James works in an area of the NHS that is very close to his heart and helps others that have been in a similar situation as himself. Working flexibly has enabled James to get back to work and aid his recovery. In his spare time James enjoys walking and has recently joined a walking group!

 We’re so glad you are part of our team, James. Thank you for everything that you do.

Name: James

Trust Name: Southern Health NHS Foundation Trust

Staff Group: Admin and Clerical

Years working for NHS: 1-3 years

Years working for NHS Professionals less than 1 year 

Why do you love working for the NHS?

I co-facilitate courses with NHS Health Recovery College, which is very stimulating work and helps others. The Recovery College is an innovative approach to mental health recovery. This fits in well with the NHS approach to developments and progressive approach to health care in its 70th Year. Long live the NHS!

How does flexible working make a difference to your life?

Having a severe mental health condition, I cannot work normal hours. Working for the Mental Health Recovery College on flexible hours enabled me to return to work.

What has been your proudest moment working for the NHS?

Hearing people discuss issues around their mental ill health. These can be people who have not previously been in the same room as others discussing ways forward about issues around their mental illness as students of the Recovery College.

Tell us about your past…

After having a severe mental breakdown several years ago shortly after graduating from University. I felt like my whole world had caved in. I did not know where to turn and how to go forward with my life. I started to do voluntary work as part of my recovery plan, with a combined talking therapy between Solent mind and the NHS organisation. At the same time, I began walking and walking and walking. The combination of receiving care via the Southern Health NHS trust, eating healthier and exercise I began to make a recovery. Although, Knowing I will always have my mental health condition, I began to have hope for the future.

Do you have any hobbies or interests outside of work?

I am a keen walker and have now joined a walking group.

You can take 3 items with you when stranded on a desert island, what do you take?

Item #1 A book about the world’s greatest Philosophy.

Item #2 A pencil and paper, to write my thought down on.

Item #3 A bottle to send my thoughts/messages out into the outside world.