Trainee Claims and Inquests Officer Review

Management of clinical negligence claims against the Hospital Trust including liaising with clinical staff, as well as lawyers to collate information about claims, to decide on the best management strategy for each individual claim.

I have developed my analysis, critical thinking and problem solving skills, as well as oral and written communication, deadline and time management New skills I have developed include legal research, tactical and strategic thinking in terms of claims, and negotiation.

I enjoy the programme a lot from a work and university perspective. At work, I am able to apply theory to my caseload, and at University, I can draw on practical application to further my knowledge and understanding. The university also offers exposure to other people on the programme to connect with, which is useful.

The study weekends are well structured with clear expectations on what reading to do beforehand, what will be covered at the weekends, and post-study weekend consolidation. The release and due dates for assignments are always communicated well in advance, allowing students to structure their work/commitments accordingly.

Good level of support - They allows my 20% OTJ and more if I need it, and they are flexible with working patterns for my study and exams. I can also talk to my workplace mentor/colleagues about work/university and feel that they will assist where possible.

The support level is adequate, but sometimes has to be actively sought. On a couple of occasions, I have had questions that they have been unable to answer, or have had to find the answer from a colleague. It sometimes feels that distance apprentices are an afterthought but this is not always the case.

My qualification means I have a better knowledge of research and writing skills which I can apply professionally. Also, the practical application of problem questions means I can better tackle real life problems at work, and apply theory I have learnt from relevant modules.

I am Co-Chair a Young Apprentice Staff Network to support other apprentices who are new to the organisation, and we organise and host enrichment and networking sessions. My team specifically has quarterly social lunches to take a pause from doing work and to connect on a personal level, as opposed to a professional one.

Yes

The Trust has a great atmosphere which is underpinned by our values, which I have found that most people demonstrate. You feel as through your work if making a difference to the local community and the the wider NHS, and there is adequate career progression.

Make sure to research all of the different roles available as there are plentiful and some which you might not even know exist. Review the values we embody and highlight how you show them.