We have just appointed two associate audiologists – Jennie Pike and Leanne Preston
Jennie (pictured above) spent the early part of her career working in marketing and sales support, but really wanted something with more of a human touch so later in life she had a change of direction and worked for Kent Community Health NHS Foundation Trust.
She worked alongside nurses delivering immunisations to children, and recently supported the Covid vaccination roll-out in schools and clinics.
She decided that working in healthcare was where she belonged!
New challenge
Jennie said: “After a busy six years with the NHS I felt I needed a new challenge and became an associate audiologist with Hearbase. This has meant a complete retrain, which has been a pleasure alongside the fantastic team of staff at Hearbase. I really enjoy meeting our patients and learning how I can help them.
“I have a friend who is partially deaf, and some years ago I learned Makaton sign language, which I also put to use teaching baby and toddler signing classes.
“Communication is such a necessity, no matter your age, and to help someone manage their hearing loss and improve their communication with family, friends or colleagues is important to me. There is always more to learn and I look forward to putting it all in to practice to help our patients.”
Jennie and her family live just outside Canterbury and enjoy being able to reach the countryside and seaside easily.
“I enjoy a walk with a nice view and tea and cake at a pretty spot always goes down well too,” said Jennie.
Passionate
Leanne has worked in healthcare for 11 years, starting as a part-time bathing assistant, working her way up to housing advisor at Age UK Hythe and Lyminge,
She completed her level 3 NVQ in health and social care before changing positions and working in mental health for four years as a healthcare assistant at St Martin’s hospital, Canterbury.
Leanne said: “I wanted to be a little nearer to home, so I applied to work in a local GP surgery as a phlebotomist/healthcare assistant which I did for the last three years.
“It was here that I took an interest in ear care after completing my ear irrigation course and when the role at Hearbase came up I jumped at the chance to really get involved in something I feel passionate about.
“Spending time with the patient, fitting hearing aids, you get to see how something so little can have such a big impact on their life – it’s complete job satisfaction for me to see how happy and amazed they are when they leave.
Improving lives
“I’m so looking forward to progressing further and learning more skills as an associate audiologist, being part of a team and to continue helping people to improve their lives through better hearing.”
Leanne has a daughter of 20, two cats and a Jack Russell who she says is nuts.
“I enjoy reading when I get the time to relax, seeing friends and family and going for walks,” said Leanne.
