5 minute read
FROM THE HEAD
existing roles to accommodate a very quickly evolving situation. My clinical background allowed me to provide a wider range of support. For the first few weeks, I also had the added pressure and uncertainty of what and where my role was going to be, and whether or not I was part of the tier to be called back into operational duties in some capacity, which was a challenging time for me and my family.
The biggest challenge [is] the feeling of not having enough hours in a day to accommodate all the demands needed.
Can you tell us more about some of the other work that you have taken on to support colleagues and patients over the past few months?
My role at present is managing information under the Data Protection Act 2018 and the Freedom of Information Scotland Act 2002. This involves all enquiries received from, but not limited to, internal staff, members of the public, patients, partner NHS bodies and Police Scotland. COVID-19 has brought an increased demand of new and challenging questions and considerations about new procedures, which has required my support to lots of different departments and staff.
What are you most proud of in the work you do?
I am so proud of being able to help others. I have helped patients and members of the public directly in a clinical setting and am now realising that there is the same importance in helping others in every role fulfilled.
What has been the biggest challenge for you over the past months?
The biggest challenge has been managing my work and family life, with two girls aged four and three, and the feeling of not having enough hours in a day to accommodate all the demands.
The outpouring of support for the NHS and other key workers was quite rightly massive. How important is it that we maintain that support and recognition for those in these roles?
I would agree that it is incredibly important to maintain the recognition for all NHS staff and every key worker and not underestimate the importance of the roles and positions individuals have chosen to fulfil for their careers to support life and the functions of our society.
Thinking about young people leaving school or graduating now, what would you say to them about considering a role in the health and care sector?
I would say go for it and explore all options that are available. There are so many new roles and specialities being created as the world adapts and changes. I have always wanted to work in the health and care sector as it is something that was always known and comfortable to me. I have found it a hugely rewarding experience and all my colleagues and family would agree, albeit through a lot of hard work.
How would you say this experience has changed you or made you think differently?
This experience and its outcome is unique to every person. I have realised that I am not afraid of any challenge presented to me but that I need to be as caring to myself as I strive to provide for everyone else.
When you get time away from work what are you happiest doing?
I am happiest with my family and spending time exercising; with a paintbrush, a pack of seeds or a hammer in my hand, gardening, painting and creating new things out of old things.
Where is your favourite place on the planet? (When you are allowed to go there again!)
My favourite place is Caye Caulker, Belize. I spent some time there after university gaining my PADI Diving qualifications. What I loved most was the island’s motto of “Go Slow” which was significant for me when compared to the normal hectic daily schedule.
How long have been a St George’s parent?
Since May 2019.
What has been your experience of the school community overall?
I have found St George’s to be very welcoming, friendly and a supportive environment. All the staff have been very helpful and I cannot say a bigger thank you to all the Nursery staff for the care and support that they have provided to me and my family during this challenging time.
What support have you had from the school during the current pandemic crisis?
My husband and I are both key workers, who were suddenly thrown into a societal situation of increased demands and pressures. We found the Nursery staff to be extremely informed, supportive and understanding of the situation that we were in and had open communication throughout. We were fortunate to have our two girls attend their emergency (key worker) places for a few weeks towards the end of the school year and they have continued to receive care through the Holiday Club over the summer. We have had full confidence and reassurance in the care and kindness provided to them.
What were your own experiences and memories of your school?
Growing up, I moved about between various countries due to my parents’ careers and consequently changed schools more often than most. I found it hard moving and having to adapt to a new country and a completely different education system each time. It was hard establishing new friendships and adapting to the different local behaviours and practices. Saying that, I enjoyed my school years and all the experiences I undertook and faced.
What sort of influence did school have on you as you look back now?
COVID-19 has allowed me a time of reflection and, even as I write this, it has been an exercise of consideration of many things. Looking back, my experiences of school have given me the strength and confidence to deal with new challenges and the ability to push myself to lead rather than to follow. I was not given the option to resolve some of those challenges growing up but, from experience and as an adult, I welcome the challenges and have a confidence in doing the best that I can with every new one I face.
