At Northern Healthcare, we pride ourselves on the passion and dedication of our team, and few embody this more than Gail Churchill, our Regional Operations Manager. Gail’s journey into health and social care wasn’t planned –she “fell into it” but quickly discovered a deep passion for the field. Starting in mental health outreach, she moved into business development, expanding services across the Northwest, before transitioning into operational management 15 years ago. Since then, she has played a vital role in supporting individuals in mental health-supported living services. 

Outside of work, Gail enjoys life with her husband and their dog, making the most of long walks. With her 3 grown-up children only making appearances when they need their washing done or a home-cooked meal, she’s now embracing her new personal goals – including, perhaps, finally making it to a yoga class this year! 

We sit down with Gail to learn more about her role, her insights into mental health support, and what continues to drive her ambitions. 

What attracted you to Northern Healthcare?

I was attracted to the values of the organisation and as soon as I came in and met everyone, I loved the culture.  You can tell a lot about the quality of a service the minute you walk through the door and that has been something I’ve seen reflected in Northern Healthcare from the Head Office through to every service I’ve visited. 

What inspired your journey into operations management?

I initially started in development but with a strong operational focus and found that I really enjoyed the operational side – I love being a part of someone’s journey and making a difference in their lives and that feeling has never left me. 

How do you motivate team members across multiple Northern Healthcare locations?

We all want the same thing, to make people’s lives better and provide high-quality support.  It's important to recognise that everyone is different, and encourage this individuality while making sure everyone works to the same high standards, policies and procedures. 

What is your proudest accomplishment, personally and professionally?

My proudest personal accomplishment, other than my 3 children, was taking part in the 3 Peaks Challenge for charity.   There was a real sense of camaraderie which made the aches and pains worthwhile.  Professionally, my proudest accomplishment was when I first started working for a small company with 6 services and developed it into an organisation with over 50.  Knowing that we were able to provide high-quality support to so many people and seeing them achieve goals has been a real accomplishment. 

Do you have a favourite piece of advice that guides your leadership style?

That there is nothing that you can’t overcome.  There will always be challenges but these are what you learn from so reflect, learn, incorporate into practice and move on. 

Where do you see yourself in 5 years’ time?

I am hoping that we will have grown and in 5 years, we will have well-established, services and teams that provide the best outcomes for the people we support. 

Gail’s passion for health and social care shines in everything she does. Her infectious spirit, sense of humour and commitment to her team make her an invaluable part of Northern Healthcare and whether she makes it to her yoga class or not, her impact on the people she supports is undeniable.