As digital engagement manager at the Department of Health and Social Care, Amy J France says she feels extremely lucky to hear first hand the experiences of those who work in social care. This makes her the ideal person to put out a call for more stories, anecdotes and testimonials from you, the many health and care professionals dedicated to enhancing the health and wellbeing of others...
As we gather more and more responses to consultations, emails and social media, we need to share the reality of working within the health and care sector with those who may not have realised just how much hard work and dedication goes into keeping our country well.
I am asking for people to get involved in sharing what it’s like to work in any of the many varied roles within the social care sector. We have been lucky to hear from a variety of guest bloggers on this blog site but it would be good to hear from more of you working on the care and support frontline.
If you have never written a blog before it isn’t anywhere nearly as scary as it sounds. There are a few basics you need to keep in mind:
Write in your voice
Blog readers will be well aware when someone is writing in a style that doesn’t come naturally to them. If you have never used the word "hypothesis" before or if you are writing about being “down with the kids” readers will switch off. Write in such a way that you are talking to a friend of colleague about your experiences.
There is no such thing as a perfect blog
Your first blog will be the hardest. Many people worry about making their first post the best thing they have ever written. Part of the charm of a blog is that your readers will read your updates and see you grow as a writer. You will also find it easier to write about your experiences the more you practice.
300-500 words is more than enough
Most blogs are between 300-500 words in length, which is around one side of A4 paper typed. If you write your blogs in draft by hand first it may be more. If you find yourself trying to add words to bump up your word count you may lose your core message. Share your blog with a friend or colleague and ask them to read it. If they finish it without any questions or asking you for more detail then you will have written up your experience perfectly.
Steer clear of acronyms
Those reading your blog may not understand the acronyms you use in your role. For the first time of mentioning them please write in full or if you use a shorthand term explain what it means. You want to bring the reader into your world without them feeling like an outsider.
Finally, make sure you write your blog with a smile, a frown or any other emotions you may be feeling. You are a human being and blogs are a place to share your authentic experience of working in social care.
If you would like to write a blog for Department of Health and Social Care drop me an email: amy.france@dh.gsi.gov.uk or reply to this post using the comment box below.
You can also follow me on twitter @MrsAJFrance
Looking forward to hearing from you soon!