The Operations and Patient Services (OPS) division is responsible for supporting donors throughout their involvement with Anthony Nolan and ensuring the patient gets the best possible match. We work closely with our Collection Centres, UK Transplant Centres and overseas registries to facilitate stem cell donations. Our Patient Services team also provides support and information to patients and families at every stage of the ‘transplant journey’ – from the point they are told they need a transplant right through to long term recovery.

Why did you choose to work for Anthony Nolan?

I’ve always had an interest in stem cell transplants. The Patient Services team was looking to update its patient information at the same time as I was looking for a new challenge, so I went for it.

Tell us about your story so far

I started here in 2017 after working in health information and journalism on the BBC News website, at sexual health charity Terrence Higgins Trust and mental health charity Mind. As Senior Patient Services & Information Manager, I worked with the team to attain NHS England’s Information Standard kitemark and to develop and update all our patient info.

What do you get up to in a typical day?

I’d be working with an author, patient, peer reviewer or designer to develop one of our patient information booklets or webpages. I’d answer a few enquiries from patients or family members on our helpline or via email. I could be sitting on our Grants Panel or on a project panel with colleagues from across Anthony Nolan. I could also be getting our team ready for the British Transplant Games.

What do you like most about working here?

It’s a very varied and challenging role, with a sense of achievement at the end of every day. I also get to work with amazing people.

What’s been your biggest achievement so far?

I’m very proud that a number of our patient info resources have been highly commended at the BMA Patient Information Awards – each one has been a fantastic team effort.

What is it really like to work here?

Rewarding, challenging and occasionally mind-blowing. I feel very lucky to be able to work with such skilled and dedicated colleagues.

Why did you choose to work for Anthony Nolan?

I live locally to Head Office so always knew about the vital work Anthony Nolan do. I saw a part-time job advertised and applied!

What do you get up to in a typical day?

I go through my emails as soon as I get into work and prioritise them. The Donor Liaison team are always working on projects, whether it is process and communication reviews, register enrichment or organisational development. Therefore, I attend quite a few meetings throughout the week so make sure I’m prepared before these.

What do you like most about working here?

Definitely the people and the positive working environment. I’m treated with respect and people genuinely care about each other and work together as a team. As an organisation our values are clear, realistic and factual.

What’s been your biggest achievement so far?

Helping reduce the turnaround time (TAT) from the moment blood samples are requested to the point of receiving them. By implementing an online medical questionnaire to assess a donor’s health, we cut the average time down from 22 days to just 12.

What makes someone thrive here?

Having full autonomy and the ability to try new ideas. This empowers you to make a difference. I receive encouragement to contribute my ideas and provide input. Also, I have flexibility to balance my work life and home life.

What do you think makes Anthony Nolan unique as an employer?

Our USP is in our strap line ‘saving the lives of people with blood cancer’. That is what makes us unique as an organisation. There is a workplace culture of appreciation and team spirit – they genuinely care about their employees.

What would you say to someone thinking of applying?

I would recommend working here, it’s such a lovely place to work, you won’t regret it. You will receive quality benefits, fair wages and a fantastic experience with amazing people.