JOB seekers in and around York are being urged to consider a career in the NHS, boosting the staffing levels at York Hospital.

The message from York Hospital's recruitment team following NHS Week, which ended last Saturday, is: "Join the team and make a difference".

Chris Shanks, recruitment and retention co-ordinator at York Hospital, said: "A career in the NHS really is one of the most rewarding around.

"I'm sure if you were to ask any of our staff what they most love about their jobs, they would say it is the satisfaction they get from helping people to get the best care.

"The NHS is changing as a place to work. New employment policies mean improved pay and conditions. There are clearer opportunities for career development and lots of opportunities for flexible working too."

Hospital employee Jayne Pateraki, 43, is fully backing the recruitment campaign. Currently a matron at York Hospital's medical directorate, Jayne joined the NHS in 1980 as a student nurse.

She has progressed to staff nurse and then to sister and as a matron enjoys being able to develop skills in areas that most interested her.

Jayne said: "I love being part of a team, which can influence change and make improvements to patient care and the environment."

Updated: 08:53 Wednesday, July 09, 2003