Supporting
Our Staff:
Alex’s Story

“Behind every exceptional patient experience is a supported, valued team member.”

Meet Alex

Like many healthcare professionals, a senior clinician within our Trust, found herself balancing high-demand clinical work with personal life changes and family commitments. She was navigating the physical and emotional changes of the pre-menopause transition while managing caring responsibilities at home.

Unsure of how to bring these sensitive subjects to light without impacting her work, Alex needed a safe space and structured support to help maintain her own wellbeing while continuing to deliver high-quality patient care.

The support

By embedding our Being Humber principles into everyday interactions, the Trust colleague’s manager took a compassionate, proactive approach:

  • Open & Compassionate Conversations: During a routine check-in, the line manager signposted the Health and Wellbeing Passport. Together, using our Being Humber standards of compassion and effective communication, they created a personalised, confidential document detailing Alex’s individual wellbeing needs.

  • Flexible Working Options: Through Your Flex Plus and Your Leave Plus, Alex agreed a hybrid, flexible arrangement that allowed her to manage home responsibilities alongside her work.

  • Peer Support & Community: Alex was introduced to the Menopause Collective. She attended monthly virtual support sessions hosted by trained Menopause Advocates and gained access to accredited resources and guidance.

  • Health & Occupational Health Services: The Trust’s Workforce Wellbeing Team provided a personalised Health & Wellbeing MOT, while the Occupational Health Department offered confidential, independent advice to ensure her physical working environment supported her fully.

In their words

“I just want to say a massive thank you for all the menopause sessions and to add how beneficial they are, all the hard work, support and understanding does not go unnoticed”

“Thanks to my test last year which indicated high cholesterol, visiting the doctor’s & getting statins it is now below half & only between 3-4. The Health & Wellbeing MOT has helped identify the necessity for 3 heart stents, but I had no symptoms! My MOT is now a reminder of how well I am & helps me maintain a positive perspective of what I do. Thank you, team.”

Why it matters

By putting our culture into practice acting with compassion, safety, and integrity we ensure that our workforce remains healthy, resilient, and supported at every stage of their career journey.