“My journey has been enriched by the wonderful people I’ve met along the way” – Dylan’s story

Hello

My name is Dylan Degman, and I am the project manager for lived experience and volunteering. I’m thrilled to share a bit about myself and what I’m currently working on as part of the Trust’s volunteer services team. Your interest and support mean a lot to me.

A little about me

I have been involved with South West Yorkshire Partnership Teaching NHS Foundation Trust for over 10 years now. My journey began as a service user, dealing with mental health challenges such as psychosis and PTSD. I spent one year in active recovery, followed by seven years of ongoing support and therapies. These experiences have given me a deep understanding of mental health from various perspectives.

My professional journey

During my time as a service user, I took steps to better myself with the help of Trust services. I began my journey as a volunteer with the Trust in corporate development. As a light touch volunteer, I performed many roles, mainly working with the volunteer team and patient experience teams.

After seizing development opportunities, I secured a job in the NHS as a clinician in the outpatient service. I then advanced to a managerial role at Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust as part of the nursing team. These roles have provided me with a wealth of knowledge and a wide range of experiences.

I also served a term on the Trust’s members’ council as a public governor for Wakefield, collaborating with the Trust board and non-executive directors to ensure our services remain viable and relevant for our service users.

Who I am

I believe in being open, honest, and transparent in all my interactions. Kindness and empathy are at the core of everything I do. I strive to understand and connect with others, always aiming to make a positive impact. My journey has been enriched by the wonderful people I’ve met along the way, and I cherish the connections I’ve made.

What I’m doing now

Currently, I am a professional manager with a wide range of skills and qualifications that support me in working within teams and services. My aim is to enhance the volunteer service offer and advocate for lived experience throughout the Trust. I am delighted to be rejoining the Trust as a manager and am committed to providing high-quality service to my team and to the Trust.