SEDGLEY youngsters were encouraged to consider pursuing a career in the NHS at a recent careers fair.

Dudley and Walsall Mental Health Partnership NHS Trust attended the fair held for year seven pupils at The Dormston School.

Dr Amitav Narula, consultant psychiatrist was joined with people development officer Julie Morgan to promote the vast array of careers that are available in the NHS - from administration and HR to IT and security.

The event also provided an opportunity to start conversations about mental health as in 2016, studies found that more than half of young people were too embarrassed to talk about their mental health - however Dr Narula and Ms Morgan said that refreshingly, some of the students felt comfortable enough to discuss their own experiences.

Mark Axcell, chief executive of the trust, said, “As a trust, we’re always keen to help the younger generation get into the right career path for them, but helping them to talk about mental health is important in reducing the stigma that still surrounds it.

“We’re hoping to continue working closely with schools in Dudley and Walsall to promote careers in the NHS, but also to spread the word about positive mental health and wellbeing.

“Thank you to all of our staff and local schools for their dedication, commitment and enthusiasm towards helping young people find their feet.”