Carys joined the Julia’s House nursing team in early 2022, having come from a varied paediatric background, working in children’s hospices, on acute paediatric wards in the NHS, as a School Nurse and National Critical Care Team Nurse.
Joining originally as a Bank Nurse, Carys soon wanted to make her time with Julia’s House permanent.
Reignite your Career
As a mum of three boys, life was already busy, but she felt it was time to reignite her career, get the right work/life balance and achieve what she wanted.
Thanks to the welcoming, supportive camaraderie of Julia’s House, she’s found everyone works as one big team.
Comparing her time in the hospice with her years in the NHS, Carys admits: “While the pressures are the same, in a hospice setting there’s time for a more holistic and family-centred approach, so we can give much-needed 121 care to the children and support to families.”
“I feel extremely lucky to be able to give that attention to the children and families. I just think I found my niche in nursing – I really do love it!”
The Rewards & the Magic
Appreciating how important it is for families to have a break and some time for themselves, Carys witnesses on a regular basis how Julia’s House support makes a huge difference to families, both at home and at the hospice, taking away some of their pressure.
Even the support for siblings, so parents can go out for dinner or a walk. Carys admits: “It’s really magical that our support can enable them to do that.”
Nursing staff have to constantly be at the top of their game though, with the needs of the children often becoming more complex and requiring considerable clinical care.
Maintain & Gain
By working in a children’s hospice, not only do we maintain our clinical skills; we gain new ones.
“You learn more than you realise, supporting children and families through the difficult and challenging times and at end of life.”
Carys is keen to point out that the hospice is a happy place. Of course, there are sad and really tough times, but it is a place full of fun, laughter and smiles.
A special memory for Carys…
“I was caring for a child new to Julia’s House. They had taken a little time to get to know us but after a few visits, spontaneously, he came over to me whilst I was on the floor, sat on my lap and gave me a massive hug. He accepted and trusted us. That was a really special moment.”
Carys has the last word…
“Don’t worry if you haven’t worked in a hospice before. We all come with varied experiences, knowledge and expertise. Just come and talk to us. It might be your niche in nursing too.”