Shari Patel

Clinical Nurse Specialist. With the Trust 5 years.

I was attracted by the reputation here for being able to move and be promoted. And it certainly worked for me: I was a Clinical Nurse Specialist within two years.

When I arrived I was amazed how long some people had been here. But now, I see why. You get opportunities to move within the hospital, so you don't get stagnant. And promotion: I left my last hospital as F Grade and now I'm H Grade - Band 7.

There's a sense of flexibility, of being able to shape your own career. With the university attached here, you can do courses, degrees, diplomas - and you get total support to go for it: whatever you feel you need in order to develop.

The social life is good, too. You get discounts on things like film and theatre tickets and restaurants. Also, the Trust puts on a Senior Nurses Ball, as a way of saying thank you to us. And it always feels just like a whole bunch of friends enjoying themselves together, and I think that's because there's such a strong team spirit. It comes out at events like that - no barriers, everyone's equal.

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Q+A

How do you keep updated about what's going on at the Trust?
There's nothing like personal communication to find out what's really going on, and there's a culture of open, friendly, individual contact here. Senior staff on the wards or in departments are always helpful, and we have regular team meetings where we can learn about what's happening, and ask questions. Also, the Trust has its own communications department to keep staff up to date on things like the building of the new hospitals, with a weekly e-mail and a monthly newsletter.
Gyms and sports centres - any local discounts or deals?
Yes, the Trust has arrangements with gyms including Fitness First, Holmes Place, Champneys and LA Fitness. Discounts vary but there are some great deals, like waived joining fees and reduced monthly membership.

As well as the corporate gyms, the Trust's Staff Benefits Department organise lots of other fitness activities like badminton, 5-a-side football and yoga. They're all very popular, as you can exercise, socialize and network at the same time!

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