Your pathway into a career in health and social care
The NHS Essex ICB Experience Hub is your central gateway to work experience opportunities across the health and social care system in Essex. Our aim is to make it easier for people of all ages and backgrounds to explore the wide range of careers available within the NHS and social care.
Whether you’re planning your future, returning to work after a break, or simply curious about what it’s like to work in a caring profession, our placements offer a unique chance to step inside real healthcare environments. You’ll gain first-hand experience in settings such as acute hospitals, mental health services, community health teams, and social care organisations which play a vital role in supporting the health and wellbeing of our local communities.
What you’ll gain from a work experience placement in healthcare
A placement through the NHS Essex ICB Experience Hub is an opportunity to grow, discover, and connect.
During your placement, you will:
• Explore a wide range of clinical and non‑clinical roles
• Build confidence, skills, and insight into the NHS and social care
• Discover whether a career in health or social care is right for you
Who can apply?
Placements are open to:
• School and college students exploring career options
• Adults returning to work or seeking a new direction
• Anyone interested in gaining experience in health or social care
• Individuals considering a career change
Important information
To ensure fair access and manage high demand for placements:
• Placements are available to NHS Essex ICB residents only
• You may submit one application per academic year
• Some placements in sensitive areas are age‑restricted, and further information can be found on the portal
• Placements are offered at the discretion of the teams providing them, and specific dates cannot always be accommodated
• Placement experiences are limited to a maximum of 3 days
• We cannot guarantee a placement for every applicant