'If we work together, the future will be bright and we will have hope for tomorrow' - our staff stories: Bridget and Linda
We spoke to Bridget and Linda, two Personal Assistants at Nottingham University Hospitals, who between them have almost 50 years of service to the NHS. We asked them to tell us of their experiences over the last nine months or so, and tell us what their messages to their colleagues, and the people of Nottinghamshire, are.
Here’s what they said:
Speaking of her experience since the start of the pandemic, Bridget said:
“I received my letter from the Government asking me to shield, as I was on the vulnerable list. I was working from home from 21st March until 1st August. At first it was very strange but you soon adapt and it becomes the norm.
On Monday 3rd August, I returned to working in the office two days and continued to work three days at home, but I am now back to working from home all of the time due to the new restrictions.
Sometimes I felt isolated, but Microsoft Teams has been a great help to me. I join a daily meeting and I am able to see my colleagues. We catch up on work related issues and what’s happening at the hospital. I know they are at the end of a phone if I need to chat.
I also have great friends who work at Nottingham University Hospitals and I have always felt like we are one big family.”
Talking about her home life, Bridget said:
“To be honest, the first few months were very strange - getting up and switching on my laptop rather than getting into my car and driving to work etc. I have learned that I have to separate “my work time” and “my time” - occasionally they do cross over but it works for me.
For me it’s great that I can work from home, otherwise I’m not sure how I would have coped being locked-down for this period of time, as part of the vulnerable list.
I have a garden, so during the summer months it was good to finish work and then sit and enjoy it. In July, when I was allowed to go out for 15 minutes, it was amazing how being allowed out felt.
You can become trapped within four walls but a phone call, an email or a video catch up always came to my rescue.”
Covid-19 has taught me…
“To never take things for granted – I appreciate all the help and support I have had from my line manager, my colleagues and friends over the last nine months and especially over the last year or so.”
What would I have said to myself this time last year?
“If only we could see the future – to be honest would any of us really have stopped and listened – I don’t think so.
For some of us life is so busy we forget what is happening around us, we should appreciate what we have now as you don’t know what’s around the corner.”
My message to the people of Nottinghamshire is…
“Please take note of what is being said, wash your hands, wear a face mask, and stay socially distanced from each other – if we work together, the future will be bright and we will have hope for tomorrow.”
My message to all of my colleagues is…
“We are in this together – let’s work as a team. I can never say “thank you” enough to all those who are front line staff, but also to all those that work behind the scenes to keep Nottingham University Hospitals going.”
Linda, a Personal Assistant and Project Support Officer at Nottingham University Hospitals, said of her experience so far:
“A few weeks ago, I was asked if I would like to work from home two days a week. I was a little bit apprehensive as it was new to me and I am used to office working. However I really enjoy these days, it saves me an hour a day on travel time, and will be beneficial over the winter months.”
Covid-19 has had an impact on everyone, I really miss my holidays and social activities, but I feel lucky to work in the NHS.
Covid-19 has taught me...
“Never to take our freedom for granted.”
What would I have said to myself this time last year?
“I would have said get out as much as you can, and take a few breaks away.”
My message to the people of Nottinghamshire is…
“Stay safe, stay home if possible, and protect yourself and others.”
My message to all of my colleagues at is…
“You all do an amazing job here at NUH. No matter what your role is, be proud to be part of Team NUH.”