Forces: Ex-Royal Navy
Sarah R - Leading Medical Assistant
“Stay focused and positive; although it all seems daunting now you will be pleasantly surprised about how smoothly you CAN transition into civilian life. Make sure you use all the CTP has to offer and DO NOT take your resettlement time for granted!”
Sarah R served as a Leading Medical Assistant in the Royal Navy for just under 11 and a half years, before being medically discharged in March 2014. As part of her role, Sarah gained a Diploma of Higher Education (DipHE) as an Operating Department Practitioner (ODP), and so was keen to find a civilian role in which she could continue her career in the healthcare sector.
Sarah begun the resettlement process with a three day Career Transition Workshop (CTW) at RRC Plymouth, and says that she found the group exercises the most useful aspect of the workshop, learning how to network effectively, along with creating cover letters and a civilian CV.
Having discussed her future plans with her Career Consultant, Sarah aimed to secure a part time role as an Operating Department Practitioner. She says, “my Career Consultant was amazing, she would contact me on a regular basis by phone and email to discuss the progress of my resettlement. She would offer me guidance on potential job ideas and we would meet to go through my CV and talk about any problems I might be facing. She was a great help and was very approachable.”
With her plans for the future in place, Sarah made use of her IRTC grant with courses to supplement her medical qualification and experience; these included a First Aid and AED (Automated External Defibrillator) Instructor Course, along with a Certificate In Teaching In The Lifelong Learning Sector (CTTLS). Additionally, Sarah attended a Royal British Legion Industries ‘LifeWorks’ course, which also provided preparation for entering the civilian job market.
In order to gain work experience and update her skills in a civilian operating theatre, Sarah undertook a short work placement with her local hospital. The placement went well, and provided reassurance to Sarah that this was the correct route to take in her new career, fitting in with her new lifestyle. She was subsequently invited to apply for a permanent role with the hospital, applying via the NHS website.
Sarah says, “I was then formally invited to an interview where I was asked to bring a portfolio of evidence of my experience as an ODP and had to answer a series of questions set by the Theatre Manager.” Following the interview, Sarah was offered a position working 20 hours per week, which fitted perfectly with her plans.
Of her new role, Sarah says, “It involves looking after patients through their peri-operative stay, ensuring they receive the best care possible. I am generally a caring person and I enjoy looking after people. My military experience has taught me respect and dignity together with a determined attitude and strong mind. I am compassionate but also strict when necessary!”
Sarah concludes with the following advice for other Service leavers: “Stay focused and positive; although it all seems daunting now you will be pleasantly surprised about how smoothly you CAN transition into civilian life. Make sure you use all the CTP has to offer and DO NOT take your resettlement time for granted!”
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