Heartbeat: Hello my name is… James Severs
June 6, 2022
This month we extend a warm welcome to James Severs, who joins us as our Chief Allied Health Professional and Healthcare Scientist. We caught up with him to discover how he is settling in and how he came to be an allied health professional (AHP).
Speaking of his early career, James told us: “I studied paramedic science at Coventry University and registered as a paramedic, taking my first role in the beautiful city of Bath. Paramedics are one of 14 professions under the umbrella title of allied health professions. Many people are familiar with the traditional role of a paramedic, working on a frontline ambulance, responding to 999 calls and providing urgent and emergency care across their community. I’m a clinician at heart and continue to work a clinically a couple of days each month.
“Over the last few years, the role of the paramedic, like other AHPs and healthcare scientists (HCS) has evolved. There’s a real recognition that these professions have a wealth of knowledge, skills and experience which extends far beyond the traditional boundaries of each profession.
“Several career pathways are opening for AHPs and HCS professionals, from service management, roles in education and research, to professional leadership roles, such as the position I have now undertaken here at SWB.
“I worked as a paramedic officer until 2012, at which point I took my first hospital role as a resuscitation officer. Since then, I have held a few nursing and quality directorate roles, working across acute, community, mental health and learning disability trusts.
“Most recently, I worked as director of physical healthcare, responsible for bridging health inequality experienced by people with a diagnosis of mental health or learning disability. I’m passionate about improving access and equity of care to the people we serve, working collaboratively with patients, staff and partners to improve the health of our local population.”
So, what made James make the transition to SWB? He explained: “I have thoroughly enjoyed working in mental health and learning disability services. After seven years, it felt like the right time for a change.
“I was intrigued by the ambition of SWB to be the best integrated care organisation in the NHS. Many organisations have talked about becoming integrated, and SWB is working to make that a reality. A key part of this journey is raising the profile of our allied healthcare professionals and healthcare scientists across the organisation and beyond.”
Speaking of why his role is a vital addition to our services, James proudly told us: “My role is new to SWB. It will have overall professional accountability for providing professional leadership for AHPs and HCSs. Working with leaders across corporate and operational functions will ensure their voices are listened to and that their contribution is valued.”
James added: “I’m excited to join the Trust as we plan the formal launch of Fundamentals of Care. Our ambition to deliver the best quality care is dependent on every individual committing to do their part. Imagine a giant jigsaw and each colleague is a piece of the jigsaw – we all have part to make up the bigger picture
“I see this as a real opportunity for colleagues from different professions and departments, working in both patient and non-patient-facing roles, to learn how we all form part of the patient journey. I’m keen to learn about professions I have not previously worked alongside. AHP and HCS colleagues have so much to offer, and I am looking forward to championing our agenda.”
James enjoys hiking, live music, theatre and travelling outside of work. Be sure to give James a big warm SWB welcome if you see him on his travels.