How the Prince’s Trust helped a young man in Gateshead get work with the NHS

Shay Hall, from Gateshead, was working several waitering jobs when he left college; however, he felt that his employment was bringing him little fulfilment and was taking a toll on his mental health.

As a result, the 21-year-old reached out to The Prince’s Trust in March 2023 for help in finding a career that would give him progression and satisfaction.

Shay completed the ‘Get into Health and Social Care programme’ and is now thriving in his role as a Customer Contact Advisor with the NHS Business Services Authority.

Shay officially started his job last month and has explained how helpful The Prince’s Trust was in getting him ready for the role.

He said: “Working as a waiter in different restaurants didn’t give me that sense of satisfaction that I wanted in a job. I didn’t have that career progression and stability that I was after.

“Doing the same thing over and over I felt that I was wasting my life away which took a real toll on my mental health, and I felt worthless at times.

“During the weeklong ‘Get into H&SC’ course I learned all about the NHS and the roles that were available within the organisation.

“A role with the NHS Business Services Authority really appealed to me as I had the customer service skills that I could apply to a job where I’d be the frontline of national health, helping people.

“I felt this was a job with purpose and career progression, which was exactly what I was looking for.

“Prince’s Trust staff gave immense support and helped me put together my job application, which made the whole process so much easier and less stressful.

“Once I was through to the next round, I also received support with my preparation for the actual interview. If it wasn’t for the support I received, I don’t think I would have done as well.”

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Shay joined the NHS just in time for the Service’s 75th anniversary on Wednesday, July 5, and he has revealed to NewcastleWorld how it feels to be employed by the organisation.

He added: “It feels great being employed by the NHS not only is it one of the biggest health organisation in the country.

“The feeling of being in a secure job feels amazing.

“The best thing about working with the NHS BSA is that they provide so much skills and knowledge that you wouldn’t ever realise about when it comes to day to day stuff.”