Care Without Burnout

In this episode, Donna interviews Ross Worthington, the owner of RAW Adventures, a family-run outdoor adventure business based in North Wales. Ross shares his journey from growing up in a semi-rural area in the southeast of England, where he was influenced by his family's legacy in the police force, to becoming a police officer himself. He discusses his experiences in the police, including the challenges and traumas he faced, and how these shaped his perspective on life and opportunities. Ross also highlights the fulfilling work he does with charities and schools through RAW Adventures, emphasising the importance of connecting with nature and empowering others to embark on their own adventures. 

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• Ross Worthington transitioned from a career in the police force to running a family business, Raw Adventures, which focuses on outdoor activities and empowering individuals to connect with nature.

• Ross's childhood experiences, including a serious neck injury, shaped his perspective on life and motivated him to seize opportunities, leading to a proactive approach in both his police career and business endeavours.

• The discussion highlights the importance of mental health support for public service workers, emphasising that exposure to traumatic events can accumulate and affect well-being over time.

• Ross underscores the significance of having a close-knit group of friends outside of work who can provide emotional support and perspective, especially during challenging times in high-stress professions.

• Ross shares various experiences from his time in the police force, illustrating the unpredictability of the job, from dealing with serious incidents to the mundane aspects of paperwork, and how these experiences shaped his understanding of human behaviour and resilience.

BEST MOMENTS

"I think some of it retrospectively I would not have thought of this at the time, but definitely retrospectively I know that I will try and make the most of opportunities that presented to me."

"What was your first choice of career that you didn't do?"

"I remember grabbing him by the scruff of the neck, pinning him up against the door and shouting at him. He's like, you don't know what week I've had."

"You never know what you turn up to and that can happen every single day."

"You might be rostered for a 12-hour shift, but if you've got a patient on the back of the ambulance and there's nowhere for you to drop them off, you can't just go home."

ABOUT THE HOST

Donna is a Registered Nurse who has worked in the NHS for three decades. 

She brings you real-life stories from people in front-line public service roles.  Some of the stories discuss war, terrorism, suicide, abuse, COVID, death, and vicarious moral injury, which may be triggering for some listeners. Alongside these are stories of joy, hope, empathy, and humanity, highlighting the positive impact individuals have made. Many of her guests have navigated career changes, found work-life balance, or transitioned into new roles, including charity work or entrepreneurship. If you have a story to share that could inspire others seeking change or additional income, please get in touch. Inviting individuals from fire, police and probation services, healthcare, military, teaching, social services, local government, and civil service.

https://www.facebook.com/share/1FjUrwC7qS

https://www.lifeafterpublicservice.co.uk/

Email: [email protected]

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/donna-bentley-carr

This podcast features real-life stories from frontline public service workers, covering tough topics such as war, trauma and loss, and may be triggering to some listeners. Guests also share their tales of everyday heroism, inspiring joy, hope, empathy and humanity. If you have a story to share that could encourage others seeking change or additional income, please get in touch.

In this episode, Donna interviews David Jenkins, a retired military veteran and NHS nurse, who shares his remarkable journey from a childhood in Carlisle to a diverse career in public service. David reflects on his upbringing, his decision to join the military at 21, and the challenges he faced during his six years of service, including the loss of close friends. Transitioning to civilian life, he discusses the difficulties of settling into various jobs before finding his calling in the NHS, where he ultimately became a registered nurse at nearly 50 years old. 

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• The journey from military service to civilian life can be challenging, as individuals may struggle to find stable employment and adapt to a different lifestyle. The importance of resilience and adaptability is emphasised throughout the transition.

• Building strong bonds with fellow service members is crucial, but the military experience can also involve significant emotional challenges, including the loss of friends and colleagues during training exercises or conflicts.

• Working in the NHS requires a high level of empathy and emotional intelligence. Healthcare professionals often encounter patients at their most vulnerable, and the ability to connect with them is essential for providing effective care.

• Pursuing further education and training, even later in life, can lead to fulfilling career opportunities. The transition to nursing involved overcoming challenges such as learning to use technology and adapting to new responsibilities.

• Both military and healthcare careers can be incredibly rewarding, offering the chance to make a meaningful impact on people's lives. Despite the challenges, the satisfaction derived from helping others and being part of a team is a significant motivator for those in these fields.

BEST MOMENTS

"I wanted to do something different. I had a couple of civilian jobs and I just wanted to do something different."

"You have to be able to run three miles. Always a minimum standard."

"I still think about them. They were here. And now they’re gone."

"You are trying to see the world from their perspective. And there are so many, many sad situations that we find ourselves in as nurses."

"If you want to care for people, or you care about people, it's a worthwhile career, despite all the ups and downs."

ABOUT THE HOST

Donna is a Registered Nurse who has worked in the NHS for three decades. 

She brings you real-life stories from people in front-line public service roles.  Some of the stories discuss war, terrorism, suicide, abuse, COVID, death, and vicarious moral injury, which may be triggering for some listeners. Alongside these are stories of joy, hope, empathy, and humanity, highlighting the positive impact individuals have made. Many of her guests have navigated career changes, found work-life balance, or transitioned into new roles, including charity work or entrepreneurship. If you have a story to share that could inspire others seeking change or additional income, please get in touch. Inviting individuals from fire, police and probation services, healthcare, military, teaching, social services, local government, and civil service.

https://www.facebook.com/share/1FjUrwC7qS

https://www.lifeafterpublicservice.co.uk/

Email: [email protected]

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/donna-bentley-carr

This podcast features real-life stories from frontline public service workers, covering tough topics such as war, trauma and loss, and may be triggering to some listeners. Guests also share their tales of everyday heroism, inspiring joy, hope, empathy and humanity. If you have a story to share that could encourage others seeking change or additional income, please get in touch.

In today's episode, Donna sits down with Gary Toward, a former head teacher with a rich background in education. Gary shares his inspiring journey from aspiring RAF pilot to becoming a dedicated teacher, influenced by a pivotal moment with a supportive chemistry teacher. He reflects on his rewarding career, highlighting significant achievements such as transforming his school into a specialist arts college and creating the Heads Challenge, a program designed to foster effort and personal growth among students. Gary also candidly discusses the challenges he faced, including a difficult encounter with the Department for Education and a particularly harsh Ofsted inspection. As he approaches his tenth year of retirement, Gary reflects on the importance of inspiring students and the evolving landscape of education, while also sharing insights from his post-retirement career in teacher training and authorship.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• A pivotal moment in Gary's journey to becoming a teacher was the influence of a chemistry teacher who helped him overcome his colourblindness, igniting his passion for education and inspiring him to make a difference in students' lives.

• As a head teacher, Gary was proud of transforming his school into a specialist college for the arts, which not only enriched the curriculum but also fostered self-esteem and a positive ethos among students.

• Gary faced significant challenges during his tenure, including pressure from the Department for Education to convert his school into an academy, which he resisted in favor of maintaining control over the school's direction and ethos.

• A memorable experience involved an Afghan refugee student who, despite his traumatic background, thrived in school and expressed pride in his heritage, highlighting the importance of inclusivity and support in education.

• After retiring, Gary co-founded a teacher training business focused on building relationships in the classroom and inspiring students, demonstrating that retirement can lead to new and fulfilling career paths.

BEST MOMENTS

"I thought nobody's ever done this for me before because I didn’t enjoy secondary school. I didn’t enjoy the school. It was brutal."

"I am so proud that my name is on this wall and that my family fought for Britain."

"It was like an in-house, it was an in-school Duke of Edinburgh award almost, wasn’t it?"

"I had to really, really work at it very, very hard to get as many people on board so that when we did become 11 to 16, the students stayed with us."

"No teacher ever inspired me with a big stick; no teacher ever made me want to do my homework by threatening me."

ABOUT THE HOST

Donna is a Registered Nurse who has worked in the NHS for three decades. 

She brings you real-life stories from people in front-line public service roles.  Some of the stories discuss war, terrorism, suicide, abuse, COVID, death, and vicarious moral injury, which may be triggering for some listeners. Alongside these are stories of joy, hope, empathy, and humanity, highlighting the positive impact individuals have made. Many of her guests have navigated career changes, found work-life balance, or transitioned into new roles, including charity work or entrepreneurship. If you have a story to share that could inspire others seeking change or additional income, please get in touch. Inviting individuals from fire, police and probation services, healthcare, military, teaching, social services, local government, and civil service.

https://www.facebook.com/share/1FjUrwC7qS

https://www.lifeafterpublicservice.co.uk/

Email: [email protected]

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/donna-bentley-carr

This podcast features real-life stories from frontline public service workers, covering tough topics such as war, trauma and loss, and may be triggering to some listeners. Guests also share their tales of everyday heroism, inspiring joy, hope, empathy and humanity. If you have a story to share that could encourage others seeking change or additional income, please get in touch.

In this episode, Donna interviews Vincent Smith, a dedicated public servant with a diverse background in the military, police, and NHS. Vincent shares his journey from growing up in an army family to serving as a soldier in the Coldstream Guards, and later transitioning to civilian roles in law enforcement and healthcare. He discusses his current position as a manual handling manager in the NHS, highlighting the importance of safety and training in patient care. Throughout their conversation, Vincent reflects on the challenges and rewards of his various roles, the impact of his military experiences on his perspective towards conflict and compassion, and his commitment to supporting colleagues and the community. 

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• The journey from military service to roles in the police and NHS highlights the transferable skills gained through public service, emphasising the importance of adaptability and continuous learning in various environments.

• Growing up in a military family shaped perspectives on camaraderie, discipline, and the importance of safety, which have influenced professional roles and approaches to conflict resolution.

• A strong passion for problem-solving is evident in various roles, whether dealing with challenging patients in the NHS or supporting colleagues in the military, showcasing the importance of calmness and rationality in high-pressure situations.

• A consistent focus on patient and staff safety has been a driving force throughout the career, with a commitment to creating supportive environments in both clinical and non-clinical settings.

• Engaging with younger generations through roles like the Army Cadet Force reflects a dedication to mentorship and community support, emphasising the value of guiding others in their personal and professional development.

BEST MOMENTS

"I think that's what's missing. And that's the bit that frustrates me, if I'm honest. I spent a lot of time on the wards, and that sort of put me in good stance with this job."

"I felt we'd failed the people. That's how I felt inside. Even though we hadn't, because we didn't start that conflict."

"I cannot stand injustice. Fairness is my biggest value. I will back people to the hilt if I feel they're being treated unfairly."

"If the NHS didn't exist he’d have to pay for his insulin himself. So we're so lucky in this country to have such an institution as the NHS that cares for people."

"I just think it's such a precious organisation. We need to love it and care for it because I think we're all fantastic at looking after each other."

ABOUT THE HOST

Donna is a Registered Nurse who has worked in the NHS for three decades. 

She brings you real-life stories from people in front-line public service roles.  Some of the stories discuss war, terrorism, suicide, abuse, COVID, death, and vicarious moral injury, which may be triggering for some listeners. Alongside these are stories of joy, hope, empathy, and humanity, highlighting the positive impact individuals have made. Many of her guests have navigated career changes, found work-life balance, or transitioned into new roles, including charity work or entrepreneurship. If you have a story to share that could inspire others seeking change or additional income, please get in touch. Inviting individuals from fire, police and probation services, healthcare, military, teaching, social services, local government, and civil service.

https://www.facebook.com/share/1FjUrwC7qS

https://www.lifeafterpublicservice.co.uk/

Email: [email protected]

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/donna-bentley-carr

This podcast features real-life stories from frontline public service workers, covering tough topics such as war, trauma and loss, and may be triggering to some listeners. Guests also share their tales of everyday heroism, inspiring joy, hope, empathy and humanity. If you have a story to share that could encourage others seeking change or additional income, please get in touch.

In this episode, Donna interviews Di, a retired registered nurse with an impressive 51-year career in nursing. Di shares her journey from her apprenticeship-style training in the 1970s to her role as a nurse practitioner, where she specialised in diabetes care and built lasting relationships with her patients. The conversation delves into the challenges faced by nurses, including the pressures of documentation and the impact of organizational culture on patient care. Di also discusses her transition into medical legal work, highlighting the importance of proper training and the emotional toll of navigating clinical negligence cases.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• Di had a remarkable 51-year career in nursing, transitioning from traditional apprenticeship-style training to becoming a nurse practitioner and eventually engaging in medical legal work.

• Throughout her career, Di faced significant challenges, including the pressures of managing patient care while adhering to administrative demands and the stress of writing reports under tight deadlines for legal cases.

• Building strong relationships with patients was a highlight of Di's career, allowing her to provide personalised care and make significant impacts, such as early cancer detection that saved lives.

• The nursing profession has evolved from apprenticeship models to academic routes, with new pathways like nurse associates emerging, allowing individuals with a passion for nursing to enter the field without traditional academic qualifications.

• There is a growing demand for nurses in medical legal roles, and those interested can pursue training through organizations like the Royal College of Nursing or specialised courses to gain the necessary skills for this field.

BEST MOMENTS

"I was allowed to examine people, diagnose them, treat them for all sorts of different conditions. And then eventually, I was able to prescribe as well."

"Gradually, more and more requests came through."

"I think you're right, I think coming in through an academic route is good because it means that people have the knowledge and the evidence base for what they're doing."

"You know, sometimes these cases went on for years and this was hanging over the nurse's head. You could feel very, very sad for them really."

"I do remember one particular occasion. He just came in to see me and said, you saved my life."

ABOUT THE HOST

Donna is a Registered Nurse who has worked in the NHS for three decades. 

She brings you real-life stories from people in front-line public service roles.  Some of the stories discuss war, terrorism, suicide, abuse, COVID, death, and vicarious moral injury, which may be triggering for some listeners. Alongside these are stories of joy, hope, empathy, and humanity, highlighting the positive impact individuals have made. Many of her guests have navigated career changes, found work-life balance, or transitioned into new roles, including charity work or entrepreneurship. If you have a story to share that could inspire others seeking change or additional income, please get in touch. Inviting individuals from fire, police and probation services, healthcare, military, teaching, social services, local government, and civil service.

https://www.facebook.com/share/1FjUrwC7qS

https://www.lifeafterpublicservice.co.uk/

Email: [email protected]

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/donna-bentley-carr

This podcast features real-life stories from frontline public service workers, covering tough topics such as war, trauma and loss, and may be triggering to some listeners. Guests also share their tales of everyday heroism, inspiring joy, hope, empathy and humanity. If you have a story to share that could encourage others seeking change or additional income, please get in touch.

In this episode, Donna interviews Cameron McCann, a former police officer who served for 15 years before facing significant challenges that led to his medical retirement. Cameron shares his journey from the Metropolitan Police to Police Scotland, detailing the physical and mental health struggles he encountered due to workplace conditions and treatment. Despite these hardships, he and his wife June transformed their passions for whisky and art into a successful business, culminating in the establishment of Stirling Distillery. Cameron discusses the innovative pivots they made during the COVID-19 pandemic, including producing hand sanitiser and hosting virtual tastings. 

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• After a challenging career in the police force, which included serious health issues and a difficult work environment, the individual successfully transitioned to running a family business, highlighting the potential for personal growth and new opportunities after leaving public service.

• The experience of mental health struggles, including anxiety and depression, was exacerbated by the treatment received during the individual's time in the police force. This underscores the importance of mental health support within public service careers.

• Building strong relationships with supportive individuals, such as Gary Hayes from PTSD 999, played a crucial role in navigating personal challenges. This emphasises the value of community and peer support for those in high-stress professions.

• The business adapted during the COVID-19 pandemic by pivoting to produce hand sanitiser and offering online tasting events, demonstrating resilience and the ability to innovate in response to changing circumstances.

• The establishment of a charity gin, with proceeds supporting PTSD 999, reflects a commitment to giving back to the community and addressing mental health issues faced by first responders, highlighting the importance of social responsibility in business.

BEST MOMENTS

"I always say this, and we wouldn't be where I wouldn't be where I was today if it wasn't because of that."

"I ended up getting arrested for fraud. I ended up getting surveillance on me."

"I had a brain tumour. It wasn't cancerous or anything like that. It affected other things."

"I would rather lose money than my word."

"There is some very good people there now, but they're quite often hand-tied by the system, in my opinion."

ABOUT THE HOST

Donna is a Registered Nurse who has worked in the NHS for three decades. 

She brings you real-life stories from people in front-line public service roles.  Some of the stories discuss war, terrorism, suicide, abuse, COVID, death, and vicarious moral injury, which may be triggering for some listeners. Alongside these are stories of joy, hope, empathy, and humanity, highlighting the positive impact individuals have made. Many of her guests have navigated career changes, found work-life balance, or transitioned into new roles, including charity work or entrepreneurship. If you have a story to share that could inspire others seeking change or additional income, please get in touch. Inviting individuals from fire, police and probation services, healthcare, military, teaching, social services, local government, and civil service.

https://www.facebook.com/share/1FjUrwC7qS

https://www.lifeafterpublicservice.co.uk/

Email: [email protected]

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/donna-bentley-carr

This podcast features real-life stories from frontline public service workers, covering tough topics such as war, trauma and loss, and may be triggering to some listeners. Guests also share their tales of everyday heroism, inspiring joy, hope, empathy and humanity. If you have a story to share that could encourage others seeking change or additional income, please get in touch.

In this episode, Donna interviews Caitlin Maye, a dynamic young nurse specialising in dermatology who has successfully combined her medical expertise with a thriving aesthetics business alongside her mother. Caitlin shares her journey from being a professional dancer to becoming a nurse, highlighting the challenges and triumphs she faced during her training, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic. The conversation delves into the diverse aspects of dermatology, the importance of holistic approaches to skincare, and the differences between NHS and private practice treatments. 

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• Caitlin has developed a successful nursing career in dermatology, where she works with both adults and children, managing a variety of skin conditions and performing surgeries, including skin cancer removals.

• Alongside her NHS role, Caitlin operates a skin therapy business with her mother, combining their nursing expertise with aesthetic treatments. This hybrid model allows her to explore her passion for skincare while maintaining a stable income.

• Caitlin emphasises the importance of understanding the root causes of skin issues, advocating for a holistic approach that considers factors like stress, diet, and skin barrier health, rather than solely relying on medications that may mask symptoms.

• Caitlin's nursing training occurred during the COVID-19 pandemic, which presented significant challenges but also taught her resilience and the importance of providing emotional support to patients during difficult times.

• Recognising the potential for burnout in nursing, Caitlin stresses the importance of maintaining a work-life balance and pursuing additional interests outside of her primary career to ensure long-term job satisfaction and personal well-being.

BEST MOMENTS

"My mum's also a nurse and growing up I've always heard good stories. I've seen her cry, I've seen her laugh. It's a job where you can't really explain it unless you're sort of in that environment."

"Your skin is your largest organ. If that skin barrier is impaired in any way, then you're going to get bacteria in, you're going to have water coming out."

"I always say to patients acne is a bit like a fire. You need to have the bacteria. You need to have the dead skin cells and then you have to have the oil. Have all three, you've got yourself a nice juicy spot."

"You are literally always on a stage, you almost do have to perform and you do, I think, learn to develop that skill of putting on a bit of a show."

"I think there's room for medical and there's room for sort of the cosmetic or the holistic approach to things when it comes to your health in many different ways."

ABOUT THE HOST

Donna is a Registered Nurse who has worked in the NHS for three decades. 

She brings you real-life stories from people in front-line public service roles.  Some of the stories discuss war, terrorism, suicide, abuse, COVID, death, and vicarious moral injury, which may be triggering for some listeners. Alongside these are stories of joy, hope, empathy, and humanity, highlighting the positive impact individuals have made. Many of her guests have navigated career changes, found work-life balance, or transitioned into new roles, including charity work or entrepreneurship. If you have a story to share that could inspire others seeking change or additional income, please get in touch. Inviting individuals from fire, police and probation services, healthcare, military, teaching, social services, local government, and civil service.

https://www.facebook.com/share/1FjUrwC7qS

https://www.lifeafterpublicservice.co.uk/

Email: [email protected]

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/donna-bentley-carr

This podcast features real-life stories from frontline public service workers, covering tough topics such as war, trauma and loss, and may be triggering to some listeners. Guests also share their tales of everyday heroism, inspiring joy, hope, empathy and humanity. If you have a story to share that could encourage others seeking change or additional income, please get in touch.

In today's episode, Donna interviews Debs, a former NHS physiotherapist who transitioned into a successful Pilates instructor and business owner. Debs shares her journey from working in the NHS for over a decade and specialising in amputee rehabilitation, to establishing her own Pilates studio. She discusses the challenges of bureaucracy in the NHS, her motivations for seeking a more fulfilling career, and the flexibility that self-employment has provided her, especially as a mother. Debs highlights the growing popularity of Pilates, its benefits for physical and mental health, and how her background in physiotherapy enhances her teaching. 

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• The journey from working in the NHS to self-employment can be challenging but rewarding. Many professionals find that developing a side hustle or hybrid role can provide the confidence and financial stability needed to make the leap.

• There has been a significant increase in interest in Pilates, attributed to modern lifestyle stresses and the need for both physical and mental health benefits. Pilates offers a holistic approach to fitness, combining strength, flexibility, and mindfulness.

• Beginner-specific classes and a supportive environment are essential for newcomers to Pilates. Creating a sense of community helps individuals feel more comfortable and encourages them to step out of their comfort zones.

• Skills gained from working in public service, such as empathy, communication, and teamwork, can be effectively applied in self-employment settings. Continuous learning and adaptation are crucial for success in a business environment.

• Self-employment allows for greater flexibility in work hours, which can lead to a better work-life balance. This flexibility can be particularly beneficial for parents or those looking to manage their time more effectively.

BEST MOMENTS

"I always wanted to be a musculoskeletal sports physio, but I ended up being placed in an amputee rehab centre and I loved it."

"I was earning a full-time wage on part-time hours definitely within the first two years."

"Pilates is lovely in the fact that you've got the mindful element to it. It includes a lot of breath work, which helps settle the central nervous system."

"You can get trapped by the fact that you're told that it's an admirable profession, but what it means is you don't ever then explore outside of that bubble."

"We run classes that are specifically for beginners, and that's really nice getting a group of people together."

ABOUT THE HOST

Donna is a Registered Nurse who has worked in the NHS for three decades. 

She brings you real-life stories from people in front-line public service roles.  Some of the stories discuss war, terrorism, suicide, abuse, COVID, death, and vicarious moral injury, which may be triggering for some listeners. Alongside these are stories of joy, hope, empathy, and humanity, highlighting the positive impact individuals have made. Many of her guests have navigated career changes, found work-life balance, or transitioned into new roles, including charity work or entrepreneurship. If you have a story to share that could inspire others seeking change or additional income, please get in touch. Inviting individuals from fire, police and probation services, healthcare, military, teaching, social services, local government, and civil service.

https://www.facebook.com/share/1FjUrwC7qS

https://www.lifeafterpublicservice.co.uk/

Email: [email protected]

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/donna-bentley-carr

This podcast features real-life stories from frontline public service workers, covering tough topics such as war, trauma and loss, and may be triggering to some listeners. Guests also share their tales of everyday heroism, inspiring joy, hope, empathy and humanity. If you have a story to share that could encourage others seeking change or additional income, please get in touch.

In this very first episode of Life After Public Service, Donna reveals her own journey as a nurse with over 27 years of experience in the NHS and discusses the evolving landscape of public service roles. She highlights the challenges faced by public servants, including high attrition rates in the NHS and other sectors, and the increasing demands on healthcare professionals. Donna aims to create a platform for sharing inspiring stories from individuals in various public service fields, exploring both their successes and the reasons behind their career transitions.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• Donna aims to share the stories of individuals in public service roles, highlighting both their successes and challenges, and to provide insights into life after a career in public service.

• There is a significant attrition rate in public service roles, particularly in the NHS, where 40,000 nurses leave the profession each year. This reflects a gap between expectations and the realities of working in these fields.

• The public service landscape has changed dramatically over the past 30 years, with increased demand for services, advancements in technology, and a growing need for evidence-based care due to rising litigation.

• Donna encourages listeners to consider their career paths and the possibility of transitioning to new roles, emphasising that transferable skills from public service can open doors to various career options.

BEST MOMENTS

"I wanted to have a platform to be able to share the stories of everyday heroes. They are heroes, in my opinion. People who work in public service roles."

"The NHS is the biggest employer in the UK and it employs over 1.5 million people. But the attrition rate is 8%."

"There's a real ambition by a lot of people in the UK to work in these public service roles, but maybe the reality of it doesn't quite meet their expectation."

"If you're not happy in the role that you're doing, what else could I do? All of these roles give you transferable skills."

"Some of the topics that we discuss include war, terrorism, suicide, abuse, Covid, death and moral injury."

ABOUT THE HOST

Donna is a Registered Nurse who has worked in the NHS for three decades. 

She brings you real-life stories from people in front-line public service roles.  Some of the stories discuss war, terrorism, suicide, abuse, COVID, death, and vicarious moral injury, which may be triggering for some listeners. Alongside these are stories of joy, hope, empathy, and humanity, highlighting the positive impact individuals have made. Many of her guests have navigated career changes, found work-life balance, or transitioned into new roles, including charity work or entrepreneurship. If you have a story to share that could inspire others seeking change or additional income, please get in touch. Inviting individuals from fire, police and probation services, healthcare, military, teaching, social services, local government, and civil service.

https://www.facebook.com/share/1FjUrwC7qS

https://www.lifeafterpublicservice.co.uk/

Email: [email protected]

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/donna-bentley-carr

This podcast features real-life stories from frontline public service workers, covering tough topics such as war, trauma and loss, and may be triggering to some listeners. Guests also share their tales of everyday heroism, inspiring joy, hope, empathy and humanity. If you have a story to share that could encourage others seeking change or additional income, please get in touch.

In this episode, Donna interviews her father, Steve Hibberd, a former firefighter with an impressive 29-year career in the fire service. Steve shares his journey into firefighting, the challenges he faced, and the camaraderie built within his team. He reflects on the evolution of the role, including the impact of PTSD and the importance of support among colleagues. The conversation also delves into Steve's transition from public service to a career as a butler, highlighting his unique experiences working for wealthy families and the fascinating stories that come with it. 

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• The journey from a public service role, such as firefighting, to other careers can be influenced by personal circumstances, such as changes in family life or career stagnation. The transition can lead to diverse opportunities, including unique jobs like butlering.

• Firefighters face significant challenges, including dealing with traumatic incidents and the emotional toll that comes with them. While support systems have improved over the years, earlier firefighters often relied on camaraderie and peer support to cope with stress.

• The fire service fosters a strong sense of brotherhood among team members, where colleagues support each other both professionally and personally. This bond is crucial during difficult times and contributes to a positive work environment.

• Working for affluent families can provide unique experiences, such as living in luxurious settings and interacting with high-profile individuals. However, the treatment of staff can vary significantly among employers, impacting job satisfaction.

• The importance of being treated as an equal and valued member of a team is emphasised. Positive relationships with employers can enhance job performance and overall satisfaction, while negative experiences can lead to dissatisfaction and career changes.

BEST MOMENTS

"I suppose rugby being on the corner of the M6 and the M1, we probably covered more motorway miles than most fire stations in the country."

"We recognize now that as part of doing a job that helps others, we sometimes take on what's known as vicarious trauma or moral injury."

"I remember we had a chief called Wally Redford, and in the end we were just laughing and he was so embarrassed."

"I went to test them out, within seven casts I'd caught six fish, so it was as easy as that."

"It doesn't matter how wealthy you are, you know, everybody in the team's important."

ABOUT THE HOST

Donna is a Registered Nurse who has worked in the NHS for three decades. 

She brings you real-life stories from people in front-line public service roles.  Some of the stories discuss war, terrorism, suicide, abuse, COVID, death, and vicarious moral injury, which may be triggering for some listeners. Alongside these are stories of joy, hope, empathy, and humanity, highlighting the positive impact individuals have made. Many of her guests have navigated career changes, found work-life balance, or transitioned into new roles, including charity work or entrepreneurship. If you have a story to share that could inspire others seeking change or additional income, please get in touch. Inviting individuals from fire, police and probation services, healthcare, military, teaching, social services, local government, and civil service.

https://www.facebook.com/share/1FjUrwC7qS

https://www.lifeafterpublicservice.co.uk/

Email: [email protected]

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/donna-bentley-carr

This podcast features real-life stories from frontline public service workers, covering tough topics such as war, trauma and loss, and may be triggering to some listeners. Guests also share their tales of everyday heroism, inspiring joy, hope, empathy and humanity. If you have a story to share that could encourage others seeking change or additional income, please get in touch.