A hospice apprentice is celebrating after winning a prestigious county-wide award for her hard work and dedication.
Poppie Staden, digital marketing apprentice at Blythe House Hospicecare and Helen’s Trust, secured the Health and Public Service Apprentice of the Year accolade at the Derbyshire and Nottinghamshire Apprenticeship Awards 2023.
Poppie attended a special ceremony on Thursday 5th October at the Village Hotel in Nottingham where she was announced as the winner. She explained: ‘I am overwhelmed with joy at receiving this award; it would not have been possible without the unwavering support, love, and guidance I’ve received from the exceptional team here at Blythe House Hospicecare and Helen’s Trust over the past 12 months.
‘Working for the hospice has provided me with invaluable opportunities to develop my skills and knowledge in marketing and communications. It has also allowed me to push my limits through various campaigns aimed at raising awareness for the hospice. Collaborating closely with my colleagues, we have strengthened our digital presence to shed light on the care and services offered at the hospice.’
The 21-year old from Buxton started her role at the hospice in August 2022; undertaking a 15-month level 3 digital marketer apprenticeship with QA. Poppie’s apprenticeship training was fully funded by the government, with the remainder paid by Asda as part of their obligation under the national apprenticeship levy.
Following the completion of her studies, where she gained a distinction for completing significantly above the expected level of work quality, Poppie has accepted a full-time position at the hospice as marketing and communications officer.
Shane O’Reilly, hospice CEO, said: ‘Everyone at the hospice is delighted that Poppie has been recognised with this award win for her incredible hard work and dedication to her role. As a hospice we have not previously offered apprenticeships. We could see the real potential in having someone work and train at the same time. As with anything new we were a bit nervous about who would apply and if it would work out. We shouldn’t have worried. Poppie from the start has had a great attitude. Hard working; willing to learn but also wanting to share her perspective and implement what she has learnt.
‘The outcomes are clear to see. We have grown supporters across our digital media and we have seen an increase in interaction with our posts and content. Poppie has helped to develop a broader range of content from across the hospice departments, supporting them to express the messages they want to get out. The feedback has been very positive which is demonstrated by their engagement in the various marketing activities, but also bringing their own ideas to promote the work that they do.’
More information on the 2023 Derbyshire and Nottinghamshire Apprenticeship Awards.
We’re currently recruiting for an events and fundraising apprentice to join the friendly and enthusiastic team, to gain valuable on-the-job experience whilst studying towards a Level 3 fundraising apprenticeship qualification. More information and apply online.
