LIBRARIES across Hampshire are giving away thousands of special bookmarks that highlight the breadth of opportunities available for working in the NHS.

As part of an ongoing "wider age" campaign to encourage older people to either return to, or consider, a career in the NHS, more than 100,000 bookmarks are being distributed around England.

With 32 per cent of library users over the age of 55, it is hoped that the new campaign will have a tremendous impact by increasing awareness among those seeking new challenges after finishing a different career, as well as former healthcare professionals who might consider returning to the NHS.

A Department of Health spokesman said: "There are opportunities for everyone in the NHS. The life experience and talents that older people can offer are invaluable to the healthcare teams they join.

"The NHS offers many benefits to older staff, such as flexible retirement, the NHS pension scheme, and flexible working options for people who also fulfil a carer role at home for example, or who no longer want to work full-time."

The colourful bookmarks highlight the fact that "it takes a team of people to get someone back on their feet" and feature an illustration from the recent £4million national NHS Careers campaign.

They also point out that there are free return practice courses available for former healthcare professionals as well as financial support, assistance with childcare, travel and books.

For people with no previous experience, they highlight some of the hundreds of opportunities in the NHS such as housekeeping, catering, working as an electrician, plumber or healthcare assistant, or even within a hospital library.

If you are unlucky enough to miss out on these special bookmarks, call NHS Careers on 0845 6060655 and ask about opportunities for older people in the NHS, or you can visit the website at www.nhs.uk/careers