Why become a nurse? For Stephen Ferguson and Paul Strachan, it began with a shared passion for helping others. Today, they lead Leadcare Recruitment – the fastest-growing nursing agency in Northern Ireland.
In this blog post, Stephen and Paul share their story of how they got into nursing, the challenges they faced, and what motivates them every day. They also offer advice for those thinking about nursing as a career or just starting out. Read on to learn what made them become nurses, what advice they’d give to future nurses, and what they love most about their roles.
1. Where did you study for your degree in Nursing?
Paul: I studied at the University of the West of Scotland, Paisley, and graduated in 2011 as a Qualified Adult Nurse.
Stephen: I studied at the University of Ulster, Magee campus from 2013-2016.
2. What made you want to become a Nurse?
Paul: My auntie was a Mental Health Nurse and had a really positive influence on me at the time. I got a job as a Healthcare Assistant in Mental Health back in 2007, and that’s when everything began. It never felt like work; helping people came naturally to me. That led me to complete an HNC in Healthcare, and from there, I decided to pursue Adult Nursing as a career.
Stephen: Initially, I didn’t set out to become a nurse. My first career interest was in property development, but the market crash in 2007/08 shifted my career path. I found myself working as a hospital porter, which exposed me to healthcare for the first time.
As a porter, I was often involved in the patient journey and witnessed nurses in action. I was deeply impressed by their care, dedication, compassion, and responsibility. This experience gave me a profound respect for the profession, highlighting not just the clinical aspects but also the essential human connection, empathy, and resilience required in nursing. A turning point for me was my personal desire to make my family proud through my career. After experiencing the tragic loss of my sister Raychel due to inadequate nursing care, I became determined to ensure that no other family under my care would face the same fate. This motivation has fuelled my commitment to providing the highest standard of care, supporting patients and their families through their most challenging times, and ensuring that every patient receives the compassionate, competent care they deserve.
3. What advice would you give to someone considering a career in Nursing?
Paul: Nursing isn’t just a job, it’s a career, and for many, a lifestyle. There are so many opportunities in nursing. It can take you around the hospital, into the community, and even around the world. No two nursing jobs are the same, and no two shifts are ever alike. It keeps you learning and growing as a person every single day.
Stephen: I would say you would need to gain experience working in a healthcare setting. This will give you a realistic understanding of what nursing involves. Even talk to nurses and ask them about the challenges they face.
4. What advice would you give to someone starting out as a Student Nurse or newly qualified Nurse?
Paul: You’re not alone! Don’t be afraid, get stuck in, and ask loads of questions. Be that person who keeps raising their hand. If you’re ever unsure, always double-check. You can’t go wrong by checking things more than once – but do have confidence in your ability too.
You and your fellow students will learn different things depending on your placements. Don’t worry if someone seems to know more about a condition than you; chances are, you’ll know something they don’t. Once you leave university, you’ll have the foundation to care for someone, but remember, the learning never stops!
Stephen: Don’t hesitate to ask questions about procedures, patient care, or any uncertainties you may have. Asking questions is a crucial part of learning and ensuring you provide the best care.
5. What’s your favourite thing about being a Nurse?
Paul: Definitely the people. I’ve learned so much from patients and heard so many amazing life stories. It’s a privilege to help people at all stages of life, which is something unique to this profession.Working as an agency nurse has allowed me to travel and experience how different places operate, but ultimately, we all work toward the same goal: making a difference.
I’ve also had the pleasure of working with brilliant multidisciplinary teams, not just nurses but doctors, AHPs, and support staff too.
Stephen: I love being involved in the entire patient journey, from admission to discharge, and navigating the challenges in between. Whether overcoming obstacles or ensuring continuity of care, it’s rewarding to see patients progress through treatment and recovery. My favourite aspect of being a nurse is the flexibility and variety that comes with working as an agency nurse. I truly appreciate the ability to manage a balanced work-life schedule while also having the opportunity to work in different departments and healthcare settings.
6. What made you decide to set up your own nursing agency?
Stephen: After years of working in the nursing agency sector, both Paul and I saw a clear gap in the market. Most agencies were corporate-run, focused on filling shifts quickly rather than building genuine relationships with nurses or clients. Nurses often felt undervalued, and clients were left with inconsistent service and poor communication. What was missing was a people-first agency, one that prioritised both nurses and clients equally.
Nurses needed more than just a rota; they needed support, flexibility, and respect. Clients needed dependable staffing solutions, clear communication, and high standards of care. That’s what we set out to build with Leadcare Recruitment.
We founded Leadcare to do things differently to create an agency that puts nurses at the heart of what we do, while also delivering exceptional, reliable service to our clients. Our goal is always to go above and beyond, fostering trust, consistency, and care on both sides. At Leadcare, we believe that when nurses are truly supported, clients receive better care, and that’s how we raise the standard across the board.
7. Anything else you’d like to add?
Paul: When I was in training, people used to tell me that time would fly, that before I knew it, I’d be qualified for years. I didn’t believe them at the time… but it’s true! Your training goes fast, and the years after qualification go even faster.I’ve learned to reflect on my journey and really appreciate both the opportunities I’ve created and the ones that have come my way. It’s been a brilliant career so far, and there’s still so much more to come.
Key Takeaways for Student Nurses
- Ask questions – lots of them. Whether you’re unsure about a procedure or a diagnosis, asking is how you learn and grow.
- Don’t compare your journey. Every placement is different. You’ll gain strengths in areas others may not, and that’s okay.
- Double-check, always. There’s no harm in confirming something more than once. It’s a mark of a careful and competent nurse.
- Learn from those around you. Watch experienced nurses, observe their communication styles, and don’t be afraid to ask for feedback.
- Be patient with yourself. Nursing is a demanding profession; confidence and competence come with time.
- Use your instincts. Beyond clinical guidelines, your gut feeling is often one of your best tools in patient care.
Stephen and Paul’s journeys into nursing and ultimately founding Leadcare Nursing are a reminder of how your commitment to healthcare can shape not just your career, but also the organisations around you. Whether you’re a student nurse just starting out or a qualified nurse looking for new opportunities, we hope their insights offer encouragement and clarity. At Leadcare, we’re proud to support nurses every step of the way, because when nurses thrive, so do the patients and communities they serve.
If you’re considering taking the next step in your nursing journey, whether it’s exploring new settings, gaining flexibility, or growing your career, find out more about working as an agency nurse with Leadcare. We’re always looking for passionate, skilled professionals to join our team.
Related blogs:
