Poole Hospital celebrates Black History Month
During October, Poole Hospital NHS Foundation Trust (PHFT) celebrated Black History Month as a way of reflecting on the diverse histories of those from African and Caribbean descent and recognising their achievements and contributions in the development of the UK.
Judith Dube, a stroke research nurse from PHFT, says: “I was born in Zimbabwe and came to the UK in 1998,” explains Judith. “My job involves identifying, screening, consenting, enrolling and managing patients participating in a defined portfolio of clinical trials and research studies. It also involves developing and providing a high-quality specialist research service to outpatients and inpatients, and working as part of a multidisciplinary team.”
Judith enjoys her job because of how varied and interesting it is. She says, “It’s diverse and no two trials are the same. It allows me to offer our patients optional treatments, and the opportunity to be pioneers in changing practice. I also get to spend a longer time talking to patients and getting to know them. The great satisfaction comes from being the patient’s advocate, ensuring their safety and protection, and supporting them throughout the research study.”
Judith says that it is valuable to recognise, respect and value each other’s differences to contribute and realise our full potential: “It is important that we celebrate our uniqueness to inspire and instil pride in ourselves and the community we serve,” Judith says. “A culturally diverse workplace can inspire creativity and drive innovation, building a great reputation. By promoting diversity, Poole Hospital can attract a highly experienced and talented workforce from anywhere in the world.”
To find out more about Black History Month and PHFT’s Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic (BAME) network, please contact BAME@poole.nhs.uk or Judith.dube@nhs.poole.uk
