Clinical Assistants

Willow Wood is not only committed to providing the best possible service to all patients and their families, but prides itself on its commitment to staff development and training. Indeed, last year we were awarded the Silver Achievement Award from Investors In People, an internationally recognised accreditation held by 10,000 organisations across the world.

Recently our support workers in the START Clinic have been undertaking a structured training programme which has enabled them to take on the new role of clinical assistants.As Nicky Byrne, day services lead said, “We have a wealth of knowledge and experience in our team, and wanted to use this to the full to expand the breadth and depth of the services we offer.As key workers, our clinical assistants have their own caseload and that in turn enables us to help more people from our community.”

Staff have been trained and assessed in a wide range of competencies, from the initial assessment at the patient’s first visit, to checking the chemical levels in the hydrotherapy pool, using the hoist to transfer patients to the pool, taking blood pressure readings, performing mobility assessments, running Looking Good, Feeling Better pamper days and much more.

Our three newly qualified clinical assistants, Lynn Kelly, Glynis Barlow and Emma Craigmyle all agree that are really happy with their new role.Lynn said “I’ve always loved working here, but taking on additional responsibilities means that every day I go home knowing that I’ve really helped our patients and their families. It’s such a wonderful feeling.”

Emma agreed. “Being able to be with a patient every step of the way on their journey through our START Clinic, and to contribute to enhancing their quality of life is a real privilege.”

The final word goes to Glynis: “It’s such a great atmosphere here at Willow Wood, there’s laughter, there’s love and there’s the highest possible standard of care.If you or any member of your family has a life-limiting condition such as Parkinson’s disease, COPD or respiratory failure, heart failure, a neurological condition or cancer please ring us on 0161 330 1100 and see how the START Clinic could help you.”