Hi Sarah, hope you're having a nice day. Can you paint us a portrait of yourself and your role?

I am a positive, hard-working and dedicated member of the Employment and Health Discussion Team. As a healthcare professional, we work with Job Centre customers to move them forward on their health journey. This could be by improving their wellbeing towards being able to access work. We discuss any health, environmental or societal obstacles and set actions to help in these areas, using a psychosocial approach.

What does a typical working day look like for you?

Our day is made up of four appointments, either at the Job Centre or at a different location, such as the University. We engage with the staff at the Job Centre, hold case conferences to help work coaches and look for signposting opportunities. We generally include ourselves in various meetings and try our best to integrate into the wider Lancaster community.

What motivates you to do what you do?

Helping people who feel overwhelmed to set out a clear plan of actions to help them move forward in life. The outcomes of these activities would be difficult to measure but the impact that an improvement of mindset/function in a person can have on society and people around them motivates me in my role.

What is your favourite aspect of being part of the collaborative community through the Health Innovation Campus?

Their willingness of the University to get involved with projects that support the wellbeing of people. The partnerships team is very approachable and flexible with the use of space on the campus for face-to-face appointments.

What future projects and collaborations are you excited about?

I know my colleague has become involved in the Network Providers group and I would hope to work more with the University if future projects within my field become available due to their approach and positivity.