Armed Forces and Veteran Networks

‍Lee Cooke - Wellbeing Supporter in the Staying Well Service

Brief history of Military Career:

               .Joined the Army as a boy soldier.

               . Spent 11 yrs Catterick, Germany and Northern Ireland.

               . Left Military for an 1 1yr career in HM Prison service

               .Joined Royal Aux Air Force

. Spent 6 years as a Mover moving all over the world. Regular trips the Canada, The States, Belize, Just to name a few whilst fitting in a couple of tours of Afghanistan.

Brief history of SWAST Career:

               .Emergency Medical Dispatcher

               .Emergency Care Assistant Ambulance Crew

               .Staying well supporter

I first joined SWAST 2019 I think as a Emergency Medical Dispatcher. A great team and probably one of the most stressful jobs of my career, But not the correct fit for me. Too much time in one place, sitting and a bit too seditary. These are the people at the end of the phone when you put that 999 call through. In my opinion the toughest job within SWAST

In early 2022 I moved out onto the road as an Emergency Care Assistant. After my initial clinical training and Emergency driving course off I set. Feeling completely out of my depth. However,supported remarkably well by my peers. There is a lot to learn and you have to learn fast.

After what at the time felt an endless time of worrying about what would come today. You suddenly find yourself fitting in as part of the machine. The banter the personalities and the pride in your work. Not unlike arriving at your first unit in the Military.I wouldn’t say sink or swim. However, I would say if you hold your military attitude of work hard play hard, Then you will fit in remarkably well.

When I found myself having panic attacks at work probably due my military history the trusts staying well service stepped in. Found someone, another veteran, who could relate and I got the relevant help for me.

When I was injured at work the trust stepped in again found what other skills I had and utilised them in a secondment role.

SWAST has a remarkable ability to employ an eclectic group of people from all different corners of our society.Which is remarkably helpful as this reflects our patient base well. So, no you’re not coming into a job of all like minded people. At times that can make your day a bit of a struggle. However, you’re working with a lot of caring people that if you’re patient and are willing to, you can learn a lot from. Most importantly to me, to feel part of a team.

No one day is the same as the next and whatever role you may decide to work in within SWAST there is always away to develop and support for you doing so. Not unlike the Military you may sometimes have to look a little and put the work in yourself but if you want a career path and support it’s there.

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As a Military Veteran is SWAST a place for me?

My answer was yes

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