Career development
The appeal of working in the third sector
For Jo , there are many benefits to working for Sue Ryder and being given the time to really get to know the patients is a really important one . ‘ It ’ s great because I actually have the time to get to know someone , which is important to discover what their personality is like . Each person in the team might find out something different about a patient which we can share . We then have a full picture so we can give that patient the very best , personalised care .’
Reflecting on her career journey as an occupational therapist to date and her move to Sue Ryder , Jo says : ‘ As part of being a reflective practitioner , particularly in the early stages of your career , I think it is important to not only reflect on your patient interactions , but also to reflect on your own progress as a qualified therapist , with regards to expanding your training competencies and skills and reflecting on how your working environment supports that .
‘ I was able to identify my strengths and weaknesses in my first community role and as a result of this , identified that I wanted to develop therapeutic relationships with patients and work with them over a longer period of time , and be part of a close-knit multidisciplinary team to further impact my advancing practice .
‘ Predominantly these were the key elements I was looking for in my next role , rather than choosing what particular sector to work in .
‘ I have extensive experience working in a third sector organisation in a fundraising and project management capacity , which was very beneficial in moving to my role at Sue Ryder .
‘ The current neurological rehabilitation service I am part of is funded by health , therefore we are required to work in a structured way to provide measurable outcomes . However , as a charity , we also benefit from fundraising and funding gifts and this has enabled us to investigate and review therapy products that would benefit our patient and residents , such as an interactive touch screen activity table and portable sensory kit .’
She adds : The third sector is an important partner in many aspects of healthcare service delivery , in order to support statutory services . Sue Ryder is providing a vital level two rehabilitation service to support those patients with traumatic or acquired brain injury or neurological conditions living across Suffolk , who require more time and therapy input to reach their rehabilitation goals .’ considering a new career . ‘ You sometimes have to listen to yourself , to those nagging feelings and not feel that it ’ s not possible to have another career at any age . I still intend to consider it a career to progress and grow in . I ’ m not the same person as I was at 18 and what I think age brings to the table is a slightly different outlook .’
Words JO WHITING , Occupational Therapist at Sue Ryder Neurological Care Centre , The Chantry . For more about Sue Ryder visit www . sueryder . org
Future progression and growth
Finally , Jo is keen to point out that age shouldn ’ t hold you back from being aspirational or
February 2023 OTnews 23