My journey to becoming a learning representative

Published: 03 November 2009

Sarah Gilchrist is based in the Eastern region and her journey to becoming a learning representative is so exceptional she feels she wants to share it with as many people as possible. Sarah describes her journey as follows:

"Being a learning representative appealed to me as soon as I read about it. I have always had a passion for education and believe it is an essential part of my practice.

I was very nervous about becoming a learning representative. My Trust did not have any learning representatives, so I was unsure how I would be received. However my experience has been so exceptional I feel I have to share it with you.

I began my journey by mapping my organisation and learning what everyone did and what they were responsible for. This was essential for allowing me to gain support from the right people.

The support and encouragement I received was a pleasant surprise! I quickly gained agreement to my two paid days a month for union duties. I was offered a place on my Trust Council. I was invited to attend service managers meetings, matrons meetings and ward meetings to raise my profile. I have a permanent place on trained and un-trained clinical induction. My Trust has agreed to fund my degree which commenced in September 2009. I am a member of the education forum and I was consulted on the study leave policy.

I recently submitted a proposal in designated cleaning areas which was reviewed by the Infection Control Steering Group. This was supported by managers and matrons.

When I met with my fellow activists at the end of the Learning & Development Pathway for RCN Representatives Module 1 programme, I did not have a single negative story to share about my Trust. I have not encountered one barrier to my practice even though I was not looking forward to try and convince people that this role of a learning representative was needed and helpful!

It has given me more enthusiasm and drive in my practice; I would recommend being a learning representative to anyone and everyone who will listen!"

If you would like to know more about Sarah's journey, have any questions or would like any support, please feel free to contact Sarah.Gilchrist@wsh.nhs.uk.

Have you had a recent success or challenge? Do you have an experience you would like to share with your fellow learning representatives? Email us (peter.fairbank@rcn.org.uk) and not only will you be sharing practice but making our community vibrant and active.