Creating a culture of kindness

Before he worked at Nuffield Health, Joel was a Business Development Manager. But when he left that role, he realised he needed to focus on doing what he really wanted to do. That’s how he ended up joining us as Operating Department Practitioner (ODP), specifically as a Healthcare Assistant.

“I got made redundant and used that as an opportunity to pursue some of my career goals. One of those was to become an ODP, and Nuffield Health have helped me pursue my goal.”

Joel works in the operating theatre almost every day, making it quite a big change from his previous office job. But here, he has all the support he needs. Finding an employer that would help him achieve his ambitions was a key reason he joined Nuffield Health.

“I chose a career at Nuffield Health because I had heard a lot of good things. And when I came in for my interview, it confirmed it, because everyone was really warm and friendly, and it seemed like the perfect environment to work in.”

Naturally, changing industry means there is a steep learning curve. But we don’t always look to hire people with experience, we’re just as interested in your commitment to deliver the very best possible care for patients. For Joel, he’s found that his team have helped him settle right in.

“All the team members get along. I’ve had no issues at all. It's more like a family here.”

Joel’s role means he’s a key part of our Operation team. From helping patients prepare, to assisting in the theatre, to ensuring they get the best possible aftercare, it’s a full-on role. But that’s exactly what he likes about it:

“I enjoy the fact that every day is a different day. You're not doing the same things over and over again. And the colleagues and the patients that I meet are fantastic.”

Alongside being supported on the job, Joel’s also been grateful for Nuffield Health’s understanding when it comes to his personal circumstances. He doesn’t have to choose between his family and his new career.

“With my family commitments, Nuffield Health have supported me and have been really flexible with my working hours and working patterns; they’ve really decided to work with me and my situation.”

That combination of support and finally being able to follow his dream means Joel is able to focus on the patients, and that’s what it’s always been about for him.

“One particular favourite moment was when I collected an elderly lady and it was just a small moment but she said, 'Can I link arms?' and you know, that was a sweet warm moment I’ll always remember.”