Scholarships available for people working in palliative care

Scholarships available for people working in palliative care

BNI have been supporters of hospices throughout New Zealand for the past six years – by the end of 2012 the amount donated will pass the half a million dollar mark.

Alongside the Chapter fundraising work, BNI have partnered with Hospice NZ to provide the BNI Scholarship Programme.

Over the last five years 62 people working in a variety of roles in palliative care, have been funded to undertake further study or training. The paths of study have ranged from PHD thesis work, to post graduate and masters level studies, as well as day courses at a tertiary level.

The BNI Palliative Care Scholarships provide an important and unique opportunity for the hospice workforce to continue in their professional development. This opportunity is especially important for allied health disciplines involved in palliative care, as they are not currently eligible for DHB funding assistance.

“Looking at aspects of leadership has made me evaluate my own practice in relation to guiding team members and other professionals I work with. I feel I have better ability now in optimising my relationships with health professionals involved in patient care, thus optimising patient experience.” Reflected a recent recipient of the programme.

The impact of the scholarship programme reaches beyond the immediate recipient. All recipients are asked to provide colleagues with written or verbal feedback on their study within six months of the completion of study, with many holding in-service meetings with their colleagues, presenting at national meetings and engaging with other organisations in their communities.

“Every step of my studies has had an impact on my practice and will continue to do so. I am gaining knowledge about the wider palliative care community both nationally and internationally. I can see the ‘bigger picture’ outside of my immediate workplace and I am able to share some of this learning with my colleagues.” Commented a 2011 scholarship recipient.

Hospice NZ is delighted to announce, due to the continued commitment of BNI to this programme, that the Scholarship round for 2013 study is now open for applications.

All employees of member hospices are welcome to apply – for 2013 the focus will once again be on growing leadership, with a priority area around psychosocial and allied health team. Individual members of Hospice NZ are also welcome to apply.

You can find more information and an application form on our website – http://www.hospice.org.nz/education-and-training/scholarships

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