Junior Information Governance Officer, Rebekah Coldwell, is one half of our Freedom of Information (FOI) Team. Working alongside Alice Whitehead, the pair have transformed the FOI process this year, consistently achieving 98-100% compliance.

But it’s a recent career change for Rebekah, after working in patient advice and complaints during the pandemic. At home, you’ll find her snuggled on the sofa taking a well-deserved rest after winning the National Rock and Roll Championships last month. We asked Rebekah to tell us more.

What is your current role and career background?

I had a mid-forties life crisis and went for a change in career at the start of this year. I chose Information Governance with The Health Informatics Service. You may have come across me chasing you to complete your data protection training, or to record your information assets. My previous working life was mainly spent in complaints, customer service and quality management. I worked at NHS Kirklees CCG, before joining my current team of fabulous colleagues.

What is the highlight of your career so far?

Being able to make a real and personal difference to individual people who were struggling during the pandemic. The world of NHS patient advice and complaints during this time was no party, with so many people calling in a state of desperate crisis. Being able to help make things better (even when I could only be there to listen and advise) was precious. I’ll never forget some of my regular callers and their words of gratitude.

Can you sum up your role in three words?

I should go with the mundane option of Always Learning Stuff, but I prefer Safely Enabling Fabulousness.

Who is your hero/heroine and why? 

My hero is usually the last person to have fed me, especially if they’ve gone to the dirty butty van for a spam special.

My ultimate heroine is my friend, who cancer took from us a few years ago. The strength and compassion she showed was inspirational and I’m forever grateful for her.

What did you want to be growing up?

I used to dream of being one of Madonna’s backing dancers. I sort of made it when performing with my dance team 30 years later to Vogue wearing the suit (and white gloves of course).

When you are not at work, how do you relax? 

My best relaxing pastime is sitting on my sofa (my favourite place in the world) with my dog, Edward, and my daughter watching rubbish on the TV. I also love eating out with my other half, dancing, and laughing with friends.

What would people be surprised to know about you?

Me and my dance partner returned from Blackpool last month as the National Rock and Roll Champions 2023!