I’ve been trying to keep my ahead afloat in January, juggling pressures with work, clinic appointments, and being on the receiving end of depression and anxiety.

Yet despite this, there were two particular moments that stood out for me. I had a uni student who came and shadowed the team for a week. It was great to have someone who was engaged, interested, asking so many questions but it also allowed others to explain what we do, especially when we do it everyday and no one truly understands what goes on behind the scenes to make sure that services are running despite strikes, the weather, medicines shortages. I usually speak at careers fairs at school, and it’s lovely to share experiences with students so it was nice to do this, in a nurturing way.

Second, I recently became a Trustee to a hospital charity that is local to me. I’ve been appointed amongst other trustees to take the charity in a new direction. I have been part of a recent interview panel and it was good to see first hand the potential of these new appointments and the difference they can individually make to improve experience and outcomes for both patients and staff.

What will February bring?