Last Modified: 10:36am 04/07/2023

Katie Selby

As the National Health Service (NHS) celebrates its 75th birthday on Wednesday 5 July 2023, hospitals across the country are taking time to reflect on the incredible work of their staff. In commemoration of this milestone, we have spoken to members of #TeamMKUH to learn about their experience within the NHS and where they see the future of healthcare.

Find out more about Katie Selby, Maternity Governance Lead, below!

 

When did you start working for the NHS?

In 2010 I started my midwifery degree for three years. I qualified in 2013 and began working for the NHS. I wanted to work within the healthcare industry to grow my career in helping people out and to make a difference. As challenging as my job can be, I like to see how I am helping others in need and that makes me really feel inspired.

What does a day in the life for you look like?

As a Maternity Governance Lead for the labour Ward, I make sure that everyone working on the ward is feeling alright as well as checking to see if there are any issues that need sorting. I then attend many meetings in the day. This includes reviewing care plans, patient safety concerns and recording information about the ward and the patients. Other than the meetings, I write up reports, analyse data and have a look at quality improvement to make sure that in the future, everything is at its highest quality.

What is your favourite part of working in MKUH?

Milton Keynes University Hospital feels like a team. Throughout the whole hospital the staff are nice to one another from different departments, and the people here are so friendly – they always interact or greet each other. And this makes me feel so grateful to work with such kind-hearted people.

Do you have any advice for inexperienced staff?

My advice would be that it is not an easy life working in the NHS, and although many people know that, they do not see the challenges we are faced with. So for me, I would say to look after yourself and have that social support inside and outside of work. Always get support if you need it and have someone that you can decompress and debrief with.

Where do you see the NHS in the future?

The future of the NHS is full of hardworking, committed staff that make sure patients receive the correct care. I also believe that the NHS will become even more successful with additional resources and supportive mechanisms.

Describe the NHS in one word?

Challenging!