Month: May 2019

Get to know: Chris Allan, Senior Occupational Health Adviser

Chris Allan, Senior Occupational Health Adviser

Describe your job in three words:

Help people change.

When did you first realise you wanted to do what you do?

It was about 15 years ago; I knew I wasn’t very happy where I was and what I was doing, so I made a decision to do something about that.

What’s the best thing about your role?

I feel really privileged to meet and help a diverse range of people.

What’s the most challenging thing about your role?

I help people face some of their toughest challenges in life. Lots of people know what they should do, but knowing isn’t enough, because action is often scary.

What’s the proudest moment of your career?

I don’t really feel proud very much, but knowing I can share the tools to help people through difficult times is rewarding – I like finding the way together!

Tell us a little about your work on Mental Health First Aid?

I first trained as a Mental Health First Aid instructor in 2014. Since then MHFA has really taken root at Imperial and become something that enables many of our wonderful volunteers to support those around them. Growing and nurturing that network is where much of my work takes place. (more…)