Over the course of the next year we’ll be highlighting members of the IC24 team, exploring their backgrounds, roles, and unique perspectives, so you can get to know the people who are working hard for you.

For the next instalment of our ‘Meet the IC24 Team’ series, we speak to Andy Earl, a Pharmacy Assistant, Receptionist and Driver from our Norfolk integrated urgent care service. Andy joined IC24 in 1994

How long have you worked at IC24? And how did you end up in your current role?
I started working at Norfolk's out of hours service over 30 years ago. Over that time, I have worked for various providers, as if an organisation loses a contract, your employment is then transferred to the new contract provider via TUPE. When I joined IC24, it was known as South East Health, so I joined right from the get-go.

I started as a receptionist and driver for the Great Yarmouth and Waveney contract, before it morphed into the service we know today - Norfolk and Waveney. I have worked in numerous roles, from duty manager to driver. It was a natural progression when I became a pharmacy assistant, as I've always been involved with the medication side of things for 20+ years. I still take on driver/receptionist duties too.

Andy, can you share three things about yourself that not many others may know?

• Family is incredibly important to me. I'm married and I'm a grandad to two lovely little girls. My wife also works in healthcare.
• I have a dog, she's a 13 year old Terrier who has a lot of attitude!
• I haven't got loads of hobbies, but I do like to go walking in the Peak District. I really enjoy it.
  
  
  

What do you enjoy doing when you're not working?
As mentioned above, I love to go walking in the Peak District. I enjoy all the routes and couldn't possibly pick a favourite. I was born there and visited frequently as a child, and have continued to do so as I've gotten 'bigger'.

How has your role changed during COVID-19?
It has become more stressful, but I'm sure that's not a surprise to many, considering what the healthcare sector has gone through in the last 18 months. I'm based at IC24's out of hours base at James Paget University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust in Great Yarmouth, so it has of course been very busy. It's been a funny time for everyone, it's hard to put my finger on the specifics though.

Describe your role at IC24 in three words or phrases.

Enjoyable - I enjoy working for the NHS, I think it's a worthwhile thing to do.
Stressful - Throughout the pandemic, it has been stressful, but being part of a good team has helped significantly. We've managed to pull through.
Rewarding - There's a real sense of satisfaction knowing you're caring for people and making a real difference.

Thanks to Andy for taking part and stay tuned for the next instalment of ‘Meet the IC24 Team’. You can find out more about our brilliant people by searching #MadeToBeBrave on Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter, and Instagram.