Karen, Ve, and Darren: Medical care and teamwork from the Armed Services into the NHS

Karen's story

Karen served in the Women’s Royal Naval Service (WRNS) from July 1984 to April 1989, where she developed a strong foundation in teamwork and service. Today, she continues to support veterans through various roles, including Secretary of the Royal British Legion Scotland Livingston Branch and Chairman of the Association of Wrens 
and Women of the Royal Naval Services Edinburgh & District Branch, among others. She is also actively involved in the Royal Naval Association and founded the West Lothian Armed Forces Day charity, representing naval veterans in numerous groups focused on 
veteran affairs. 

Before joining the NHS, Karen recognized it as a significant employer within local communities and beyond, informed in part by her daughter who has been a nurse for over ten years. This familiarity with the organization contributed to her desire to be part of such a vital institution.

Karen's role in NHS Scotland

Following a 33-year career in the private sector, Karen joined the NHS in May 2022, as a Medical Secretary, and since October 2023 has been a Team Lead - Medical Secretary within Women's Services. In this capacity, she oversees a team of eight medical secretaries and one administrative support staff member. Karen is currently focused on 
learning the various systems and processes that will enable her to lead effectively.

What Karen enjoys most about working in NHS Scotland is the sense of community she experiences. She feels fulfilled by the opportunity to give back and pay it forward, knowing that her contributions are valued within the organization. This sense of purpose drives her commitment to supporting both her colleagues and the patients they serve.

Ve's person-centred approach within Mental Health Care

Ve served as an RAF Medic from 1997 to 2016, where she developed a strong foundation in medical care and teamwork. Her military background shaped her expectations of the NHS, leading her to believe it would be as regimented as military life, characterized by a strong work ethic and esprit de corps.

Ve: empowering others within mental health and wellbeing

Upon joining NHS Scotland, Ve discovered a much more supportive and flexible environment than she had anticipated. As a Mental Health and Wellbeing Practitioner, she plays a crucial role in helping patients experiencing anxiety, depression, and other conditions. Ve focuses on building resilience and skills that empower patients to manage their conditions effectively. Her role is predominantly person-centered, allowing her to connect with patients face-to-face as well as through various other methods.

What Ve enjoys most about working in NHS Scotland is the camaraderie and collaborative spirit within the care team. She appreciates that the NHS is incredibly supportive and far less regimented than the military, emphasizing a genuine commitment to putting people at the center of its services. Ve values the autonomy she has in her role, knowing she can work independently while always having access to clinical supervision and support.

Darren supporting essential services for the people of Scotland

Darren Lamb served as a Medical Assistant in the Royal Navy from June 2001 to June 2013. During his time in the armed forces, he gained extensive experience in providing medical support and prioritizing patient welfare in high-pressure environments. This strong commitment to patient care made his transition into the NHS a natural step.

Darren working to improve public health through dynamic and resilient service provision

Today, Darren works in the Outpatients department in Elgin as a Healthcare Support  Worker (HCSW). His role primarily involves working in the community blood hubs, where he supports patients with essential healthcare services. He also has opportunities to extend his work to clinics in Forres and Buckie health centres, which adds a dynamic element to his responsibilities.

Reflecting on his perception of the NHS before joining, Darren was impressed by the organization’s dedication to putting patient welfare first. He admired how the NHS carefully plans and executes its services with a strong emphasis on care delivery.

Now part of NHS Scotland, Darren has found a good working atmosphere where teamwork and camaraderie are at the heart of his day-to-day experience. “I have great colleagues,” he says, emphasizing the strong sense of support and connection within his team. Darren also appreciates the opportunities to further develop his medical skills 
and put his previous experience to good use in a healthcare setting