Donna takes a closer look at the recurring patterns in the experiences of public service workers in this episode. She explores the motivations that draw individuals to public service roles, such as the desire to make a difference and contribute to society, as well as the job security and development opportunities often associated with these positions. However, Donna also addresses the challenges faced by public servants, including low morale due to stagnant pay, increasing workloads, and negative media portrayals.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• Many individuals are drawn to public service roles due to a desire to make a difference and contribute positively to society, often viewing their work as a vocation rather than just a job.

• Public sector positions typically offer greater job security, stability, and benefits such as pensions and holiday enhancements, which can be appealing compared to private sector roles.

• Public service workers often face issues such as pay freezes, increasing workloads, and a lack of recognition, which can lead to low morale and burnout.

• The COVID-19 pandemic significantly affected public service workers, increasing their workloads and stress levels, while also highlighting weaknesses in support systems and mental health services.

• The pandemic prompted many individuals to reassess their priorities and consider whether their public service roles were fulfilling their needs, leading some to explore opportunities in other sectors or roles.

BEST MOMENTS

"They want to make a difference. They're drawn to public service because they want to contribute to society and improve the lives of others."

"Pay rises that haven't been in line with inflation over many, many years has resulted in a decline in living standards for these individuals."

"We have been so successful over the years at treating individuals, curing individuals and managing symptoms that people are living longer."

"The pandemic will have massive long term effects. I still think there are people that haven't been fully debriefed."

"Life is too short and if their public sector role wasn't fully giving them joy, they might have chosen to do something different."

ABOUT THE HOST

Donna is a Registered Nurse who has worked in the NHS for three decades.

She brings you real-life stories from people in front-line public service roles. Some of the stories discuss war, terrorism, suicide, abuse, COVID, death, and vicarious moral injury, which may be triggering for some listeners. Alongside these are stories of joy, hope, empathy, and humanity, highlighting the positive impact individuals have made. Many of her guests have navigated career changes, found work-life balance, or transitioned into new roles, including charity work or entrepreneurship. If you have a story to share that could inspire others seeking change or additional income, please get in touch. Inviting individuals from fire, police and probation services, healthcare, military, teaching, social services, local government, and civil service.

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https://www.lifeafterpublicservice.co.uk/

Email: Donna@lifeafterpublicservice.co.uk

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/donna-bentley-carr

This podcast features real-life stories from frontline public service workers, covering tough topics such as war, trauma and loss, and may be triggering to some listeners. Guests also share their tales of everyday heroism, inspiring joy, hope, empathy and humanity. If you have a story to share that could encourage others seeking change or additional income, please get in touch.