3 minute read
FORCES FRIENDLY EMPLOYER
When army reservist Helen Robertshaw embarked on a summer training operation in Croatia, she didn’t have to worry about telling her boss – he went along too!
The Army’s ‘Op Boss Drop’ programme lets reservists show their employers the skills they learn on training camps.
Helen’s manager John Thompson spent three days observing how the training might be used for her role at Ashworth Hospital’s patient possessions team. For Helen it was a chance to showcase the Trust as a supportive employer.
“I invited John to showcase Mersey Care’s commitment to the Armed Forces Covenant, which commits an employer to support veterans and be an attractive place to work for anyone from the military services.
“In previous jobs I’d not had a holiday in years because I had to use my holiday entitlement for Army training. At Mersey Care they recognise that I’m working. I’m given time on top of my annual leave towards mandatory training, and I use my own holidays to do extra sessions.
“The Army Reserves is like a family and Mersey Care is trying to replicate that by having a network for people with similar life experiences.”
Helen followed the Croatia exercise with a mountaineering expedition to Iceland.
“When I get opportunities to develop new skills, it’s fantastic to know the Trust will support me. The Army plans to increase numbers of reservists, so in future people will want to work for an employer who will accommodate that. Once you’ve had that you won’t want to leave.”
Why did she join the Reserves? “I wanted to join the Army, but life took over and I didn’t want to move away from friends and family. I was working in a supermarket opposite my reserve squadron. I’d chat to people and thought it seemed like a great balance, staying near friends and family but getting to do all these amazing things.
It impacts every bit of your life, all the amazing things I’ve done in my life have in some way come from the Army. It even got me my job; my skills in logistics were what they were looking for. It’s the best thing I’ve ever done.”
Mersey Care is a member of the Armed Forces Covenant, which recognises those who have performed military duty for their country and demonstrates their valuable contribution. The Trust has been awarded Gold in the Defence Employer Recognition Scheme as a supportive, forces friendly employer.
Associate director for carer engagement Ann Hanlon said: “We have an inspirational team of people who champion and support veterans and recognise the many transferable skills, training and experience they richly bring to our Trust. We’re delighted to receive the Gold Award, but our work has only just begun.”
To get involved please contact ann.hanlon@merseycare.nhs.uk or faye.williams@merseycare.nhs.uk.
For more information visit: merseycare.nhs.uk
Spread Your Wings
If you’re interested in finding out more about working for Mersey Care, visit: merseycare.nhs.uk/working-us
