Gayle Finlayson

I started my nursing careeer as a Community Nurse and had a passion for palliative care. I moved to a very progressive palliative care team in Sunderland where I was taught to a very high level and then moved to a pharmaceutical company working in the area of autoimmune conditions but I always knew that I wanted to set up my own business caring for those people who were too complex for the average domiciliary company. I now have another branch in the Midlands and employ over 55 staff that care for adults and children. My nursing degree has enabled me to follow my dream and has been invaluable

What are you doing now?

I am the Owner and Director of G&P Healthcare Ltd.

What was it about Northumbria that made you decide to study here?

It was local but with a fantastic reputation and great placements with brilliant support.

What was it like studying at Northumbria?

There was a lot of self-directed study with a mix of lectures, essays and joint work. The workload is heavy going especially whilst on placement but worth it.

What impressed you most about our academic staff?

I liked the fact that some of the staff had relevant work experience and had spend a vast amount of time working in similar organisations. This brought real opinions, values and challenges which are faced on a daily basis.

How connected was your course with industry?

The theory and placements all featured links with industry.

If you took on a placement during your course how did you feel this helped you in your career/ with your studies?

Each placement helped me to understand that little bit more about a speciality so upon leaving I felt I was a well rounded nurse.

How did studying at Northumbria help you achieve your career goals/ give your career an edge?

Just look at what I do now!

What was the best thing about your course?

When you get that lightbulb moment when everything from.theory and practice makes sense and fits together.

Which skills/ knowledge did you learn on your course that you use most now throughout your career?

All the learnings from nursing and complex care conditions.

What did you enjoy most about your time at Northumbria University?

The ability to just keep learning in a safe place

What advice would you give somebody who is thinking of studying at Northumbria?

Just do it, you won't achieve your goals unless you have the faith to take the leap.

How would you describe your time at Northumbria in three words?

Amazing, informative and challenging.