FOR many former nurses, the prospect of returning to their old career can seem like a daunting challenge.

Many are put off because they feel that they have been left behind by the rapidly advancing technology involved in the job.

But the message from return to nursing coordinator Liz Jaffrey is: "Basic nursing skills are still relevant. Although the technology has moved on, the job remains the same."

Liz's job involves taking former nurses who want to return to work under her wing.

She is encouraged at the ease with which they take up their former role, and says word is starting to get round about the return to nursing course.

Courses are run twice a year at Princess Margaret Hospital's school of nursing.The current course has 16 returners.

Students on the course, which is accredited by Cheltenham and Gloucester College of Higher Education, are expected to undertake 100 hours of practical nursing under the supervision of an experienced mentor.

And they must attend theory lessons one day a week.

As part of the family friendly policy of the course, the practical hours can be arranged to suit the individual.

Returners must also complete two 1,500-word written assignments.

The return to practice course is run twice a year, in March and September. It is now obligatory for anyone who has left the profession for more than five years.

Anyone considering returning to nursing can contact Liz Jaffrey on Swindon 426505.