Leslie Jones, Infection Prevention Assistant 
- What is your background / how did you get to where you are?
I spent 35 years in the military as an RAF medic. When I retired I wanted to do something that would keep by brain stimulated. Although I work full-time, this is really a hobby for me. I’ve been at the Trust for three years in December.
- Why did you choose to work at ULHT?
I live in Lincoln and with my medical background, working at the hospital is a good fit. I wanted a job with a less pressure and one that I can turn off from when I go home at night.
- What are your objectives over the next 12 months?
My objectives are to meet the ever increasing demands that arise on a daily basis. We know and are expecting the usual winter pressures which brings with it norovirus and influenza, but dealing with the unforeseeable will bring the greater challenge.
- What do you think you can bring to this role?
Well…I’m a multi-talented non-registered professional. I’m not registered like the nurses and doctors but because of my previous career I have a lot of insight and experience that I can use.
- What are the main aspects of your role?
Supporting, organising, assisting and communicating the integral areas associated with Infection, prevention and control whilst maintaining reliability and confidentiality.
- Describe a typical day.
This is difficult to answer because my role is so diverse. I’m usually sat at a computer recording data on the infectious organisms our patients have. This enables the team to liaise with nursing staff on the wards and make sure patients are on the correct care pathways. I also work across the Trust facilitating training in areas such as induction, hand hygiene assessments and fit testing. This week our team at Lincoln moved into Robey House from Hutton Block which has involved a lot of heavy lifting and running around trying to get organised.
- Where do you think the organisations strengths lie?
The staff and their commitment to caring for people. I am really proud to be associated with such a dedicated team. Everyone is under so much pressure, it is heartening to know how dedicated they all are. This is the same across the board from porters up to the chief executive.
- What drives you?
I have a passion for my job which drives me in terms of my work. At the end of the day though my wife drives me. She’s everything and supports me with all that I do. We’ve been married 25 years in March.
- What is the best thing about your job?
Facing a different challenge every day. I think I deal well with change, otherwise I wouldn’t be able to do this job. My colleagues might say different though.
- What do you think the organisations biggest challenge is?
Adapting with change to meet the current environment and facing the changes within the 2021 strategy.
- What is your message to the staff at ULH?
Keep smiling and continue doing what you do because your work is appreciated.
- What would you say to someone who was considering working for ULHT?
Be focused and go for what you want, not what you’ve been told to go for. Be led by your expectations, not the expectations of others.
- Is there anything else you would like to add?
Not really other than it would be nice if the NHS funding matched the increasing demands it is having to deal with.
On the spot…
Favourite food?
A roast dinner.
First record bought?
I think it was Elvis Presley – Always on My Mind.
What are you listening to at the moment?
I have quite an eclectic taste in music but I currently listen to Radio Two.
If you we’re having a dinner party which three people would you invite and why?
First would have to be Michael Buble, my wife’s favourite.
Second would be Prince Harry because he’s done so much for the forces and we’d have a lot to talk about. Third would be my wife as I couldn’t have Michael Buble round for tea without her being there!
Who inspires you?
My wife, she gives me everything and is always there for me. Finding Rose was the best thing that has ever happened to me.
Where is your favourite place in the world?
New York. My wife took me for my 50th birthday.
If you were stranded on a desert island what three things would you take?
A lifeboat, a box of matches and a bar of soap.
What do you like to do with your spare time?
On the weekend I go for walks, go to the cinema and out for food. I watch some TV but only because it’s there. If I go away I don’t miss it!
What three things would your friends or colleagues say about you?
You should ask them! What I would say might be different to what they would say. Probably professional, reliable and capable.
How would you like to be remembered?
Fondly.