Hayley Butler (she/her)

Health Care Assistant in the Burwood Hospital Spinal Unit

"Being part of the team I feel accepted and valued"

A brief mihi about yourself

I am 24 years old in my spare time I enjoy swimming and competing with special Olympics. I spend time with my family and friends and we like to watch the rugby and social outings.  My disability is down syndrome. 

Growing up what did you want to do for a job and did you ever see yourself working at Te Whatu Ora?

I wasn't sure what I was going to do for a job but I knew I liked being around people and helping people.  While doing my internship with 'Project SEARCH' and getting to work in different areas of the hospital I started to dream of getting a job here.

What was your journey of getting to work at Te Whatu Ora?

I completed a year course with Project SEARCH who are in partnership with Te Whatu Ora. When I graduated from Project SEARCH I was offered a 5 month contract in the spinal ward then 2 more short term contracts after that. Once I had completed about 12 months work I was offered a permanent role in the spinal unit where I work 5 days a week,  

What attracted you to work at Te Whatu Ora?

It was during the time I spent doing my internship that I knew I wanted to work here.

What’s something you love about being part of Te Whatu Ora?

Being part of the team I feel accepted and valued. I enjoy working with my colleagues and helping the patients.  

What do you love about living and working in Ōtautahi?

I have never lived anywhere else although I live a long way from work I don't mind catching the bus home. I often see friends on the bus or at the bus exchange as Christchurch is not too big. 

What advice do you have for someone contemplating a career at the Te Whatu Ora?

I would tell them that the people are great, there's lots of variety of work and you get to learn a lot of new skills and we get looked after well as staff members.

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