Introducing Nicola Hare, our latest MS Champion

We are delighted that our fifth Advanced MS Champion Nicola Hare, has taken up her position in Poole, Dorset. Nicola, who was previously a physiotherapist specialising in neurological conditions, started her post at the end of last year and is excited to get stuck into the role. We caught up with her to talk about the position and how it will make a difference to people living with advanced MS in Dorset. 

What made you want to become a health professional?

I have always been interested in healthcare and after spending time with physiotherapists following an injury, my interest was sparked. The more I researched into what a physiotherapist does, the more I wanted to do this amazing job.  I love that every day is different and I get to meet all different people and help them to achieve their goals. 

What was it about the Advanced MS Champion role that made you want to apply?

As a physiotherapist specialising in neurology I have worked in many different settings, including critical care, inpatients, rehabilitation and community.  The skills that I’ve learnt in all those areas will greatly benefit those with advanced MS.  My last job was working in a specialist neurological hospital in London and so I have been able to see many different people with MS in all stages of their journey.  With my knowledge base and experience, and working as part of the highly specialist Dorset MS Team, this role will give me an excellent opportunity to continue to develop my skills and expertise within MS.

Having this role, which is dedicated to those with advanced MS, means that we can be more proactive and help to meet the needs of these people, making sure they have the care they require

How will this role make a difference for people with advanced MS in Dorset?

The Dorset MS service is a multi-disciplinary service who have a large cohort of patients (over 1,400) but due to the clinically changing landscapes there are big demands on the service which are not always met.  Having this role, which is dedicated to those with advanced MS, means that we can be more proactive and help to meet the needs of these people, making sure they have the care they require.  I will be able to get to know the patients and their families and form links with all the community services. The people with MS will then have a more joined up service, and hopefully have less need to be admitted into hospital as we can see them in a more timely way in their own home.  By seeing people at home, I will be able to advise and support as required to help them to have a good quality of life and remain as independent as possible. 

What are you looking forward to most about becoming an Advanced MS Champion?

I am really excited to develop this role working closely with the Dorset MS Team to help those who need the most support.  I am looking forward to working with people with MS and their families and helping them to receive the most appropriate care.  I am also looking forward to the challenge of this new and exciting role which will help me to continue to develop and progress in my career but more importantly help those patients who are most vulnerable in Dorset.