Matthew Price

The facilities at Edge Hill are fantastic. I graduated in 2021, and I was part of the first cohort of this integrated Masters degree. It was amazing to be involved in this. The campus is picturesque, with everything you need close by. I could choose to spend time with my fellow students or have some time out walking around the lake to relax.

On the degree we had to complete a certain number of days of social work placements and nursing hours. Edge Hill arranged all these placements and matched these up with our experience and places where we would gain further experience. I am in no doubt that the practice experience played a huge part in me gaining my first role after qualifying.

There was a mixture of events that led me to apply for the course. There were situations in my personal and professional life that made me realise that changes were needed within our healthcare system. I decided to return to study to be a mental health nurse and social worker. What better way to try and improve the system than by having the opportunity to be involved in both health and social care within one role.

The remit of my current role is to support, educate and lead the nurses within the rehabilitation service. I am also a designated safeguarding lead. This all involves me being reactive to any situation that arises and supporting the team members. I am also responsible for ensuring that governance is completed for the wards and completing audits. My role is to ensure that we are delivering the best care to our patients and improving their outcomes. In addition to this, I am also in training to be a social work practice educator. I am also a student nurse mentor and assessor.

I developed many skills from my degree which have led me to the success I am currently having in my career. The biggest skill I have taken away is resilience. Completing a dual 4-year Masters programme is demanding. Another key skill has been organisation. As a clinical lead with many meetings to attend as well as work within the hospital, organisation and time management skills are vital. Having assignment deadlines teaches you these skills. Having the confidence and knowledge to speak up in meetings is another key skill.

I have many things that I still want to achieve in my career, the main one being to promote integrated practitioners (Nurse/ Social workers) and to make sure they have a valuable place in the health and care sector. I still want to educate myself and I have not ruled out further degrees or a PHD. I am also passionate about developing staff and students who I have the opportunity to work with. As a former student of the programme I have an understanding of their journey and the stresses along the way. I am extremely lucky to have reached the position that I hold today within a short period of time. My plan would be to continue to progress and to keep making a difference.

My advice to anyone considering studying this degree at Edge Hill? Just do it. The outcome is more than worth it. I wish I had done this years ago. Take those difficult times and turn them in to experience, because when you join the workforce, they will be valuable. Don’t be afraid to ask for help and don’t be afraid to admit when you are struggling. Take every opportunity that is available to you.

The relationship that I have maintained with Edge Hill has been a special part for me. I am in regular contact with both my fellow student and the tutors on the course. Each year I am invited back to speak to the students about my experiences on the course and the work force.