Emma Headley

• What made you choose the career you have?

I always knew that I wanted a career within the health service and I was already aware of the role of the ODP because it was my father’s profession. I learned about what the role actually entailed during a theatre placement which was organised by my college tutors.

I was instantly drawn towards it after observing the theatre team carry out dedicated, patient-focused care and I instantly knew that I wanted to be a part of that.

• What challenges have you faced getting to where you are now?

The biggest challenge for me was returning to work after having time off when I had my son. I initially found it hard to get back into normalised routines after having 11 months away on maternity leave. Thankfully I work as part of a large team consisting of many different professionals who all supported me upon my return and informed me of the changes that had occurred whilst I was away.

• How does what you do make a difference to other people?

There are many examples of how we make a difference, including supporting patients physically and emotionally upon their arrival in the department and throughout their entire perioperative journey by being part of a team of highly skilled professionals that delivers high quality care.

• What would you say to other women aspiring to be in a similar field and who may have doubts about their ability to achieve their goals?

It’s an extremely worthwhile career to pursue as it is both very satisfying and rewarding as well as having its challenges. Perseverance, hard work and dedication is what’s needed to succeed!