Essa Badjie
Essa was a corporal in the Army for ten years being a part of different units/regiments and also had a previous role as an HR administrator. He was based in various locations including Germany for six years before coming back to the UK. After attending a Step into Health insight day, Essa made the decision to leave the Army and pursue HR opportunities within the NHS. Following a period of applying for vacancies, he was directed to Poole Hospital where there was an opportunity to become part of the bank staff, which gave him the relevant NHS experience to increase his chances in securing a vacancy when they did become available. Essa worked as full time HR Business Advisor at Poole Hospital before securing a full time role at Salisbury District Hospital as People Advisor.
Reflecting on the support received from Step into Health, he said, ‘The Step into Health programme is one of the avenues that is vital if you are considering a pathway into the NHS or a similar profession when leaving the Armed Forces. It does not only give you the information that you require to succeed, but also provide the opportunities to make it happen. I would personally recommend this programme to anyone leaving the forces and who wants to make a difference.’