In this section
Head of Nursing, Trafford, Withington and Altrincham Hospitals
On a typical day
I usually start around 8.00am. I am the professional lead for nursing with responsibility across three hospital sites. I lead a team of Lead Nurses and Matrons to ensure professional and quality standards are met, to deliver a high standard of patient care and experience. My specific areas of responsibility include nursing practice, education, research, quality improvement, patient experience, infection prevention and control, safeguarding, recruitment and retention, workforce development and contributing to the nursing professional agenda across the organisation. There’s no typical day in my role – every day is different, presenting new challenges in responding to operational demands, whilst contributing to the professional and strategic agenda. Most days include meetings with various staff groups.
My nursing journey and career
I began my nursing career 34 years ago as a Healthcare Assistant at a local Mental Health Hospital. This gave me some insight into healthcare and the possibility of nursing as a profession and potential career option. After completing my training, my first experiences as a registered nurse were in general medicine and orthopaedics. I went on to specialise in trauma and orthopaedic nursing, becoming a Ward Manager for five years. Over the past 17 years I’ve held increasingly senior roles in Nursing Management, Practice Development, Nurse Education and Workforce Planning and as Associate Chief Nurse. I’ve also developed academically, successfully completing a Diploma in Health Service Management, Bachelor of Science in Nursing Studies and a Master of Science in Advanced Practice in Healthcare.
One way I’ve made a difference as a nurse or midwife
As Head of Nursing, I am passionate about the delivery of high standards of patient care and experience, and firmly believe that the patient is at the centre of health care delivery, which I incorporate into my daily practice.
What would you say to someone considering a career in nursing & midwifery?
A nursing career provides almost limitless opportunities due to the diversity of the profession and in nursing roles. Nursing is a rewarding life-long career, in which you can make a real difference and impact on people’s lives.
For more information about nursing and midwifery careers at MFT please visit https://mft.nhs.uk/careers/