Lecturer inspired by 'life changing' nurse

I know how important nursing is as a nurse gave me my life back.

I was in and out of hospital for a few years, getting different treatments but with no diagnosis until I was reviewed by an Advanced Nurse Practitioner who got me the right diagnostic surgery for my conditions

Before that I had no idea of the impact that one person could make.

I kept seeing a banner outside the hospital that said ‘we need nurses’ and every time I passed the message hit a little bit deeper.

So, I gave up my job, sold my car and joined an access to nursing course.

I did the first year of a nursing degree, but I couldn’t afford to finish due to my bills, children and responsibilities, which was heart-breaking.

When the Nursing Associates apprenticeship course came out it was a godsend. It gave me the opportunity to work, earn a wage, learn and get a nursing qualification.

Hayley Scutts, Coventry University lecturer

I qualified just after the pandemic hit and was working in the Intensive Care Unit (ITU) at Warwick Hospital. It was difficult but I’m incredibly lucky for the support I had from my family and the Trust.

Throughout the pandemic we had staff from different areas join us on ITU and I found myself supporting the teaching of these new staff members.

Then when student placements returned, I found it great to work with them, share my knowledge and see them develop.

I am now teaching at the university but remain on the shift bank at the Trust as I want to keep my clinical skills up to date and support as the pandemic continues.

Since I started my journey the message that we need more nurses has not changed. We need more passionate, caring people to join the profession.

Hayley Scutts, Coventry University lecturer