Helen Bridges, a Dudley resident, rose from NHS apprentice to key trainer, promoting non-traditional healthcare careers.

Helen Bridges, a Dudley resident, started her NHS career as a business administration apprentice with Black Country Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust after earning a psychology degree. Now instrumental in expanding apprenticeships, work experience, and training programs, she advocates for non-traditional career paths in healthcare. Her journey, highlighted during National Apprenticeship Week, reflects the trust’s effort to grow its workforce from within, supporting around 100 apprentices across nursing, therapies, management, and other key areas. Many apprentices transition into permanent roles, strengthening local healthcare, including mental health services, by building a skilled, community-based workforce.