The Right Chamber – E21 Support Workers: The Unsung Heroes of Patient Care

In this episode, we hear from Lorraine Allchurch, Lead AHP Support Worker at The Dudley Group. Lorraine shines a light on the often-overlooked but essential contribution of support staff within the NHS. Support workers cover a wide range of roles, including radiography assistants, dietetic assistants, therapy practitioners, and more. Lorraine explains that while some use these positions as stepping-stones to become registered clinicians, many choose to remain in their support roles. Her mission is to ensure that every support worker—regardless of career aspirations—has the opportunity to thrive, develop, and feel valued. No two days are the same for Lorraine. One day she may be speaking at a school to inspire young people about NHS careers, the next she might be running focus groups or lecturing at universities. What ties her work together is a passion for education, development, and advocacy. She stresses the importance of continuous professional development (CPD) not just for registered clinicians, but equally for the support workforce who provide direct, patient-focused care. Lorraine highlights the challenges these staff face, including limited access to training, workplace pressures that make time for learning difficult, and a lingering sense of invisibility within the healthcare system. Her role is about breaking down those barriers—creating spaces where support workers can connect, celebrate their contributions, and access growth opportunities. From regional conferences to quality improvement projects, Lorraine works to amplify the voices of support staff and embed them into the future of healthcare delivery. As she explains, support workers are often closest to patients and problems, meaning they frequently hold the key to innovative solutions. This episode is a reminder that valuing and empowering every layer of the workforce is vital to building a stronger, more inclusive NHS.