Vanessa Threadgold, Head of Resuscitation

Why did you choose to work for UHCW (University Hospitals Coventry and Warwickshire)?

I have lived in Warwickshire all my life and am proud to continue to work in my local community. When I commenced my Nursing career as a Student Nurse in 1990, I completed most of my placements at the Hospital of St. Cross in Rugby and George Eliot Hospital in Nuneaton in the Coventry and Warwickshire school of Nursing. I have since worked at other Trusts in the UK, after gaining a wide network of colleagues and friends, returned to UHCW NHS Trust in 2017 from studying for a MSc in Advanced Clinical Practice. It felt like ‘coming home.’ The atmosphere at UHCW is always welcoming, friendly and respectful. UHCW is a Tertiary centre for many services, and as a teaching hospital is at the epicentre and forefront of many innovations, I am immensely honoured to be part of the workforce here, helping to drive the values that are embedded in our practice.

What do you enjoy about working at the Trust?

I have been incredibly lucky to work in many departments and services at UHCW, and have gained knowledge, skills and relationships during this time that have enabled me to develop both personally and professionally. As the Head of service, I now work in partnership with many of those I have previously had the honour to encounter and ensure high quality communication and assurance standards for all the processes we are involved with. The Trust supports innovation, allowing the introduction of many new provisions within our service that have improved our patient and staff experience.

How have you been supported by the Trust to develop your career?

The support offered from all disciplines and professions has been exceptional, allowing my progression to be personalised and relevant to both the Trust and more importantly to the improvement of services for our patients and staff.From Student Nurse, commencing in 1990, to present day as Head of service I have been supported to follow the pathway that best suits my skills and knowledge. I have been allowed to study and learn where required to ensure that skills and knowledge is always the most current and relevant.This also allows me to use my positive experiences to support and encourage progression for our team within Resuscitation.

What would you say to other nurses looking to join the Trust?

I would encourage other nurses to consider working at UHCW, the wide range of opportunities allows for a diverse and individualised career pathway that will never become stagnant and offers support, innovation, and respect.