Paid clinical experiences project

We are reporting on a project using HEE funding to increase diversity in the Clinical Psychology workforce by offering Paid Clinical Experiences as Assistant Psychologists for those people with underrepresented characteristics. The project used a Quality Improvement approach to examine drivers of a lack of representation and devise interventions addressing barriers to inclusive recruitment. The project successfully recruited to 5 placements. The project did recruit those with characteristics that are currently under-represented in our workforce and for all it was their first paid position in a psychological field. Applicants and supervisors working with successful PE Assistants agreed the changed recruitment procedures made for a more positive, inclusive experience. Supervisors felt that the PE Assistants made a positive contribution to the workplace and service user care, although some may need more support than those ‘regularly recruited’. The learning for the project is being incorporated into a good recruitment guide for use internally in the trust psychological services. The importance of funding like this to increase diversity in the psychological services workforce is discussed.