As part of our ongoing 'Beyond The Badge' series to shine a light on the incredible individuals behind the scenes at Black Country Healthcare, we’re sitting down with staff members across the Trust to learn more about their roles, passions, and what makes them tick. This week, we caught up with Andy Sloane, our dedicated Policy Manager, to hear about his journey, what drives him, and the surprising hobbies that keep him inspired outside of work.
What does today mean for you?
Today marks the start of a new week, and I am catching up on Friday's Trust Policy Group meeting. I am also looking forward to my second meeting as a "People Champion" tomorrow.
What do you do?
I am the Trust's Policy Manager, which means I work with colleagues across the organisation to ensure their procedural documents are up to date and reflect best practices and legislation.
What is the best aspect of your job?
I work with a wide variety of wonderful colleagues across the Trust, all of whom have different skills and knowledge. I particularly enjoy helping people solve problems and learn new skills to help them with their day jobs.
What do you find challenging, and how do you manage it?
My role is unique within the Trust, and I do not have support from a wider "Policies Team," which can sometimes feel overwhelming. The key to success in the role is prioritisation, clear communication, and accepting that there are only so many hours in the day to get things done.
What are you proud of, or what do you think has been your biggest achievement?
When I began my role, I had no real knowledge of policies, and the Trust had only harmonised around 18% of its portfolio. We stand at around 90% ratified, with all our "big ticket" policies in place.
How do you relax?
I play the guitar and video games (mostly PS5 and Switch) and undertake historical/genealogical research. Whilst others have subscriptions to streaming services, mine are to exciting things like the British Newspaper Archive!
What has been the highlight of your life to date?
I founded and run my charity, The Museum of Wolverhampton and South Staffordshire. Our ultimate goal is to establish a museum for the area – a challenging but rewarding task nonetheless.
Tell us something about yourself that people may not know.
I regularly present historical talks to audiences of up to 100 people. Topics have varied from the history of Wolverhampton's hospitals to a forgotten South Staffordshire workhouse and a look at murder and mental health in Victorian times.
Do you have a wellbeing tip that you would like to share?
Make time in your week to check in with others to see how they are doing. By talking with others about their wellbeing, you will aid your own.
Is there anything else you’d like to share?
I just want to reiterate that while the NHS may be going through a difficult period, things will pass with time. Remember that "Tough times don't last, but tough people do."