Épisodes

  • Dr. Sankey's Vision for a Compassionate Healthcare System

    Dr. Sankey's Vision for a Compassionate Healthcare System
    Jan 13 2026
    The discount code SAFESPACE20 gives 20% off all 12-month access on Pastest’s post-graduate exam platforms If you like the episode please follow on Instagram @safespace.hcp and TikTok @safespacer0 for more content and share. Extended guided meditations are coming soon on my Substack and website www.saferspace.info In this episode, Mariam chats with Dr. Karen Sankey about well-being and resilience in healthcare, focusing on both patients and professionals. With over 30 years of experience in the NHS, Dr. Sankey shares her journey from traditional medical practices to a more holistic, trauma-informed approach that emphasises the importance of community and human connection. She highlights the impact of trauma on health, the need for collective responsibility in addressing burnout among healthcare workers, and the significance of creating safe spaces for healing. KEY TAKEAWAYS Trauma is not solely defined by adverse experiences but is also about the psychological changes that occur in our bodies as a result of those experiences. Recognising this can help healthcare professionals better understand their patients and themselves. Resilience should not be viewed as an individual responsibility but rather as a collective one. Creating supportive environments in healthcare settings is essential to address the systemic pressures that contribute to burnout among professionals. Establishing safe spaces where individuals can share their experiences and feel heard is crucial for healing. This approach fosters community and connection, which are vital for emotional and psychological health. Educating both healthcare professionals and patients about trauma-informed care can lead to more compassionate and effective interactions. BEST MOMENTS "I think resilience is almost an individual responsibility. There can be a sense of failure that, well, why am I not coping when all my colleagues are okay?" "Trauma is not what happens to us, it's what happens in our bodies as a result of experiences or environments." "Sometimes innovation is actually going back to basics, which is what we're doing." HOST BIO Mariam is a GP trainee in Wales passionate about improving our healthcare colleagues' wellbeing. She has experience on the Schwartz Round Steering group and as a facilitator for her health board, and she created and led the Balint Group Programme for Foundation Doctors in her hospital. These are regular spaces for healthcare professionals to speak about real issues that affect their well-being amongst colleagues to improve mutual support and camaraderie in the workplace. She also holds qualifications in Life Coaching and healthcare leadership and management. Whatever your reason for joining us on this podcast, we are glad you have taken the time. If you are having stressful days at work, leaving you feeling demotivated, and depleted, I'm hoping I can help here. PODCAST DESCRIPTION SafeSpace is a new grounding and respite podcast aimed at Healthcare Professionals focused on staff wellbeing in the healthcare work environment, a grossly overlooked issue and yet, the cornerstone of the healthcare system which is why it is crumbling. There are 3 components to the podcast: - Candid interviews with healthcare leaders, and a wide variety of passionate healthcare professionals about their own experiences and struggles with their well-being as they have progressed through their careers - Reflective discussions with a clinical psychologist, my co-host, regarding key topics that have arisen such as coping with bullying, depression, burnout, grief, menopause, etc - Guided meditations specific to the healthcare worker getting ready for the day ahead, pausing during, winding down, and accepting following the working day. This podcast is not a panacea or substitute for a formal management plan, but a motivating, and catharsis tool to help during a stressful day. This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/
    Voir plus Voir moins
    55 min
  • Transforming Tension: Strategies for Effective Communication in Leadership

    Transforming Tension: Strategies for Effective Communication in Leadership
    Jan 8 2026
    The discount code SAFESPACE20 gives 20% off all 12-month access on Pastest’s post-graduate exam platforms If you like the episode please follow on Instagram @safespace.hcp and TikTok @safespacer0 for more content and share. Extended guided meditations are coming soon on my Substack and website www.saferspace.info In this episode, Mariam interviews Chris Turner on the nature of disagreement and the importance of how we respond to it. Chris shares insights on the three primary responses people have when faced with conflict: the desire to win, the tendency to accommodate or avoid, and the choice to listen with curiosity. KEY TAKEAWAYS When faced with disagreement, individuals have three primary responses: fighting to win, accommodating or avoiding the conflict, or engaging with curiosity to understand the other person's perspective. The latter is essential for making informed decisions. Winning a debate or conversation often leads to domination rather than collaboration. True success lies in understanding and integrating diverse viewpoints rather than simply overpowering others. In clinical and professional settings, the lack of psychological safety can prevent individuals from sharing valuable insights. This can hinder decision-making and problem-solving processes. BEST MOMENTS "When we disagree with each other, we're always going to disagree. It doesn't matter what we're talking about." "Winning doesn't mean that we've done the right thing. Winning means that we've dominated somebody." "When you get into that adversarial kind of I want to win this debate kind of mode, you might be winning the debate, but you're not winning their hearts." HOST BIO Mariam is a GP trainee in Wales passionate about improving our healthcare colleagues' wellbeing. She has experience on the Schwartz Round Steering group and as a facilitator for her health board, and she created and led the Balint Group Programme for Foundation Doctors in her hospital. These are regular spaces for healthcare professionals to speak about real issues that affect their well-being amongst colleagues to improve mutual support and camaraderie in the workplace. She also holds qualifications in Life Coaching and healthcare leadership and management. Whatever your reason for joining us on this podcast, we are glad you have taken the time. Dr Melany McKenna is a Clinical Psychologist, Cognitive Analytic Therapy practitioner, and Executive Coach. With a specialist interest in staff wellbeing, and supporting NHS professionals, Dr McKenna offers psychologically informed reflections, prompting us to consider staff wellbeing from a systemic perspective. If you are having stressful days at work, leaving you feeling demotivated, and depleted, I'm hoping I can help here. PODCAST DESCRIPTION SafeSpace is a new grounding and respite podcast aimed at Healthcare Professionals focused on staff wellbeing in the healthcare work environment, a grossly overlooked issue and yet, the cornerstone of the healthcare system which is why it is crumbling. There are 3 components to the podcast: - Candid interviews with healthcare leaders, and a wide variety of passionate healthcare professionals about their own experiences and struggles with their well-being as they have progressed through their careers - Reflective discussions with a clinical psychologist, my co-host, regarding key topics that have arisen such as coping with bullying, depression, burnout, grief, menopause, etc - Guided meditations specific to the healthcare worker getting ready for the day ahead, pausing during, winding down, and accepting following the working day. This podcast is not a panacea or substitute for a formal management plan, but a motivating, and catharsis tool to help during a stressful day. This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/
    Voir plus Voir moins
    1 h et 25 min
  • Grounding and Empowering: A Meditation to Connect with Your Inner Vitality

    Grounding and Empowering: A Meditation to Connect with Your Inner Vitality
    May 26 2025
    SafeSpace is proudly sponsored by Pastest: a fantastic resource with a huge library of high-quality practice questions and mock exams for a wide range of healthcare professions. So, if you're serious about acing your exams, head over to Pastest.com. In this episode, Melany guides listeners through a meditation designed to rejuvenate both body and mind. The session begins with deep cleansing breaths, encouraging participants to release stress and tension, and concludes with a gentle return to the present moment, leaving participants ready to embrace the rest of their day. KEY TAKEAWAYS The meditation emphasises the importance of deep, cleansing breaths to help release stress and tension, encouraging participants to focus on their breath and its natural rhythm. Participants are guided to connect with their bodies by scanning for areas of tightness or discomfort, promoting relaxation and the infusion of positive energy into those areas. The meditation encourages visualising a vibrant and joyful setting, allowing individuals to absorb the energy and vitality of that environment, which can enhance their overall well-being. Repeating affirmations such as "I am full of energy and vitality" helps reinforce a positive mindset and prepares individuals to tackle their day with enthusiasm and focus. The practice encourages participants to gently bring their awareness back to the present moment, fostering a sense of readiness and energy to embrace the rest of the day. BEST MOMENTS "Take a moment to settle into a comfortable, ideally seated position, close your eyes or soften your gaze." "As you breathe in, send positive energy to these areas. As you breathe out, let go of any tension." "Picture yourself in a beautiful, vibrant setting. A setting that brings you a sense of joy and contentment." "Allow yourself to be infused with the energy and vitality of your visualised place." "I am full of energy and vitality. I radiate positivity and strength. I am ready to tackle my day with enthusiasm and focus." HOST BIO Mariam is a GP trainee in Wales passionate about improving our healthcare colleagues' wellbeing. She has experience on the Schwartz Round Steering group and as a facilitator for her health board, and she created and led the Balint Group Programme for Foundation Doctors in her hospital. These are regular spaces for healthcare professionals to speak about real issues that affect their well-being amongst colleagues to improve mutual support and camaraderie in the workplace. She also holds qualifications in Life Coaching and healthcare leadership and management. Whatever your reason for joining us on this podcast, we are glad you have taken the time. Dr Melany McKenna is a Clinical Psychologist, Cognitive Analytic Therapy practitioner, and Executive Coach. With a specialist interest in staff wellbeing, and supporting NHS professionals, Dr McKenna offers psychologically informed reflections, prompting us to consider staff wellbeing from a systemic perspective. If you are having stressful days at work, leaving you feeling demotivated, and depleted, I'm hoping I can help here. PODCAST DESCRIPTION SafeSpace is a new grounding and respite podcast aimed at Healthcare Professionals focused on staff wellbeing in the healthcare work environment, a grossly overlooked issue and yet, the cornerstone of the healthcare system which is why it is crumbling. There are 3 components to the podcast: - Candid interviews with healthcare leaders, and a wide variety of passionate healthcare professionals about their own experiences and struggles with their well-being as they have progressed through their careers - Reflective discussions with a clinical psychologist, my co-host, regarding key topics that have arisen such as coping with bullying, depression, burnout, grief, menopause, etc - Guided meditations specific to the healthcare worker getting ready for the day ahead, pausing during, winding down, and accepting following the working day. This podcast is not a panacea or substitute for a formal management plan, but a motivating, and catharsis tool to help during a stressful day. This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/
    Voir plus Voir moins
    26 min
  • Healing Through Connection: The Role of Community and Acceptance in Mental Well-Being

    Healing Through Connection: The Role of Community and Acceptance in Mental Well-Being
    May 19 2025
    SafeSpace is proudly sponsored by Pastest: a fantastic resource with a huge library of high-quality practice questions and mock exams for a wide range of healthcare professions. So, if you're serious about acing your exams, head over to Pastest.com. In this episode, Mariam and Melany engage in a reflective discussion about the challenges and joys of motherhood, particularly in the context of Mariam's recent experience as a new mother. They explore themes of self-compassion, the impact of parental guilt, and the importance of lowering expectations during the early stages of parenting. Additionally, they discuss the need for greater access to nature and community resources for mental health, highlighting the concept of green social prescribing. KEY TAKEAWAYS The transition into parenthood brings significant challenges, including the need to lower personal expectations and embrace imperfection, especially for healthcare professionals who often hold high standards for themselves. Having personal experiences with mental health can enhance empathy and compassion in healthcare settings, allowing professionals to connect more authentically with their patients. Not everyone has the means or opportunity to engage in outdoor activities, which can disproportionately affect vulnerable populations. Moving away from traditional, sterile clinical environments towards more casual, person-centred approaches, such as outdoor consultations, can help break down hierarchical dynamics and foster a collaborative relationship between healthcare providers and patients. Accepting and processing emotional reactions to life's challenges, including trauma and stress, is crucial for personal growth and healing. This acceptance is a key focus in therapeutic practices and is essential for both healthcare professionals and their patients. BEST MOMENTS "It feels like survival. It really feels like this precious little human being, new life, and I'm just slowly trying to keep her alive and protected and safe." "Lived experience of mental health is a really underrated superpower. If you've had lived experience, you can have potential for a real authentic connection with what someone else is experiencing." "You need to have the means to be able to access places of beauty and areas of outstanding nature. If you don't have any of these, then being able to hike or walk, that privilege goes away." "This time in my life has given me, it's really humbled me. It's really humbled me and it's given me that ability to empathise a lot with mothers and with young mums." "It's about widening access and making sure that everyone is able to share in these experiences and get the benefit because that's what true social prescribing is about." HOST BIO Mariam is a GP trainee in Wales passionate about improving our healthcare colleagues' wellbeing. She has experience on the Schwartz Round Steering group and as a facilitator for her health board, and she created and led the Balint Group Programme for Foundation Doctors in her hospital. These are regular spaces for healthcare professionals to speak about real issues that affect their well-being amongst colleagues to improve mutual support and camaraderie in the workplace. She also holds qualifications in Life Coaching and healthcare leadership and management. Whatever your reason for joining us on this podcast, we are glad you have taken the time. Dr Melany McKenna is a Clinical Psychologist, Cognitive Analytic Therapy practitioner, and Executive Coach. With a specialist interest in staff wellbeing, and supporting NHS professionals, Dr McKenna offers psychologically informed reflections, prompting us to consider staff wellbeing from a systemic perspective. If you are having stressful days at work, leaving you feeling demotivated, and depleted, I'm hoping I can help here. PODCAST DESCRIPTION SafeSpace is a new grounding and respite podcast aimed at Healthcare Professionals focused on staff wellbeing in the healthcare work environment, a grossly overlooked issue and yet, the cornerstone of the healthcare system which is why it is crumbling. There are 3 components to the podcast: - Candid interviews with healthcare leaders, and a wide variety of passionate healthcare professionals about their own experiences and struggles with their well-being as they have progressed through their careers - Reflective discussions with a clinical psychologist, my co-host, regarding key topics that have arisen such as coping with bullying, depression, burnout, grief, menopause, etc - Guided meditations specific to the healthcare worker getting ready for the day ahead, pausing during, winding down, and accepting following the working day. This podcast is not a panacea or substitute for a formal management plan, but a motivating, and catharsis tool to help during a stressful day. This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/
    Voir plus Voir moins
    31 min
  • The Challenge of Preparing Future Doctors for Mental Health Struggles

    The Challenge of Preparing Future Doctors for Mental Health Struggles
    May 12 2025
    SafeSpace is proudly sponsored by Pastest: a fantastic resource with a huge library of high-quality practice questions and mock exams for a wide range of healthcare professions. So, if you're serious about acing your exams, head over to Pastest.com. In this episode, Mariam interviews Dr. Robynne Wadsworth, a consultant child and adolescent psychiatrist, shares her journey in the field of psychiatry and her passion for integrating nature into mental health care. Dr. Wadsworth discusses her early fascination with psychiatry, the challenges of balancing clinical work with additional qualifications, and her personal experiences with mental health that have shaped her empathetic approach to patient care. She highlights the importance of outdoor therapy and her role as Head of Research at Mind Over Mountains, a charity that promotes well-being through nature. KEY TAKEAWAYS Engaging with nature can significantly enhance mental well-being. Activities like walking in natural settings help individuals ground themselves and process their thoughts, leading to improved mental health. Juggling clinical responsibilities with personal interests and family life can be challenging. Setting realistic expectations and being efficient with time can help maintain a balance between work and personal passions. Personal experiences with mental health issues, such as depression, can foster empathy and understanding in healthcare professionals. These experiences can shape their approach to patient care and enhance their compassion. Establishing strong support systems at work and home is crucial for healthcare professionals. Regular supervision and open conversations about emotional challenges can help mitigate burnout and promote well-being. Medical education should focus on equipping future doctors with resilience and coping skills to manage the challenges of the profession. This includes normalising discussions about mental health and providing practical tools for self-care. BEST MOMENTS "I think it is really hard to get a balance. I've always really loved learning, so I've always wanted something else on top of my clinical day-to-day work." "I had a severe episode of depression and was off work for nearly a year. I learned that balance between the professional and the personal life." "It's about getting up, getting dressed, eating well, getting some rest, getting outside, even that short walk." "It's amazing how much we forget and how urbanised we've become. We rely on technology rather than being outside." "Feeling validated and feeling heard can do so much for people's physical and mental health." HOST BIO Mariam is a GP trainee in Wales passionate about improving our healthcare colleagues' wellbeing. She has experience on the Schwartz Round Steering group and as a facilitator for her health board, and she created and led the Balint Group Programme for Foundation Doctors in her hospital. These are regular spaces for healthcare professionals to speak about real issues that affect their well-being amongst colleagues to improve mutual support and camaraderie in the workplace. She also holds qualifications in Life Coaching and healthcare leadership and management. Whatever your reason for joining us on this podcast, we are glad you have taken the time. Dr Melany McKenna is a Clinical Psychologist, Cognitive Analytic Therapy practitioner, and Executive Coach. With a specialist interest in staff wellbeing, and supporting NHS professionals, Dr McKenna offers psychologically informed reflections, prompting us to consider staff wellbeing from a systemic perspective. If you are having stressful days at work, leaving you feeling demotivated, and depleted, I'm hoping I can help here. PODCAST DESCRIPTION SafeSpace is a new grounding and respite podcast aimed at Healthcare Professionals focused on staff wellbeing in the healthcare work environment, a grossly overlooked issue and yet, the cornerstone of the healthcare system which is why it is crumbling. There are 3 components to the podcast: - Candid interviews with healthcare leaders, and a wide variety of passionate healthcare professionals about their own experiences and struggles with their well-being as they have progressed through their careers - Reflective discussions with a clinical psychologist, my co-host, regarding key topics that have arisen such as coping with bullying, depression, burnout, grief, menopause, etc - Guided meditations specific to the healthcare worker getting ready for the day ahead, pausing during, winding down, and accepting following the working day. This podcast is not a panacea or substitute for a formal management plan, but a motivating, and catharsis tool to help during a stressful day. This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/
    Voir plus Voir moins
    47 min
  • The Mountain Within: A Relaxing Visualisation for Mind and Body

    The Mountain Within: A Relaxing Visualisation for Mind and Body
    May 5 2025
    SafeSpace is proudly sponsored by Pastest: a fantastic resource with a huge library of high-quality practice questions and mock exams for a wide range of healthcare professions. So, if you're serious about acing your exams, head over to Pastest.com. In this episode, Melany guides listeners through a soothing visualisation exercise that takes them on a journey up a majestic mountain. The visualisation unfolds as they climb the mountain, experiencing the beauty of nature and a sense of connection to the earth. Upon reaching the summit, listeners are invited to embrace a deep sense of calm and gratitude, before gently making their way back down, carrying the feelings of peace and strength with them into the present moment. KEY TAKEAWAYS The episode features a guided visualisation exercise that encourages listeners to imagine themselves at the base of a mountain, promoting relaxation and mental clarity. The visualisation emphasises the importance of connecting with nature, highlighting sensory experiences such as the feel of the ground, the scents of the earth and pine, and the sounds of wildlife. As listeners visualise climbing the mountain, they are encouraged to feel strong, capable, and energised, reinforcing a sense of personal empowerment and resilience. Upon reaching the summit, listeners are invited to experience a deep sense of calm and clarity, allowing them to let go of worries and embrace gratitude for the moment. The exercise concludes with a gentle return to the present moment, reminding listeners that they can carry the feelings of relaxation and peace with them and return to this mental space whenever they wish. BEST MOMENTS "Pastest is a fantastic resource for those of you preparing for important exams. They offer a huge library of high-quality practice questions and mock exams for a wide range of healthcare professions." "As you breathe deeply, feel the cool air filling your lungs. And as you exhale, start to feel the tension releasing from your body." "You can feel the call of this mountain inviting you to explore as you take your first steps, noticing the texture of the ground beneath you." "Take a moment to pause on this ledge, breathing in that fresh mountain air, energising all your body." "When you're ready, gently begin to make your way back down the mountain, carrying a calm and peaceful feeling with you." HOST BIO Mariam is a GP trainee in Wales passionate about improving our healthcare colleagues' wellbeing. She has experience on the Schwartz Round Steering group and as a facilitator for her health board, and she created and led the Balint Group Programme for Foundation Doctors in her hospital. These are regular spaces for healthcare professionals to speak about real issues that affect their well-being amongst colleagues to improve mutual support and camaraderie in the workplace. She also holds qualifications in Life Coaching and healthcare leadership and management. Whatever your reason for joining us on this podcast, we are glad you have taken the time. Dr Melany McKenna is a Clinical Psychologist, Cognitive Analytic Therapy practitioner, and Executive Coach. With a specialist interest in staff wellbeing, and supporting NHS professionals, Dr McKenna offers psychologically informed reflections, prompting us to consider staff wellbeing from a systemic perspective. If you are having stressful days at work, leaving you feeling demotivated, and depleted, I'm hoping I can help here. PODCAST DESCRIPTION SafeSpace is a new grounding and respite podcast aimed at Healthcare Professionals focused on staff wellbeing in the healthcare work environment, a grossly overlooked issue and yet, the cornerstone of the healthcare system which is why it is crumbling. There are 3 components to the podcast: - Candid interviews with healthcare leaders, and a wide variety of passionate healthcare professionals about their own experiences and struggles with their well-being as they have progressed through their careers - Reflective discussions with a clinical psychologist, my co-host, regarding key topics that have arisen such as coping with bullying, depression, burnout, grief, menopause, etc - Guided meditations specific to the healthcare worker getting ready for the day ahead, pausing during, winding down, and accepting following the working day. This podcast is not a panacea or substitute for a formal management plan, but a motivating, and catharsis tool to help during a stressful day.
    Voir plus Voir moins
    14 min
  • Conversations on Social Justice and Personal Struggles

    Conversations on Social Justice and Personal Struggles
    Apr 28 2025
    SafeSpace is proudly sponsored by Pastest: a fantastic resource with a huge library of high-quality practice questions and mock exams for a wide range of healthcare professions. So, if you're serious about acing your exams, head over to Pastest.com. In this episode, Mariam and Melany reflect on their last episode with the fascinating Ceri Harris. They explore themes of social justice, vulnerability, and the emotional challenges faced by healthcare professionals, particularly in the context of current societal issues. Mariam shares her personal struggles with hopelessness during her pregnancy, sparked by the chaotic political landscape, while Melany emphasises the importance of resilience and community support. KEY TAKEAWAYS Ceri Harris exemplifies the importance of advocacy for social justice, demonstrating that standing up for the vulnerable is a core aspect of her identity. Her courage to confront bullying and discrimination serves as an inspiration for others. They highlight the struggle with feelings of hopelessness, particularly in the context of societal issues and personal challenges. Acknowledging these feelings is crucial, and finding ways to cope and regain hope is emphasised as a vital part of the healing process. The emotional toll of political events, such as elections, can lead to despair and grief, especially for those who are deeply invested in social justice and progress. The conversation reflects on how these external factors can affect personal well-being and outlook on the future. Emphasising the importance of instilling values of kindness, compassion, and resilience in the next generation is a key takeaway. Parents can equip their children with the tools to navigate a chaotic world, fostering a sense of hope and agency. BEST MOMENTS "Her ability to advocate is physical. She really is someone who fights for social justice in a way that I think is quite rare and quite admirable." "I think the world at the moment feels so chaotic and uncertain. I worry that this is the world that I'm bringing a baby girl into." "It takes a lot just to stand up and say, 'that's not okay.' And she's done that again and again." "I think this podcast in itself is a bit of an act of hope, trying to offer something out there that is not necessarily in alignment with some of the more mainstream narratives." "I think holding on to each other and defiantly being kind and defiantly demanding justice and equity, that's how we retain our sense of power." HOST BIO Mariam is a GP trainee in Wales passionate about improving our healthcare colleagues' wellbeing. She has experience on the Schwartz Round Steering group and as a facilitator for her health board, and she created and led the Balint Group Programme for Foundation Doctors in her hospital. These are regular spaces for healthcare professionals to speak about real issues that affect their well-being amongst colleagues to improve mutual support and camaraderie in the workplace. She also holds qualifications in Life Coaching and healthcare leadership and management. Whatever your reason for joining us on this podcast, we are glad you have taken the time. Dr Melany McKenna is a Clinical Psychologist, Cognitive Analytic Therapy practitioner, and Executive Coach. With a specialist interest in staff wellbeing, and supporting NHS professionals, Dr McKenna offers psychologically informed reflections, prompting us to consider staff wellbeing from a systemic perspective. If you are having stressful days at work, leaving you feeling demotivated, and depleted, I'm hoping I can help here. PODCAST DESCRIPTION SafeSpace is a new grounding and respite podcast aimed at Healthcare Professionals focused on staff wellbeing in the healthcare work environment, a grossly overlooked issue and yet, the cornerstone of the healthcare system which is why it is crumbling. There are 3 components to the podcast: - Candid interviews with healthcare leaders, and a wide variety of passionate healthcare professionals about their own experiences and struggles with their well-being as they have progressed through their careers - Reflective discussions with a clinical psychologist, my co-host, regarding key topics that have arisen such as coping with bullying, depression, burnout, grief, menopause, etc - Guided meditations specific to the healthcare worker getting ready for the day ahead, pausing during, winding down, and accepting following the working day. This podcast is not a panacea or substitute for a formal management plan, but a motivating, and catharsis tool to help during a stressful day.
    Voir plus Voir moins
    37 min
  • Ceri Harris on Advocating for Equality and Inclusion in Healthcare

    Ceri Harris on Advocating for Equality and Inclusion in Healthcare
    Apr 21 2025
    SafeSpace is proudly sponsored by Pastest: a fantastic resource with a huge library of high-quality practice questions and mock exams for a wide range of healthcare professions. So, if you're serious about acing your exams, head over to Pastest.com. In this episode, Mariam Pereira engages in a deep conversation with Ceri Harris, an award-winning CEO and leader in the NHS, about resilience and well-being in the healthcare workplace. Ceri shares her personal journey, highlighting her lifelong passion for justice and equality, shaped by her experiences with her disabled mother and her best friend Curtis, who is both mixed race and gay. KEY TAKEAWAYS A strong emphasis is placed on the importance of advocating for justice and equality, particularly in healthcare settings. Personal experiences with friends and family facing discrimination have shaped a lifelong commitment to supporting marginalised voices. The introduction of Menopause Cafes in healthcare organisations highlights the need for open discussions about menopause, which affects a significant portion of the workforce. Creating safe spaces for these conversations can help combat stigma and support staff well-being. Effective leadership is characterised by humility, authenticity, and the ability to listen. Good leaders empower their teams, recognise individual strengths, and lead by example, fostering an environment where everyone feels valued. Working in healthcare can lead to emotional challenges, including imposter syndrome and the struggle to understand why some individuals lack empathy. The importance of self-care and recognising personal limits is crucial for maintaining well-being in a demanding environment. There are significant systemic barriers within the NHS, including a lack of diversity in senior roles and inadequate support for staff well-being. Addressing these issues is essential for improving healthcare delivery and ensuring that all patients receive equitable care. BEST MOMENTS "My mum was disabled, had polio, and so I've always been brought up with kind of the barriers that she faced throughout life." "If we think about the NHS, 80% of our workforce would be impacted at some point by menopause." "You know, we talk about wokeness, for example, and snowflakes. Well, I'm proud to be woke and to be a snowflake because it means that I care." "You can't just pick and choose the easy option. And equality is equality for everyone." "When I think of my team, I'm really lucky where I am, to know that I've been part of their journey, that they'll look back and go, you're not going to believe the manager I had." HOST BIO Mariam is a GP trainee in Wales passionate about improving our healthcare colleagues' wellbeing. She has experience on the Schwartz Round Steering group and as a facilitator for her health board, and she created and led the Balint Group Programme for Foundation Doctors in her hospital. These are regular spaces for healthcare professionals to speak about real issues that affect their well-being amongst colleagues to improve mutual support and camaraderie in the workplace. She also holds qualifications in Life Coaching and healthcare leadership and management. Whatever your reason for joining us on this podcast, we are glad you have taken the time. Dr Melany McKenna is a Clinical Psychologist, Cognitive Analytic Therapy practitioner, and Executive Coach. With a specialist interest in staff wellbeing, and supporting NHS professionals, Dr McKenna offers psychologically informed reflections, prompting us to consider staff wellbeing from a systemic perspective. If you are having stressful days at work, leaving you feeling demotivated, and depleted, I'm hoping I can help here. PODCAST DESCRIPTION SafeSpace is a new grounding and respite podcast aimed at Healthcare Professionals focused on staff wellbeing in the healthcare work environment, a grossly overlooked issue and yet, the cornerstone of the healthcare system which is why it is crumbling. There are 3 components to the podcast: - Candid interviews with healthcare leaders, and a wide variety of passionate healthcare professionals about their own experiences and struggles with their well-being as they have progressed through their careers - Reflective discussions with a clinical psychologist, my co-host, regarding key topics that have arisen such as coping with bullying, depression, burnout, grief, menopause, etc - Guided meditations specific to the healthcare worker getting ready for the day ahead, pausing during, winding down, and accepting following the working day. This podcast is not a panacea or substitute for a formal management plan, but a motivating, and catharsis tool to help during a stressful day.
    Voir plus Voir moins
    1 h et 3 min
adbl_web_global_use_to_activate_DT_webcro_1694_expandible_banner_T1