Meet The Team
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- Directors
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Runa Saha
Medical Director
Having been born and brought up in Lincolnshire I returned to Lincoln in 2006 on completion of GP Training. Since then I have had extensive experience of developing, managing and creating educational programmes for healthcare professionals in Undergraduate and Postgraduate Medical/Healthcare Education.
As a portfolio GP working in health education, leadership and management roles, I am passionate about the development of the medical and primary care workforce leading to a sustainable model for Lincolnshire.
As medical director of LTH since 2015 it has been exciting to see our organisation grow, supporting people working across Primary Care in Lincolnshire. Some of our projects were developed in Lincolnshire and have now been replicated across the country. Having been born and brought up in the county, it’s great to see Lincolnshire on the map of Primary Care Education.
The LTH team are knowledgeable, passionate, innovative and proud, and there’s a great buzz working alongside them all.
In my spare time I play violin and piano, and I am mum to two teenage orchestral musicians – which involves being ‘Mums Taxi’ up and down the country.
Email: runa.saha@hee.nhs.uk
Susan McElnea
Business Director
Hello I’m Susan McElnea, Business Director at Lincolnshire Training Hub.
I have lived in Lincolnshire since 2007 and enjoy all the county has to offer. My background is in the Business World, having graduated from Leeds University with a BA (Hons) in Business Studies. I have a wealth of experience working with various sized businesses, operationally and at board level in the Uk and Internationally.
I started working with LTH in 2018 and have developed our business model and structure. I am keen to facilitate sustainability and growth of LTH for the benefit of Primary Care. As well as project management and supporting the endeavours of our clinical team, I ensure that LTH fully integrates with all stakeholders across the system, ensuring that the Primary Care agenda is on the table and addressed in full.
Lisa Freeman
Director of Nursing
I’m Lisa Freeman, the Director of Nursing and I work as an advanced nurse practitioner. I graduated from the University of Lincoln with MSc in advanced clinical practice July 2019. I have been with the training hub since it began in 2015.
I started working in general Practice in 2007 following a varied career within secondary care. In 2007 it was difficult to get a foot in the door as a practice nurse, I made the decision to follow my passion and take a very part-time job covering long term sickness. All adverts and practices were asking for practice nurse experience as at this time there were no specific prerequisites of what a practice nurse should have.
I have studied many modules in chronic disease, with my main interest being respiratory disease. I progressed into doing minor illness when I completed non-medical prescribing in 2010 before starting my masters in February 2017. I have had a varied career, including working in and around Australia for 2 years. I completed the Post graduate Certificate in Clinical Teaching and Practice Education in 2021. Outside of work my interests are travel, my dogs and gardening.
Email: lisa.freeman9@nhs.net
Helen Hughes
Programme Manager
Hello, I’m Helen Hughes, Programme Manager at Lincolnshire Training Hub.
I have worked within Education, Training and Recruitment for over 15 years nationally both within the public and private sector. The last 2 years have been focused within Primary Care in the East Midlands, more specifically General Practice within Derbyshire. I have a wealth of experience building strategies around training needs, education and workforce planning.
In my spare time I enjoy spending time with my two children, husband and crazy red headed Cocker Spaniel.
David Peachey
General Practice Assistant Clinical Lead
I am a GP in West Bridgford in Nottingham and also teach across all different year groups at the Primary Care Education Unit at University of Nottingham Medical School. My role within LTH is GP Clinical Lead for the GP Assistant programme across the Midlands.
I have achieved a Postgraduate Certificate in Medical Education. I am happy to be contacted about any queries or concerns relating to the GPA Programme locally.
In my spare time, I enjoy spending time with my wife Hayleigh and two girls (7 and 4). I also enjoy watching football (Nottingham Forest!) and Cricket at Trent Bridge
Kevin Thomas
Workforce Transformation GP Lead
I am a GP Partner working at Market Rasen Surgery having completed my training in August 2013. I completed my Postgraduate Certificate in Medical Education in July 2018 and am a GP trainer. I also acted as a supervisor for an International GP (IGP) helping her transition into UK General Practice. I was also the Training Programme Director for the East Midlands IGP scheme.
Following the advent of Primary Care Networks, I have been instrumental in helping set up our local network and was elected as the Clinical Director with responsibility for a population of 85,000 patients. I am the clinical representative of the Primary Care Workforce Group for Lincolnshire and am on the Lincolnshire People’s Board representing the PCN Alliance and primary care.
I joined Lincolnshire Training Hub in October 2021 in the role of Workforce Transformation GP Lead with responsibility for the New to Practice Fellowships programme and Rotational Roles with Lincolnshire STP.
Becca Gibbon
Workforce Transformation GP Lead
I’m Becca and work as a portfolio GP. I have a range of interests in medicine; which has led me to take up a range of roles! I am a GP Partner as a Practice in Lincolnshire. Additionally, one day a week, I work for LIVES; supporting East Midlands Ambulance Service with patients who call 999. This work can involve a range of areas including assisting with trauma cases, end of life care to supporting patients with alternatives to admission to hospital. Another day a week, I work for Lincolnshire Training Hub as a Workforce Transformation GP Lead.
I grew up in Yorkshire and moved to London for undergraduate training at Imperial College. After qualification, I gradually moved northwards after via Northampton and Leicester, and I undertook GP Training in Lincolnshire. I enjoyed a slight detour in the middle via New Zealand, where I worked in Emergency Medicine. My interest in education and training has led me to complete a Post-Graduate Certificate in Medical Education and become involved with Lincolnshire Training Hub.
Outside of medicine, I am a keen runner and keep busy with my children and partner and a young dog!
Kate Berry
Workforce Transformation GP Lead
I completed my initial training in general medicine, reaching registrar level and completing my MRCP before I chose to do GP training in 2004. I became a GP trainer in 2008 and have been involved in training GP registrars ever since. In 2018, I joined the University of Lincoln team as clinical lecturer. My general practice became an academy in 2019, enabling me to get involved in the training of 5th year medical students as well.
I have designed and delivered tutorial and educational programmes for medical students, registrars and fellow GPs. I have adapted national guidance into local protocols digestible for everyday use. I have supervised pharmacists and advanced nurse practitioners to help them gain additional qualifications. I have had lead roles in diabetes, safeguarding, drug and alcohol use, complaints and governance and practice management.
As a portfolio GP, I also provide mentoring with Impact Lincs and perform appraisals regularly.
I am well aware of the ever-growing list of topics we’re expected to keep up-to-date on, as well as the increasing complexity of patients we see in general practice. I am keen to help GPs navigate these stormy waters, as well as welcome allied health care professionals into the fray so that they are armed with the right level of knowledge to make the journey smoother.
I’m married to an RAF officer, so spend a lot of my time needing to be in several places at once for my 3 children. There are not many things that don’t interest me and I’ve enjoyed a mixture of rowing, pottery, painting, piano and writing children’s books over the past few decades.
Gill Beardmore
Workforce Transformation GPN Lead
Gill’s 40+ years as a registered nurse has been primarily in general practice. Her non-medical prescribing qualification, in-depth knowledge of cardiovascular disease and treating minor illness contributed to her development as a general practice nurse (GPN) leader. Gill completed a master’s degree in Medical Education with distinction at Nottingham University in May 2014 culminating in a dissertation entitled, ‘General Practice Nurse Education: attitudes to training’. In 2017 she was honoured to become a Queen’s Nurse. Gill has written for several nursing journals, her latest publication appearing in ‘Journal of General Practice Nursing’ in July 2018. She worked with Health Education England from 2012 until 2021 and from 2018 was responsible for the supply and development of the general practice nursing workforce across the East Midlands. Flagship work included developing a programme of education for new GPNs known as ‘GPN Fundamentals’ and pioneering ‘GPN Specialty Training’, a programme to support entry in general practice nursing. Following her retirement from HEE in October 2021 she began working with Lincolnshire Training Hub as Workforce Transformation GPN Lead.
Ruth Pollock
Operations and Liaison Manager
I joined Lincolnshire Training Hub in August 2020 in the role of Project Manager. My background is in medical translation, including elements of account and project management, administration, quality assurance and trainee mentorship.
My role involves maintaining an overview of the broad range of projects undertaken within LTH to retain and upskill the current primary care workforce and facilitate recruitment into primary care. I lead on a number of projects, including CPD funding, PCN liaison and the Shiny Mind health and wellbeing app.
I enjoy supporting all members of the team in developing and implementing the LTH objectives.
Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with my young family, paddle boarding, yoga and walking.
Email: ruth.pollock@nhs.net
Stacey Mayo
Administration and Communications Officer
Hello, I am Stacey Mayo, Administration and Communications Officer for Lincolnshire Training Hub.
Before undertaking this role, I had previously been a Medical Secretary in Private Practice, Primary and Secondary Care for approximately 18 years. This has given me an insight into all different specialities along with the chance to work alongside GP’s, Surgeons, Nurses and Students carrying out their placements within the Community.
Outside of work, I live with my two children and in my spare time in enjoy horse riding and socialising with friends and family
Sarah Parkin
Financial Administrator
I am Sarah Parkin and I deal with the financial side of things for the Training Hub.
My background is as a Practice Manager, having worked in Lincoln since 2009, firstly for The Witham Practice, before moving across to Abbey Medical Practice. I started in the NHS in 1996 at the surgery in my local village, many changes to the NHS since then.
I have been involved with the Training Hub for quite some time now, as are a number of my colleagues here at Abbey. I can see first-hand the benefits that the Training Hub has given to General Practice.
Outside of work – I enjoy spending time with my daughters and new granddaughter, also music, wining & dining, travelling and being in the sun.
Hannah Daniel
Lead Nurse
I am a Practice Nurse working with Lincolnshire Training Hub and Horncastle Medical Group.
I graduated from the University of Nottingham with an MNursSci in July 2017. Upon graduating I wanted to enter general practice but found it difficult to get my foot in the door.
I started as a General Practice Nurse Fellow – a role created by Health Education England to bring nurses without experience into general practice.
Since starting work in general practice, I have completed a PGCert in Practice Nursing at De Montfort University and continued to complete long-term condition courses mainly asthma and COPD. Since the long-term condition courses, I have progressed to non-medical prescribing.
Within my role with the Training Hub, I started out and still enjoy assisting others to enter general practice in the hopes they have an easier route in than myself! In addition, I lead on a variety of projects which can be seen on the Lincolnshire Training Hub website and support practice nurses and other general practice staff throughout their careers.
Lucy Merrill
Clinical Educator
I am a General Practice Nurse in Lincoln and I joined Lincolnshire Training Hub as a Junior Nurse Fellow in September 2020.
I qualified as an adult nurse in 2014 and was employed as a hospital staff nurse, however I was keen to transfer into primary care so that I could help patients to manage their own conditions and prevent unwanted hospital admissions.
I found it hard to transition into practice nursing as at the time any job adverts specified that they required an experienced practice nurse. I was extremely fortunate in 2019 to obtain a temporary position as a trainee General Practice Nurse where I was able to complete a Postgraduate Certificate in General Practice Nursing whilst working in a practice. Thanks to this opportunity I was able to gain new, relevant qualifications and subsequently obtained permanent employment in General Practice in January 2020.
As part of my role within LTH I am hoping to continue to enable more students to experience work in general practice and to raise the profile of general practice nursing as a first-choice career.
Outside of work I enjoy spending time with my young family and exploring the countryside with them.
Adele Parsons
Environment and Education Lead
Hello, I’m Adele and I have recently joined the Training Hub as one of the Environment and Education Leads, I will be working with 4 PCN groups in Lincolnshire.
I work as a Senior Lecturer at the University of Lincoln and I am an experienced nurse and ACP. I worked in Primary Care clinically for many years before joining the University of Lincoln in 2021 where I lead Modules on the MSc ACP Programme as well as leading the Professional Nurse Advocate Programme. I organise the University Prescribing Conference and am an Educational Supervisor for the ePortfolio (Supported) Route. I am a Queens Nurse and Lead QN for the East Midlands Region.
Outside of work I am happiest digging in the garden or spending time with family & Welsh Terriers.
Sarah Bluff
Nursing Mentor
I qualified in 2015 from Lincoln University as a registered nurse. I started in general practice in 2016 following a short spell in secondary care.
I attended BGU university and completed my PGCert in practice nursing, which helped me enormously in gaining knowledge and understanding of all the fundamentals of practice nursing. In 2020 I joined Lincolnshire Training Hub as a nurse fellow, I gained confidence and grew as a nurse and as an individual. By 2021 I expanded my further education by completing a PGCert in Clinical Education at Lincoln University. This enabled me to become a clinical educator at the hub with teaching, supervising and assessing students within general practice. I am now concentrating on my career to become an advanced nurse practitioner at my current surgery and work as a nursing mentor for new to general practice nurses.
Sandra Esteve Sanz
ACP Clinical Lead
I’m Sandra Esteve Sanz, the ANP clinical lead and I work as an advanced nurse practitioner. I graduated from the University of Lincoln with MSc in advanced clinical practice in 2018. I have been with the training hub since September 2022.
I started working in general Practice in 2017 following an extensive career in secondary care since 2003. My specialist areas of interest are cardiology, VTE and anticoagulation. I have completed a postgraduate in anticoagulation. Outside work I enjoy travelling, playing badminton and baking.
Yuen Toh
Pharmacy Ambassador
Hi, My name is Yuen Toh and I am a Lead Senior Pharmacist in Apex PCN in Lincoln.
Having extensive experience in coaching people, I set out to build a pharmacy team consisting of pharmacists and pharmacy technicians to compliment a multidisciplinary approach to patient care in a modern GP practice. My previous experience in community pharmacy and private sector prescribing allows me to better understand and answer the needs of the patient.
A proud Nottingham University graduate I expanded my educational adventure by completing a Post Graduate Diploma in cardiovascular health. As a prescriber, my clinics provide plenty of opportunities to be directly involved in care where shared decision making and patient centred approach may yield better, more coherent, effective and measurable health outcomes.
Professionally I am passionate about mentoring and supporting colleagues in a wider team with special interest in bridging the gaps during transitions between community pharmacy, General Practice and Secondary Care. Vision of pharmacy professionals united regardless of sector of work allows me to look forward to our future where personal leadership takes a vital role in integration with wholesome National Health Service. Together we can do more!
If you catch me not doing any of the above, I will be either painting, playing piano or doing yoga at the break of dawn.
Matt Holmes
Paramedic Ambassador
Hi there, I’m Matt. I’m a Paramedic Ambassador for the training hub and also work within Grantham and Sleaford PCNs as the Lead Community Paramedic in a small team supporting Primary Care for same-day visits and clinics throughout Lincolnshire. I qualified as a Paramedic in 2007 and worked for East Midlands Ambulance service in Derbyshire, Nottinghamshire and Leicestershire before making the move to Primary Care as an Emergency Care Practitioner.
After some time working in Accident and Emergency at King’s College, I came back to my Primary Care roots. I’m a solid advocate for Allied Health Professionals developing skills to offer expert care in their fields and look forward to promoting all Allied Health Professions throughout the ICB. I look forward to meeting as many of you as I can in coming events and my Paramedic door is always open for advice, support and guidance.
Samantha Simpson
Trainee Nursing Associate Ambassador
My name is Samantha Simpson. My role within Lincolnshire training Hub is Student ambassador for Trainee Nursing Associates within General Practice.
I have worked in general practice for the last 12 years starting as a receptionist and working my way up to health care assistant. In September 2019 I started my training to become a Registered Nursing Associate through Derby University, along with two others from general practice who have now left the course. I am really enjoying the challenges that this course is giving me. Developing new skills, expanding on existing skills and increasing my knowledge. When I qualify, I will be the first Registered Nursing Associate from General practice in Lincolnshire.
The training hub recognised that other people applying to do their Nursing Associate training from general practice, needed some support, this is where the Student ambassador role came from. Through my training as a Nursing Associate, I have developed skills and experience to help health care assistance from general practice through their journey to becoming Registered Nursing Associates, offering advice, support and guidance.
Outside of work I am a mum to two beautiful girls who keep me on my toes, I enjoy going on holidays. Me and my husband are currently renovating our house, I am becoming quiet the expert at DIY.
Dipika Khanal
AHP Ambassador
Hi everyone, I am Dipika. I am a Physiotherapist by educational background having completed my degree in 2011 and further acquiring postgraduation from Sheffield Hallam University. I work as an Advanced Musculoskeletal Practitioner at HS Health Group Limited which provides Advanced MSK, FCP and Physiotherapy services across multiple PCNs within Lincolnshire, North-East Lincolnshire and West Berkshire and am also a FCP lead for Boston PCN.
I have been working in Lincolnshire since 2015 and with my initial involvement at SHU in a mentorship initiative, I could translate that experience into bringing efficient mentoring, placement, and physiotherapists/FCPs’ professional progression opportunities for my team at HS Health Group. Through my own experience of working in this region with multiple AHPs working for different organisations/service providers, I always felt there was a need to bring everyone together to be able to share the challenges of the roles, the learning opportunities we can create for ourselves through effective networking and be able to offer professional support to one another. I shall therefore look forward to working together with all of you to be able to create this channel of communication and collaborative working.
Emma Monaghan
GP Mentor
I’m Emma, an established Lincolnshire GP, educator, and coach. I grew up in Lincolnshire, and have worked as a GP in the area since completing my training in the North-West in 2006. I have a heart for supporting my colleagues, and this led me to gain a PGCME and become a GP trainer in 2011. I completed a Certificate in Professional Coaching Practice in 2020 and have been coaching doctors and other health professionals in areas such as confidence, career decisions, and work-life balance since then. I love exploring the countryside with my dog Max, and find that walking-coaching/mentoring sessions work well to open up new thinking and insights.
Luqman Rajput
GP Mentor
Dr RAJPUT (Lucky) is a Locum GP, a coach, a mentor, and a facilitator. His mission in life is to work with people upstream of where they fall in the river (better understanding of prevention of problems) so that teams can work less on fire fighting and be more productive.
He is passionate about Development and Leadership within the NHS. He has experience of working as a coach for over 5 years and 20 years as a doctor in the NHS. He is a GP appraiser and senior appraiser in Lincolnshire area working for NHS E&I. He has coached nurses, doctors and CCG managers over past 5 years. He has also been an educator for the past 12 years and has worked with Health Education East Midlands to support trainee doctors and dentists. He has over 300 hours of such experience altogether. He has recently completed his MSc in coaching and mentoring from Sheffield Hallam University. Lucky is registered as a master practitioner with the European Mentoring and Coaching Council.
Nirosha Whitfield
GP MENTOR, MPEQL and EECL
I am Nirosha, I have worked in Lincolnshire since 2004 when I first joined the GP training scheme in Lincoln. I am currently a GP partner at a practice in Lincolnshire, Training Programme Director for Lincoln VTS, Faculty Registered Trainer for Family Planning, GP trainer and a mentor. I also supervise the medical students who are placed at my practice. I enjoy my portfolio career as it gives me a variety of challenges and job satisfaction. I have also joined LTH recently as Multi Professional Education Quality Lead and Education Environment Clinical lead (EECL) covering 1 session per week in each role. My responsibilities as a MPEQL are providing Quality Assurance visits for the training environments whilst providing a supporting role to the learning environments as an EECL.
Outside of work, I live with my husband and two teenage daughters. In my spare time I enjoy going to the concerts and socialising with my family and friends who live in the UK and abroad.
Dan Petrie
GP mentor
I am a GP partner in Stamford having moved to Lincolnshire as a Royal Air Force junior doctor. I studied medicine in Sheffield and then completed my training mainly at Peterborough and in the community local to South Lincolnshire. I completed my GP training in 2011 and joined the NHS in 2013, initially as a salaried GP prior to taking on my partnership.
If I hadn’t been a GP I would have probably gone down the psychiatry route however I have been able to develop a special interest in this area, both clinically and from a leadership perspective. I have been the mental health lead for 2 CCGs most recently being part of the team developing Lincolnshire’s mental health transformation plans. In addition I was the founding clinical director for our PCN which built on the extensive leadership training I gained in the RAF.
Latterly I have increasingly focused on wellbeing and support of the workforce through coaching, training in open dialogue and a spell working for practitioner health.
I have 4 kids, love cycling and paddle boarding and hanging out with friends.
Emma Berry
GP mentor
I’m Emma. I joined Lincolnshire Training Hub in the summer of 2022 as a GP mentor.
I work as a GP partner in Woodhall Spa, having previously worked as a salaried GP since completing my GP training in August 2008.
I also work one session a week with the Children in Care team for Lincolnshire, completing initial health assessments for Looked after Children.
I welcomed the opportunity to support other GPs, particularly early on in their career, through joining the team at Lincolnshire Training Hub. I have completed a Post-Graduate Certificate in Medical Education with a view to becoming a GP trainer in the future.
General practice is a varied and exciting career and despite the system pressures and politics, I want to help GPs continue to achieve their potential and recognise the fantastic work they do for their patients.
Outside of work, my husband and I run around after our 3 children, and we like to go away for weekends in our motorhome whenever we can.
Felicity Allen
GP Mentor
Hello, I’m Felicity. I’m originally from Leicester but have lived and worked in Lincolnshire for the last 13 years. I have worked as a locum and salaried GP and also now work as a Medical Examiner at Lincoln County Hospital in addition to my role as a Mentor in the Fellowship Programme.
I feel very privileged to be able to support newly qualified GPs embarking on the fellowship program whilst starting their careers as independent practitioners. I recognise that this is such an important time for them with unique stresses and challenges but equally an exciting opportunity for exploring avenues they are passionate about and establishing a career in General Practice that fits with their life goals.
I am enthusiastic about supporting these GPs and helping them to find a path forward that works for them.
Outside of medicine, I enjoy reading, swimming and dancing; performing with my dance school at their annual show.
Charu Shukla
GP Mentor
Born and brought up in India, I moved to UK as an IMG in 2001. Totally fascinated by Primary Care and role of GP, I became a GP partner at a Lincoln Practice and I love working as a portfolio GP.
I am a GP Trainer as well as clinical supervisor for Foundation doctors with an interest in medical education and inter professional learning. I am involved in teaching Pharmacy students at Lincoln University as well as undergraduate medical students from Lincoln Medical School.
As a mentor I have thoroughly enjoyed supporting GP colleagues at the start of their career. In my spare time I enjoy shopping, keeping an eye on latest fashion trends, travel and adventures with friends and family both at home and abroad.
Kasia Doran
Nursing Mentor and Environment and Education Lead
Hello, I’m Kasia Doran newly recruited Environment and Education Lead also serving as a mentor under the Career Start Programme.
I qualified as a nurse in 2013. In 2016, I transitioned to primary care after having pursued a career in haemato-oncology in secondary care. I was able to transfer a lot of skills from hospital into primary care so my progression into the Nurse Practitioner was relatively quick. I gained additional qualifications such as non-medical prescribing and clinical assessment skills in 2018.
In September 2020, I commenced a master’s degree in Advanced Clinical Practice, and I am currently completing the final module.
Having been fortunate to have worked alongside excellent mentors, I am eager to give back and provide similar guidance and support for peers and new recruits.
Emma Wootton
Nursing Mentor
Hello, I am Emma and have been in my current role as a Practice Nurse at the New Coningsby Surgery for over six years after graduating from The University of Nottingham in 2014 with a BSc in Adult Nursing.
Upon qualifying I worked as a Staff Nurse on a General Surgical Ward and then moved into General Practice in my local community which I find fulfilling and rewarding.
Since working in Primary Care The Training Hub and my employer has supported me in further education, such as in Diabetes, Asthma and COPD.
I have recently completed Minor Illness Training and I am currently studying for an MSc in Advanced Clinical Practice at the University of Lincoln.
In my spare time I enjoy outdoor sports and activities with my family and friends such as hiking, biking and swimming.
I look forward to working with the Training Hub in mentoring Career Start Nurses.
Alisha Hitchcock
Nursing Mentor
Hello, my name is Alisha and I have been a practice nurse since qualifying in April 2020 (what a time!). I love general practice and have a passion for supporting and educating those new to nursing. I completed my undergraduate degree at Christchurch University in Canterbury and then went on to complete my two-year fellowship program here too. I now live at home with my fiancé and my two cats in Lincolnshire as we decided to move closer to family and I often head back to Kent to see my family too. In my spare time I run an educational yet informal nursing podcast where I enjoy discussing different subjects and speaking with colleagues about their healthcare experiences.
Beccie Coe
Nursing Mentor
Hi, I’m Beccie, I am currently a mum, wife and Practice Nurse Team Leader in Lincoln. I have worked in Primary Care for 18 years after qualifying as an Adult Nurse from Nottingham University and following a short stint in Secondary Care.
As a prescribing nurse my role includes minor illness and chronic disease management. I have a special interest in Practice Nursing as I enjoy the vast area it covers within nursing and feel that it is a domain that is continually changing and gives scope for me to expand my skills and knowledge.
I am really eager to meet and assist the next generation of Practice Nurses and help them on their career journey. This is such an exciting role and a great opportunity to be a part of.
In my spare time I enjoy spending time with my husband and two sons and socialising with friends.
Lisa Bonner
Nursing Mentor
Hi, I’m Lisa. After my management placement in primary care, I was lucky enough to secure a practice nurse position at Abbey Medical Practice when I graduated from the University of Lincoln in 2017.
Since graduating, I have continued to learn and completed a PGCert Foundations of Practice Nursing, Practice Supervisor & Practice Assessor Preparation Programme, Diploma of Principles of Diabetes for Professional Practice and PG Cert Independent/Supplementary Prescriber Programme and I’m currently studying a course on asthma.
As well as being Learning Disability lead in my practice, I have an interest in wound care and diabetes.
As a previous mentor to a return to practice nurse and watching her confidence build up, graduate and restart her career in primary care, I am looking forward to supporting Career Start Nurses through the Training Hub.
Lindsay Cussons
Nursing Mentor
I’m Lindsay Cussons. I am a part-time Practice Nurse working in Lincoln and I am one of the Nurse mentors that support nurses new to General Practice or those returning to practice after a break. I have been a Practice Nurse for the last 17 years. I qualified in 1997 from De Montfort University and did 2 years post graduate on a surgical ward and ITU before travelling to Australia. I went for a year but stayed for 4 and worked across many different hospitals and also the blood bank in Sydney. When I returned to the UK I wanted to work outside of secondary care and decided Practice Nursing was for me. At that time it was difficult to get into Practice Nursing but I was given an opportunity and I haven’t looked back. I love the continuity of Practice Nursing and getting to know the patients. There are many various roles within Practice Nursing and I specialise in respiratory having completed an asthma diploma and a COPD degree, last year I finally completed my ARTP accreditation in spirometry and interpretation which was delayed due to covid.
Outside of work I am a busy wife and mother to my twin teenagers. I am also a keen horse rider and compete regularly on weekends.
Natasha Holmes
Nursing Mentor
I started my career in health and social care as an apprentice healthcare assistant in a GP practice, this ignited my passion for primary care, and I haven’t looked back since. I completed my degree in nursing in 2020 and have worked in primary care since qualifying.
I have been accepted on the course to complete the non-medical prescribing and I am looking forward to my further future development within primary care.
The experience I gained working at each level has given me a sense of appreciation for the variety of support provided to me during my career and I am looking forward to repaying that support within my role as a nursing mentor with the Lincolnshire Training Hub.
I am Grimsby based, and in my spare time enjoy quality family time and I try and keep active by attending the gym, pole fitness classes and more recently stand up paddleboarding.
Molly Butcher
Medical Student Ambassador
Hello I’m Molly Butcher, and I overlook the Future Programmes.
I have lived in Lincolnshire all my life and completed my A-Levels at William Farr School. I am currently studying at medicine at Newcastle University after receiving offers also from Manchester, Sheffield and Southampton, and am about to enter my fourth year.
I started working with LTH in 2019 and have helped them develop their Future Programmes that aid students with their applications into healthcare roles. I am keen to keep expanding these programmes and help as many people as possible to achieve their dream roles.
Sam Braid
Nursing Mentor
Hello, I am Sam, an enthusiastic practice nurse, passionate about primary care nursing. Although relatively newly registered, having qualified as a nurse in 2022, my experience in primary care spans over 13 years. I pride myself in my development from a receptionist to a phlebotomist, to a HCSW, and then a nurse, whilst bringing up a family.
My first mentor, when I started my degree, was not encouraging or supportive. Unperturbed I continued and completed my degree, through covid, and have had the privilege of working with invaluable and inspirational mentors. I quickly learned the benefit of having an effective mentor to promote a positive learning experience. I believe that I have those characteristics that will help others to achieve their potential.
The nursing team are integral to primary care success, and it is an evolving role offering a range of opportunities to provide excellent person-centred care. I am approachable and keen to share my skills, knowledge, and experiences, as well as learn alongside my mentees. I have confidence in my nursing practice to be able to listen and offer support through the challenges faced by those starting their journey into nursing.
When not at work, I can be found reading or making – I crochet, knit and weave. I print, papercraft and photograph and I love gardening. I look forward to working with you.
Bella Randall
Medical Student Ambassador
Hi I’m Bella and I’m in my first year of medical school at the University of Lincoln. I completed my A Levels in Biology, Chemistry and Spanish, as well as an EPQ studying music therapy and its impacts on dementia patients. Before Covid happened, I decided to apply defer entry in order to travel for a year but my gap year took an unexpected turn and I ended up working the whole year instead.
Alongside my studies I’m part of the University’s Orchestra where I play the clarinet and I’m an avid diver when I have the time.
I look forward to using my role as a student ambassador to help encourage more people into medicine.
Nalin Jensen
Medical Student Ambassadors
Hello I’m Nalin. I am currently in my first year at Lincoln Medical School.
I am a graduate student and have a BSc (Hons) in Psychology and MSc in Health Psychology. My previous roles include working as a Health Care Assistant on an Adolescent Mental Health Ward and Training as a Children’s Wellbeing Practitioner.
I’m originally from Germany and have lived in the UK for over 7 years.
I look forward to working with the Lincolnshire Training Hub on future projects!
Ruta Dubinskaite
Medical Student Ambassador
Hi, my name is Ruta! I am a Lithuanian who was born and raised in East London. After my A Levels, I moved to Lincoln in September 2020 to study Medicine in the Lincoln Medical School.
Outside of my studies, I am a member of the UOTC, I volunteer for St. John Ambulance and I like to dabble in a bit of piano practice in order to destress.
I am excited to work with the Lincolnshire Training Hub to help aspiring medical students achieve their career goals while combining my passions of medicine and working with young people.
Rivya Matthews
Medical Student Ambassador
Hello, I’m Rivya! I’m a 3rd year medical student at the University of Lincoln. I did my A-Levels in Biology, Chemistry and Maths and took a gap year before joining Medicine in 2019.
In my spare time, I enjoy dancing, playing the violin and baking new recipes!
I am excited to be given the opportunity to inspire the next generation of doctors and work with Lincolnshire Training Hub to help students with their applications. Please feel free to ask any questions you have as I’m always happy to help!
Alexandra Greenwood
Medical Student Ambassador
My name is Alexandra, my friends usually call me Lexi and I am currently studying medicine with a foundation year at Lincoln Medical School after studying 4 A levels at Franklin Sixth Form College.
I look forward to joining the Lincolnshire Training Hub to help future medics realise their potential and provide some insight and knowledge I wish I knew when applying last year!
Aakash Saha Jansari
Paramedic Science Student Ambassador
Hi! My name is Aakash and I’m a first year student at Keele University studying a 4-year Paramedic Science course with an integrated Masters. I have lived in Lincoln most of my life and studied at Queen Elizabeth’s Grammar School in Horncastle. I took A levels in Biology, Chemistry and Physics. I also did an EPQ which looked at the possible benefits of being musical when either applying to medical school or working as a doctor. The Future Doctor and Future Health Care Professional events at Lincolnshire Training Hub gave me some valuable insight into my options after school.
Alongside my studies I play the cello and volunteer with St John Ambulance. I’ve been lucky to have some amazing opportunities and life experiences with both. Through music I have been able to play is some amazing venues in the UK and Europe, and even got through to the semi-finals of Britain’s Got Talent with the Chineke! Junior Orchestra. With St John Ambulance I have supported patients at a variety of events from local village fetes to the Emirates football stadium and Lords cricket ground. In my spare time I enjoy playing badminton and in musical theatre pit orchestras.
As a student ambassador I hope to use my experience applying to both medical and paramedic science schools to help others be successful in their applications to their chosen courses.
Jaslynn Kaur
PHARMACY STUDENT AMBASSADOR
I am Jaslynn! I am a second-year Pharmacy student. I am 20 years old. The reason I wanted to become a Pharmacy Ambassador is that when I was applying for University, I didn’t know much about the field of Pharmacy, most of my research came from the prospectus and student forums. If you go down the rabbit hole on the internet, you find out more cons than pros.
My purpose is to tell you about my experiences, what things would I have done differently, and tips. I wanted to study pharmacy because I am fascinated by how various diseases affect the body, what management is required for the patient, and how I can be a part of the patient journey from beginning to end. After doing work experience in a pharmacy and seeing how the system works, I was re-energized in my desire to pursue a career in pharmacy.
I took an unusual path to MPharm, completing my A-levels during Covid 2020. I didn’t get the grades I needed on results day, so I ended up doing a Science Foundation Year at the University of Lincoln. Now that I’ve completed Year 1, I only have three years left!
Judah-El
PHARMACY STUDENT AMBASSADOR
Hello! I am Judah-El and I am a 2nd year Pharmacy student at the University of Lincoln. This is my second attempt to study Pharmacy, I started off with a Foundation year but did not progress unto the Mpharm degree and so I had no other choice but to take a gap year and wait for the following academic year. During this time, I worked in a pharmacy and gained so many valuable skills including becoming a Pharmacy assistant, I then reapplied to study Pharmacy and thankfully I was accepted by UOL. Aside from being an MPharm student, I have hobbies such as Photography which allows me to be creative and helps me maintain a balance between academia and creativity.
Sarah Hubbard
Primary Care People Plan Project Officer
Hello, I am Sarah. I joined Lincolnshire Training Hub in September 2023 as Primary Care People Plan Project Officer, specifically assisting with the development of the Workforce Programme.
Ignited from an early age, I have had a longstanding interest in Health and Social Care and have been fortunate to experience a range of roles within the sector over the years. My background is predominantly within Further Education, attaining a wealth of experience in a mentoring capacity, before progressing onto regional Quality Assurance.
Equipped with a keen desire to enhance my own subject knowledge further and a genuine interest in literature and medical research, I returned to Higher Education and graduated with a First Class BSc (Hons) Health and Social Care degree with The University of Lincoln in September 2022. This provided a contemporary insight into Primary Care and governance underpinning Workforce Transformation, subsequently leading to my own commitment within LTH to work collaboratively on initiatives that will shape the future Primary Care workforce in Lincolnshire.
Outside of work, I enjoy socialising, spending time with husband and two children, travelling and running, recently completing the 2023 Great North Run.
Carissa Smith
Project Officer
Hi, I’m Carissa and I have joined the LTH as Project Officer for the Primary Care People Plan. I have worked in Primary Care for two years and was previously the administrator for Boston Primary Care Network. This was my first role in the NHS and working across six different practices gave me a unique perspective into day-to-day GP life and the challenges and success stories of Primary Care. Prior to this I worked in the wedding industry for seven years. I have a BA Hons degree in English.
Outside of work I enjoy reading, exercising, spending time with my family and taking my very spoilt dog on long walks.
