Meet Samantha Hewitt-Williams, Specialist Pharmacy Technician – Clinical Trials
What inspired you to follow your current career path?
I didn’t set out to pursue a career in pharmacy; it happened by chance. An internal opportunity opened up for a pharmacy assistant role at the Royal Liverpool University Hospital and once I started, I quickly realised how much I enjoyed the work. That experience motivated me to progress further, so I applied for a student pharmacy technician position at the Countess of Chester and was successful.
After qualifying, I secured a permanent pharmacy technician role with Mersey Care, where I took part in a range of training programmes that supported my development into more advanced positions. Over the years, I’ve gained experience across a variety of areas, including working as an accredited checking technician in the dispensary, a ward technician, dispensary manager, and in both medicines information and clinical trials.
Having the opportunity to work across so many areas allowed me to discover what I was most passionate about, ultimately leading me to my current role as a Specialist Pharmacy Technician for Clinical Trials.
What gives you job satisfaction?
As the only Specialist Pharmacy Technician for clinical trials within the Trust, I hold a unique role that is not widely recognised outside of the Medicines Management department. Though my work takes place largely behind the scenes, I know that each protocol I adhere to and every investigational medicine I dispense or check plays a crucial part in ensuring the safety, accuracy, and integrity of research. Although I may not engage directly with participants, I know my work directly supports the development of new treatment options for those living with mental health conditions. Contributing to the advancement of mental health treatments, that have the potential to transform the lives of some of the most stigmatised individuals, makes my role deeply rewarding.
What is the best thing about being part of the Mersey Care family?
There are so many opportunities available to either grow and develop in your own role, or even undertake further training to progress into an entirely different role.
What do you like to do when you're not working?
I’m at my best when I have a creative project on the go. Whether it’s making seasonal crafts with my children, crocheting, baking, painting, decorating, gardening, or even tackling bigger home renovations, I love being hands on and bringing ideas to life. I also have a passion for the outdoors and especially enjoy adventuring with my husband and children.
How do you look after your mental health?
I find cooking and baking to be very therapeutic, especially after a busy day at work. My time in the kitchen allows me to decompress and clear my head so that by the time I sit down to eat with my family, I’m calm, grounded, fully present and ready to give them my undivided attention.
