In a role that blends expertise, empathy, and a personal journey, Wil Hornett, moving & handling trainer/adviser, has become an integral part of the team at CUH. From the training room to the wards, Wil’s commitment to supporting staff and patients shines through, particularly as he navigates his own challenges with a visual disability.
From Medway to CUH
Wil’s path to his current role began in May 2021, when he moved back to Cambridgeshire from Medway Hospital in Kent. Upon joining CUH, Wil started as a moving & handling practitioner. A year later, his dedication and hard work paid off as he successfully transitioned to the position of trainer/adviser.
“I really enjoy being in the training room, especially when training new staff who have never seen or used moving & handling equipment before,” Wil shared.
I also love going onto the wards, seeing staff in their own environments, and working alongside them.
A day in the life
No two days are the same for Wil. His role requires a balance of hands-on training and support. A typical day starts at 07:00 and can vary greatly. “We might spend the whole day in the training room, teaching new starters or delivering updates,” Wil explained. “Other times, we’re up on the wards, reviewing equipment and assisting staff with complex moving & handling tasks. We also get calls for urgent support on patient-specific needs.”
For Wil, this diverse schedule keeps the job exciting and impactful. “Our team may be small, but we’re busy, and I enjoy the variety that comes with the job,” he added.
Overcoming challenges with support
One of Wil’s standout experiences during his career at CUH has been the overwhelming support he's received, especially concerning his visual disability. Wil has been registered as sight-impaired since joining, and the managers and colleagues in his team have made accommodations to ensure his success.
“They’ve supported me with the big things, like providing specialist equipment, such as large screen monitors and high-contrast keyboards,” Wil explained. “And they’re just as supportive with the small things, like encouraging me to take breaks from the computer screen. It’s made a huge difference.”
Supporting patients and staff alike
Wil believes that his role plays a vital part in patient safety and staff well-being. “By promoting best practices and training staff on how to safely handle patients, we reduce the risk of injury to both patients and staff,” Wil noted.
Training is key to ensuring that every moving & handling task is done safely.
A champion for disability awareness
In addition to his work in training, Wil is an active member of the Trust’s Purple Network, a support network for staff with disabilities and long-term conditions. After a recent deterioration in his vision, which led to Wil being registered as severely sight-impaired (blind), his involvement in the Network has been invaluable.
“I joined the Purple Network when I first started here, and it has been a great support. Having a network where I can talk openly about my disability without judgment has been crucial,” Wil said.
Since my sight has deteriorated, the Network has been a lifeline. I’m now a Purple Network Champion for staff with visual disabilities, and I’m here to help others in similar situations.
Despite the challenges Wil faces due to his visual impairment, including difficulties with bright lights, reading small print, and navigating busy areas, he remains positive. He’s recently started using a long cane to help with navigation and to signal to others that he has a visual impairment.
“It’s tradition for long cane users to name their canes - I’ve named mine Larry, and while most people are supportive, I’ve had a few comments that were less than ideal. It’s important for people to be mindful of their words and think before they speak,” Wil explained.
Life beyond work
Outside of his professional life, Wil has a range of interests and hobbies. I love spending time with my grandchildren. “I used to be an artist blacksmith, creating everything from simple hooks to decorative dragons, but I’ve had to stop due to my sight,” Wil shared. “I also belong to a local indoor archery club. Despite my visual impairment, I use specialist equipment that allows me to shoot alongside non-visually impaired archers.”
A role model for all
Wil’s journey is testament to the power of support, perseverance, and a willingness to embrace change. His story not only highlights the importance of proper training in moving & handling practices, but also the significance of inclusivity and accessibility in the workplace. As a moving & handling trainer/adviser, Wil continues to inspire those around him, proving that with the right support, challenges can be overcome, and goals can be achieved.