Returning to nursing and making a difference

Steph Smith works for the complex care team, part of the Beacon Health Group, a group of GP practices in Essex.

The team have been shortlisted for the RCN’s community and general practice nursing award.  

The team was set up following the covid vaccination programme, where volunteer vaccinator Steph and colleagues identified an unexpected number of patients not accessing services. The team's aims are to provide proactive support to vulnerable patients, improving outcomes for people who struggle to access services.

Steph returned to work through the return to practice (RTP) programme developed by HEE and share’s her experiences of returning to nursing below.

Why did you decide to come back to nursing?

During the pandemic I volunteered as a Covid vaccinator and came to realise how much I missed nursing. It was really satisfying to experience patient contact once again and this ignited my desire to pursue RTP.

Were there any areas that you were worried about when thinking about coming back?

I felt anxious about my suitability for the RTP course having stopped my nursing career several years ago. I felt unclear as to my worth within an updated health care setting.

I also had some concern as to whether I would be able to achieve the RTP outcomes in the time frame given.

How were you supported in your return to practice? By HEE and others?

I felt totally supported by my tutor at Anglia Ruskin University from my first contact with her. This continued throughout RTP and was fundamental to my success.

Following my role as a volunteer Covid vaccinator I secured a health care assistant (HCA) role within the GP practice I volunteered for. The practice had contact with my university tutor and as a result understood what was expected from me as a RTP student. With this knowledge they were able to be fully supportive of my needs and help me achieve my learning outcomes.

As a result of my workplaces commitment, my other colleagues withing the work setting were also encouraged to support me.

What are you most proud of since coming back to practice?

I am extremely proud to once again be able to practice as a registered nurse. It is wonderful to use my knowledge and skills.

I feel valued and of value. This is something that I feel is fundamental to nursing ideology.

What would you say to someone who is considering returning but still unsure?

I would actively encourage anyone who is considering return to nursing to take that initial step, find out more and talk to course supervisors / tutors.

Although the RTP course is an intense experience that requires good planning and commitment it is also totally achievable.

If you still hold a passion for this wonderful career, then believe in all that you have to offer and step forward to explore your options.

There is a wealth of support waiting for you. 

More information

For further information on returning to practice in the east of England, email rtp.eoe@hee.nhs.uk. The return to practice lead for the region can talk you through your options, the support available and answer any questions.

There is also information available on the Health Careers website:

• Returning to nursing
• Returning to midwifery

We hold monthly webinars on returning to practice. You can find out details about them by emailing rtp.eoe@hee.nhs.uk. Or following us on Twitter @NHSHEE_EoE.