Luke Oldham - BSc (Hons) Public Health Practitioner
Mental Health and Suicide Prevention, Derbyshire County Council
Public Health Practitioner apprentice, Luke Oldham works in the Mental Health and Suicide Prevention team at Derbyshire County Council. Before entering a career in public health three years ago, Luke worked in the Police and had never considered going to university. After being diagnosed with ADHD and struggling with his own mental health, Luke changed course and found his passion for improving the lives and wellbeing of those in his local community. Hear from Luke about his role, experience as an apprentice and the rewards of working in public health.
What led you to your current role?
After I left the Police, I took some time for myself. I run a Scout group with my Director of Public Health and she recommended that I go for this role. At first, I didn’t think it was for me at all – I hate writing and reading and that’s a large part of this job. But I applied and it was the best decision ever, really. When you find something that you're interested in, especially since public health is so varied, the reading and writing is easier. Now I get to use my lived experience with mental health struggles and ADHD to try and shape things that I think would have helped me when I needed it.
Now, each day is different. One day I can be organising an event around mental health, then the next I’ll be writing a policy or visiting the community. My aim is to get people to the right services and equip them with the skills to be able to support others. It’s a great role and I get to see the direct impact we’re having on the people we work with. One aspect that I love about public health is that you get to take a more holistic view. If you work in other care settings, you’re looking at one person and one approach, whereas I get to look at communities and how to reduce health inequalities in broader populations.
What led you to choose an apprenticeship?
I’ve never really been academic. I left school at sixteen and didn't consider going to university, but I need a degree to do my current role. I was worried about the fees involved in going to uni, so an apprenticeship where I could carry on earning was ideal. Now, my apprenticeship is supporting me in my job and giving me the opportunity to improve my knowledge without the student debt – it’s a win-win. I’m learning where to get a good evidence base from, how to write reports, how to engage with partners, and that’s what’s given me the confidence to be able to lead on projects.
At first it was hard to find a work-life balance. It’s not easy, but it’s worth it. I’ve learned a lot. The lectures and assignments are great, and you get to meet people who are in similar roles so we can share things that we’ve found useful. For me, the flexibility of being a student while actually doing the job is the greatest benefit, while having the support of the University and my employer at the same time. The Lecturers really go out of their way to help you and answer your questions. And because we’re all putting what we’re learning straight into practice, if we share that something isn’t working or make a recommendation, they're open to learning as well.
Has your apprenticeship set you up for the future?
Yes, I really think it has. I don't know what my future plans are, but I’ll stay in Public Health and see what opportunities open up for me. My apprenticeship has definitely given me the confidence to be able to take that next step and take on more responsibility, leading on the things I’m passionate about like neurodiversity and mental health.