I am a mother to two beautiful boys, Cory aged 12 and Jett aged 3. I live in a village just outside Wrexham with them and their father in our cosy little home. I’m not currently a full time agency worker I just pick up shifts when I can to suit our hectic family life. I have a permanent part time job in WMH which I love and have worked there since qualifying back in 2012. Outside of work I have a great passion for netball and play 2-3 times a week for my team named; Netcrackers. Of course I also enjoy the usual spending time with friends and going for days out with out with my family.
When did you first start working as an agency nurse: I haven’t long started working for an agency and only worked my first shift a couple of weeks ago.
What motivated you to become agency nurse: I am getting married this year and needed extra money to help pay towards the wedding, and I had heard from a friend of mine that it was ‘good’ pay. My fiancé already works full time and also does overtime every opportunity he gets. I wanted to contribute more but without paying extra costs towards childcare, which is what I would need to do if I took extra shifts on in my permanent job as there is no nights, lates or weekends available. By joining an agency I have been able to work around my family life and my current job and pick up shifts if and when I needed but most importantly I have been able to work around my fiancés days off, saving money on childcare. Another key factor for wanting to be an agency nurse was wanting to spread my wings a little and gain new skills and experiences that I wouldn’t necessarily get from my permanent job. I am now able to do so without committing myself to a new role and leaving my current job security.
Why had you not become an agency nurse earlier: The only reason I did not become an agency nurse sooner was merely the fact that I did not know I could work for the BCUHB and be an agency worker at the same time otherwise I would have done it a lot sooner.
What do you love most about being an agency nurse: I thrive off meeting new people and I love facing new challenges. The fact that I get to care for patients in different care settings and understand how different establishments work, helps me understand how to recognise the psychosocial needs of my patients as well as their physical needs. My confidence has risen in such a short space of time, I feel happier as a person and really feel like I am making a difference in peoples lives.
What frustrates you about being an agency nurse: As I haven’t been an agency worker for very long I can’t say anything has really frustrated me.
What do you love most about Bluestones Medical: Right from the beginning of the process in becoming a member of Bluestones Medical I have felt really well looked after, everything was explained to me step by step. During my interview I felt at ease and calm, I felt as though they really wanted to get to know me as a person and not just adding another nurse to their books. I had a few personal concerns regarding my confidence and I was put at ease straight away. They are always on the other end of the phone when needed and are super easy to get hold of. Another thing that surprised me is that they knew who I was instantly by the sound of my voice which made me feel really happy. The pay is also excellent and I haven’t had an issue with not being paid my wage like I have heard about other agencies. The way you can book a shift is very quick and simple. I get plenty of notifications of work and there is never any pressure of how much work you accept. The uniform is nice and comfortable to work in.
What has the agency world taught you: Being an agency worker has taught me that for me, change is good, and there is always room for improvement and expanding knowledge within my field.
How has working for an agency changed you/your life: It has honestly made me happier and excited about what the future may hold in my career, I have gained a lot of confidence.
What advice would you give to someone thinking about joining an agency: JUST DO IT!! YOU WONT REGRET IT!!!
What plans do you have for your career in the future: Right now, the only plan I have for my career is to ensure I am a better nurse tomorrow than I was today, taking each day as it comes and grabbing any opportunities I get with both hands.
If you could have one superpower what would it be and why: I would love to be able to morph into different people and get gossip, because let’s face it, everybody loves a good old chin wag!!!!
Thanks,
Vicky C.
