Finding my purpose: Why I became a nursing support worker

A career my daughter could be proud of

I didn't start my working life in healthcare. I spent 10 years in the hospitality industry after leaving school. It wasn't until I had my daughter that I felt a pull toward something more meaningful.

I wanted a career that she could be proud of. My own experiences of seeing the outstanding care my mother received while admitted to hospital also influenced me. I saw the strength and dedication of the healthcare teams and wanted to be part of that supportive environment.

I decided to apply when an opportunity came up at the local community hospital. I felt so happy when I got the job as a nursing support worker. But I'll never forget my first shift at the hospital. It was a late shift, and honestly, it was a disaster! Everything just seemed to go wrong, and I felt so out of my depth.

I had so much to learn, but everyone looked after me as the youngest on the ward. They supported me to become the nursing support worker I am today, 24 years on. I still say every day is a school day. I'm always learning and keeping up to date with new practices and skills.

The reward of rediscovering learning

I was never very interested in studying at school and left with no qualifications. Learning in a classroom was always a challenge for me. However, I developed a new thirst for knowledge once I started my nursing support worker role. I saw how my rediscovery of learning would benefit the patients in my care. It was a powerful motivator.

My managers in mental health services always encouraged me to pursue more training. With funding from the NHS, I completed my SVQ 2 and 3 while on the job. It was then suggested I undertake nurse training with the Open University, another opportunity funded by the NHS.

Although I had to stop my nursing degree for personal reasons, the experience was invaluable. It allowed me to reflect and realise I was happy and effective as a nursing support worker. The knowledge I gained is something I apply to my practice every single day.

Today, I represent NHS Borders on the NHS Education for Scotland Healthcare Support Worker Advisory Group. This role allows me to promote new training and development to my colleagues, and I am proud to help them grow in their careers.

Moments of human connection and positive impact

A rewarding day is one where you see a patient's progress. My work involves supporting people on their recovery journey to wellness. I help guide them toward making choices that lead to a sustainable lifestyle.

A huge part of this is being their advocate. We make sure they are listened to and that their beliefs and preferences are respected. We introduce therapeutic activities and work with them to build individual care plans.

The best feeling is meeting former patients in the community. It's incredible to see how well they’ve come on now that they are living their best lives.

Many came to us feeling negative and with little hope for the future. Knowing I played a small part in that transformation is an amazing reward. It is a frequent reminder that my work matters. Getting a simple "thanks" from a patient or colleague also goes a long way and makes me feel valued.

A career-defining moment outside of the hospital ward

The most significant moment of my career happened outside of the hospital. About 15 years ago, I was driving home from a late shift.

I came across a man lying in the road in a pool of blood. Another person stopped, and together we assessed the situation. The man was gargling and struggling to breathe.

We made the decision to roll him and clear his airway. This action allowed him to breathe much more clearly. We supported him in the recovery position until an ambulance arrived.

Later, we were both given a meritorious award by Police Scotland for saving his life. That experience solidified the immense value of my NHS training. It proved that the skills I learned could make a difference in a life-or-death situation.

My career advice for you

If you are thinking about a career as a nursing support worker, my best advice is to embrace every experience. You are never too old to learn new things and nurture your professional growth. Don't ever be afraid to ask questions. It is likely someone else is wondering the same thing, and it creates a chance to reflect on your practice.

I wouldn’t change a thing about my career journey. I encourage you to follow your heart and seek out every opportunity. View every problem as a learning curve that you can use as an opportunity to improve your skills. It is through these challenges that you find the most rewarding moments of all.