth and learning. This experience has deepened my understanding of the healthcare sector and equipped me with invaluable skills and insights.
 
From day one, I was welcomed into a passionate team. My role involved supporting projects aimed at enhancing workforce development and improving training programs. I had the opportunity to work alongside seasoned professionals who generously shared their knowledge.
 
A highlight was participating in the development of a new training module for healthcare professionals. This project allowed me to apply my academic knowledge in a real-world setting, contributing to a program that will positively impact many. The collaborative environment fostered innovation and creativity.
 
I gained hands-on experience in data analysis and project management, building confidence and competence in these areas. The guidance and mentorship I received were instrumental in this process.
 
A special shout-out goes to my line manager, Ellie Sproston. Her support, encouragement, and invaluable advice made a significant difference in my internship experience. Ellie’s leadership and dedication to the team have been truly inspiring, and I am grateful for the opportunity to learn from her. I also want to thank Tas, Ellie Kerr, Tom, Angela, Alison, Dionne, Zoe, and Kate for their unwavering support and guidance throughout my time here. Each of them has contributed to my growth and learning in meaningful ways.
 
Beyond technical skills, this internship taught me the importance of teamwork, communication, and adaptability. Working in NHS England’s dynamic environment, I learned to navigate complex projects, meet tight deadlines, and collaborate with diverse teams.
 
I am deeply grateful for this opportunity to contribute to a vital organization. The internship has solidified my passion for healthcare and my commitment to making a positive impact. As I move forward in my career, I will carry the lessons learned and inspiration gained from my time with NHS England.
 
In conclusion, my internship with NHS England’s Workforce, Training, and Education department has been transformative, providing a solid foundation of skills, knowledge, and professional growth. I look forward to continuing my journey in healthcare, driven by the dedication and excellence that NHS England embodies.