GLOUCESTERSHIRE Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust claimed the title for Employer of the Year at a recent awards ceremony.

Three of the Trust’s apprentices were also highly commended at the Health Education South West Apprenticeship Awards.

The awards coincided with National Apprenticeship Week in March.

As a part of this week, the Trust, which employs 67 apprentices, has been highlighting opportunities within their hospitals.

The aim of the week was to increase understanding and demand for apprenticeships and to celebrate apprenticeship talent, skills, achievements and successes.

Explaining the scheme head of life-long learning and development Lucy Blandford said: “Apprentices are focused and open to new ideas and ways of thinking, so can easily fit within the team.

“They may require a little bit more support in the beginning but with some support and guidance they have made really valuable contributions."