We are delighted to introduce Fiona Spence, who has supported our City Of Change campaign through Sirona Care and Health.
Why did you join the City Of Change campaign?
Sirona care & health are a not-for-profit social enterprise, providing NHS funded adult and children’s community health services across Bristol, North Somerset and South Gloucestershire. Training and education is a crucial part of the work that we do and we would like to offer one young person the chance to gain some great work experience with our digital team to help empower them and develop their skills to consider a future career within the NHS.
What do you think young people may contribute to your company?
Young people often bring fresh ideas and approaches, especially when it comes to digital knowledge which is invaluable to us. We know that someone might not have the practical experience just yet but they can bring a whole new dynamic and energy to a team. Diversity and inclusion are at our heart and it is important that we reflect this right across our workforce from those on work experience right up to our management teams so that we continue to reflect the local communities that we serve.
What do you hope younger people may contribute to your company?
We hope that any young person who joins us will come in on their first day brimming with enthusiasm and a willingness to learn new skills. Over time we would hope that they would feel confident enough to bring new ideas to the table and give a fresh perspective on the ways that we operate.
What do you think companies may be missing by having a lack of younger voices/influence in the company?
The knowledge of youth is not to be underestimated. Positive change can only come from a diverse range of experiences and insights and that includes young voices.
What advice do you wish someone had given you at the start of your career?
Don’t be afraid to ask. Lots of young people who come from a low income back ground and sometimes as a result of systemic forms of discrimination in our society, such as racism, might find it hard to know who to ask or how to find out what options are available to them. Keep asking for what you think you might need to support you! There are lots of people, and lots of organisations out here who want to support you on your journey!
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