High flyer Caitlin Machray, a former air hostess, is now gaining valuable work experience at Forth Valley Royal Hospital, as part of a scheme to help local young people develop their skills and get back into work.

The twenty two year old from Grangemouth, who is helping at the busy reception desk, is among the first of 20 people who are to benefit from a programme developed by the facilities company Serco, in partnership with JobCentre Plus.

It offers work placements in various departments at the hospital and is geared to 16-24 year olds. Almost 100,000 Scots in this age group – about a third of the national total – are out of work.

Caitlin, who is hoping that her placement leads to a permanent job, explained: “I’m a people person and I like to meet with the public. It took some getting used to, where everything was in the hospital, but once I went for a wee walk myself I soon got my bearings. I think this is a really fantastic opportunity and Serco seem like a great company to work for. A lot of the jobs I was applying for said you need work experience and this is an excellent way to do it. I hope I am kept on here.”

The Forth Valley Royal programme is part of a wider commitment by Serco, who provide a wide range of support services at the hospital, to create 1,000 new 2-8 week placements across the UK.  Although there are no guarantees of a permanent job Lorna Hutchison, HR Manager for Serco at the hospital added: “Having the opportunity to provide young job seekers experience in a variety of jobs is wonderful for them, for the hospital, Serco and the community at large. We have been very impressed with the quality of the first participants and would not hesitate to recommend them to any employer.”

Serco directly employ over 700 staff at the hospital, providing a range of services including building maintenance, catering, reception, security and portering services.