Hello, I’m Cheryl
My Role: Specialist Podiatrist
Where I work: Royal Albert Edward Infirmary and Community Clinics in Wigan
What do I do in my role?
See patients who have problems with their feet, mainly wound care for diabetics and people with circulation problems. Educate people to try to prevent them from developing issues in the first place. I also work with consultants to prevent limb loss.
What’s my career journey?
I achieved a GNVQ in health and social care at John Rigby before then going on to study podiatry at UCN. I have worked for the NHS for 22 years, at Luton, Liverpool and Wigan, were I have been for 12 years now. I am about to go to university again to study to be a prescriber.
What’s the best thing about my job?
Helping patients who have got long term wounds to recover along with meeting new patients. Working with different professionals. Making a positive impact on patients' lives.
My top skills
- Steady hand
- People person
- Not afraid to ask questions or get help as needed.
What do I want to do next?
I am developing a Multi-Disciplinary foot service at the hospital and aim for this to be a one stop shop to lower amputation rates in Wigan, as we currently have the highest rates in North-West.
Good personal qualities to have
- Approachable
- Knowledgeable
- Team Player.
My advice if you want to do what I do
Try to organise some work experience through school or college. Good anatomy is always useful, as is Biology.