Hundreds of newly qualified nurses and midwives are starting their careers in Glasgow hospitals this year.

NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde has recruited more than 650 staff as part of this year’s intake.

Many of the new recruits have already been working as healthcare assistants to meet the extra demands placed on the NHS in the last year.

Manpreet Kaur Singh, 32, from Cumbernauld is one of the new starts. She is in her second week as a Band 5 nurse in Glasgow Royal Infirmary’s Ward 65.

Glasgow Times:

She said: “I left school at 16 and had always wanted to be a nurse, but probably lacked the confidence at that time. After doing a computer course I did start nursing training for a while, but dropped out after a negative experience.

“But the urge to be a nurse never left me and for years my family and friends were on at me to go back to it.

“I did an entry course then studied at Caledonian and never looked back.

“My first day in the blue uniform was a bit daunting. I realised then I was no longer a student but a fully qualified nurse.

“I am so excited about being a nurse and seeing what my career holds. It’s definitely the job for me and I can’t be prouder.

“I can’t believe I am actually here. it’s so exciting. I am looking forward to seeing how I grow as a nurse.”

The intake adds to the 13,000 nursing workforce.

Dr Margaret McGuire, Director of Nursing for NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde, said: “This new cohort of nurses and midwives marks a significant and unique recruitment of graduates and just like last year, reflects one of the most important periods in our history. They bring a wealth of additional experience gained during a very testing time in the NHS.

“Their skills and experience will be invaluable in supporting us in our response to COVID-19 as we move into a second winter. They have joined us at a time like no other and their experience will stand them in great stead in their careers as they move into their chosen specialisms within healthcare.”