HEALTH workers have been encouraging people to visit a special Job Shop in Preston to learn about careers in the NHS.

The Job Shop, being held at Royal Preston Hospital, is part of a new drive to encourage people to work for the struggling Health Service.

Philippa Olive, a professional development nurse at the hospital, and part of the team organising the event, said: "The Job Shop will be an ideal opportunity for members of the public to find out more about a career in the NHS.

"We will be providing lots of information, and visitors will have the chance to talk to NHS staff about their jobs on a one-to-one basis."

The Government-backed initiative aims to put a face to recruitment. It is believed if people can talk to NHS workers face-to-face, they will have a unique opportunity to find out more about the jobs available.

Philippa said: "There are different problems with recruitment across the country, but also certain common areas that can be tackled.

"We are trying to plan for the future, and to develop the services available. At the Job Shop there will be a display by all the different departments within the trust.

"NHS staff will be there to discuss all the different careers available to people. Local colleges will give information about training and courses, and there will be information available about all the different vacancies available to people."

And despite the problems facing staff -- long hours and low pay in particular -- Philippa is adamant the NHS has plenty to offer a potential worker.

She explained: "The NHS is striving to improve conditions all the time. There are a lot of initiatives to reduce doctor's hours, to give people family-friendly hours, good child care, and good pension schemes. It is a good time to become involved in the NHS."

Organisers of the event are specifically keen to recruit people interested in becoming radiotherapists.

The Job Shop is being held in the Gordon Hesling Room at Royal Preston Hospital, Sharoe Green Lane, Preston, from 10am to 7pm.

Alternatively you can call NHS Careers on 0845 60 60 655 for details.

bhewes@lancashire.newsquest.co.uk