Why I was drawn to nursing
Written by Jane, Onward Care Team Leader
I started my general nurse training in 1983, so have been working for the NHS for 41 years now. I can honestly say I have had a fantastic varied career that has given me immense satisfaction.
My Mum was a nurse in the NHS and I recall when growing up with my two sisters we often ‘played hospitals’ with our dolls and teddies. Nursing was always something I wanted to do so I started my training in the Nuneaton School of Nursing, we wore hats and capes in the 80’s.
I worked on various acute medical wards as a staff nurse, then a ward manager on a stroke ward before joining Worcester Acute Trust as a Matron for 21 years. I worked in different divisions across the Trust. It was a privilege as a senior nurse to support wards to grow and develop their teams. I am now working with the lovely Onward Care Team who support complex discharges from the Acute Hospitals. I love being a leader and seeing my teams grow. I have been so lucky to work with such great people.
Nursing can be challenging at times but is also so diverse and exciting. No day is the same. I have met so many lovely people, colleagues, patients and relatives included. It really is a pleasure to support staff and patients/relatives and to make such a difference in so many lifes. I have so many fond memories.
I am proud to say I am a nurse and would not change anything about my career. It really has been rewarding. I am always learning something new, had so many opportunities to grow and develop. I really enjoy meeting and helping people. I have made some good friends along the way too.
The Onward Care Team – made up of social care staff, community nurses and discharge nurses - work alongside colleagues from Worcestershire Acute Hospitals NHS Trust’s ward teams to ensure that patients are discharged from hospital in a timely and effective way. This approach also helps to reduce delays for people who needed to access urgent care in hospital.