A Health & Social Care student has impressed employers at a local charity as part of her work placement – even going above and beyond by getting stuck into some DIY.
Lizzie Barley, 18 from Bretforton, is in her second year of her Level 3 Extended Diploma in Health & Social Care at the College. She has excelled in her first placement at Campden Home Nursing; a charity which provides a Hospice at Home service, and a new Cancer Support Service.
The charity is based at Jecca’s House, the new headquarters for Campden Home Nursing; a Hospice at Home service for those with a life limiting illness that also provides holistic support for their families including bereavement counselling services. The Cancer Support Service, which provides information, support and comfort for those with a recent cancer diagnosis was officially opened in September 2021.
Lizzie began working there last year and has recently completed her placement. She was able to take part in a range of experiences: “I sat in with the relaxation and art groups, I helped with administration and shadowed nurses. It was an eye-opening experience and a truly unique place to work.”
Heather Barley, Head of Nursing Services, was keen to have work placements at Jecca’s House. She commented: “As nurses, we feel it is our duty to help teach and assess and this is a great way to be able to do that. This has been the first placement at this site and we hope in the future to continue to offer placements like these. We are just very thankful to the Board of Trustees to allow us to take a chance and start placements during a pandemic. But we all felt it was necessary to help young people get placements and get the experience they need in the industry.”
This type of placement offers a wealth of experience for students. Not only did Lizzie get to shadow nurses doing home care visits, observe administration and assist with activities, Jecca’s House has also become part of the Men in Sheds – a national initiative where people can go to build and create things whilst meeting others in community spaces. It gives attendees a space to talk with others in a similar situation. This can help those that are bereaved, lonely, isolated, managing illness or caring/supporting family. Lizzy helped to create the physical space.
Lizzie got stuck into the DIY and helped transform the shed. Now it is full of equipment ready for a range of projects
Rob Platts, Project Manager is delighted with the work: “The shed has turned into a great area and is already turning out to be a useful feature. It’s an intergenerational space and is benefiting visitors already!”
Heather has been extremely impressed with Lizzie’s work: “It has been a pleasure having her here with us. She really has trailblazed the placement experience within the charity. All I have heard is positive feedback about her work. I am thrilled we were able to help her.”
Ellie Davis, Health & Social Care Lecturer, commented: “Lizzie has secured future placements for others due to her excellent work and is a role model for others to emulate! We are extremely proud of the work she has done!”
To find out more about Campden Home Nursing and Jecca’s House visit their website.
