Celebrating Black History Month
Black History Month (BHM) gives everyone the opportunity to share, celebrate and understand the impact of Black heritage and culture.
The theme for Black History Month UK 2025 is “Standing Firm in Power and Pride”, a powerful tribute to the resilience, strength, and unwavering commitment to progress that defines the Black community across the globe.
This year, the theme highlights the profound contributions made by Black people - leaders, activists, or pioneers - who have shaped history, while also looking towards a future of continued empowerment, unity, and growth.
We spoke to Adult Specialist Rehabilitation Dietetic Apprentice, Hayley Samuels who shared her BCHC journey:
I joined the Trust in 2021 as an administrator at the Dental Hospital. Before that, I had been working as a web buyer for a well-known UK retailer, but after having my son, I was ready for something a bit different and if I'm honest, I didn't have any intentions of staying in the NHS for long. I spent about a year in administration but soon realised I wanted to explore different opportunities within the Trust.
I applied for a personal assistant role supporting the Director of Therapies, Chief Allied Health Professional (AHP), and Deputy Chief Nurse, and was successful. This role marked a real turning point in my NHS career. From day one, I was championed, encouraged, and mentored every step of the way. I was invited to attend meetings with senior staff not necessarily to contribute, but to gain insight into the workings of the Trust. Working closely with professional leads and associate directors gave me a deep appreciation for both the AHP and nursing communities, and for the importance of cross-team collaboration.
Through this exposure, I became aware of the apprenticeship programme within BCHC. I've always had a keen interest in nutrition and fitness, so transitioning into dietetics felt like a natural progression. I was able to shadow the team, which allowed me to “try before I buy” and truly understand the role before committing. Fast forward to 2025, I am now undertaking the Dietetics Apprenticeship Programme working with the Inpatient Dietetics team an exciting step in my career that allows me to combine my passion for nutrition with my growing NHS experience, and hopefully, at the end of it, become a registered dietitian.
Being a Black professional within the Trust has been empowering. BCHC's recognition and celebration of Black History Month not only highlights the value of diversity but has personally inspired me to embrace opportunities and continue growing my career within the NHS. The support, mentorship, and culture of encouragement I've experienced here has made it a fantastic place to work and a place where I can truly see my career flourishing.