Each month we will bring you behind the scenes to put the well deserved spotlight on our staff that help us make a difference to communities throughout the North East. This month meet Bobby Hewitson, Project Development Manager, for Pioneering Care Partnership.
Can you give an overview of your role?
I've worked extensively in the delivery, coordination and management of a wide range of community health and wellbeing programmes since 2006, when I was employed as a Lifestyle Manager by Leisureworks, a leisure trust set up by the local authority to deliver services primarily in Derwentside. My experience spans almost two decades and notable projects have included family health and wellbeing, workplace health, exercise referral including cardiac rehabilitation and diabetes, exercise in the community with a specific focus on walking and cycling for older people and programmes to support physical activity, positive lifestyle change and social opportunities for young adults. Many other projects including Wellbeing for Life and Colour Your Life were delivered in partnership with Pioneering Care Partnership, where a professional and very collaborative relationship was formed.
In my current role as Project Development Manager, I work with the Senior Leadership Team to help achieve our mission of Health, Wellbeing and Learning for all. I work with both internal and external staff within a constantly changing and evolving environment. I don't work directly with the public but do find time and enjoy dropping into services and sessions to meet people and discuss their experiences. I'm employed on a full-time basis and work flexibly, from home and across the county. My PCP base is currently at Pioneering Care Centre in the very quaint and peaceful garden pods. I've only been employed since 1st June 2023 so am still finding my feet. I have the responsibility of overseeing Wellbeing for Life, the Resilience Service, Workplace Health, ROAD and Community Mental Health Transformation. Each project is unique, special and contribute equally to our mission.
Describe a day-to-day in your role
It's hard to describe a day in my role as no two days are ever the same. Some days are filled with meetings, some with training, some with networking and many with what seems to be a never-ending chain of emails! Most importantly, they are filled with good people and laughter. Every day, however, is a joy and reminds me of the passion I have for health improvement, community engagement and the ongoing need in addressing health inequalities across County Durham.
What do you like about working for the PCP?
I only started in June but have already been impressed with the positive, supportive culture that exists across the organisation. I guess my memorable moment so far was the delicious strawberry cake at Carol Gaskarth's 20-year service celebration in July. The one thing I try to achieve every day is my best. During my time working as a teacher that's all I asked of the children. I think it transfers quite seamlessly into any profession and particularly into my role here.
What is the most rewarding aspect of the role?
A mix of emotions - happy, proud, humble. The strength, determination and resilience of people always enthuses me, whether they be clients or colleagues. We are very fortunate to be in a position to help people and that opportunity should never be taken for granted. That is what drives me forward every day. I'm part of the Senior Leadership Team and we work closely together to support the projects we lead across the region.
Has there been any additional training you’ve done since you started working for the PCP?
I've completed the on-line induction training and have enrolled on a Mental Health First Aid course to sharpen my knowledge. I'm happy to enrol on any further training that will further enhance the service and develop my skills.
If you are interested in joining our team, we have lots of opportunities across the North East and in sectors inclusive of health and wellbeing.
For more about what the PCP offers, visit www.pcp.uk.net, email enquiries@pcp.uk.net or call 01325 321234.