Spotlight on Talent – Rachael Withers

Studied: Healthcare Support Worker Apprenticeship Standard
Progression: Healthcare assistant at St Johns Medical Centre, Walsall

Since 2021, Rachael Withers has been on what she describes as a ‘whirlwind journey’ that has seen her progress from a receptionist role at St Johns Medical Centre in Walsall to trainee phlebotomist and then healthcare assistant. All the while, she has completed training in person-centred care, basic life support and phlebotomy, as well as English and maths.

She is currently studying a Level 3 Senior Healthcare Worker Apprenticeship Standard.

While Rachael is enjoying the career opportunities that have come her way since joining the NHS, she says it is her patients who are at the forefront of her ambitions.

“Although I love learning new things, ultimately, it’s the patients that make my job so special,” said Rachael. “They continue to motivate me to be the best I can be.”

Rachael started out at St Johns Medical Centre as a receptionist. Eight months later, a role as a trainee phlebotomist came up, and she was encouraged to apply. After a year in this role, Rachael was appointed to healthcare assistant.

Despite her achievements, she sometimes doubted her ability to succeed.

“I’m not one to step out from my comfort zone,” continued Rachael. “I’d come into healthcare after a career break through illness. Prior to that, I’d spent 15 years working in early years, and it took a lot of effort for me to even consider doing something new.

“So, when it came to doing a healthcare apprenticeship, I had to ask myself if I was mentally ready to put myself out there. I still doubt myself even now.

“But you only get one life, so you shouldn’t put off things like this if they’re available to you.

“I’d encourage others to find that motivation and self-belief, then just go for it.”

As a type 1 diabetic, Rachael is keen to pursue further training with a view to becoming a diabetic specialist nurse.

“There’s a community out there who need so much more support and understanding around their condition,” added Rachael. “I’d like to be one of these relatable professionals who can connect with and empower people.”