Meeting a... Charity Officer
Who are you: Raquel Williams
Summarise your role: No two days are ever quite the same. One moment, I might be brainstorming ideas for a lively fundraising event, and the next, I could be talking with grateful patients and their loved ones who wish to express their appreciation for the care they have received directly or witnessed in their loved ones. Additionally, I may also be coordinating with our amazing volunteers - who are the best!
Ultimately, it's like being on a journey filled with different projects and initiatives, each with its own unique challenges and rewards. I love the variety and the opportunity to make a positive impact in so many different ways.
What do you find challenging about your role: Raising awareness about our role as the hospital charity for Surrey and Sussex Healthcare NHS Trust, particularly under the name 'SASH Charity,' can be quite challenging. Many people in the local community may not even realize that we exist or understand the impact we have on their healthcare experience.
However, we're actively working on addressing this challenge through a charity rebrand. This rebranding process will not only help create awareness of the great work we achieve together, but also strengthen our ability to make a positive impact on healthcare in our area.
What do you find rewarding: The most rewarding part of my role is the opportunity to go above and beyond for patients, families and staff in our hospital. Knowing that the financial support we secure funds great ideas from you, which means we can deliver an array of brilliant ideas such as; providing a 'wedding in a box' for patients, delivering state-of-the-art incubators, improving waiting areas and staff rooms, offering music therapy for patients affected by dementia, to refurbishing the chemotherapy suite and so much more.
Each contribution, whether big or small, enhances the quality of care we provide and improves the overall experience for patients and their families. Seeing these ideas come to fruition and witnessing the positive impact they have on the lives of those in our community is truly rewarding.
What do you enjoy outside of work: I'm all about embracing life's adventures and spending time with my incredible family and friends! You can usually find me indulging in delicious meals and making memories together, where the soundtrack of our lives to the rhythm of house music, alternative rock, electronic and the occasionally nursery rhyme thanks to my lovely two year old.
When it comes to fun, I'm always up for trying new things and exploring new places. Whether it's a plane away, or a spontaneous road trip, I'm all about living in the moment as much as possible. Sometimes, it's the littlest things that bring the most joy!