Our Engagement Support workers are such a vital part of our ward teams, and they really come into their own making special days extra special so all our patients can enjoy them.

Valentine's Day was typical, and our engagement support worker Cristina Mihu was busy fundraising so she can offer her patients little extras. 19's Valentine's Day bake raised £70. Read more from Cristina in the latest of our Hello my name is...

Hello my name is... Cristina Mihu and I work as an Engagement Support Worker in Ward 19.

Tell us about your career background. 
Originally from Romania came in UK in 2007 and started working in a beautiful hotel in Strontian ,Scotland. After worked in KFC in Huddersfield till 2010 when I decided it’s time to make a change of career and started working in a care home as a support worker a job that I loved and inspired me to do more.

In 2015 I decided to apply for the Engagement Support Worker job in the hospital. I never knew what to expect, but it turned out to be the best job.

What is the highlight of your career so far?
The highlight of my career will be winning in 2015 at the category We Put The Patients First with my friend and colleague Debbie Brewins. But not to forget the happiness that brings me when relatives,patients and staff are grateful, happy and thankful of the support that we give to the patients.

What are the best bits about your job?
I would say interacting with patients on the ward,activities ,give them the support and the confidence they need to complete activities, but sometimes you just have to be there to listen and hold their hand .

What did you want to be when you were growing up?
I wanted to be an artist doing paintings and knowing a little bit helps me when I do arts and crafts activities with the patients.

When you are not at work, how do you relax? 
Being in a full time job and mum I wouldn't say there much free time but when I do have it I spend it with my family,going out places or watching a good movie.