As we celebrate European Safety Week 2025, I’m taking a moment to reflect on a personal milestone—my journey from Health & Safety Apprentice to Health & Safety Officer in just four years. It’s been a path filled with learning, growth, and a deepening passion for keeping our colleagues and customers safe.

Planning the activities for European Safety Week is something I genuinely look forward to. It’s a chance to share new ideas, promote best practices, and spark conversations that help us all return home in the same physical and mental state we left in the morning. That message is at the heart of everything I do—and it’s what drives me to challenge, improve, and advocate for safety every single day.

Back in June 2021, I left my first job—the one that helped me pay for driving lessons, buy my first car, and enjoy a few holidays. I was excited but nervous. At 20, becoming an apprentice felt like I was behind my peers who were graduating university and starting their careers. I’d tried A-levels, but without a clear direction, I felt disengaged.

Then I joined Halton Housing. On my first day, my manager Sue outlined a three-year development plan, and I instantly knew I was in safe hands. I left that day with my car boot full of safety boots and a hi-vis jacket, unsure of what I’d signed up for—but I quickly realised I was surrounded by a brilliant team.

I shadowed team leaders, visited sites like the top floor of Churchill Mansions and the development works at Cottage Hospital with James Clark, and discovered that no two days were ever the same. I progressed from Apprentice to Trainee Officer, completed my Level 3 safety studies, and eventually moved on to the NEBOSH Level 6 National Diploma. In September 2025, I proudly graduated as a Health & Safety Officer.

Now, with four years of experience in the housing sector, I’m more committed than ever to reducing workplace injuries and occupational ill health. Whether I’m working with the Organisational Development team on training plans or visiting sites with our Repairs and Maintenance team, I’m always asking myself: How can we do this better?

For me, safety isn’t just about ticking boxes—it’s about building a culture. One small action today could leave a lasting positive impact on a colleague or customer. That’s why I never settle for minimum standards and always strive to raise the bar.

This year marks our third bi-annual celebration of European Safety Week, and we’ve got an exciting programme lined up. We’ve partnered with local businesses like The Foundry, Aftathought, and Big Kahuna to bring real-life safety experiences into our workplace.