Domestic Assistant, York Hospital

Say hello to Jane Thompson, Domestic Assistant at York Hospital.

Tell us about your role

The main part of my role as a domestic assistant is ensuring all the areas I’m responsible for are clean and safe for patients, visitors, and colleagues.

I start the day early by cleaning the car park area. Most people would be surprised to read it's someone’s job to clean the car park – but that’s my role!

I make sure the lifts and stairs are clean and litter free, ready for car park users. It’s the first area some patients and visitors see, so it’s very important to have a good first impression. I also do the security office in the car park building, then I transfer to Ward 15, which is a big ward and keeps me busy for the rest of the day. I clean all the areas in the bays and toilets.

How long have you worked at the Trust, and why do you like it?

I have worked at the Trust for 11 years. I used to be a receptionist at Nestlé, so I’m a people’s person. I love meeting the patients on Ward 15, who are mostly on the ward long-term, waiting to be transferred into care. I like to look my best too for patients while I work - I’m known as the ‘glamourous cleaner’!

As I work on the ward through the week, I make sure each patient gets a smile and a hello. I also try and chat to those who want to talk while I am working; people may recognise me with a mop in my hand chatting away to patients! I have met so many patients and families, it’s hard not to care for those who are in our hospital. I love talking to them and hearing their interesting stories – you get to learn about so much!

Are there any special moments you have experienced at work?

I was visiting my local Tesco and a person came up to me and thanked me for all the care I had showed their loved one. The lady said seeing me had been an ‘answer to her prayers’ as she had been thinking about the lasting impression I had made on the family.

She didn’t think an opportunity would ever come along to thank me, but she did… in a supermarket car park! I thought that was so lovely - being remembered for making a difference.

Who's your role model at our Trust?

I think all the cleaners who work at our Trust hospitals are stars and genuinely make a difference day in, day out. There’s a lot of work behind the scenes that gets unnoticed. Just think about how important our job was throughout the pandemic.

Without domestic assistants, the hospitals couldn’t open, so we do a very important job. My manager, Lindsey O’Donovan, also springs to mind. Funny enough, I trained her when Lindsey started as a domestic assistant. She’s terrific, I can go to her about anything. The sisters on the ward are also lovely and make my job a pleasure.

Junior Medical Engineer

Say hello to Ben Ives, Junior Medical Engineer

Tell us about your role

I support the maintenance of medical devices and equipment, which involves assisting with testing, troubleshooting, and ensuring compliance with healthcare regulations and safety standards. Our team improves the reliability and performance of medical devices used in patient care. It’s a role that combines technical skills with a focus on healthcare impact, and I’m continually learning about both engineering principles and the unique challenges of the medical field.

How long have you worked at the Trust, and why do you like it?

I’ve worked at the Trust for four years. What I really appreciate about working here is the strong sense of purpose, knowing that the work we do directly supports patient care. I’ve had the opportunity to grow both technically and professionally, and the team environment is very supportive. There’s a real focus on continuous improvement and innovation, which makes it an inspiring place to work.

Are there any special moments you have experienced at work?

One special moment that stands out for me was when I was nominated for a colleague recognition award. It was for going above and beyond to supply equipment to the community team at Easingwold, after I had finished my shift. They needed the equipment for a community patient urgently, and I knew how important it was to get it to them on time. It felt great to be recognised for stepping up and supporting patient care, even outside of normal hours. Moments like that remind me why I’m proud to work for the Trust.

Do you have a role model at our Trust?

Edward Hewitt and Daniel Brown in the Medical Engineering department have been incredibly supportive throughout my training. They’ve always been patient, approachable, and willing to share their knowledge, which has made a big difference in my development.

Darren Carmichael, my manager, has also played a key role in helping me transition from the equipment library to my current role in medical engineering. His guidance and trust in my abilities have really helped me build confidence and grow professionally.

Play Leader

Say hello to Tracey Cleminson, Play Leader at Scarborough Hospital

Tell us about your role

I plan and provide play activities on Rainbow Ward at Scarborough Hospital for all children who visit, including inpatients, siblings, and outpatients. We have a fantastic playroom, which we set up with toys and activities. It can be daunting and scary for children to come into hospital, so we aim to make it better for them through play, and then, hopefully, they will remember it as a happy experience. I also deliver specialised play to children with needle phobia, working with them on their fears and helping them feel more relaxed about blood tests.

How long have you worked at our Trust, and why do you like it?

I have worked in our Trust for 36 years. I love my job and the team that I work with. I am now seeing children who used to come into hospital when they were younger coming in with their children, which is lovely, especially when they say they remember me.

What advice would you offer to new team members at our Trust?

The hospital is a different environment from a lot of other workplaces, and, at first, it might seem daunting, but you must persevere as the job is so rewarding. The team on Rainbow Ward are fantastic and we all work closely together as a team. I always try to make new starters feel welcome and help them wherever I can.

It’s PlayDay today (6 August). Could you tell us a bit about the importance of play in hospital?

Play is vital, especially in hospitals, as it helps to make a scary experience a happier one. The playroom is a safe space for the children to play in – it’s somewhere where no medical interventions take place and they have access to toys, arts and crafts, games, tablets, and more.

Through preparation and play therapy, we can usually get the child to cooperate and have successful outcomes for procedures. A lot of our work is providing distraction for children having blood tests. It is important for us to be there, as we have usually already built up a rapport with the child. We use items such as bubbles and books to distract the child, and they are then more relaxed, so the doctors can do their job, and the experience is better for everyone.

Tell us about a time you’ve felt proud to be in your role

When children are booked to have an appointment for an MRI, they come to see me before their slot. I go through what is going to happen and show them an MRI machine Lego model. This helps the child to understand how the machine works and what happens during and after their scan. I then show a short film about the MRI and play the noises it makes. We practice with the headphones used to block the noise and do a mock MRI with a bed and a soft play circle. The child then drives our battery-operated car all the way to the MRI.

It is a fantastic feeling when the child can go into the machine and have a successful scan. This has proved to be a positive experience for children, and I have got children as young as three years old through their scans. When an audit was carried out on MRIs, my monthly success rate was 96-98%, which I am so proud of.

Say hello to Kim Hartnett, Bereavement Midwife at Scarborough Hospital

Kim is also soon to be our new cross-site Bereavement Lead Midwife, supporting families at both Scarborough and York.

Tell us about your role

I support bereaved parents and their families following the loss of a baby during pregnancy or infancy. This includes helping with physical recovery, emotional support, and guiding them through the legal and practical aspects of their loss. I work closely with labour ward, screening, and community midwives, as well as bereavement services, the hospital chaplain, funeral directors, and mortuary staff.

A big part of my role is continuity of care, especially for families experiencing another pregnancy after loss, often referred to as a ‘Rainbow baby’. I also organise two important remembrance events each year: a June service, now in its 32nd year, and a candle-lighting ceremony on Scarborough’s North Bay beach during Baby Loss Awareness Week.

I’ve been providing bereavement support for 10 years, driven by my personal experiences, where I know the difference that high-quality, compassionate care can make.

How long have you worked at the Trust, and why do you like it?

I’ve worked in the Trust for 23 years, starting as a cadet nurse in 2002 when I was just 16. I always knew I wanted to be a midwife, but trained as a nurse first, qualifying in 2009. I then completed my midwifery training in 2015.

From my early days as a newly qualified midwife, I began building bereavement packs. This was the first step in what has become a deeply meaningful career. I’ve spent the past seven years balancing community midwifery with bereavement work, and I’m proud to now be stepping into this new full-time role. There’s such a need for this service, and I’m passionate about helping it grow. If we can reach a five-day service at both Scarborough and York, that would be amazing.

Are there any special moments you’ve experienced at work?

I delivered two baby boys (brothers) two years apart, one sadly stillbirth and one livebirth. Seeing those parents take their baby home after such a journey was really special. Being at both sons’ births and being able to support them through their whole journey made such a difference to them, and I felt privileged to be part of it.

Another special moment was welcoming my niece, Rey, into the world. My sister experienced a very traumatic pregnancy, and we were told Rey would not survive till term. Rey is nearly three now and in perfect health – she is our miracle baby. I’m so grateful I was able to support my sister and her partner through their journey.

Do you have a role model within the Trust, and why?

I have so much respect for the labour ward coordinators - they’re all brilliant! If I had to choose just one role model, it would be Sue Finnigan, Antenatal Clinic Midwife. She has always gone above and beyond for the women and families in her care, and she’s inspired me throughout my career.

What would you say to new colleagues at our Trust?

It's hard work but very rewarding, I could not imagine working anywhere else. I have dedicated all my working life to the NHS.

Matron for Workforce and Education

Say hello to Vicky Angell, Matron for Workforce and Education

Tell us about your role

I feel very fortunate to be a senior member of a team that supports so many staff who care for patients. In April, several work streams involved in non-medical education and training came together to form a new, unified team, now known as the Practice Development and Education Team (PDET).

Our priority is to provide a structured and standardised approach to education and training for our staff. This includes supporting students and colleagues as we deliver on our key priorities, helping individuals to develop competence and confidence in their roles. I'm proud to have contributed to building a fantastic, supportive team who will be visible on our wards and in departments.

How long have you worked at the Trust, and why do you like it?

I joined the Trust as a student nurse in 1994 and qualified in 1997. I started my career in orthopaedics, working across both elective and trauma. I loved working in this field of practice and how it enabled me to collaborate closely with other professions, developing my understanding of the value of multiprofessional working.

For the last eight years, I have worked on the corporate side of nursing, leading various projects and training initiatives - most notably the Trust’s preceptorship programme, which supports newly qualified nurses as they transition from student roles. Watching their careers thrive on the wards gives me immense pride.

Are there any special moments you have experienced at work?

I feel my job is such a privilege. It’s been incredibly rewarding to witness newly registered nurses grow from feeling nervous and, at times, overwhelmed on their very first shift to, just a year later, thriving with skill, confidence, and professionalism on the wards. Many have even progressed into senior nursing roles, and it’s been a privilege to be part of that journey.

It’s fantastic to witness their transformation and is one of my career highlights. It’s amazing to work as part of a team that has been able to help individuals begin their nursing journeys in the NHS.

Do you have a role model within the Trust, and why?

I am fortuitous to have worked with so many inspiring people over my career. I have witnessed the way they have cared for patients, developed colleagues, and strived to do the best they can. My line managers, peers, and colleagues have taken time to support me and I believe have shaped the nurse I have become. If I was to mention one person, it would be our Lead Nurse for Medicines Management, Jennie Booth. Jennie, I feel, epitomises Trust values, always taking time to listen to and support others.

Autism Liaison Practitioner

Say hello to Alex Manson, Autism Liaison Practitioner.

Tell us about your role

I offer holistic support and guidance for autistic and neurodivergent patients of all ages, so that they have exactly the same access to care as everyone else using our services.

I don’t diagnose patients and as a service we are not diagnosis-led, but I work to make sure that reasonable adjustments are made to the care environment, and that carers and families receive advice and support too.

I also work closely with clinical colleagues across the Trust, signposting them to training about autism that is available, and letting them know that the Autism Liaison Service is always on hand to offer guidance on best practice. My hope is that as a service we can improve the experience of patients and instil a willingness to learn from each other.

How long have you been at our Trust and why do you like it?

I have been working at York Hospital for three years. Since joining, I have truly come to appreciate the hardworking and supportive people I work both directly and indirectly with. This is both beneficial for day-to-day practice, but also when it comes to my own professional development. I feel valued as a member staff, which is motivating and inspiring for my ongoing growth.

Have you experienced any special moments?

It’s hard to pick one example. Hearing positive feedback from patients about the adjustments that the service can make never gets old. For example, a colleague recently arranged for a patient’s appointment with a consultant to take place outside in the car park at Scarborough Hospital, due to their complex sensory needs. Small changes can have such a significant impact on a person’s experience at our hospitals.

Do you have any role models at our Trust?

I want to give a shout out to the Complex Needs Team, which is full of hardworking and personable colleagues that have welcomed me with open arms. They are on hand to provide specialist advice and support for patients with a wide and diverse range of needs, and live the Trust values in every aspect of their work.

Senior Library Assistant

Say hello to Lucy Dixon, Senior Library Assistant

Tell us about your role

I work closely with my team to ensure all staff and students have access to our book collection. We also source articles upon request and deliver inductions for new users. Additionally, we support library members in accessing all our e-resources, including OpenAthens and the Knowledge and Library Hub. Our service plays a key role in supporting evidence-based practice across the Trust, while also offering a quiet, welcoming space for those who need it.

How long have you worked at our Trust and why do you like it?

I officially started at the Trust in January 2023 but, after breaking my ankle on the walk home from my first day, I really began work in May 2023. I enjoy being part of a small team that collaborates with many departments across the Trust. I am also grateful that this role has given me the opportunity to further my career through an NHS England-funded MA in Library and Information Services Management.

Tell us about a special moment that has stayed with you

I really enjoyed organising a Health Information Week event, where we collaborated with the Trust’s Wellbeing Team to promote themes such as winter health, mental health, and wellbeing. We offered tea, coffee, cake, and gave away a free book to everyone who took part. The event also featured a book swap table and a “mystery book” section to explore. It was a great opportunity to meet new people, introduce them to our library service, and create a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere.

Do you have any role models at the Trust?

In addition to my role as SLA, I am the assistant for the Race Equality Network committee. I am continually impressed by the Chair, Fatima Kuddus, and the Vice Chair, Kheira Haffiane, who balance their day-to-day roles alongside the responsibilities of the Network and wider EDI work. They speak up for and support colleagues from BAME backgrounds and are always ready to help, without ever seeming to get overwhelmed! I am pleased to work alongside and learn from two excellent colleagues.

What advice would you offer colleagues new to our Trust?

There’s a lot to take in when you start at the Trust, so don’t be afraid to ask questions. There is also plenty happening beyond your role, so look out for chances to meet like-minded people or try something new. And if in doubt, come to the library! We’re always here and happy to help (plus we have a book swap trolley, what more could you need?!)

Diabetic Retinal Photographer, based at York Hospital

Say hello to Jo Blackman, Diabetic Retinal Photographer, based at York Hospital.

Tell us about your role

I am part of the team for the North Yorkshire NHS Diabetic Eye Screening Programme - a national programme designed to screen diabetic patients to check for changes to the retina. These changes, known as diabetes-related retinopathy, are usually detected long before eyesight is affected.

The service I work for delivers screening in a variety of locations throughout the area, including GP surgeries, hospitals and opticians. It is essential NHS patients have checks with our digital cameras, as diabetes is one of the main causes of preventable blindness. In a nutshell, my role is the first step in the process to prevent sight loss, by taking photos of the patient’s eye.

We have team staff based at fixed sites across the county, but some are mobile too – we cover as far north as Whitby, Easingwold, Bridlington, across to Boroughbridge and the Harrogate area. We are busy!

How long have you worked at the Trust, and why do you like it?

I live and breathe photography. I was a photographer for the RAF until I joined the NHS. I photographed everything from medal presentations to the cast of the TV show Heartbeat visiting a RAF station - out of work I’m also a wedding photographer! I have been in the role for two years. I have to say the advent of digital photography has changed my job for the better. When I had the role previously, back in 2005, we took photos on wet film, there was no knowing if the patient was looking where we need if they blinked!

Are there any special moments you have experienced at work?

The Coronation of King Charles III comes to mind. We screen plenty of patients who were children around the time of the Queen’s Coronation in 1953. I enjoyed talking to patients who were reminiscing, they had some interesting stories – one lady was given a train ticket to see the coronation in London and did get to see Queen Elizabeth II.

Do you have a role model within the Trust, and why?

This is a hard question, but I have to say all NHS staff are phenomenal. From ambulance drivers to staff in doctors’ surgeries, we all work extremely hard for patients. They all make a difference.

Bereavement Officer, Scarborough Hospital

Say hello to Carol South, Bereavement Officer at Scarborough Hospital.

Tell us about your role

My role is mainly to make sure that families have all the information they need to move forward with what is an emotional time for them, while offering support and empathy.

I also organise funerals for adults who may not have any next of kin, and I work closely with the bereavement midwives to support women going through baby loss and help in organising a baby's funeral if needed.

Sometimes I also offer a listening ear for staff to come in and chat and in a quiet, welcoming space, while keeping a selection of sweets for anyone who wants one!

How long have you worked at the Trust and why do you like it?

I have been with the Trust just over 24 years. I started as a ward clerk, then worked in the General Office as the bereavement officer and cashier before becoming the full time Bereavement Officer in 2016.

I enjoy working here as I get to support a wide range of departments and colleagues, and I have made many friends over the years. I feel that there is a family feel at Scarborough Hospital, and I always receive a smile and a ‘hello’ when walking around the building.

Are there any special moments you have experienced at work?

There have been many special moments over the years, but one particular time was during the pandemic. This was a terrible time for everyone working, and for me personally it was extremely challenging. The Palliative Care Team were so supportive; checking in with me and making sure I was OK, while they were dealing with all they had to cope with. The relationship that formed is just as strong now, and for that I feel so appreciative of them all.

It's Armed Forces Day on 28 June. As a former member of the Armed Services, what does the day mean to you?

Armed Forces Day is very important to me. I come from a military background; my grandad was in the RAF in the World War II, and my dad was a medic in the army. I am a veteran, having served in the RAF as a dental nurse and I made friends for life. Armed Forces Day is a time for all serving personnel, veterans, and the public to get together and celebrate, and to remember all those have fallen.

I am also a part of our Veterans’ Staff Network, which is important because we have many ex-service personnel in the Trust, and it helps us to share our experiences and give each other support. Once you've served in the forces, you become part of a big family that lasts a lifetime, where there is friendly banter and support always available.