One of the first groups of trainee nurses from an associate programme have graduated.

Barking, Havering and Redbridge University Hospitals NHS Trust was one of the first in the country to pilot the scheme which helped train people to become nurse associates.

After two years of training at hospitals, in the community and at university the nursing associates are now ready to register with the Nursing and Midwifery Council.

The nursing associate role was a new role introduced in 2017 and helps individuals to train to become qualified in the field.

The group at Barking, Havering and Redbridge University Hospitals NHS Trust is one of the largest groups in the country with 29 individuals, many of whom were healthcare assistants previously.

A celebration event was held at the education centre at Queen's Hospital on Tuesday to mark the graduation.

Chief nurse Kathryn Halford OBE said: "I am really proud of our first cohort of trainee nurse associates and their achievements. This new role has the potential to transform the nursing and care workforce.

"I can’t wait for them to start working on our wards and wish them the best of luck as they continue to learn their craft.

"I’m really excited that this role gives more people the chance to progress in their careers.

"Some may even eventually become registered nurses if that’s where their interests lie. It’s a very positive opportunity."

One of the trainees Jill Alingbas who was part of the first group said she had been interested in a career in nursing for a long time.

She said: "I’ve always wanted to get into nursing but because I was a single mum, I couldn't afford university fees as well as lose my wages.

"The trainee nursing associate role was ideal for me because I could learn and earn at the same time so I could continue to support my family.

"I am so grateful I got selected – I was fully supported by my manager, my matron and the rest of my colleagues from Amber A. I feel extremely lucky I got this chance to grow.

"I have loved going back to university and meeting new people. The whole experience has really boosted my confidence and given me the courage to believe I can do anything I put my mind to.

"I have learned so much from this course and I can’t wait to bring this knowledge and skills back to my work place.

"There have been times when I thought it was tough and demanding, but I did it and so my advice to everyone is take the chance, it is worth it."