Meet our intern Andrew!

How did you find out about the internship at Healthwatch Tower Hamlets?

I found Healthwatch Tower Hamlets through an international internship placement program called The Intern Group.

What kind of things did you learn during your internship?

During my 6-weeks with the HWTH team, I learned a lot about the structure of independent organisations. Collecting feedback from residents and attending community events improved my networking and public speaking skills. Finally, I gained a lot of knowledge about social wellbeing while creating a primer for a research project on the effects of Youth Clubs. 

Did the internship improve your learning/confidence or knowledge in a specific area?

My confidence in myself has increased significantly. I started during the heatwave during Healthwatch Tower Hamlet’s transition between office spaces. I have developed a greater sense of responsibility in myself. Additionally, Healthwatch has left me with much more knowledge about the UK healthcare system, as well as the greater community of Tower Hamlets. 

What did you enjoy the most about the internship?

Working on the primer was the most fulfilling work I contributed to at Healthwatch. Additionally, getting the chance to get involved in the Tower Hamlets community was rewarding after having spent 6 months studying at Queen Mary. 

Has working with Healthwatch changed how you view health and social care services?

Prior to working at Healthwatch, my understanding of health and social care services was limited. Furthermore, I was unaware of the work necessary to support healthcare infrastructure as extensive as the NHS. I have a much clearer grasp of the challenges facing the health and social care sector in the 21st century, in turn clarifying my respect for health and social care service providers. I am left with a feeling of gratitude for this corner of the world I have observed and compiled into research and reporting.