Interview with the newest member of our team – Lisa Dendy

At the start of April this year, Care Opinion was delighted to welcome a new member to the team, Lisa Dendy. Who has joined our Stirling office as an Engagement and Support Officer. 

Now that Lisa has had a few weeks to get her feet under the virtual desk, we thought we’d ask her some questions about why she wanted to join our team, what she’s learned so far, what she looks forward to in her role and so we could learn a little more about her. Here’s what she had to say….

What most excited/ interested you about joining the Care Opinion team?

Initially, my knowledge about Care Opinion I realised was quite limited. However, the more I looked into the organisation, the more I wanted to get involved. I identify very strongly with the values of transparency, inclusivity and humanity and couldn’t wait to be part of a team who were driven by the same approaches to social change. I have a background in care, support and health, and have seen and experienced the effects of voices being ignored. Care Opinion is unique in its approach, which I love! It allows people to have open, safe conversations with an aim to improving healthcare  services for all. I am also very excited to join a team of like-minded, passionate, and caring people.

You have been with Care Opinion for almost a couple of months, what is the most fascinating thing you have learned?

I have learned that technology can be key to allowing voices to be heard. The use of the platform is not only safe for anonymous feedback; it allows for interaction that may never have happened otherwise. It’s fantastic to see people having issues addressed by staff who clearly care, especially for friends and family who have been worried about a loved one. It’s amazing what a bit of reassurance can do for someone.

Tell us what you do as an Engagement & Support Officer?

As a Engagement & Support Officer at Care Opinion Scotland, I am responsible for working with Health Boards, Health and Social Care Partnerships and subscribers. I am here to support our subscribers in implementing and making the most of Care Opinion in health and care services, via information, training and discussion. I am on hand to help with any issues as well as delivering bespoke and planned sessions, depending on the needs and desired outcomes of services. I work alongside other Engagement and Support Officers, who have been truly wonderful at showing me the ropes!

What are you most looking forward to in your role?

I am already seeing positive changes happen, even after such a short time. It’s a pleasure to see people getting the right responses and help from the right people…with practical changes happening, as well as problem solving and reassurance for patients. I look forward to seeing change on a bigger scale – more people using the platform to share stories, more healthcare staff becoming excited about the benefits of feedback and conversation, amongst many other things. I am keen to help people understand the platform and how to make the most of the features…enabling learning, and hopefully, a ripple effect of positive involvement and change.

Tell us about Lisa outside work.

I live with my partner and two cats in Stirling. I love the outdoors as nature always helps me feel balanced and calm. Walking, gardening and animal therapy are all part of my happy place. I’m very keen on self-care and run a small online group to encourage others to love themselves. I like getting lost in a good book or being creative with arts and crafts. I love exploring and occasionally venture out to the west coast to help on a sheep farm, which belongs to my partner’s family.