I worked at my local Trust for over 25 years and continued to do so as a Health Support Worker. However, a change to my personal circumstances meant I had to take on more care responsibilities at home and could no longer top up my salary with bank shifts. This combined with a change to my core working hours left me unable to afford to travel to work anymore.

Having a sustained period of unpaid leave from work, I contacted Thank You Healthcare Staff desperate for help. They were able to support me with an annual West Yorkshire Metro Bus Pass that has meant I have been able to get back to work and start earning again. This has meant so much to me and my son, whom I look after. I am super grateful.

I applied to the charity due to returning to work after my third child in 2025 and no longer being able to afford basic living. I had to face the reality that I could no longer afford to work and keep the children in childcare and was going to have to leave the NHS. Thank You Healthcare Staff was able to step in and cover childcare costs, enabling me to stay in work for the NHS and continue working.

The difference this has made to myself and my partner already is palpable, a huge weight off our shoulders has been lifted and we are so grateful. We will now be able to think about Christmas for us and our 3 small boys.