Newcastle-based Peacocks reveals next faces of clinical graduate programme

A medical operator has revealed the latest names on its annual training scheme.

Newcastle-based Peacocks Medical Group has welcomed Jaska Stewart, Lavinia Nkomo, Maeve Cassidy and Elidh Geddes to its clinical graduate programme.

Bosses say they will begin in July.

Jaska will work at Airedale NHS Foundation Trust, with Lavinia and Meave at Southampton NHS Foundation Trust and Elidh based across North East trusts.

Officials say the two-year programme will offer the quartet a route into orthotics, with the graduates working alongside senior orthotists and several multidisciplinary teams.

Established in 1903, Peacocks is a multi-award-winning, family-run group employing 140 staff that operates across the UK, delivering orthotic clinical services, orthoses and custom-made footwear.

Rachel Seller, HR and clinical director, said: “We want young people entering the company to be proactive in their thinking and be solutions-focused.

“From day one, they will each be assigned a mentor and a supervisor in a clinic, so they are supported as they gain hands-on experience and clinical competence, as well as gaining structured softer skills and business skills development.

 

Pictured: Senior orthotist Scott McNab

 

“We want to grow the team smartly and this will also include continued investment in new technology.

“Better ways of using systems will naturally increase productivity and it is crucial all new starters learn the multi-skills needed within the organisation and become more business aware by understanding data, having financial and commercial skills, as well as understanding the NHS environment and the needs of frontline staff.”

Jaska, said: “Having completed a two-week introductory placement with Peacocks, the family culture and friendliness of the team prompted me to apply for a post to begin my career as a graduate orthotist.

“I chose Peacocks as I believe it provides the perfect environment for me to build confidence and experience, while assisting me in chasing my passion to become a specialised orthotist in paediatrics and musculoskeletal.”

Peacocks has provided career progression routes for many of its employees, including senior orthotist Scott McNab.

He added: “I joined the company as a graduate in 2013, progressing to trust lead orthotist for Northumbria Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust, sub-managing a group of six orthotists and working with the Trust on commercial aspects of its relationship with Peacocks.

“Throughout my career, Peacocks has worked to continually develop my clinical knowledge and to help further my professional skills as needed for each role I move into.

“It has actively provided me many opportunities to explore the world of orthotics beyond that of the day-to-day clinic.”