23 March 2020
Helen Finlay, National Manager Infection Control
How did you start your career?
I started my career as a midwife in South Africa. After moving to the United Kingdom, I managed a service caring for younger adults with neurological disabilities before moving to a position overseeing Infection Control for 140 providers in my local area. My family and I then relocated to Australia with Regis to work as a Facility Manager at Alawarra Lodge.
Helen was the 2018 Regis National Staff Awards winner for Personal Leadership.
Describe your role in one sentence?
My role is to ensure that all staff at Regis follow the best infection control practice to keep themselves and the residents they look after safe.
What attracted you to work in aged care?
I love the complexity of the clinical care we provide to older Australians who deserve the very highest standards from the younger generations.
What motivates you to wake up and go to work?
Knowing that every decision I make will help to improve the practice of our staff so that they continue to provide the safest care that they can.
What do you like about working at Regis?
I love the opportunities for learning and development that I have had at Regis. I have used the study assistance program to make me a better nurse by undertaking additional study.
What are the top 3 benefits you see our residents benefiting from your role (especially in today’s climate)?
I see the benefits for our residents in that Infection Control is at the forefront of everyone’s mind during challenging times, and that staff will care for residents in a way that is based on best practice and what is supported by the very best evidence that we can find. I hope to help our residents feel secure in knowing that our staff are skilled in their work and understand the importance of safe clinical care.
