Our relationship to work by The King's Fund

GALLERY WALL

TheKingsFund — 2022-07-01 10:08:37 UTC

Welcome to our online exhibition of NHS staff talking about their relationship to work!

We would like to crowd-source as many contributions to this gallery wall as possible, and invite you to join in.

Use the questions below to record a short video (30 seconds or so) or simply type in your response.

What do you do for work in healthcare?
Why do you do what you do?
In a parallel universe, what would you be doing instead?

2022-08-09 20:48:26 UTC

I lead a team which works across the academic/nhs interface in clinical and translational research so that patients get access to new, innovative, less invasive treatments of disease.

I do it to make a difference to the health, wealth and wellbeing of our patients and society as a whole.

In a parallel universe I would do the same thing, but without all of the politics that goes with it.

2022-08-12 17:44:01 UTC

I work in staff wellbeing. I love supporting staff to prioritise taking care of themselves as well as their patients.

In a parallel universe I'd probably be doing an outdoorsy job, but still advocating for self-care!

2022-08-14 19:12:46 UTC

I support the Chief Medical Officer in all types of business relating to the medical workforce. Navigating the various medical contracts, HEE funding, LDA funding contracts, internal Trust systems as well as the NHS systems that are built for agenda for change disciplines, in trying to ensure the medical workforce is best placed to perform in the most effective and efficient way.

I am incredibly passionate about the NHS and the medical workforce.

In a parallel universe I'd do things with sport.

2022-08-18 10:20:30 UTC

I am a picu clinical educator. I am so passionate about the evolving role of the nurse and for it to gain the recognition that it deserves both from external and internal influences. I want to empower nurses to feel strong within their role.

Through education I encourage their confidence to come from an internal place, one that is built on their knowledge, skills and ability to seek help.

2022-08-25 15:26:26 UTC

I work in the organisation that indemnifies the NHS in England. I lead a team working with Trusts and GPs to help them learn from their claims.

I've worked with patients and their families for my entire working life. When things go wrong in their care it is nearly always a system issue. In this role I get to work with clinicians as well, supporting them to learn and share their experience with colleagues in a supportive environment.

In a parallel universe I'd be an anthropologist or do something in football or running - not compete!!

TheKingsFund — 2022-09-01 15:24:59 UTC

I provide consultancy across multiple levels for NHS staff, and work as a clinician with patients living with highly restricting and unpleasant conditions.

I am deeply motivated to protect our precious and extraordinary staff, and to make a difference to lives and society.

In a parallel universe I'd be dancing.

cheryl_tudor1 — 2022-10-04 17:07:31 UTC

I work in quality improvement in Scotland.

I do this role because I care deeply about the NHS and its valuable staff. I have worked for many years within mental health services supporting job retention (in a different role), and have been seeing increasing numbers of NHS staff struggling to remain healthy and productive at work in the face of mounting pressures and workforce issues. I hope to positively impact on patient care by focusing on the staff experience.

In a parallel universe I would work in the repair shop (from BBC).

2022-10-05 16:39:33 UTC

I support a Therapy manager leading an inpatient therapy team in an acute hospital.
I do it because I want to care for people, initially as a therapist myself, and now supporting the staff who support others.
In a parallel universe I would still be working in the care sector, as it's the thing I feel most passionate about. The almost 20 years of experience would be really useful from the beginning though!

2022-10-06 12:44:47 UTC

I work in the nursing and quality team for NHSE.

I became a nurse as I believed this would give the platform to make the world a better place. Having been a nurse for over 30 years I still believe this to be true and that is what I aspire to do every day.

In a parallel universe I would sing and dance on stage. As a result of my two left feel and being tone deaf, I am sure I would be returned pretty quick.

2022-10-07 10:00:01 UTC

I am a psychotherapist working in acute
inpatient adult mental health.

I do this role because I believe that when we are at our most vulnerable, human connection can be so reparative, grounding and supportive.

In a parallel universe I would be a sports and exercise psychologist.

2022-10-07 13:40:10 UTC

I am an operational manager in a mental health trust. I believe passionately in compassionate leadership, especially with the current recruitment and retention crisis of NHS staff. I believe empowering staff to develop and succeed is the best way of ensuring excellent care to service users. I initially qualified as an Occupational Therapist and identified this as my career path as I wanted to help people.

In a parallel universe, I would be a vet.

2022-10-08 14:58:29 UTC

I am an NHS support Manager. I am passionate about the NHS and how lucky we are in this Country to have an accessible healthcare system for all. Supporting my colleagues in the NHS enables me to feel that I am helping them provide the best care for patients

I am a Clinical Scientist, working within Cancer Genomics. I discovered I had a keen interest for genomics when studying biology at secondary school, this lead to a degree in Applied Biology, which in turn, opened the doors to a career in the NHS. After 16 years I remain enthusiastic about my work. In a parallel universe I would be working in conservation in a job that required a lot of time spent outdoors, that or a SUP instructor.

2022-10-11 08:41:48 UTC

2022-10-11 17:04:54 UTC

I'm a PMO/Office lead for NHS England working with the NHS App/NHS website and NHS login teams. I'm a team leader of 9 and a coach and mentor.
I'm passionate about how digital technology can be used to support people and our staff; with a view to making this inclusive or freeing up clinician's time for more face-to-face appointments. I relish being the oil in the machinery and the glue for the team.
In a parallel universe I'd be Atlas holding the world up.

I am a mental health nurse and lead on quality improvement as a senior leader. I do what I do for my colleagues and for our patients and carers who use our services. I am passionate about making a difference and it drives me when I see staff feeling empowered and are proactive in creating change at whatever level that leads to improvement.

2022-10-12 11:53:40 UTC

In a parallel universe I would be a dancer ✨✨

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2022-10-12 12:26:32 UTC

I'm an intensive care consultant.

I enjoy seeing the relatively immediate physiological responses to changes in treatment in ICU. You could say I'm an instant gratificationist.

In a parallel universe I'd be in the military or running a coffee shop.

I am a Head of Nursing. My workforce is large and diverse and they are amazing. I am incredibly proud of them and without them it would be impossible to do the work we do so it is imperative for me to protect them, support them and influence them to be the best that they can be. The NHS is my home and i know that my team and myself make a difference every day that we come to work. We strive every day to make our service and the care and compassion we give to patients better and safer. In a parallel universe i would be an architect.

2022-10-12 12:29:52 UTC

I manage Admin staff and Community NHS buildings. I am extremely proud of my hard-working staff, they are front of house and the first port of call for all. We work for the NHS because we care about the organisation and all the patients and the clinical staff we support. In a parallel universe I would probably be a sports teacher

2022-10-13 09:21:45 UTC

2022-10-13 12:32:29 UTC

I'm a First Contact Physiotherapist working in primary care. The positivity of helping someone overcome an illness / disability or be in a better position to manage their pain is enough to take you through all the not so good times.
I have no idea what else I would be

Taking one step at a time.....

knappersian — 2022-10-14 12:47:56 UTC

Work in the OD Team, joined the Health board to make a difference .... work in progress ...
The person determined to achieve maximum success learns the principle that progress is made one step at a time.
David J. Schwartz

Nqn

2022-10-16 19:05:50 UTC

I am a NQN working in a nursing home for complex care including Huntingtons Disease, Brain injurys, LD and autism, mental health and palliative care. I love my job because I get to know the service users holistically and can manage and coordinate all aspects of their care alongside them, delivering true person centred care. In an alternative universe I would be in the performing arts, unfortunately my confidence was squashed when I was 17 and I've never dared to do any performing since.

2022-10-16 21:16:31 UTC

I am a doctor in training, specialising in renal and general medicine. I work in a hospital and manage patients receiving outpatient dialysis therapy over a large geographical area.

I do what I do because I care about improving lives, even if I cannot make people fully better. I also love that my job is full of learning and self-development and there is literally never a dull day.

In a parallel universe I'd own an eccentric bookshop and spend my days having lots of coffee and cake with my customers and learning every day!

2022-10-17 06:43:21 UTC

I am a Cardiac physiologist working in cardiology rhythm management and the training & education lead for cardiology students on placement.
I didn't plan to work in cardiology as a child but 'fell' into the post in 1986. However, I love the job; I work with patients, alongside consultants, teach students and colleagues, work with data management, produce audits, all this fulfils my different personal needs. The constant change in technology keeps the job alive and fresh.
In a parallel universe, I'd be a retired RAF pilot as they wouldn't have had the sexist rules, we did in 1986.

2022-10-17 11:01:45 UTC

I work as an Operations manager in a GP Practice.
This was a recent change from my previous role which I felt I had to move on from due to what felt like extreme pressure and a lack of career progression and support.
I wanted to work within the NHS as I wanted to feel like my work was helping people and that I was contributing something meaningful in an environment which would offer me lots of opportunities to learn and grow. Which so far I feel is happening and i feel enthused and engaged with making positive changes.
In a parallel universe i would be sailing around the world and exploring at my own pace.

SLT Manager

2022-10-17 11:39:49 UTC

I am a manager of an SLT Department.

I do what I do to ultimately make the lives of people with speech, language and communication and/or eating, drinking and swallowing difficulties better. I can only do this be supporting SLTs within the workplace to flourish and thrive.

In a parallel universe I would love to be a facilitator/trainer in coaching/motivational interviewing

Occupational Therapy manager

2022-10-18 11:41:44 UTC

I am Clinical and Operational Lead for Occupational Therapy inpatient service in an acute hospital. I went back to a clinical role after many years in non-NHS management and then felt compelled to take this role because I want to inspire and support others within the service to do, and be, the best they can.
In a parallel universe I would still be doing something that gives to others as I get satisfaction from making a difference, now matter how small, in improving the lives of others.

2022-10-18 18:53:06 UTC

I am a paediatric physiotherapist working within an acute hospital.
I do my job because I enjoy making a difference to people's lives and being able to help and care for people when they need it. I enjoy the service development aspect of my role and supporting junior staff to growth within their role.
In a parallel universe I would own a bakery by the sea

I'm a personlisation lead in primary care and still work as a social prescriber two days a week. My background was nearly 30 years in the charity sector, a big chunk of that in health charities, and before coming into the health service I was embedded in a clinical team in at a specialist hospital for mental health, so I gradually morphed from one sector to the other. I'm passionate about the role of wellbeing services and the part it plays in supporting our general health. Naturally that extends to work, feeling engaged in what we do is so important for self-esteem, for feelings of achievement and validation and opportunity for growth and development. I always try to recognise colleagues because we work in a demanding environment and a little recognition goes a long way.

2022-10-19 14:33:41 UTC

Impacts on my wellbeing

2022-10-22 10:26:27 UTC

I am an operations manager that leads a team of leaders that manage ambulance services across a large area. The impact of continual increasing demand paired with severe recruitment issues that is caused by burn out and crews looking after their own mental health is extremely stressful.

Balancing the wellbeing of my teams and the ability to have enough of these highly trained clinicians to meet the demand put-on front-line crews is hugely stressful. We see cases almost daily, where a lack of crews has caused the decline of a patient's health, or worse, and the regular flow of resignations of these clinicians is heart-breaking.

Pressure from government and senior manages in this health sector to get to these patients when crews are held at hospitals awaiting handover is frustrating as we know the hospital patient flow is a wider issues, and one of the rout causes of the problems we are experiencing.

dwolfe13 — 2022-10-22 12:38:50 UTC

I manage therapy teams in acute and community and a Podiatrist by profession. I go to work everyday in the hope I make a difference for the organisation, for staff and for patients/carers that impacts positively on their life.
In a parallel I would have a small holding and live quietly with nature

2022-10-22 14:59:27 UTC

I am Heatlh and Well-being lead for our ED and strive daily to improve the emotional environment in any way I can drawing on tool utilised on my own journey through anxiety and depression. I think all people just want to be genuinely heard and understood with no judgement and in the current NHS climate it is this that often gets forgotten or pushed to the bottom of the list.

I'm a senior CT Radiographer, I love my job although the workload often feels unmanageable and colleagues are often burnt out and broken. I do my job because the satisfaction of helping someone do something they are scared about is insanely rewarding. Also, working with a large MDT where we often have challenges to overcome, I love using interpersonal skills to develop our relationships and work together as a hospital, not just an individual department. Unity is very important in my mind,and we all put on our blinkers whether we mean to or not, and become task focused. In a parallel universe, I'd run an arts and craft coffee shop.

2022-10-23 11:14:02 UTC

My work

2022-10-24 17:18:55 UTC

I am a Performance Manager for health research. I look at the delivery phase of research studies and try to find struggling studies so that we can support them as early as possible. I love research and am motivated by providing patient choice and supporting novel improvements in health. All my professional life has been around health research. In a parallel universe I will also be doing something related to health and research - there is no doubt about that. Perhaps surrounded by a green healthy landscape with stress free ways of working. Actually, no, in my parallel universe there is no disease, so I might be researching other parallel universes where our expertise might be of use!

Giving back

2022-10-26 17:29:41 UTC

I work for my local Cancer Alliance transforming cancer services. I chose to move into this work rather than return to SEN teaching, partly because after extensive surgery, I'm no longer able to keep everyone in my classrooms safe but also as I want to help improve things for those who get a cancer diagnosis in the future. The NHS has saved me twice now, so I'll do my best to help the NHS.

Well being at work

2022-10-26 17:49:40 UTC

I am consultant surgeon for the NHS and governance lead for the Trust. What my experience has been working in my current job is that one of the best uses of my time has been working on creating an environment that completely replaces blame with an emphasis on continual improvement and learning from it. This has eliminated stressors at work to a large extent, and not just myself, but the whole department finds a very relaxed, yet alert and responsive atmosphere to come to work everyday. Our performance as a result has improved significantly, and I am very pleased to read remarks from our patients that the department culture has transformed to a 'friendly', 'caring' attitude.

Staff Support

2022-10-27 16:43:46 UTC

I work for the NHS in maternity. It is a privilege to help take away people's pain or fear. I am convinced we need to work harder to put staff in environments where they feel valued and cared for. I am delighted there is now an increasing amount of evidence to support the need for effective teamwork and support for staff - it gives me hope for the future.

2022-10-28 13:15:46 UTC

I work in a senior Nurse role in an NHS Sexual Health service. Our team is small but mighty and we have faced many challenges together. I have a keen personal interest in wellbeing and look forward to sharing these insights with the team. We do a fantastic job for our patients, and we need to ensure we commend the same treatment of ourselves and each other.

2022-10-31 15:22:32 UTC

2022-11-04 08:31:20 UTC

I am an NHS doctor. I have had experiences of private and state-funded healthcare systems, both within the UK and abroad. My experiences have led me to believe that free healthcare is a right and should be safeguarded. To date, the NHS remains the best healthcare system I have ever experienced.

In my job, I have had the honour of supporting families of children with severe disabilities and also life-shortening conditions.

ICU Follow up

2022-11-07 16:56:13 UTC

I work as the Lead ICU Follow up nurse. I support patients and their families during ICU, on the wards, following discharge and in Outpatients clinic. I provide some clarity to their stay, give time for them to understand what happened and refer to the appropriate teams and services. I do it because I can see the overwhelming relief when they understand they are not alone.
In a parallel universe.... I'd work outside caring for the environment, or studying volcanoes.

2022-11-09 13:00:11 UTC

I am a Senior Biomedical Scientist working in an NHS Cellular Pathology laboratory. I've always wanted to work in healthcare, combining my love of Biology and my instinct to help/care for patients. The pandemic has had a massive impact on our workload and the way we work. This has led me to pay more attention to my own wellbeing and that of the staff I lead. In a parallel universe I would be a yoga teacher or author or both!

2022-11-10 14:49:45 UTC

I work as a Midwife in a London Hospital.

I do this job because I am passionate about birthing people getting the care they deserve and absolute thrive when I know what I have done for them has made a difference to them, however small it may be.

The pressures on our service are ever growing and now all I seem to do is chase complaints, or chase staff who have missed x, y or z. This in turn is making staff feel undervalued and demotivated.

I am hoping in time with the right support from myself I will see happy staff again and staff who want to be at work. Its proven that staff who feel valued will give more to their job.

If you ask any parent about their midwife they may not remember your name, but they will always remember how you made them feel.

In a parallel universe I would be in my allotment with my Chickens, having open days for NHS staff to come and relax, meditate and let mother nature heal their souls.

2022-11-11 15:05:51 UTC

I have just returned from a secondment as COVID-19 vaccination and Test Trace Protect programme director to my substantive role. It was a tough job but I felt very in touch with the impact of my role - seeing the number of tests done, vaccinations delivered was very tangible. Back in my substantive role in corporate services my impact is more a step removed, and I need to consciously find those extrinsic motivations.

I started out in the NHS as a volunteer, working in HIV/AIDS action to bring vital support to marginalised people. Those motivations still lie at the heart of what I do.

In a parallel universe I am a torch singer, wearing crushed velvet in smoke-filled rooms, singing ballads of regret that make your heart melt.

Why do I do what I do?

2022-11-12 13:14:18 UTC

I'm a Band 5 Nurse, and I've been in my role for 12 years! It's not that I have no ambition - far from it. My ambition is to go to work each day and make a difference, to keep on learning, and to enjoy doing what I do. I'm lucky that other factors in my life mean I don't have money worries propelling my career, and that my management are supportive and provide plenty of opportunities to get involved in all kinds of projects to stretch my knowledge and abilities. The best thing one of my patients ever said to me is how humbling it was to come to hospital and be treated with love and compassion by experts who were happy to share their expertise with him any time he asked, and basically he has said everything I want to say about why I do what I do.

2022-11-12 21:22:55 UTC

I am a palliative nurse specialist in a hospice community setting. I am passionate about end of life care and find it an absolute privilege to be with people and ease the burden at often the worst times of their lives. I do this to provide loved ones left behind with the best memories they can have, that their loved one was comfortable, well looked after and that they got to spend time with them. I love my job.
In a parallel universe I would be practicing holistic therapies.

I am a Registered Nurse of almost twenty years. I work for a District General Hospital and have spent my time on a variety of medical wards and within our education team. I have now qualified as a Professional Nurse Advocate in the hope that I can be part of the mechanism to restore resilience into our nursing workforce. The more I learn, the more I want to learn. That light never seems to go out inside of me. I also want to share that spark of excitement, of creation and innovation with others. I want to nurture and support the body and the mind. I always have and I think I always will.

2022-11-14 14:18:02 UTC

In my parallel universe I would be a starship captain and I would boldly go where no man has gone before.

I am a community engagement & experience manager, I aim to give a voice to whoever wishes to share their experience & connect those within our community for the benefit of communities.

2022-11-15 14:34:02 UTC

2022-11-15 18:01:24 UTC

I work in clinical administration and I am passionate about several aspects of the NHS. I think it is a great place to work with a very supporting staffing community but also how wonderful it is that we have something like the NHS which everyone can access.

I am a clinical co Ordinator for children's respite services,

2022-11-16 10:16:35 UTC

we support the NHS by taking children how are waiting for foster families or equipment to be delivered to home to help free up beds.
I am passionate about our work and believe in my team. I believe that my staff are empowered in their jobs and feel supported by the leadership team and by the hospitals in the NHS which discharge patients to us .

2022-11-16 16:12:11 UTC

I am Team Leader and a Senior Social Prescribing Link Worker. I also manage Wellbeing Triage Workers and Health and Wellbeing Coaches.

For me, this job is all about support, guidance and connecting. It's about supporting patients in a non-clinical setting to get the help and support that they need. It allows me to support the Doctors, Nurses and Health Care Assistants to do their job too.

In a parallel universe I would be running a B&B in Southern Ireland.

2022-11-16 19:10:41 UTC

I am a primary care practice manager and love the variety and challenges the role brings each day. I have the benefit of working within a wonderful team of clinical and non clinical staff as well as interactions with patients. In a parallel universe i may have trained as a clinician and been more 'hands-on' with patient care.

2022-11-17 13:23:13 UTC

I am a Digital Engagement Business Support Manager, which means that I create and organise basic digital training for NHS staff and members of the public, so that they are able to attend online appointments and manage their health and wellbeing using the internet.

I do this job because I love helping people. I love seeing confidence boosted and the joy of learning a new skill. I love enabling people to be self-sufficient and I believe that digital is a largely positive and useful thing.

In a parallel universe, I would be an author.

2022-11-20 19:19:00 UTC

I am a senior manager in a large acute teaching hospital, leading the management and admin functions across a care group covering multiple specialities. I fell into a management role in the NHS from an academic research environment but found that delivering healthcare could be as rewarding (but much more challenging in terms of people management or influencing) as developing future treatment options. I’ve stayed ever since as I’ve been able to work with some brilliant clinical leaders who are so passionate about developing clinical services. In a parallel world I’d have a job working in nature or with animals.

2022-11-21 11:46:39 UTC

I am an operational manager for an ambulance service. I love my role as I like to lead and inspire teams. I enjoy the personal connection that I get with staff. I also like the sense of achievement when delivering a project with a great outcome.
In a parallel universe I would probably have completed a nursing degree where I could be more hands on a practical. I think I may have ended up in leadership still but with more of a clinical insight.

I'm a staff nurse.

2022-11-21 15:42:23 UTC

I work in cardiology at a district general hospital. I believe that this role is valuable to the patients I care for and the NHS is important and deserves to be protected. I endeavour to provide patients with an excellent patient experience and try to engage them with their own health. I try to support staff wellbeing in the same way. The past few years have been especially difficult for all of us. Selfcare is essential to performing on a personal and professional level. I hope to begin making my parallel universe ideals become reality by encouraging the uptake of lifestyle medicine by patients and colleagues in a hope to improve lives and aid the survival of the NHS. I would love to bring nature and the environment into that equation too.

ESHTPadlet — 2022-11-22 13:02:55 UTC

I am currently on secondment as part of an HEE project around AHP workforce. I am usually an a Head of an AHP profession.

I love to be at work, I love to be that person who can do and help and perform. I love working as a leader and helping to change and flex as part of our ever changing NHS

In a parallel universe, I would so love to be able to use some of my creative sides of myself, so an art therapist or an occupational therapist

2022-11-23 16:16:32 UTC

I am a physician associate. I work in primary care and am also PA lead for the health board. This involves recruitment of PAs into the health board and supporting them in post.

I do this work because I hope I can make a difference to my patients, my colleagues and my peers.

In a parallel universe I would be running a cafe full of books by the seaside with my sister. It would have laughter, too many plants, sea views, delicious cakes, hot chocolate, it would be dog friendly and host coffee mornings providing safe warm spaces for anyone that needs it.

Divergent paths

2022-11-23 17:31:56 UTC

i'm just a pleb, a happy one, i'm a staff nurse in an ENT department, and i actually don't know why i do what i do any more. i was originally here for patients and still am, but am as much for staff now too. i want to make all lives better but am finding it increasingly hard because of the way the world is. My frame of reference is like a beaten car, serviceable but has been through tough times and still keeps going.

In a parallel universe, i would cease to exist.

2022-11-24 12:36:34 UTC

I work as a Health and Wellbeing Coach - this is a fairly new role but one I thoroughly enjoy. My role involves coaching patients who may have long term medical conditions and have lost their way. My role is to help them recognise their potential to manage and be carers for their own health. I recognise that many staff could use coaching to help with their own health and wellbeing, so I am also supporting my workplace as a staff health and wellbeing champion.

2022-11-25 10:40:12 UTC

I am an immunisation support worker. Our team visits all the schools in Lincolnshire to provide a vaccination service.

I feel very strongly about making a positive difference. I know that the work I currently do for the NHS helps to protect children and their families.

In a parallel universe I would be a yoga teacher.

2022-11-29 16:00:59 UTC

I am a Programme Manager - I have worked in a number of directorates across this NHS board in Scotland including Acute, Public Health, Nursing & Midwifery, and now in Staff Wellbeing & Culture.
I want to improve, introduce new approaches, to deliver change to ensure health care is delivered and received in the best way it can be for staff and patients. I believe in the system.
In a parallel universe I would be a zoo keeper but am not so good in the mornings! other choice would be an Olympian.

kirstygoddard2 — 2022-11-30 16:14:31 UTC

I lead a clinical network for Long COVID, an emerging, debilitating and traumatising condition which needs personalised and truly holistic support from clinicians. I'm not a clinician and I truly admire the amazing work they do every day and the passion they have to provide the best service they can. I don't mind taking the brunt if they're struggling, we all share their frustrations most likely. I get a massive amount of satisfaction bringing together clinicians and commissioners in our region to share ideas, challenges and innovations so they can all do their job to as high a level as possible. I just wish I had a magic staffing wand sometimes and that they all got the recognition they deserve for the time, emotional toll and brain power they expend for us.
In a parallel universe I'd be a best-selling writer.

2022-12-05 15:45:08 UTC

I work as a Learning and Development trainer and am responsible for delivering our trust induction to all new starters as part of my role as well as core mandatory training and other training too. I do what I do in the NHS to help connect people and provide all with the knowledge, skills and understanding to enable people to engage with their role effectively and develop into the future. Being able to connect with all of our new starters and existing members of staff in all of these formats enables us to create a culture of belonging and promotes positive health and wellbeing across the organisation and wider

Why do I do what I do?

2022-12-05 16:22:05 UTC

I am an operational manager for an air ambulance service in the UK who is operationalised by an NHS trust, and funded by a charity.

I do what I do because I have an innate desire to bring goodness and care to this world. Compassion for each other can be challenging, particularly under stressful and chaotic situations. I hope to be able to sprinkle some in everything I do, leaving those around me with a bit more sunshine than before.

In a parallel universe I would own a café on the beach, continuing to bring sunshine to people's lives even in a storm.

2022-12-05 23:03:10 UTC

I am a Health, Wellbeing & Engagement Lead and I have worked in my current Trust for 15 years, I started as a band 5 admin role and grew into this role, my Line Manager saw the potential in me before I did. I do this role because I like to feel that in some small way I make a difference to the working lives of our staff, I like to see them evolve and aspire to be the best that they can be.

If we have a happy workforce then this permeates into their everyday working lives and in the end gives our patients a better experience.

2022-12-07 19:13:59 UTC

I'm an Occupational Therapist working with young people and their families. What gets me out of bed every morning is the opportunity to support young people to achieve the things which are most important to them- despite their health challenges. Working together to find solutions is a real privilege and I learn so much from the families I get to know.
In a parallel universe I would be working in the world's most amazing bookshop/ cafe/ community space- hosting language lessons with cocktails, crafting groups, life skills courses and cat cuddling!

I am a swan

2022-12-08 15:26:56 UTC

I manage a recruitment team in an NHS Ambulance Service. I love my job and the ability to be able to influence patient care but in my own way. Frontline colleagues are under so much pressure and I am proud to be able to serve them and our communities by employing the right staff. However I often see the pressure of 'back office' staff get unnoticed and the change from providing a quality service to a focus more on quantity because of the issues within the system.
I'd love to see a return to the quality NHS that every single NHS worker strives to provide.

I'm a Paediatric Physio but have predominantly worked in a clinical leadership and management capacity for a number of years until recently, when I moved into a strategic workforce development role in Mental Health. I do what I do to make the best possible difference to the people we care for - until recently for me that has meant striving to provide compassionate leadership to enable the rest of the team to provide the best possible care to our patients. In a parallel universe, I would be do what I'm doing now?!

2022-12-12 20:59:43 UTC

2022-12-14 09:50:08 UTC

I work as a senior physiotherapist in an outpatient NHS setting. I love the people side of the job and the opportunity for a high volume of daily interactions with a broad spectrum of patients. I enjoy helping people and exercise has always been a priority for me.

In a parallel universe I would be a psychologist or perhaps a writer!

Creative to the core...

2022-12-28 12:50:49 UTC

I run the team that 'inspires innovation and creativity in healthcare': ArtCare. We find creative solutions and run cultural projects in healthcare and community settings to improve the experience of healthcare for staff, visitors and the public. I love my job but it takes alot out of me; it can be draining to keep finding the energy, to be a creative in a non-creative organisation - like a one way relationship. parallel universe? doing something similar - connecting people to their creative streak but being within walking distance from the seaside!!

2022-12-29 10:25:21 UTC

I am a GP trainee currently taking a year out of my training programme. This has given me the opportunity to take a step back and consider some of the wider issues in the NHS. It can be disheartening to hear the constant negative media messaging and the general feeling of a 'broken NHS' but I find hope in the people I meet, the stories of my patient's lives and the enthusiasm of colleagues and team members who strive for a better future.

I work in staff wellbeing and its a privilege to be able to support staff with their wellbeing and to be all they can be

2023-01-04 15:37:05 UTC

2023-01-05 12:29:20 UTC

I am a Health Visitor and Practice teacher. I'm passionate about supporting and passing on knowledge to the next generation of Health Visitors but most of all I absolutely love my job!
It's a privileged position to go into patients homes and form often, long-lasting relationships and support them through their parenting journeys.
The role also covers supporting families under the umbrella of safeguarding, which is often complex and stressful for both the families and us. We are advocates for families but mostly ensure the voice of the child is heard.
I do this role because I'm passionate about others achieving their best outcomes in life and my role allows me to play a small part of this. I have always worked in a caring role and enjoy helping others in whatever ways are possible.
In a parallel universe, I would be a project manager for property renovations.

2023-01-05 15:32:34 UTC

I work as a management consultant based in a CSU providing support to a variety of regional and national NHS organisations.
It is very rewarding when the pieces of work that I am doing have a direct impact on patient care but sometimes it is the system design or transformation programmes that ultimately enable care to be delivered in the best way. I do what I do because I enjoy the variety and sense of pride from being able to deliver quality service with my team.
In a parallel universe I would be travelling the world playing the piano.

2023-01-09 22:51:26 UTC

I am a paramedic who is passionate about providing high quality care/ help/ support to anyone in their time of need. I love my job because i get to meet people from all walks of life in many situations and can help them in their time of need, whether it be a medical/ trauma/ mental health/ social needs. The variety of experiences and training opportunities available are what keeps the job interesting as you never stop learning or helping. In an parallel universe i would be travelling the world and providing aid across the globe

2023-01-16 18:20:25 UTC

I am a paediatric nurse manager in a DGH. I feel I can empower and support staff to embrace change, adopt resilience and strive to give the best possible care to our families. I want my teams to make a difference and go above and beyond. But to achieve this they are supported and reminded to look after their own health and well being.

2023-01-17 09:02:42 UTC

I am a Midwife. I see women from all over the city who are wanting better care and for their voices to be heard.
I do what I do because I want people to have positive experiences and to feel that they were listened to and empowered in their care. I love my job and caring for people, but it's becoming harder and harder within the current NHS framework. Burnout is always on the horizon for myself and my colleagues.
In a parallel universe I would be a botanist exploring the rainforest for new species and spend my time outside in the green.

alicemurphy2 — 2023-01-23 18:31:36 UTC

I am an Operational Service Manager covering Crisis Services in Inner London. I love and cherish the NHS service - We are incredibly lucky as a country to have this and I feel passionately about protecting it for everyone and treasuring staff.
I am a social worker by profession and went into this later in life after having children. Its been very challenging to work in but extremely personally rewarding and it has focused me & helped me tremendously coming from a background of trauma myself and now with my own daughter having schizophrenia.
In another universe I am not sure I would have wanted to do anything else but perhaps gone back to be dual nurse/social work trained as the opportunities for nurses far out weigh the ones for me.
Though I will live my alternative lifestyle doing art courses / pottery and wild swimming on a Hebridean coast when I get to retire!

I am an occupational therapist working with people who have a cancer diagnosis in an acute hospital. I do what I do because I am passionate about being able to support people to achieve their goals and adjust to their illness, particularly in the end stages of life. In a parallel universe I'd probably work with animals.

2023-01-25 14:32:01 UTC

2023-01-26 09:36:17 UTC

I work in Occupational Health as the Staff Wellbeing Lead for an Acute Hospital Trust. I love what I do as I get to support all our amazing NHS Staff and (wherever possible) help to keep them happy, healthy and in work. This role gives me an enormous sense of pride and reward as my role enables me to support patient care by supporting our staff.

2023-02-02 14:24:50 UTC

I work in the NHS as a manager with a clinical background.

I do what I do because I have a passion for healthcare and for improving services for the people we care for. I value the NHS and feel we should protect it at all cost!

In parallel universe..... I would be on the stage!

I'm a physiotherapist having worked in Spinal Injuries, Chronic pain and now a lead on MSK Upper limb in a tertiary hospital. I love what I do, it is a privilege to share in people's lives and try to lighten the burdens that they may carry. This job enables us to unite the pain we carry within our minds and our body. It doesn't separate the two as so much of medicine has in the past. It enables the fullness of being a human to be recognised and normalised, and helps people to move forwards. I enjoy encouraging colleagues to feel the same way. I just wish we could reduce the "paperwork" digital work.

2023-02-02 23:54:11 UTC

2023-02-12 14:07:36 UTC

I work in palliative care.

I need to feel useful. I like challenging communication and the opportunity to care holistically.

In a parallel universe I'm doing endless English lit degrees.

I work for Health Education England at a regional level as the professional and strategic lead focusing on the paramedic workforce. I am passionate about professionalism and am an enthusiastic advocate for the unique skills, knowledge, and experience that all Allied Health Professionals (AHPs) bring to the NHS. I firmly believe that collaborative working across all providers of health and social care can allow the development of new ways of working to improve clinical care and enrich patient experiences across the entire NHS and the wider health and social care community. In a parallel universe, I would be a professional nature and wildlife photographer, but in this universe, it's my main hobby!

2023-02-14 15:43:53 UTC

2023-02-21 13:08:14 UTC

I am an ops manager in a charitable organisation providing MDT support with a community health provider.
I've worked in a number of different HSC settings from social care to NHS in front line, managerial and commissioning role. I do what I do because I still believe we can change the world...or at least change one persons world for the better. I still believe that to change the system we have to be in it...although its a tough gig for us all these days. I count the small wins now...which i now know are as important as the big ones!
In a parallel universe I would do a similar thing.....but maybe just somewhere different....where the sun shines 365 days a year!!!

2023-02-22 17:53:46 UTC

I am a lead nurse for clinical education and I grow up knowing that I wanted to do something that involved supporting other people. I am passionate about nursing and despite my roller coaster career, learning from challenges I love supporting staff to develop and constantly see for example how coaching/supervision/reflection/education/mentoring brings out individual potential. I am a FTSU champion and also feel strongly that everyone needs to feel listened too and valued. I feel privileged to be part of others journey in life - staff and patients

2023-02-28 11:09:41 UTC

1. I am a Social Prescribing Health Coach and lead a large team of SPs HCs and Care Coordinators.
2. Having been a person centred counsellor for many years, the personalised care approach of this role suits me very well.
3. In a parallel universe I would do what I do now, but be younger, have more energy and there would be no such thing as homelessness, mental health needs or social isolation.

ferrets010 — 2023-03-01 19:07:40 UTC

I am a Doctor in Rehabilitation. The job seems to get more and more challenging but the feeling of making a difference to a persons care, and supporting a team who are under a tremendous amount of pressure, are very important to me.

I do this job to improve peoples lives, and to reduce their suffering.

In a parallel universe I would be a vet, or painter, or actor.

Hi, I am a paediatric matron working predominantly with Specialist Nurses. I wanted to be a nurse from as far back as I can remember because I wanted to make a difference to people's health care and support people when they are vulnerable. In a parallel universe I think I'd still be working in healthcare as a nurse, although deep down inside of me I would love to be a writer of fiction

2023-03-06 17:08:04 UTC

matthewstreuli — 2023-03-07 14:09:05 UTC

My name is Matt Streuli and I'm the only Health and Wellbeing Officer in Frimley Health NHS. I am also the lead Mental Health First Aid instructor for the Trust.

My life experience of mental ill health and surviving suicide gives me an insight, a strength and compassion for supporting colleagues in my Trust.

In a parallel universe I would have loved to be a Radio DJ or podcaster.

I am an Education Matron supporting newly qualified nurses. I am proud to be a nurse and think there is nothing more fundamentally honest than caring directly for a patient. It was a tough transition for me to leave clinical practice after 27years as an ICU nurse. One of the aspects that ensures I enjoy my new role is that I am reassured I am influencing patient care through my support of the newly qualified staff. I also have transferred the caring part of my job from patients to preceptees!

2023-03-09 13:05:26 UTC

2023-03-09 18:54:18 UTC

I am soon to be a qualified Paramedic working for an NHS Ambulance Service.

I have an intrinsic motivation to make people feel safe and valued, especially in their time of need.

In a parallel universe, I'd be a marine biologist, scuba-diving, having BBQs on a boat with my partner.

2023-03-12 15:58:39 UTC

I manage a team of cancer psychological professionals and work directly with cancer patients and their families too. I also provide clinical group supervision to other cancer professionals. I do this because I know I can make a difference to people's care and experience with their diagnosis. I deeply value my team and put their wellbeing first and foremost in the knowledge that good care comes from happy healthy staff. In a parallel universe (or later in life!) I would probably be a writer or yoga teacher!

EDI Manager

2023-03-13 12:50:49 UTC

I am an EDI and wellbeing manager. I have always done roles where I can see the impact that my work has, an ability to support or change for the better. Using my skills specifically to make a difference. in an alternate world i would have won the lottery and live in an island.

I'm a Senior Tobacco Dependency Advisor working in a mental health trust in the North East and love my job, even though working in the NHS has been more challenging since the pandemic. You can't pour from an empty cup so please take care of yourselves! In an alternate universe I would have been a stuntman, who then won the lottery.

2023-03-15 15:12:42 UTC

I work in Practice Development & Education supporting NHS MH staff...

2023-03-22 16:53:14 UTC

I have always been an advocate for the importance of staff HWB. I am trained in/have worked as a MH nurse, Health Visitor, Mindfulness Therapist and Yoga Teacher, so I really try to practice what I preach! Role modelling is key when working in healthcare- especially now I am supporting staff with their development.

I am also really passionate about quality improvement of patient services especially regarding MH therapeutic treatment options.

I'm not sure what I'd be doing in a parallel universe as I've done so much training and education already...maybe living off grid on a beach somewhere...

2023-03-29 14:15:34 UTC

I am a Workforce Manager who is passionate about staff development and growth. My job is challenging and focuses on changing the well embedded culture within my organisation to facilitate new ways of working and achieve set goals whilst prioritising staff wellbeing.

After working as a busy Operational Manager, I wanted a new challenge which nurtured my people management skills whilst also engaging with strategic planning and development.

In a parallel universe, I would be a popstar or a make-up artist!

I am a surgical matron. I am passionate about good quality care being provided by people to are of the same mindset and goal. It is not just a job, I feel privileged to be in this position. I would like to continue to progress to ADN at some point in the future.

2023-03-29 14:43:54 UTC

What do I do.......?

2023-03-29 15:32:29 UTC

I am responsible for community services in a rural area with teams of nurses, therapists, admin staff and support workers but am a physiotherapist by profession.

I do this role as I enjoy problem solving, developing services and people and providing patients , their carers and families with the best care we can deliver. I am aware that capacity will never meet the demand and the effect that can have on staff. Keeping open, honest conversations with staff and allowing them to express their concerns/feelings in a supportive way is important to do. I may not have the answers but I have 2 listening ears and time for them to talk.
In a parallel universe, I would still be a physiotherapist, as a career choice it hasn't disappointed.

I

2023-04-02 18:43:42 UTC

Think I have a good relationship with my team. My role as a surgeon involves helping many people come out of pain and suffering from cancers. And this is highly rewarding for me. This is what motivates me to keep going and I will only make it more intense in the future. I am ready to work hard for this.

2023-04-13 15:25:00 UTC

I am a specialist Nurse. I have always been proud of our NHS and having worked abroad this just deepened my feelings about how lucky we are to have it, albeit it's not perfect. I do what I do because it allows me to make a real difference in peoples lives. This gives me a lot of satisfaction but also validation. In a parallel universe I would have been a dancer.

I'm a Clinical Psychologist who trains people to become therapists. I enjoy teaching, mentoring and supervising others to realise their goals and in doing so help more people than I'd be able to help directly myself. In a parallel Universe though I'm running a board game cafe cum wine bar.

2023-04-19 16:25:23 UTC

I am a Lead Nurse Care & Quality Improvement for a Hospice. This is relatively new role for me as previously was a Professional Lead for District Nursing within the NHS. My relationship to work prior to now was becoming difficult and I felt my ability to support staff was becoming hard even though I am a PNA as well as a high interest in health & Wellbeing. The roles we do in community are challenging and it is forgotten that autonomy and lone working can be just as stressful but also the rewards of nursing people in their own homes is a privilege. Working now in a Hospice is very different the compassion and attention to support for each other is there everyday. In a parallel universe I would volunteer more, more dog walking and live more in the county or by the sea.

2023-04-24 10:55:54 UTC

I am a senior Biomedical Scientist in Blood Transfusion. I am passionate about helping my staff provide high quality services to our patients. I feel satisfied whenever we help clinicians save lives. I treat my patients as my family member and wants to do my utmost to send them home asap. Due to staff shortage and high workload myself and my colleagues are struggling to provide best possible care to our patients. I am here to find new ways to keep myself and my colleagues motivated and remain healthy to give best possible care to our patients.

2023-05-01 12:05:17 UTC

In parallel I would like to open a take away as I love to feed people and see happy faces.

2023-05-10 12:41:23 UTC

I work in Maternity. I feel extremely passionately about proving the best possible care to our patients and am always looking for ways to improve our service. I have excellent colleagues who work tirelessly to maintain our service, despite the many pressures faced on a daily basis. We all share the same vision of effective, safe and compassionate care for our patients.

In a parallel universe I would run my own health and wellbeing retreat, set somewhere beautiful, surrounded by woodland, streams and mountains.

I am a Speech and Language Therapist working with Inpatients on Mental Health Services for Older People. I enjoy the work in this field as I see the flickers of people and their personalities despite a treacherous brain, and if I can offer just some enhancement to their often frightening and bewildering life, then that is a good thing. In an alternative universe I would be a writer.

2023-05-15 14:59:30 UTC

Senior Biomedical Scientist in Cellular Pathology

2023-05-16 13:43:27 UTC

I'm a senior biomedical scientist in cellular pathology, I've always wanted to work in a hospital laboratory but got told by college the competition was too high and I wouldn't get the grades, so I found another way around. I wanted to help people, I always have.
I do what I do as I want the patients to get the best care they can by the best staff, I help others develop and flourish.
In a parallel universe I would still be a biomedical scientist helping others.

2023-05-23 18:51:44 UTC

I'm a business change manager, supporting staff and managers through large scale service redesign and transformation. I like helping people make sense of the complex and feel comfortable about what the new world might mean for them. I love that I can do this in NHS Scotland, knowing that improvements we make will benefit our patients and service users. I believe that we are truly greater than the sum of our parts - our people are amazing and I want them to feel that.
In a parallel universe, I would be writing inspiring stories, or involved in some way in creating communications that improve things for people

I'm a MSK Physiotherapist

2023-06-02 13:58:29 UTC

I love my job because I can help people manage pain or get back to what they love to do giving them autonomy.
In a parallel universe, I'd be a sports coach of some form or an athlete.

I am a consultant anaesthetist and work for NHSE in a training role

2023-06-06 21:27:55 UTC

I love what I do every day, and find it rewarding as in different ways each day I get to try and make people's lives a little better, from where they are at that point. I think the NHS is an amazing organisation.
In a parallel universe..I would still do my current roles but part time, so that I could have more time running a small holding, growing veg and making jam!

2023-06-12 09:59:11 UTC

I work in Primary Care Services. We support GPs with various aspects to assist with patient care and their business.
I do what I do because I am passionate about making improvements and supporting the wider NHS.
In a parallel universe, I would probably have gone into nursing.

Practice Educator with NHS Education for Scotland

2023-06-14 12:02:22 UTC

I am a Practice Educator for Nurses and Midwives having enjoyed a long nursing career in adult and child health, intensive care and as university lecturer in child health. My current role supports post registration nurses and midwives to develop personally and professionally with access to up to date relevant education and training. My core role is to help others develop and achieve their potential so that they can give the best care possible to our population. I have the capacity to source training and funding, to cheer lead and provide academic and pastoral support when staff feel they might not be enough individually, academic etc. I teach the skills of restorative supervision and provide restorative supervision. In doing this I hope that I am supporting to staff to have long fulfilling careers with the skills to look after themselves, grow and develop in what ever way they need so they can look after others.

louisepeacock9 — 2023-06-27 08:10:53 UTC

I'm a maternity and neonatal independent senior advocate. I am a qualified midwife who wanted to improve the experiences of families when things go wrong so I use my skill and understanding of the systems to support them through investigations, complaints etc. I can't imagine doing anything different but in a parallell universe I'd hope that many of the issues that are highlighted as areas for improvement would have been tackled!

Vulnerable Children

2023-06-30 15:06:49 UTC

I work as a staff nurse in a vulnerable children information team. We are a relatively new team, set up to attend strategy meetings to safeguard children.

I previously worked as a neonatal nurse and aspire to be a health visitor, but I wanted to gain experience in safeguarding children before I make the move over! I believe with safeguarding knowledge under my belt, this will make me a better practitioner once qualified.

I do what I do because I care about safeguarding vulnerable children, and I want the most positive outcomes for them.

In a parallel universe, I would run an animal rescue

2023-07-04 06:42:34 UTC

I am head of elective care for an ICB. I lead a small team of commissioning managers and our main focus is supporting transformation and enabling change to deliver equitable services for our local population.

I am new to this role and it is the first time I’ve worked in a commissioning organisation. I started in the nhs in 2004 after completing my masters in health psychology and am passionate about making a positive difference to patient care. I’ve had lots of roles focused on cancer pathways and service improvement is where my skill set lies. I enjoy working with operational and clinical teams to generate great ideas and make changes happen. I also enjoy developing people in their roles and supporting them to be the best they can be.

In another life I would love to have role being more in the great outdoors maybe running a campsite in the Peak District somewhere

2023-07-08 10:37:24 UTC

I manage an Endoscopy Unit in the SouthWest.
I do what I do to ensure the patients we meet, receive the highest standard of care that we are able to provide. I am surrounded by a dedicated, caring and compassionate team which makes my job easier.
I feel it is really important to take good care of each other to ensure we are able to care for our patients.

In a parallel universe I would be travelling and visiting animal sanctuary's and helping where I could .

joanamprodrigues333 — 2023-07-14 09:36:02 UTC

I am a physiotherapist working in pain management.

I always wanted to be a healthcare professional to be able to help people, in a compassionate way. My work within pain management has been the most rewarding and challenging job I have ever done.

I have the privilege of working with brilliant psychologists and in a parallel world that's what I would be.

I've been a librarian in a mental health trust for over 20 years. I enjoy helping people find the information they need, when they need it, but can find it frustrating when what they ask is unclear & they still expect me to be able to provide what they want without giving me the full picture. This leads to dissatisfaction as I don't feel my work is 'good enough'. It is great when you get a good match & positive response. NO feedback is the usual position.

2023-07-14 14:23:47 UTC

Physiotherapy Team Lead

2023-07-17 10:51:24 UTC

I am a Physio team leader. I love and do my job because I feel that each and every day I can have a positive impact for my colleagues, team and patients. I strongly align myself with the beliefs of compassionate leadership, and hope this is demonstrated throughout my working practices. I aim to build a resilient and happy workforce within my team which in turn has a profound effect on quality of patient care. Staff well-being is of the utmost importance, and I think this should be at the forefront of the NHS going forward following on from the pandemic and long road of service recovery ahead.

In a parallel universe, I would live somewhere hot and sunny and work with horses.

2023-07-21 12:48:56 UTC

I am in a leadership role and about to embark on my first Team Manager role. I have been a Mental Health Nurse for the past 25 years, (almost). I have discovered my passion for Compassionate Leadership and always been very interested in Wellbeing at work etc. I want to give it a good go, (as a manager) and make a difference.
I wanted to be a nurse, like my mum, since I was a kid. I've always wanted to do something worthwhile and helping people was the thing I wanted to do.
In a parallel universe I would be a rock star!

2023-07-31 09:07:05 UTC

I manage a GP practice, I love the diverse team I work with and am aiming to provide great care for our patients delivered by a happy and motivated team.

2023-08-02 16:34:19 UTC

I work in NHS England in the north west region as the Head of Professional Standards. My team has responsibility for the Performers' Lists, appraisal and revalidation of GPs, professional performance concerns of primary care contractors and High Level Responsible Officer.

I came to the NHS by accident, as a temp medical secretary in May 1997 and just knew really quickly that I wanted to work for the NHS forever, or as long as I am able. The reason is because, whatever role I am in, I can always make the connection to how I make a difference and help patients, relatives, carers and members of staff. I'm part of the NHS family and proud to wear my badge every day.

In a parallel universe, I would be a cowgirl, living on a massive ranch in the middle of nowhere, probably in Montana or Colorado. I would ride horses every day, love being out in the wilderness and take the welfare of all my animals very seriously.

Curriculum Development Coordinator

2023-08-04 09:25:36 UTC

I work in Learning Development dept.
Teaching has always been my passion. I have been a teacher for 18 years in a variety of settings and taught both children and adults.
I see the benefit of supporting and teaching those who struggle with education and the impact it can have to them both personally and professionally.
I made the leap to NHS because I wanted to develop the skills of current staff non-clinically as well as work with other clinical staff in helping people gain employment in the Trust.
In a parallel universe I would love to have been a professional dancer with my own studio. I see the benefit of music and dance to the whole person and their well being which impacts every part of their lifves.

2023-08-10 12:19:33 UTC

I am a nurse team lead for the urgent community response team , until the pandemic i hadnt really considered health and wellbeing , suddenly staff were enforced to isolate from each other not even being able to come into the office space, i am a health and wellbeing champion and brought in many measures to the team to support , i encourage open and honest convesations , we also have been able to keep the 'wobble room ' and as a trust we share wellbeing ideas and toolkits .... in a parallel universe i would have a small holding in the beautiful countryside

2023-08-20 20:50:46 UTC

I work as a clinical assessor/urgent responder in the community.
I do what I do to try and make a difference to lives, both to the service users and colleagues.
I trained as a mature student and have worked in the hospitals and community, gaining experience in many areas, taking what I've learnt to try and implement some of my experience into my next role.
I am a strong advocate for my patients and colleagues, firmly backing and supporting both.
In a parallel universe, I would be a lottery winner, I know who I would help. I would help my family and closest friends, and support matters that I believe in and continue to make a difference. I would spend more time outdoors, walking more dogs and riding more horses

Wellbeing Hub Manager

2023-08-22 08:52:29 UTC

I am the Wellbeing Hub Manager for an ambulance Trust.

I never expected to get to this level! When I joined the team 4 years ago I was happy to stay in the admin role until retirement! Thanks to the support and encouragement of my managers, together with my passion for the wellbeing of all our colleagues, I have moved up to this level and I'm thriving.

In a parallel universe I'd have married my second husband first and would be an independent midwife.

2023-09-04 13:03:23 UTC

I work at NHS Gloucestershire ICB as an Integrated Commissioning Manager. I've worked in the NHS for almost 20 years and have lovely every second of it.
Originally I wanted to be a nurse and was due to start University when my mum died so I couldn't attend due to childcare.
My mums care was not great. It made me want to make a difference and try to ensure that everyone has a good experience of the NHS.
My first role was in Clinical Governance (admin) close to home, managing complaints, risks and incidents. I then started working in Gloucestershire as a Business Manager and now my current role.
It took a while to work my way up through the ranks but I have learned a lot on the way and I've really enjoyed my journey and know that I have made a difference to people's lives give me a huge sense of pride and satisfaction. I can't imagine working anywhere else!

2023-09-09 01:09:21 UTC

I work as a Physiotherapist - manager. Interestingly I had done a geography degree initially at Uni and having gone travelling to complete a geography project and worked in a third world country I was overwhelmed by my desire to help others and work on healthcare - I did this on my return and not looked back .

2023-09-14 11:30:19 UTC

I am currently a Clinical Lead Occupational Therapist for mental health and learning disability services. I have had a varied career across 36 years in the NHS, working within neurological rehabilitation, cardiac rehabilitation, learning disabilities, intermediate care, community hospitals, community mental health, palliative care, primary care, and domestic abuse services. My interest and belief is that varied and balanced engagement in meaningful occupations supports health and well-being. I am passionate that occupational therapists can make a key contribution within all settings, to facilitate independence and self-management of chronic conditions. My interest has always been about how mental health impacts physical function, and how physical function impacts mental health. Occupational therapists treat people holistically, to untangle and address the complex barriers that stop people from doing what they want and need to do, and support improvement in self-care, leisure, and productive activities. This work is very much focused on well-being, and results in my passion for ensuring that NHS staff also prioritise their own well-being in order to provide effective compassionate care to our patients and service users.

2023-09-28 14:27:26 UTC

I am a University lecturer , in the role just 3 years . Prior to this I worked as a RN on a ward and as a manual handling training for a large acute trust , I never really knew what I wanted to do until my mid 20s , I loved being around people, helping , supporting and have always had an interest in health , so nursing felt right! I like making a difference and love seeing students grow in confidence . In a parallel universe , I would be a PE teacher getting the students to love XC running :)

Learning Technologist

2023-09-28 14:32:05 UTC

After initially working in the private sector, a tough experience supporting my mum who had been diagnosed with COPD gave me a new motivation to put my skills towards working with organisations who helped communities.

With years of Learning and Development experience, I wanted to find a way where I could utilise my expertise to support others, meaning a switch to the charity sector before an opportunity arose working in health and social care research.

I don't have a clinical background but intentionally identifying the type of organisation I wanted to work for still allowed me to fulfil that sense of purpose.

2023-10-03 10:04:50 UTC

I work in the Podiatry service for the last 33 years. I work in one of the largest Health Boards in Scotland.
I have always worked within the NHS and I love that but it has changed so much on the past 3 decades and you have to learn to be adaptable and move with the constant changes.
I love my job and enjoy helping patients with there problems and enabling them to remain active.
In a parallel universe I would have a flower shop with a café attached and make flower arrangements every day.

2023-10-03 10:31:51 UTC

I am an OT by background and currently seconded to a leadership post supporting the neurorehabilitation team at my hospital. I work as an OT because I love the creativity that I can bring to the role, and the way that my organisational skills enable me to do well in my work. I love getting alongside my patients and working on what is important to them in their rehab journey. It is a privilege to work with people during the darkest times of their lives. My leadership post a step away from this - but I need to maintain this ethos while managing a larger team while holding in mind the 'KPI's, deliverables and issues' that are driven from the organisation. It's a stretch for me as an individual but my OT background is supporting me to do what I do in the best way I possibly can. I am proud to work in the team I am a part of!

rachaellloyd243_ — 2023-10-24 13:52:15 UTC

I have worked in the NHS for over 10 years, I have taken a short break from the NHS but am soon to return. I am so pleased I took some time out, I understand what inspires and drives me to make system changes. I know the NHS is where I belong and I am determined to put health and wellbeing of the staff I manage at the forefront of everything we do.

In another lifetime... I would like to have owned a bridal shop!

Specialist Respiratory Physiotherapist/Therapy Team Leader

2023-10-30 22:52:22 UTC

Taking on this role in a caretaker capacity nearly 20 years ago, I have carried a greater load than than my resilience and skills were able to take. Burnout has set in. Team leading multiple specialties' with lower than needed staffing levels, a constant rotating staff of varying skill mix - needing training to get them to a functional level and maintain their own wellbeing. A Team Leader Role is a difficult one in the NHS - not fully management, not fully clinical- the team is the priority not the manager according to managers - left in a bit of a black hole role unless line manager is clued up and onboard with staff wellbeing. I inspire and educate where I can - but generation differences can prove testing

2023-11-01 10:58:54 UTC

I worked for the NHS on two occasions throughout my career, mostly recently I have been with my Trust for a little over 5 yrs. I've worked with adults with LD, with volunteers, in an outpatient dept and now in inducting new starters. My experience has been positive throughout.

The people, the teams, the opportunities - all wonderful. I'm proud to be part of our wonderful NHS and hope to enjoy many more years making a difference to our patients and our people.

2023-11-06 11:37:37 UTC

I am a Clinical Nurse Consultant working in specialist community palliative care in Sydney Australia.

I love my job. I am very fortunate to be able to guide and support people at an often vulnerable time in their lives. Being present and guiding people in the dying process is a very important part of my role. I have also worked as the clinical lead developing a community workshop on death and dying, which I also present. I love community education. I have a new role also as the Team Leader of our very small team - so am learning all the time. I want the team to feel supported and cared for, and I am hopeful that I am achieving that.

This photo is of my children the last time we were able to come back to England - this is the beach of my childhood.

In a parallel universe I would perform in musical theatre, also be writer and spend my days in a book shop drinking coffee, also maybe gin and sparkling wine, and walking along my beach. I might also be living in Cornwall

why I work in the NSH

2023-11-06 15:25:02 UTC

I've worked in the NHS for just over 2 years. I work in a senior position in a provider as comms lead. previously I worked in the automotive sector and took a pay cut to work in the NHS after reflecting what's important to me after the pandemic. I want to use my skillset to help people I no longer wanted to be talking about maximising profit and wanted to focus on wellbeing. I cant imagine a career outside of the NHS now

2023-11-07 14:05:48 UTC

I am undertaking a placement year with the Complex Emotional Needs Service in Gloucester. I study Psychology at university, and have aspirations of becoming a counsellor. I have chosen this career path because I have a strong desire to help people. Mental health is a prominent issue in society and I have seen the effects it has through personal experience. Therefore, it is important to me that people are educated, and are offered the guidance they need to succeed in life.

I chose this placement specifically because the team is very innovative, modern and liberal. I think it is important to take on a holistic approach to rehabilitation and care to provide the best individual care. The team does some amazing work which covers multiple dimensions of care going above and beyond their job roles, they inspire me everyday.

In a parallel universe, I would live in Europe where I would own my own bakery, model on the side, and compete in trampolining.

NHSBN — 2023-11-07 14:18:45 UTC

I work in data analysis for NHS organisations' performance (on their behalf) to allow service leads to reflect on their service model and identify areas for improvement.

By identifying areas for change, we have a chance at improving the quality of care patients receive.

In a parallel universe I would spend my day at a potters wheel creating beautiful things.

2023-11-25 09:30:34 UTC

I work as a dietitian in the NHS. I am grateful for the opportunity to meet so many families and offer support and guidance. I get to work with so many intelligent and caring people across a MDT and witness people caring for others. I love science and how the body works and I have the opportunity to learn something new every day. In another universe I would work on a vineyard or grow flowers but whatever I did I would want to be part of a community.

2023-11-28 10:52:03 UTC

I've worked in the NHS since I left school over 30 years ago. initially as a nurse and then as a Podiatrist. I couldn't imagine working anywhere else. I'm a true believer in free at the point of use and will vehemently defend it. Whilst I recognize things could and should be done better it is important staff are part of the conversation and not lead by constant changing government policy

Staff Wellbeing and Self Care

2023-12-08 15:26:56 UTC

I work in staff wellbeing in NHS Scotland after years in the NHS as an administrator. I started in healthcare because I wasn't sure what I wanted to do after Uni. I saw this as something where my skills and experience can be of benefit.

I couldn't work somewhere I wasn't supporting public services; I want my energy to be spent helping others, not just providing for myself.

In another universe I didn't learn to take my time or care for myself. I went into a more demanding field (medicine or laboratory science) and burnt out.

I am a Speech and Language Therapist and lead a small team. I feel privileged to be part of helping people through some of their 'worst-ever' times. I know our work is important. Communication and eating are central to so much of people's social and cultural life. Communication is also the key to self-expression. I am passionate about helping staff develop their full potential and love their jobs. In another universe, I would be an artist and author.

2023-12-11 19:53:38 UTC

2023-12-18 19:25:33 UTC

I work within NHS England as an ACP i Acute Medicine.

I become a nurse, as I didn't really know what else t o do.

I enjoyed science and people and since I did not have good enough

grades to be a Doctor and my family did not have enough money to

send me to university without support, I did an Advanced diploma.

I don't know what I would have done if not nursing. I do wish I had known about

other allied health professional roles. So i guess in a parallel universe, I would have been an allied health

professional of some kind.

other

Why Do I Do This Job?

2023-12-21 12:03:58 UTC

I work in administration for NHS Lothian. I do this job because I am only one little cog in a big wheel, and without each other helping and supporting each other our patients would not get the great service they have and deserve. Each and every member of the NHS staff from domestic services to the consultants all need a little bit support sometimes and even just a smile and hello can make someone's day, especially if they are feeling low, down or emotional

"BE A FLAMINGO IN A FLOCK OF PIGEONS"

2023-12-28 12:27:26 UTC

I am the Training and Development Lead for Personal Health Commissioning in a South West ICB.

I originally trained as a Primary School Teacher, a role I did for 8 years, but working 80-hour weeks and the relentless workload took its toll, and so I moved in to administration roles in health and social care because I wanted to still be in a role where I was making a difference in one way or another.

The opportunity for my current role came up, and I couldn't say no! It allowed me to use the knowledge and skills from my degree, but in a healthier working environment (only 37.5 hours per week), plus the salary is better. I know that I am making an indirect difference to patients, but a direct difference to staff.

Physiotherapist

2023-12-28 18:55:30 UTC

I work in neurology. I do this because I get a buzz from seeing patients improving. I also think that I am not too bad at my job so patients do get a good service when they see me. But because we all have an ego I also do it as I get praised for doing it!! Alternative reality: a cricket correspondent!

2023-12-29 10:51:31 UTC

I am a diagnostic radiographer who has progressed my career into reporting x-rays of the musculoskeletal region. I've been qualified for 18 years, straight after my leaving school. Due to this, radiography is all I've ever known, so have grown as a person personally and in my career hand in hand. Radiography has the perfect mix of patient care and anatomy, and even more so in my niche area of work. I did fall into this from a family recommendation, so it wasn't something I felt I wanted to do since I was a child. The NHS is the most wonderful organisation ever created by society, however in recent years this has been disillusioned in my eyes, but I still do remain very passionate on its principles. No other country has this provision, and it's incredible how it doesn't discriminate on your wealth, race, age, location etc. It's probably the most humane system. Having said that, in a parallel universe, English as a subject taught at school was my first love. I still wouldn't know what to do with it career wise!

2023-12-29 15:35:30 UTC

I am an operational manager within maternity services. Having first trained as a midwife, I care passionately about promoting women's health choices and pregnancy care. I want to make a difference to every person who uses our services, no matter how small.

I am a physiotherapist who has worked in the NHS for 23 years. I feel completely embedded in the culture of the NHS - providing best care possible, free at the point of access. I strongly identify with the core NHS values, and am passionate about sticking it out through these tough times. I worry about staff turning to private work and diminishing the workforce further.

2023-12-29 22:32:12 UTC

I am keen to continue to work within the NHS and try to use my passion and enthusiasm within a more leadership role, and am trying to begin this from my current position.

I am hopeful for the future!

I am an International Educated Trained Nurse. I work in one of NHS Hospital in Southeast London as a Tissue Viability Nurse Specialist. I love my job and passionate about tissue viability. I strongly believe that team work is an essential part and it plays a major role in the health and wellbeing of a staff. Besides Nursing I am not sure what Job I be doing.

2023-12-31 17:49:02 UTC

2024-01-07 14:25:25 UTC

I work as a midwife in a busy unit in Scotland, I would like to develop skills to improve the staff morale in my department. Happy and stress free staff will strive to give the best possible care to patients. This will also help to keep the level of midwives wanting leave the profession to a minimum, as staff shortages will in turn have a knock on effect on the care that can be provided and help reduced the additional pressures already on so many midwives.

FutureLearn 1.8 DFO

2024-01-09 13:17:36 UTC

What do I do? My title is Business Support Officer.
Why do I do what I do? I enjoy team work and being part of the big picture.
In a parallel universe? I expect I'd be striving to help and support.....

2024-01-09 14:39:31 UTC

I am a part-time Band 3 library assistant in a mental health and community trust, having been a full-time Band 8a library manager in a joint HE/NHS library - and enjoying it! My whole working life since 1979 has been in libraries - different sectors including the NHS for 13 years in the 1990s, and different jobs.

I do what I do because a) it's all I know how to do, b) I enjoy it, and c) I need the money. I like library work because of the blend of geekiness and helping people - librarians are usually overpraised, which helps!

In a parallel universe I would be a composer. Or a poet.

I have worked in secondary care in acute medicine and ED services in the same hospital for 25yrs. I am now an ACP in acute medicine. I continue to do what I do because I love making a difference in patients lives. I also love developing others and managing change. I get a great sense of satisfaction when I have made a difference- be that to a patient, family, colleague or the system. In a parallel universe I would be an artist and musician. I would also be multilingual and be a translator.

2024-01-12 15:08:55 UTC

Why did I choose medicine and general practice in particular?

2024-01-24 11:54:04 UTC

I wanted to practice medicine from the age of 14/15. I say its because the TV series MASH was on and I loved the camaraderie of the team and how they went above and beyond to help their patients. There were no doctors in my family, but I definitely wanted to help people. 45yr later after a 31yr career in General Practice I still say its the best decision I ever made. General Practice is the best job in the NHS in my opinion. no where else do you treat the whole patient potentially from cradle to grave. I've known generations of the same family through my career and it is humbling to have done that. As a GP partner you're a manager and business person by default and that is changing as the partnership model becomes less attractive to new GPs. On the plus side you have a lot of flexibility in setting your working patterns staff structure (to a certain extent) and your are the team leader. negatively that isn't necessarily taught during training and can be a cause of stress. I've retired from my practice and am now the Medical Director of a GP Federation, hence the reason I want to focus on leadership and team wellbeing.

In a parallel universe I would be a tennis professional on the Doubles Circuit, travelling and playing my favourite sport and getting paid to do so.

Staff Wellbeing Lead

2024-01-28 15:59:37 UTC

I have worked in the NHS for 25 years and remain as passionate about it today as I did when I started. I still get invigorated and inspired when I see so many amazing colleagues delivering great care or great work to support that care. I love my job and have never been bored or felt it repetitive as we are constantly changing , improving and innovating. I have had amazing opportunities through working in the NHS but I can see how we are in times where staff don't feel like that and may not get developed in the same way because of the enduring pressures on the system. Supporting staff is my passion and I hope I always feel like that.

NHS feels like my home

2024-01-29 10:34:57 UTC

I am a Head of Midwifery and Nursing for Women and Children’s services. I have worked in the NHS since leaving school. I love the diversity of nursing and midwifery and the opportunities which are available to us. I am a great believer we all go through different stages in our lives. When we have a busy home life with young family, we come to work as a necessity, there then comes a time when we come for ourselves and the passion and enthusiasm we can bring. As managers, we should be mindful everyone has different priorities, depending on where they are in their life. With this in mind the opportunities should be available for all. I am now at the stage in my career where I enjoy supporting people to realise their potential and flourish in their career. In a parallel universe I would have been a history teacher.

2024-02-06 17:53:24 UTC

I am a Bereavement Midwife based in the North West. I "fell" into this role following years of experience in the area and realised this was a role I could really make a difference to people that desperately needed nothing but time, care and empathy. I'm incredibly passionate about my job and feel extremely privileged to be able to do what I do for a living. Families allow me into their lives at what can only be their most vulnerable state and let me help to heal them. Because of this I am guilty of offering too much of myself for passion of the role, and whilst I wouldn't ever want to give anything less than my all to these families, sometimes my heart and my desire to be the "best" for them can sometimes overrule my mind and the knowledge I am only one person. I long for the day my job isn't needed but until then I hope anyone unfortunate enough to need me can say that they were glad I was there for them.

2024-02-14 14:23:46 UTC

I work as a Psychologist in an adult mental health team, and have worked in different mental health roles over the past 12 years. Helping other people overcome their difficulties is immensely rewarding work and I always knew I wanted to do something which had a positive impact on the world and the people in it. I got drawn to Psychology because of really being able to empathise with the difficulties people can have with mental health, because of my own difficulties, and because of the challenge of working with the complexity of the mind which is never straight forward or easy to understand. In a parallel universe I think I would still be a Psychologist... unless I was filthy rich and then I'd be travelling the world and engaging in some philanthropic international work.

Clinical Leader in Dementia

2024-02-15 14:46:24 UTC

I started work in the NHS as a doctor in 1990 and have sent much of that time working as a GP and then with an extended role in Older People.I have loved my clinical work and have got a huge buzz out of the leadership and management side of my work. It has always given me a sense of purpose and knowing people have benefitted from my work as a doctor gives me a great deal of satisfaction.In a parallel universe I always saw myself as a teacher though I always wished to be more creative! but you are what you are and should celebrate that

Passionate

2024-02-18 14:30:54 UTC

I am passionate about the work that I do, in part because I have suffered with mental ill health myself but because I want to help the people that access our services.

2024-02-19 18:02:00 UTC

I am a senior leader in NHS England, working in ICS development. I left journalism to work in the NHS almost 25 years ago, and couldn't see myself working anywhere other than the NHS. It is under my skin and I feel passionate about the NHS as an institution, and as a concept, and am immensely proud to work alongside all of the amazing people, doing such a wide range of jobs, across the NHS as a whole. In a parallel universe, I would be a speech and language therapist. I got a place to do an MA in Linguistics after university, but couldn't afford the fees. That's a big regret, as I could have been working more closely with patients than I currently do.

Medical Registrar

2024-02-22 17:41:49 UTC

I am a Geriatric registrar in South Yorkshire.

I remember writing in my personal statement all those years ago that I wanted to be a doctor 'to understand how things work.' I now realise I want to be a doctor to advocate for those who are vulnerable or unable to advocate for themselves.

When you take away all the institutional stressors and time pressures love my role as a geriatric registrar. My love for my job has grown somewhat since becoming part time however - I now believe it would be impossible to fulfil my duties on a full time contract. Being part time has allowed me to find other interests and areas where I can apply my skills and knowledge.

In a parallel world, I would be a geriatrician but in a well funded and functioning NHS.

2024-02-27 11:58:19 UTC

I am a community Occupational Therapist working in physical health. Before this I had a full career as a teacher and Special Needs Co-ordinator (SENDCo).

I am motivated by fulfilling a role where 'on a good day' I make a difference to people's lives and the quality of life they are able to achieve, enabling them to succeed. This theme has been important to me throughout my working life.

I work in the NHS in Somerset.

2024-03-01 01:27:20 UTC

I am an occupational therapist within an acute hospital. I have been an OT for 19 years.

My role has evolved over the years from newly qualified therapist eager to learn about all specialities related to occupations and their impact to those experiencing deficits with managing through either a long term health condition or life changing event. To now a team lead and clinical specialist within A&E, but just about to embark on a new role

I became an OT because I wanted to help individuals be the person they want to be. I am curious and i am a problem solver, but also believe people have the ability to understand how they can manage health related incidences if given the tools and resources to aid them in this process. I wanted to work with them to enable them to reach their potential and to work towards their goals that are meaningful and purposeful to them. Seeing the person as a whole not the sum of their condition, Injury or deficits.

In a parallel universe I would see myself in some kind of advocacy role.

Rehabilitation Case Manager

2024-03-02 18:08:17 UTC

I work in the Independent Sector as a Rehabilitation Case Manager. I do what I do because I can create bespoke personalised life long rehabilitation and support packages to promote a good quality of life for people and their families after life changing injuries. I often work in partnership with NHS Services and Social Care and always feel a sense of joy to collaborate to find solutions in very complex scenarios. I feel that the ethos of rehabilitation, creativity, advocacy and team work have attracted me to this role and these are aspects of my clinical practice as a neurological physiotherapist which continue to be a part of my practice as a Case Manager. I also lead on research projects and professional development for our service as part of our quality improvement and assurance systems.

In a parallel universe I would be a a phenomenal story teller either writing books, travel writing or screen writing.

2024-03-06 17:29:56 UTC

I am a Physiotherapist working in a senior quality role.

I chose this role because I wanted to make a difference and make positive changes. I was getting frustrated with seeing the same challenges but having little impact on making these better. The change in role has enabled me to engage with many more team members and to work on making positive change, supporting staff and considering how we can impact staff engagement and wellbeing as well as encouraging team members to get involved.

In a parallel universe I would still be doing something to help others but something that would involve sport and travelling or a combination of both.

2024-03-07 14:40:33 UTC

I work as a Directorate Assistant in NHS Scotland and lead a large team of Admin Staff, based in a few different hospitals.

Although my job can be very challenging at times, I believe it’s a true privilege to work towards bettering people’s lives. I’m very passionate about diversity in our teams and one of my main focuses is developing my staff through learning. I believe that by sharing experiences, we can all learn from each other and do our jobs better.

In a parallel universe, I would more than likely be a Vet or a Marine Biologist as I’m obsessed with animals.

Just another anaesthetist

2024-03-11 16:20:40 UTC

I'm nothing special. Just an anaesthetist who cares deeply about the team and the experience we all have of work. I want work to be a positive experience in as many of my colleagues lives as possible, just as it is in mine. The system needs to make our lives easier than they are, and we need to work with civility, just culture and from a safety II mindset.

Pharmacy Technician

2024-03-12 14:53:36 UTC

I am a Pharmacy Technician within NHS Lothian Primary Care Central Services Team and also a Programme Officer on secondment with National Education Scotland. I love my job working within central services delivering multiple core services across the primary care sector. I also love delivering education to other pharmacy technicians at all levels of there careers across NHS Scotland. I myself have Dyslexia and have made it my personal goal to share my knowledge and help those with additional learning requirements. I myself are living proof that with the right support and determination anything is possible.

What do I do

2024-03-12 15:12:16 UTC

I am an assistant service manager for an acute service. I do this because I am passionate about doing something that makes a difference, making the NHS more sustainable and providing a safe and happy place to work. It matters to me that I am contributing to safe and effective patient care.

In a parallel universe I'd probably be doing something a bit more creative.. writing children's stories or illustrating

2024-03-13 14:55:34 UTC

I am a Speech and Language Therapy service lead. I would tell you I fell in to SLT because they were first to offer me a place at Uni, despite having despised my work experience with them (too much saliva for me!). However, it really has been the perfect career for me - I love to talk and I love people. Although now I seem to deal a lot more with numbers :(. But I seek out my people both at work and home. Joy in Work and then Wellbeing more generally have become part of my role, along with QI (still befuddles me at times). I've always been the soft one in the team, the one people talk to, the one who would bend the rules to make sure people are ok. And now I get to try to influence the whole department in looking out for each other more, in having a plan for how we ensure we're doing the best we can for each other, and in putting ourselves at the centre.

In a parallel universe I am a midwife, delivering perfect little babies (without all the blood and screaming) and making families very happy - or working in a vineyard in the sun somewhere :)

Hello, I am a Senior Occupational Therapist working in a Homeless Healthcare Mental Health team, as a Care Coordinator

2024-03-14 12:01:27 UTC

I changed from older people's mental health to adult mental health in 2018, as my father had advanced Alzheimer's disease, and it felt like I was surrounded 24/7 by dementia.

I love my role, and my patient group, most of whom have no family and few friends to support them, as well as multiple issues with mental and physical health and often substance use, which is common as a self medication tool.

I feel I can act as an advocate on their behalf, ensure they receive all the support and benefits they are entitled but most important offer validation to their concerns, traumas and life experiences.

I tried to retire in 2021, but got really depressed so returned to the same role in 2022; I experienced two significant bereavements last December, my son and my father, and have just returned to work, but have found that, in spite of my fears that I would no longer be able to cope, work has given me a glimmer of who I used to be. I'm not seeing patients face to face just yet, but I'm hoping to gradually return to working with an amazing group of people, most of whom have experienced terrible traumas in childhood or adulthood, resulting in them living outside the systems most of us depend on.

If you look at the average life expectancy for an individual who has experienced homelessness, it is in the 40s, shameful for a first world country. This makes me passionate to ensure that my patients received the help they absolutely deserve

2024-03-14 23:03:45 UTC

Hi, I am Leigh Williams. I am a Clinical Lead for the District Nursing Service and the Bladder and Bowel Service with NHS Lothian

I have worked for the NHS for almost 16 years and have adapted, learned and gained so much valuable experience from it.

I love being within the community service and being involved in a patient's journey of being cared for at home. This is very special to me.

In a parallel universe I would be out up in the hills walking my dogs in a sunny climate daily!

2024-03-18 16:18:12 UTC

I am an Admin Team Lead and fairly new in post. I have no previous experience of managing a team and initially, when I was told I would be moved to this role, I said NO!

I had no interest in people management and was sure I wouldn't like it. In fact, I was determined to be so bad at it they would have to find me another job. (For context, my substantive post was given to someone else substantively while I was on secondment for two years).

Seven months later, I thoroughly enjoy my new job and have had a really positive impact on my team of 7. I have watched them grow from a group that work together to a team that support each other and I find it hugely rewarding.

I have previously been an Adult Mental Health Support Worker and also a Care Navigator, in bed management for inpatient units.

My dream job would be a Children's Social Worker, but I am not in a position to afford being a full time student with a home to run and the NHS don't offer a programme for SW like they do for nurses.

2024-03-19 11:49:20 UTC

I work in analytical and management role. I do my job to try and make the jobs of my colleagues, especially clinical colleagues, easier. I see my role as someone in a non-clinical position to make delivery of patient care for clinical colleagues as easy and rewarding as possible.

Supporting everyone else.....

2024-03-19 14:38:46 UTC

But I wonder who is supporting me. I am a Practice Manager with an unmanageable workload. 33 staff and 5 GP partners that that I care about and a struggling PCN that adds to my already 55 hour week.

We have had to document all we do for staff health and wellbeing this year, and as this is work we get paid for I was happy to do it. The documenting I mean, the doing it comes naturally and is my favourite part of the job. Completing the submission was very reflective, looking back at everything we had done over the year to support the health and wellbeing of our teams, gave me a real boost.

Telling them they can't have a payrise above minimum wage this year has been devastating. They understand that a 2% uplift will not cover a 10% increase, but understanding that does not put food on their table, let alone reward them for the amazing work they do.

No wonder I don't sleep well :(

2024-03-25 11:40:57 UTC

I am now an Operational Manager for Cellular Pathology and Mortuary Services. I started out as a Medical laboratory Scientist. I had no idea then about moving into management. I looked at Medicine, nursing and pharmacy before going to University. I also very nearly applied for the Foreign Office. I took part in work experience within NHS Labs at high school and I remember the staff telling me I didn't want to be doing that for a living.. But I knew it was exactly what I wanted to do, to get those results out there. I also knew it was always Histopathology- using my hands, the anatomy and getting in there and dirty, perfect! In a parallel universe I imagine i would have pursued Forensics, but hey this way I get to do a bit of everything.

Medical Staffing

2024-04-02 12:16:07 UTC

I am a Head of Medical Staffing in the NHS and enjoy a 'love-hate' relationship with my work. I love working with my team and wider teams. There is a real sense of cohesion between areas where we understand we are ultimately working towards the same goal. The best service provision for patients, putting them and their safety first.

The hate part is the stress added into the mix from various sources, including execs, external stakeholders and occasionally colleagues.

I consider myself very lucky to be working for the NHS and am proud of my and my team's contribution to the organisation as a whole.

2024-04-05 13:13:51 UTC

I am a Health Visiting Team Manager . I manage a team of thirty staff. I love my job and the team I manage are the greatest asset.

I always wanted to be a paediatric nurse, and worked in the acute setting for a few years and the opportunity to study Health Visiting came along. I wanted to prevent some of the admissions we had through A&E. I've worked in Health Visiting for over twenty years, even teaching Health Visiting at University for a short time. Health Visiting is a role that is not high profile within the NHS, the difference a Health Visitor can make to a child and family is immense, especially in Scotland with the Universal Pathway.

In a parallel universe, if I wasn't a Health Visitor I would be running a dance school, probably still working as a nurse though as I've been a nurse for over thirty years and can't imagine doing anything else.

2024-04-08 12:00:08 UTC

Having worked within the NHS for the last 16 years across multiple departments and specialties, I can honestly say that there is no other place like it, ups and downs along the way but we are always here to support each other and every single person I have ever worked with has always wanted to put the patients first. In the UK we are so privileged to have the "National Heath Service" and I think working within it seeing it from the inside out just makes you appreciate it all the more.

2024-04-09 07:21:11 UTC

I am a Clinical Nurse Specialist working in NHS Scotland with children and adolescents with chronic disease. I work in a small MD team and I love my job, especially supporting adolescent patients.

I love what I do because I feel I can -or we can as a team- make a real difference to a child or young person's life during difficult times.

In a parallel universe I would live by the sea and run a small coffee/cake shop and be an integral part of the community.

! :)

2024-04-12 11:22:34 UTC

I am an admin/secretary in a GP Surgery.

I do what I do because I am good at it.

In a parallel universe, I would be a psychologist or a singer.

2024-04-12 15:00:08 UTC

I work in a corporate role in Unscheduled Care (Strategic Planning). I support the Programme Director, Programme Managers, Programme Board and Committee to deliver the key priorities and improvement programme, with the overall aim to improve performance. I do what I do as I get a satisfaction from seeing the work being undertaken to make positive improvements and to "make a difference" to the patient experience. I hope to progress into Project Management in the future. In a parallel universe, I would love to be in a more creative job, perhaps a craftsperson / carpenter, designing and creating bespoke furniture or giving new life to old unwanted pieces.

A Mindful Journey

2024-04-12 20:17:27 UTC

I work in NHS Lothian for the Patient Experience Team as a Complaints Triage Officer. Its a fairly new role for me, still learning, still developing skills and knowledge to support patients. The triage team and management have been so supportive and welcoming, the best. Its a very busy department, and can be stressful due to the nature of the role and dealing with confrontational and sometimes upset individuals.

To maintain balance and self-care I practice mindfulness and was given the opportunity through NHS Lothian to train as a mindfulness teacher in 2019. Health and mental wellbeing in the workplace has been my passion and driver, and align with mindfulness meditation.

I am so grateful to NHS Lothian for funding my development so that I can continue to support our patients and staff.

Proud to work in the NHS to support our local community

2024-04-16 11:44:51 UTC

I am a Practice Manager at a GP Surgery and I am passionate about the health and wellbeing of our community and our team. Post pandemic, and as a new mother trying to juggle home and work, I am so invested workforce health and wellbeing that I have just become the local Fellow in this field. This allows me to learn, educate and promote resources to Primary Care in Norfolk and Waveney. I love that my job is challenging in different ways everyday and I get a lot of job satisfaction from the feeling of genuinely helping people.

2024-04-18 10:15:57 UTC

I have been in the NHS for over 24 years, in different health boards/jobs. I thoroughly enjoy my job, even although the past 3 years have been very challenging for everyone. The NHS feels like a big, dysfunctional family all striving for the same goal.

In a parallel universe I would live on a very remote island by myself!!

I work in Audiology part-time, and in Staff Wellbeing for the remainder of my working hours. I have always worked in public sector jobs, and for the NHS for the last 21 years.

2024-04-18 10:57:45 UTC

I think I like working in healthcare because I like helping people. I get a reward from knowing I have helped someone feel they are managing their health condition or wellbeing more effectively. I also find the training available, working conditions and benefits of working for the NHS are good, and have been supportive of my needs over the years.

Many of my influences and inspirations regarding work come from my family, who generally work in jobs helping people, or my friends, who have similar aspirations and outlook to me.

I'm very proud of the NHS as an institution, and am proud to say I work for it.

My ideal job would always involve helping people, but perhaps in a different environment, such as a public library, or bookshop.

2024-04-21 07:50:02 UTC

I work as a General Practitioner in the NHS, I also work representing GP colleagues. I enjoy my job, it feels good to help others and having been at the same practice for many years I often experience the joy of continuity of care, seeing the patient who has had major difficulties come out the other side, seeing patients recover from major health challenges, I feel grateful to the patients who choose to see me again. Every member of our team has a common goal, to do the best for our patients. Negative emotions in the work place often stem from when our goal is challenged and the worst kind of challenge is the one you cannot control. Excessive workload, limited resources and a climate of constant change with moving goal posts mean the reality of my working life is at times unpleasant. I value my colleagues, my patients and myself knowing I have the skills to have a positive impact and I hope I bring some positivity into my workplace. In a parallel universe I would work as a yoga and fitness instructor in a warmer country by the sea.

2024-04-26 21:10:21 UTC

Everything I do in life, I want to give something back, whether it is work, personal life and I would like to teach something to make things better. I work as a clinical system trainer and I only have been working for NHS 11 years. I feel sometimes, I wish that I started way before than I guess , the experiences and knowledge wouldn't be the same. I thrive when I see people are positive, supportive and encouraging each other and I set myself as an example. In the end we all want the greater good: happiness. In a parallel universe, I think I would be travelling, meeting new people and building schools and ensuring they have teachers to educate kids.

Respiratory Nurse

2024-04-29 02:07:34 UTC

AS an acute respiratory nurse with over 20 years experience, the NHS has changed enormously since I firsdt qualified. The role, job demands .... quality v efficiency, staff sickness, training requirements needed post qualification. Demands on time from both personal and work life affect the ability to perform well.

2024-04-29 09:39:22 UTC

I am a Trainee Clinical Scientist working in Fertility services. I have always had a passion to help people and make a difference. With my job, there is bad news but it is the good news and the positive outcomes that keep you going. The fact that as a team we have changed someone's life for the better is a feeling you cannot beat! And every patient is always so grateful.

In a parallel universe, I would be a professional netball player (would need to be a bit taller first!).

I work in a small staff health and wellbeing team for an NHS Trust, and part of my role is to lead our large staff network of health and wellbeing champions. I have always worked in health improvement and I understand how investing in your health and wellbeing and supporting others to do the same positively impacts the workforce.

2024-05-03 08:57:24 UTC

2024-05-10 10:33:52 UTC

I am a deputy chief technician for a large and one of the countries busiest aseptic departments. I am also the lead for education and training within this team.

I started in community pharmacy and moved to hospital 6 years ago where I stared as a band 3 ATO. I completed my tech course but now within my aseptic team we are very diverse with many different backgrounds and having qualified techs is becoming something of the past.

Nuclear Medicine and PET/CT Technologist

2024-05-11 15:24:00 UTC

I am a Technologist working in Nuclear Medicine and PET/CT.

I love what I do. Support people through scans many times complicated and at difficult moments.

In a parallel universe I think I would be a Mathematician or a Software Developer

Why I do the job I do

2024-05-17 10:44:11 UTC

I work as a project support officer within a community children's mental health service. I do this job as I believe the work I undertake behind the scenes goes towards helping the young people who are under our care. I have amazing support from other members of the service and I really do love my job.

Always looking for improvements

2024-05-22 14:57:11 UTC

I work in communications as the digital communications lead in a very large acute Trust. I've been in the NHS for 10 years now after working for a global IT company and then a well-known animal charity in marketing and digital project roles. After working in the corporate sector and taking a year out to travel I came back home and decided I wanted to use my skills to make a difference. I'm passionate about using digital technology to introduce more efficiencies in what we do and also improve communication with staff and patients. The lack of money and slow pace of digital adoption (and literacy) in my Trust is often frustrating but it does mean that there are endless opportunities to make improvements - even on a small scale. It's for this reason, and working with the loveliest colleagues you could wish for, that I stay. I can't actually imagine doing anything else right now but I would like more time and money to travel, go to music festivals and live a healthier lifestyle!

Clinical Nurse Specialist HIV

2024-05-26 10:51:07 UTC

I have been a qualified nurse for almost 26 years, with almost 12 of those at CNS level. I love my work/role and I can't imagine being anything other than a nurse (despite my dad being against it and in another world I might be teaching French and/or German). My career has gone with the flow, I had no a-b plan to work in sexual health and HIV - it has come from experiences, mentors and job satisfaction at a given time.

I get to work autonomously with patients and still love providing direct patient care. However, progress and development has brought me to a role that integrates patient care with management and strategic responsibilities.

The reason I do what I do is probably about impact and making a difference to and for people.

2024-05-30 10:31:13 UTC

I'm a Physiotherapy working in a very remote and rural area, that has seen significant impact post covid on frailty and physical activity. I have responsibility for falls and frailty in the wider area.

I've only recently come back to the NHS after having 9 years away from my profession, after making the decision that my family needed to be put first. But with my family being older I've come back to support my colleagues during what are really challenging times.

In a parallel universe I would run a book and coffee shop with some really good home baked cakes. Although it would probably be in the area of the country where I currently live as it's absolutely beautiful.

2024-06-10 09:28:00 UTC

I am a Radiographer who works in Nuclear Medicine for the NHS. What I value most about my work is the autonomy within my role and feeling secure in my skills. One of the biggest influences in my attitude to work is that saying "you should work to live, not live to work". Therefore having a job that means I can't take work home with me (although sometimes mentally), is something that I have really grown to appreciate. Work satisfies my psychological needs as I enjoy being challenged and problem solving is a key part of my role and is something that I do daily.

In a parallel universe I would like to think that I run an all-in-one bookshop/coffee house/bar and work in a hot country.

Health visiting team manager

2024-06-10 10:26:55 UTC

I am a team manager of multiple health visiting teams and a 0-5 childhood immunisation team in NHS Lothian. My background is in paediatric nursing then progressing to health visiting. I have always had a passion for advocating for the children and families I have cared for, ensuring they have the right support, have access to opportunities and are able to have the best outcomes individual to their needs. I got great job satisfaction from this and enjoy the impact a good relationship can have. I feel within the NHS we always try hard and go above and beyond for the people we support; however, I don’t think we are as good at doing this with our colleagues and staff. This was one of the driving forces behind me coming into the role of management. Within this role I can continue to have a positive impact for children and families by driving the service forward, but I can also impact on staff. I have a genuine passion for the wellbeing of my staff and strive to ensure they feel fully supported. Work is a huge part of our lives and it’s important to feel valued in this area, respected and fulfilled. I strive to show compassion and empathy, listening to staff and helping them navigate any stressors or challenges. We all have lives outside of work which can throw up additional challenges and we know how this can impact on our relationship and mindset with work. I always aim to be that supportive person a staff member can turn to. This role is undoubtedly the most challenging role I have had, as a team manager is often the sounding board for all things negative however I enjoy creating safe spaces, celebrating my staff and supporting them through their careers, encouraging them to see and focus on the positives. One of the most influential people in my life was a previous team manager and that inspired me for this role as I would love to be that person and have that same impact for others.

2024-06-19 11:33:56 UTC

I'm a consultant in anaesthetics and critical care, and have worked in the NHS for almost 20 years. I work in a medium-sized department which is a pretty tight-knit community, and am lucky to have a bunch of really excellent, supportive colleagues.

When I was a kid, I wanted to be a vet, but in the end humans won out. I never saw myself ending up in the specialty I've chosen, and stumbled into anaesthetics & ICU when I was originally training in the Emergency Department. Can't complain about making the switch, and I love the balance of colleague, patient and family interaction I get on a daily basis, in a hands-on job that is different pretty much every day. The work I do lends itself (mostly) reasonably well to working LTFT, which has allowed me a bit more balance since I've become a mum of 3 as well.

In a parallel universe, I'd be an archaeologist (am thinking Indiana Jones-style...) or would run a bookshop/cafe, whilst hanging out with my kids & family, friends and a bunch of cats, dogs and horses. Can but dream!

2024-07-04 15:43:21 UTC

I trained as a Learning Disability Nurse (RNMH in the 90's) and now work as an Organisational Development Consultant in the NHS. I came to this post after 19 years in the area of developing support services for unpaid carers. I do what I do because my intention is to make a positive difference through my day to day work no matter how big or small. I like variety and every person is different and every day is different and our healthcare services and those who work in them need to be nurtured and given spaces to grow and I am privileged and grateful to be able to play a part in this.

In a parallel universe I would take therapy ponies to places where they would brighten the day for people or run a beautiful B&B somewhere in the Greek Islands!

2024-07-08 09:13:12 UTC

I work as a clinical lead in Responsive services, working to keep patients out of hospital and support them in their own homes. I am a physiotherapist but am currently working non clinically, managing clinicians which works for me and my work life balance.

I have worked for the NHS for 17 years since graduating and have seen the shift and challenges over this time. I do what I do because I want to support patients in their own homes, help them maintain their independence, which will inevitably support the individual patients but help to reduce the pressure on acute hospitals.

In a parallel universe I would be working as a genealogist.

Anonymus

2024-07-08 14:45:48 UTC

I am a team lead for adults with complex needs. I am passionate about health and well being of our patients and staff.

It is mostly rewarding when you put a smile on someone's face.

Ensuring that staff are well supported during crises or difficult situation has always been my goal as a peer supporter. The positive impact and the feedback it has makes it worthwhile to go that extra mile to care for our staff and patients well.

In the parallel universe, i would have a cafe that opens 3 times a week just to meet and chat with people.

2024-07-10 09:52:37 UTC

I work within learning and development for AHPs but was a clinician prior to this. I do this role to understand and nurture a culture to make learning and development accessible which I think is really important to engage and retain staff who can provide high quality care. I used to have a split post between this and my clinical role but with family commitments I needed to choose one- if I had my way I'd probably still be doing a bit of both.

In a parallel universe I think I would like to write kids stories...

2024-07-11 14:32:52 UTC

I am driven to make a difference to the lives of others through strong leadership and a passion for the wellbeing and development of others.

2024-07-16 16:52:19 UTC

I'm currently a student nurse in the final year of my degree.

I chose this career as it's so rewarding and you can make a difference to people everyday. Even if it's one person you still feel like you've made a difference. It gives me huge satisfaction knowing that I am able to help others in times of need, and I get to work with some amazing people who are so knowledgeable and kind.

In a parallel universe I would be an athlete competing professionally.

2024-07-30 11:50:39 UTC

I work in Health and Wellbeing and Organisational Development and I do what I do because I want people to feel good at work and be able to fulfill their potential. Life is too short not to live it well and I want to support others to be able to do this. I do this for the NHS because I believe strongly we should all have the right to free healthcare when we need it, so it's an organisation I'm proud of.

I'm a Team Lead - Medical Secretary

2024-08-08 13:21:57 UTC

I'm a Team Lead - Medical Secretary within NHS Lothian. I worked in the private sector for 33yrs and prior to that the WRNS for 5yrs. During the pandemic, WFH and time to reflect on self, realised I wasn't fulfilled in my job so started thinking about what I wanted and determined that I wanted to give back and work within my local community. My eldest daughter is an Advanced Pupil Support Worker and my youngest daughter is a Charge Nurse. I do a lot of voluntary work, but that wasn't enough. So, I managed to get a job within NHS Lothian - I walk to work (helps with my mental well-being) and I feel like I'm contributing and doing something worthwhile :-)

2024-08-18 11:00:46 UTC

I am a Clinical Nurse Manager in Primary Care,

I do what I do as I like to work as part of a team and enjoy being part of developing services which make a difference to patients, particularly how they access services. I enjoy working with others and supporting staff I work with make a tangible difference in the lives of patients by ensuring they receive the best possible care.

In a parallel universe, I would be living in the countryside somewhere warm caring for dogs in a place with open fields, water, and plenty of space to explore.

2024-08-20 13:19:36 UTC

I work as a consultant in Acute and General Medicine. I started work in 1996 so heading towards 30 years in the NHS

I am lucky to have chosen a career that I never realised I would enjoy as much as I have until now. I love the fact we are so privileged to spend time involved in peoples lives. Often when they may be at their most vulnerable and if we get it right we can change the way they feel about the situation they find themselves in.

I get sad when I see my younger colleagues not enjoying their work in the way that I do. I hope that if we can bring the focus back to the patients and the impact all of us can have on any individual patient or those that are closest to them, this could change. We may not be able to impact the whole system or change the economy but we do control how we interact with those around us and can influence the culture of a department through role modelling.

I remain optimistic that we can work through the current difficult times and create a new way of working that supports both patients, their loved ones and the staff looking after them. We need to go back to the beginning and think what drove us to start the journey that we are all on and how we do the best for the patients in front of us rather than focusing on the larger failings in the service.

Payback

2024-08-21 09:04:58 UTC

I started my career in Pharmacy however life took me on an adventure to Australia for 6 years where I travelled and worked any job I could find.

After I returned to the UK I meandered from job to job liking all of them but not truly loving any.

It was not until my Mum spent nearly a year in hospital and ultimately passed away that I thought I should be doing something I loved. I also felt in some way I wanted to "pay back" the orginasation that looked after not only my Mum but us all during this horrific time.

I applied for the NHS Pharmacy Technician post 2 months after my Mum passed away and now every day (no matter how bad) I am proud and pleased that I am part of an orginisation that's prime objective is to make peoples lives better at the most challenging times.

2024-09-02 15:33:36 UTC

I am an Admin Team Lead for a health board in Scotland. I enjoy my role for several reasons. I work with a great team, and enjoy the social aspect I get from work. As I have people management responsibilities, I try to influence the work environment to make it positive and supportive for staff as much as possible. I also feel I am positively contributing to patient care/experience in an administrative capacity, for example, offering cancelled appointments to other patients. In a parallel universe, I would be doing something creative. Or I would be a marine biologist!

2024-09-02 15:45:58 UTC

I am a lead nurse in a practitioner led minor injuries unit.

We are a small but dynamic team providing high quality care to those patients with acute injuries. I am passionate about patients receiving the best quality care from highly skilled practitioners and supporting my team to do this. I am passionate that they have access to ongoing CPD and education to ensure they achieve their own goals as well as those of the organisation.

I have only ever wanted to be a nurse, but in a parallel universe I might like to be a restaurant critic.

I have worked in the NHS for 30+ years. I was forced to leave a ward manager post 7 yrs ago due to ill health. I loved my job and when I left it was like a bereavement. I have changed jobs twice since and I am now again in a manger position in community public health. I love my post. My team are great and feel so fortunate to have a job I love unlike so many in the NHS. Reflecting on my own ability and attitude to work will help me empower my team.

2024-09-12 13:26:57 UTC

2024-10-30 11:20:47 UTC

I have always wanted to help people and feel I have a keen sense of justice. These are beliefs I have held since I was young. My current job allows me to exercise these beliefs and to try and make a difference supporting some of the most marginalised groups in society.

2024-12-09 08:26:00 UTC

I am a pharmacist of nearly 20 years. I have always specialised in Cancer & Technical Services and really enjoy the tangible aspects of making doses that will physically go to a patient.

Working in cancer I appreciate the cost of some of the drugs we use are beyond the reach of most working people - so much so people die in other developed countries because they can't afford the drugs under other healthcare systems. It makes me really appreciate the importance of the NHS and how we must all do our part to preserve it.

It would have to be a parrallel world where the NHS didn't exist but as I love to sew perhaps I would be a tailor and help make all the beautiful costumes on strictly!

My work

2025-01-09 15:53:01 UTC

I'm a Project Support Officer running to admin and communications for a small team of NHS funded youth workers.

Our specialist area is low level mental health support for young people. I love my job because I am able to see the benefits of our teams early intervention and prevention.

In a parallel universe I would be immensely rich, love on a luxury yacht and fund incredible experiences for all the young people we help.

At present, I currently work for a booking office for Radiology. This isn’t my dream job, it was a position that I was successful for after returning from maternity leave.

2025-02-26 16:15:06 UTC

I am an inspiring project manager / project support manager within healthcare, I have recently passed a PM Qualification, along with a few other small courses which have given me some great knowledge.

I am very looking forward to progressing my career within the NHS after taking a few years in a lower band job to focus on family.

I think if things were different I’d like to work as a paramedic.

2025-03-22 15:09:43 UTC

I'm an anaesthetist, with an interest in obstetrics and staff wellbeing.

Initially I did medicine because I was good at science and had a vague desire to help people. Now I do it because I love being there for people in moments of deepest vulnerability and helping them by being competent and kind. Being part of bringing new life into the world is wonderful.

I'm passionate about staff wellbeing because we lost my sister in law (a paediatrician) to suicide recently, and I think Kate could have done with more compassion and care from her colleagues. I'm trying to be the change.

2025-05-22 08:56:29 UTC

I am a Physiotherapy Assistant and work in the community. I have worked in the NHS for the past 12 years and learned a lot about myself in that time. which I thank the NHS for. I came into the NHS by accident after a physio said I would be good at the assistant roles within so I applied and never looked back.

I love what I do and enjoy helping children in their rehab and taking them through their rebab journey. I greet with a smile and they always enjoy my sessions.

in a parallel universe I would be travelling around in a VW campervan with my tentbox with the husband and Springer discovering lots of adventures in the wilderness.

2025-08-27 09:30:42 UTC

I work in the NHS as a physiotherapist, and have worked in the same trust for 23 years. I knew I wanted to be a physiotherapist from the age of 15, and have loved the profession ever since. I get a sense of worth by helping others, the continuous learning motivates me, and I work with like minded colleagues who have become great friends. My job is a big part of my identity, and I enjoy it (mostly) despite increasing pressures, financial cuts, I have managed to negotiate a career that works for me and keeps a balance

2025-10-17 16:23:02 UTC

I am a Principal Epidemiologist in Public Health Scotland, working on surveillance of respiratory infectious diseases.
I believe in public health. To solve a problem you first need to be able to measure it, and to prove or disprove that public health interventions are working you need to be able to study c change outcomes. I know we will never "solve" infectious diseases but to keep up in the arms race against them we need to know the enemy!
Studying volcanoes (including field trips!) or owning a bookshop/ coffee shop where I don't need to make money to survive but can just read and chat to customers all day.