How long have you been working here?

I’ve been with HCA UK for about three years now. My journey started when I did a 10-week placement with HCA as part of my nursing degree back in 2020. I was rotated across multiple outpatient sites, which gave me experience in a range of specialties. After graduating, I spent some time gaining wider clinical experience in the NHS, but I always knew I’d come back to HCA UK because of the balance and environment it offers.

How did you get started?

My very first experience with HCA UK was during that student placement. I was struck by how welcoming and supportive everyone was, it really stood out. When the placement came to an end, they offered me a Healthcare Assistant role while I was still completing my degree. Spending a year in the NHS taught me a lot, but I missed the work-life balance and the meaningful patient connections that HCA UK gives you.

What’s your role and what do you do day-to-day?

I’m a Staff Nurse at Sydney Street Outpatient Clinic. Day to day, I manage clinics, assist consultants during procedures, chaperone patients, and take care of administrative duties like rotas and ordering supplies. I also follow up with patients after their procedures to check how they’re recovering. We cover so many specialties, from dermatology to gynaecology to orthopaedics – so every day is different, but always centred on patient care.

Can you tell us about the people you work with?

The team here is fantastic. We’re a diverse group of nurses from all kinds of backgrounds and experience levels. Everyone is approachable, encouraging, and willing to share what they know. It’s a really positive learning environment, especially for new colleagues. When I joined, I was made to feel valued right away, and I try to pass that same welcome on to others now. We also have a great sense of community, from weekend meet-ups to group chats that keep everyone connected.

What do you enjoy the most about your role?

For me, it’s the relationships I get to build with both patients and colleagues. In some environments, things can get so busy that it's hard to develop a personal connection with your patients. At HCA UK, I can take the time to get to know them, ask about their day, and be part of their care journey beyond the clinic visit. That one-to-one connection is incredibly rewarding.

Do you have any standout stories?

It’s not one big story but lots of small moments that stand out, especially around how supportive my team has been. When my sister was diagnosed with breast cancer, everyone rallied around me. My colleagues checked in, shared advice, and genuinely cared. That compassion meant a lot. It reminded me that we don’t just look after patients, we look after each other too.

Have you taken advantage of your benefits?

Yes, definitely. Having private healthcare is such a valuable benefit. Seeing what my sister went through made me appreciate how important it is to have that safety net. I’ve also been recognised through the Epic Points programme and certificates from managers, which might sound small, but they make a big difference. They show your work is noticed and appreciated.

What makes you stay at HCA UK?

The people, the balance, and the opportunities. I’m surrounded by colleagues who want me to succeed and leaders who take the time to ask about my interests and goals. The environment here gives you space to grow in confidence, and that’s been so important early in my career.

What’s next for you?

Right now, I’m focusing on building my confidence as a nurse and exploring my interest in wound care. I’ve got a study day coming up on tissue viability, and I’d love to specialise in that area. HCA UK is really supportive when it comes to training and development, so I know there’ll be opportunities to progress when I’m ready.