Nathanial Thomas, Occupational Therapy Assistant was nominated by Becks Blain for a staff shoutout. Becks said:

Nathanial Thomas smiling

“Nathanial is an amazing asset to the team and always has a smile on his face. He helps the patients build their confidence and self-expression through his music sessions and has supported them to be more confidence in themselves. Nathanial is creative and will encourage patients to be the same and get involved. He understands the role of occupational therapy and how he can provide care and compassion towards the patients and his team members. Nathanial has worked so hard and got onto the apprentice course to stay in Secure Care and become an occupational therapist. He is going to be a fantastic occupational therapist and be kind and inclusive to everyone he works with.

“Nathanial goes above and beyond to help his team members and will pitch in where needed and never questions why he needs to help others. He is a strong member of the team and is a sounding board for others. Nathanial is funny and brings his social side when working with the patients to put them at ease and increase their participation in the interventions he provides. Although we are losing him as an occupational therapy assistant, we will be gaining an amazing occupational therapist into the profession.”

We touched base with Nathanial to ask him more about his heritage, he said:

“Caribbean heritage holds a special place in my heart. It embodies a vibrant tapestry of cultures, histories, and traditions. To me, it’s a source of immense pride, linking me to the beautiful islands of Jamaica and Saint Kitts. Celebrating this heritage with my family means reliving the rich stories of our ancestors, who navigated the complexities of the Caribbean’s diverse cultures.

“From the pulsating rhythms of reggae in Jamaica to the captivating melodies of calypso in Saint Kitts, the music is a soulful reminder of our roots. But it’s the cuisine that truly stirs my senses! From the spicy jerk chicken of Jamaica to the delectable seafood dishes of Saint Kitts, which ignite a sensory journey that connects me to generations past. Caribbean heritage is a treasure trove of memories, flavours, and experiences that continuously shape who I am today.”