First public sector NVQ for Hampshire hospital

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July 2009

A 78-year-old man is proving age is no barrier to learning, having undergone his first ever qualification.

Harry Racey-Brighty is a cleaner at Lymington New Forest Hospital in Hampshire.

Along with colleagues including ward housekeepers, caterers and porters, Harry studied for an NVQ in Customer Service as part of a new scheme.

The programme aims to raise skills in public services through the Public Service Skills Framework (PSSF).

It was developed by Asset Skills and partners following research that showed a lack of customer service in the public sector.

A total of 53 hospital workers employed by facilities services group OCS were awarded a level 2 NVQ in Customer Service which included teamwork, Health and Safety, and equality and diversity.

Catherine Bowell, Director of Adult Services for Hampshire Community Health Care, said, "It is a marvellous achievement that so many of the hospital staff managed to receive this qualification and it's great to see continuing development regardless of age or position."

Raising skills and motivating staff

The PSSF equips staff with skills over and above those needed for their basic role to help improve their job prospects and give increased motivation and improved morale.

Harry Racey-Brighty has cleaned the hospital's operating theatres for a number of years. "I'm really pleased to have gained the NVQ," he said. "It just goes to show that it's never too late to learn."

And for Anne Goddard, 69, who has worked at the hospital for 11 years, the programme opened up new avenues.

"I live on my own and have plenty of spare time on my hands," she said. "I was assigned a mentor and my 13-year-old granddaughter corrected all my spelling mistakes. The course became a real friend to me."

Housekeeper Katie Bednarska said: "This has really helped give me the confidence to help customers and as English is my second language I feel especially proud."

For many of the staff this is their first nationally accredited qualification and OCS has been keen to support this pilot scheme.

Lymington New Forest Hospital is a "one stop shop" with appointment, consultant, diagnosis and treatment services under one roof. It is Hampshire Community Health Care's flagship hospital.

(Photo shows Harry Racey-Brighty and Anne Goddard with their exam certificates)