Case Study: North Bristol NHS Trust involves young people with varying needs in recruitment with Barnardo’s HYPE

North Bristol NHS Trust - Customer Case Study

North Bristol NHS Trust worked with vendor NHS Employers, through Barnardo’s HYPE participation service, to improve recruitment for its Community Children’s Health Partnership (CCHP). The challenge was to involve young people with varying needs in hiring for a Learning Disability Specialist Service role without relying on a traditional panel interview, which would have been too daunting for those who were less confident or articulate.

NHS Employers helped design a more accessible, activity-based assessment using cake decorating, led by young people and supported by Barnardo’s HYPE. Candidates were observed on communication, interpersonal skills, relationship-building and ability to support young people, and the young people’s feedback strongly influenced the final decision; the preferred two candidates were appointed. The approach increased the young people’s confidence and pride, made candidates feel at ease, and was seen by both the trust and applicants as a refreshing and effective recruitment method.

North Bristol NHS Trust