Meet Our People

In this week’s blog, we would like to spotlight our dedicated Safeguarding Coordinator, Shola. Recently graduated from university, Shola shares her aspirations for the future and how HUC has played a crucial role in supporting her educational journey, with each role she’s taken on contributing to her larger career puzzle.

Before joining HUC in April 2022, Shola worked at a COVID-19 centre, first as an Operative and later as an Infection Prevention Control Officer. Her responsibilities included overseeing infection prevention protocols, collaborating closely with staff, and delivering informative talks. But Shola remained open to new opportunities and soon the NHS 111 Call Handler position came her way. “The Call Handler role was very similar to what I was already doing, and because I was on the lookout for roles which helped people, but not face-to-face with patients, it was the ideal opportunity for me to progress,” Shola explains.

Recently graduating with a BA Honours in Criminology, Policing and Investigations from Birmingham City University, Shola speaks highly of the support she received from HUC while balancing work and studies. “The Rota Team and my contact centre managers were understanding and made it easy to negotiate my shifts to allow for my university schedule. They do this for others as well, so they are very accommodating with shifts,” Shola emphasises.

As she works towards her ambition of becoming a detective, Shola values the experience gained from her various roles at HUC. Although not directly linked to the field of policing, they have proven invaluable. “The Call Handler role helped me in my course interviews. Many questions revolved around confidentiality, quick decision-making, and interacting with the public—skills and qualities honed as a Call Handler.”

My current role as a Safeguarding Coordinator also provides immense benefits because it’s like being a detective already, I have to investigate each case to better understand the patients’ journey, if there are any concerns in their history of contacting us or if there’s another external service that can support our patients.”

Lastly, when asked if her university experience contributed to her professional life, Shola says, “Absolutely. I received extensive training in various aspects, from professional communication to document structuring. Both my roles at HUC and my experience at university complemented each other.”

Congratulations Shola on your graduation from university!