Forty-three new graduate nurses have started at Justice Health and Forensic Mental Health Network (Justice Health NSW), providing a significant boost to health services in NSW youth justice centres, correctional centres, and at the Forensic Hospital in Sydney.
The nursing graduates will work as part of multidisciplinary teams alongside experienced clinicians, who will support them to develop the skills and knowledge to care for patients with complex and diverse health needs.
Chief Executive Wendy Hoey said the new graduates will support patients to make healthier and more informed choices.
“I want to extend my sincere gratitude to each of the 43 new graduate nurses for choosing an exceptionally rewarding career,” Ms Hoey said.
“Much of the work delivered by Justice Health NSW occurs out of public view, but the impact of these clinical staff will help transform the lives of our patients.”
The nursing graduates joined Justice Health NSW through the GradStart program, which supports them to build experience and consolidate their skills across mental health, primary care, drug and alcohol, and public health.
The nurses will be stationed across both metro and regional areas including Werrington, Kariong, Malabar, Silverwater, Windsor, Wellington, Bathurst, Lithgow, Nowra, Junee, Cessnock, Shortland and Kempsey.
Kaitlin Barnsley, a previous GradStart participant, said the experience was incredibly rewarding and one they would recommend to others.
“As part of the GradStart program, I completed two rotations across different centres, which gave me valuable exposure to a range of clinical skills and the opportunity to work in different environments with diverse teams,” Kaitlin said.
“The program challenged me to step outside my comfort zone, but the rewards were far greater than I could have imagined. I was able to build confidence as a practitioner and strengthen my abilities to advocate for my patients while working closely with Corrective Services NSW and other healthcare professionals.
“Overall, the graduate year has laid a strong foundation for my development as a safe, competent and compassionate registered nurse, and I feel well prepared to continue building my skills and expanding my clinical expertise.”
