A 27-year-old who spent years working in the grocery sector says his life was changed when he retrained - into the healthcare sector.

Syed Ali had spent six years in the grocery industry when he took part in an apprenticeship,

led by the Healthcare Works programme.

It was a personal loss that made Syed aware of the diverse, yet vital roles needed to keep the NHS running. He is now working permanently at Barts Health, with a promotion already secured.

Syed said: "I am very happy, and my quality of life has improved a lot. The programme gave me the direction I needed. I always believed in myself but it was like an arm being put around my shoulder to guide me. It's beyond my wildest dreams to be where I am now.

"My father passed away in December 2016 and I saw how all the many people worked together to look after him and us, his family. It's nice to now be part of that.”

The programme was run in conjunction with NHS private and voluntary sector organisations including the NSAH City and East London Excellence Centre and Barts Health NHS Trust.

National Skills Academy for Health (NSAH) and the JPMorgan Chase Foundation also supported it.

Over 90 per cent of participants reported the programme had a positive impact on their knowledge, communication and general skills and confidence.

Almost eight in ten stated that the course gave them good knowledge about career opportunities in the health sector. Many felt that the programme would increase their chances of finding paid or voluntary work, as well as supporting them to take up further studying.

Over 220 people across the two streams completed the programme with 47.5 per cent of the college and school students getting a job as soon as it ended.

Participants came from a range of backgrounds, including from school, from low-paid or low-skilled employment, and those leaving secure employment in their own countries to escape violence.

Andrew Attfield, Associate Director Public Health at Barts Health NHS Trust, said: “We are excited to see the positive impact the Healthcare Works Programme has had. Helping the local community access employment and training opportunities within the NHS has also supported the growth of Barts Health’s own talent to fill vacancies and develop a workforce that represents the local community.

“We’re looking forward to continuing our journey with the National Skills Academy for Health, to grow the Excellence Centre and build on the partnerships we have developed to support career progression and opportunities locally.”