Hello, my name is Jodie and I’m Stop Smoking Maternity Support Worker.
Jodie Stop Smoking Maternity Support Worker
What made you decide on this role?
The chance to learn new and different skills and to be able to help with health improvement in a way I hadn't previously thought of.
What qualifications did you need?
I have 5 A-C grade GCSEs, I have also undertaken various other training courses along the way, including training to be a stop smoking practitioner with the National Centre for Smoking Cessation and Training, Counselling skills and behavioural support training. When I started as a Health Care Support worker you needed just GCSEs, I believe NVQ qualifications are a good place to start in health care.
What do you enjoy about the role?
I enjoy supporting others to make positive health changes in their lives. I enjoy helping to empower people to gain confidence and achieve things they think they can't and showing them ways to improve their quality of life.
What key skills are needed to do your role well?
Empathy and understanding, it's so important to see past your judgements and preconceptions and talk with an individual about their experiences to be able to work towards solutions together.
What advice would you give someone thinking about a role in NHS Wales?
Take every opportunity, there's so much to learn from moving around different areas and job roles and always believe you can even if you feel out of your depth. Never be afraid to ask questions, this is something I had to learn to do whilst working in healthcare. I found my passion in Maternity services but didn't know it was my passion until I tried it.