A successful youth volunteering scheme in Hull, which has helped young people build careers in the NHS, is expanding across the region. The Hull Hospitals’ Young Health Champions programme, which has supported thousands of aspiring healthcare professionals over the past decade, has now been rebranded as the Humber Health Champions. Open to those aged 16 to 25, the scheme provides hands-on experience in clinical settings, helping volunteers explore different healthcare roles before committing to a career path.

Holly Giles, now 22, joined the programme at 17 and credits it with helping her secure her ideal job as a staff nurse in Hull Royal Infirmary’s Emergency Department. Initially considering paediatric nursing, she was able to gain experience in various healthcare environments before realising her true passion lay in adult nursing. Reflecting on her journey, she explained that volunteering helped her develop vital communication skills and gain a clear understanding of the hospital environment.

Since launching in 2014, the programme has guided more than 2,700 young people into healthcare careers, including roles as doctors, nurses, and emergency care workers. Many participants have gone on to further training and permanent NHS positions, demonstrating the scheme’s success in nurturing future healthcare professionals.

Rachel Hardcastle-Pearce, head of voluntary services for NHS Humber Health Partnership, highlighted the scheme’s impact, stating that it provides young people with invaluable real-world experience beyond the classroom. She emphasised that by encouraging local talent to pursue NHS careers, the programme is playing a key role in strengthening the region’s healthcare workforce for the future.