More than 150 NHS Reservists are now supporting staff at East Suffolk and North Essex NHS Foundation Trust (ESNEFT) to help provide the best possible experience for patients.
The new recruits include staff fulfilling clinical roles, such as nurses and therapists, as well as ward helpers, who carry out tasks such as serving meals and preparing beds, in turn freeing up clinical colleagues to provide medical care for patients.
They are working on a flexible basis at Colchester and Ipswich hospitals and ESNEFT’s community sites as part of a national initiative which aims to provide the NHS with extra resources it can call on when facing staffing issues or other pressures.
The reservist scheme is particularly aimed at former staff who are thinking about returning to the NHS or those who are interested in a career in healthcare. It gives them the opportunity to gain first hand experience while getting paid. The role is also flexible, with reservists able to accept shifts which fit in with their existing commitments.
Emma Sweeney, deputy chief nurse at ESNEFT, said: “We’ve received some fantastic feedback about our reservists so far, with both staff and patients telling us they really appreciate the support they provide.
“The reservists will help us out when we need additional support, but also give those who have signed up a fantastic insight into just how rewarding a career in the health service can be. We would encourage anyone who would like to find out more to get in touch.”
The reservist scheme is open to qualified clinical staff as well as people with no previous experience.
Case studies:
“It’s very rewarding and great to be part of a team”
The NHS has always held a special place in Paula Smith’s heart after saving her life in an emergency. Signing up as a reservist has given her the perfect opportunity to give something back.
Paula (pictured below during a shift at the Emergency Assessment Unit) spent more than 30 years working in finance, but more recently became a carer for her sister following a diagnosis of multiple sclerosis. Joining the NHS Reservists has given her the chance to continue with her caring role while working flexibly at Colchester Hospital.
“Being a reservist is very rewarding and it’s fantastic to see how grateful both the patients and staff are for our help,” said Paula, who lives in Colchester. “It has made me appreciate even more how hard all the staff work in the NHS.
“It’s lovely having time to sit and talk with patients who may not have any visitors and being on hand to help the staff with tasks that free them up a little to carry out their clinical role. What I enjoy the most is being part of a great team, and feeling appreciated.
“My role is so varied and so far I have spent time talking to patients, getting supplies for them from the shop and phoning relatives for them. I also make beds, clean down equipment and replenish stock, as well as answering the phone and taking messages.
“Patients and relatives have told me I’ve helped them to feel less lonely and make them more appreciative of the service the NHS provides.”
“I get real satisfaction from knowing I’m making a difference”
Dale Wisdom (pictured below) has always had a passion for healthcare – so jumped at the chance to join the NHS Reservists as one of ESNEFT’s very first recruits.
He is now thoroughly enjoying supporting staff and patients on the wards at Ipswich Hospital, which he is able to fit around his full-time job with UK Power Networks.
“I have always had a passion for working in healthcare and specifically in a hospital environment,” said Dale, who lives in Ipswich. “When I saw the advert for the reservists, I thought it was the perfect opportunity for me.
“I get real satisfaction from knowing I’m making a difference to people’s lives and helping to make their hospital stay that bit easier. It is also really fulfilling to know that by carrying out basic tasks, I am freeing up the nurses and healthcare assistants to focus on medical care.
“I love that each shift is different. Tasks can range from making beds and helping with the food service to simply chatting to the patients, making sure they are comfortable and trying to make their admission a little bit happier.”
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