Career profile

Why did you become a nurse?

As a child I scolded my leg and as a result a District Nurse visited my home to undertake dressing changes. I remember being fascinated by her uniform and gloves. She was also very kind and told me a little about her work - this inspired me to follow in her footsteps and from an early age I read the Nursing Times, especially the recruitment section. This reinforced that as a nurse I could work anywhere and do anything.

How has your career developed since you started nursing?

I have been fortunate to work in a wide variety of settings and to meet some amazing patients, families and colleagues. I learnt from every role and feel that I have had the good fortune to find a mentor in each who has encouraged me to learn and grow. Although I never saw myself as a manager I now manage two teams within a hospice setting and I aim to help the teams become the best that they can be. I may not have a direct clinical role but I believe I can influence care by supporting my teams, enabling them to provide excellent care while growing and developing the service in response to changing needs.