03 December 2014 – the day I started my job. I remember walking through the main doors and being over-whelmed by how busy and frantic the environment was. It was difficult to concentrate on anything else other than making sure I found my way to the department on time. It felt like I had just walked into a mini city.

Looking back I was oblivious and somewhat naive to the job I had applied for

It’s only when I look back over the last nearly three-years, I realise how much I have learned through the experiences I’ve been exposed to here at Derriford hospital.

Within my role I feel particularly lucky and honoured that such a large proportion is direct patient contact. In a short blog it’s hard to sum up what I do day-to-day because every day is so different; you can never predict what sort of patients you will meet.

I help support communication therapy sessions alongside the therapists in our team and I also create communication aids and resources for patients and support patients with swallowing difficulties. Recently, I have been able to support a Laryngectomy patient in using an electronic speech device; she hasn’t had a voice for over four-months.

I also feel lucky that I am currently on the pathway to hopefully qualifying as a Makaton tutor. The Speech and Language Therapy department have recently nominated me for a certificate of excellence which was a surprise and nice token of recognition.

I hope to have a long career within the NHS, and in this department in particular. If there is ever a chance to develop my role further with assistant practitioner apprentice training this is something I would aspire to complete in the future.

Rachael Wilson

Speech and Language Therapy Assistant

Rachael is writing as part of the #WeCare2 campaign that will be running across our Trust communications. Look out for more from Speech and Language Therapy, and their AHP and HCS colleagues, on our social media pages, Trust screensavers, Daily Email, Vital Signs and much more.