Its good to talk

This week has seen me catching up with some admin tasks as well as covering the operational commanders role.

We have several new starters in our sector and as a team we try to ensure they feel welcomed and help them find their feet in what must be a daunting first few weeks. All new starters will have a trust induction process prior to them coming to us. Locally we also run an induction day specific to our area. We also have a booklet which new staff are given with all sorts of useful information and contacts in. Those of us who have been in the service for sometime take a lot of this for granted but knowing how to complete your time sheet or claim your travelling expenses are important and often mind boggling when you first do it, add this to the normal everyday pressures of a new job and you can see why it is important we support our new starters.

All new starters in our sector will have regular meeting with their Operations Officer to  ensure they are supported and to identify any issues which arise. These  meetings form part of the probation or preceptorship  process.

Looking at support the Trust also have a staying well service which allows any of our staff direct access to a confidential support network. Staff are able to self refer and access counselling, physiotherapy and other services.

Support is a bit of a coverall description and can vary from a quick hello how are you, to formal meetings. As an Operations Officer this is a large part of my role, but all staff have a part to play in the support process. it may be that one of your colleagues notices you are struggling and I would hope they will do something to help.

                            
Those of you of  a certain age will remember Buzby and his slogan "Its good to talk" this is a true now as it has ever been.

Stay safe and have a good week.