Work
Craig studied for a medical degree in Leicester, but was keen to return to Cumbria to kick start his career.
“I did my GP training in Wigton,” he said. “I worked in Glenridding before becoming a GP partner in Brampton for 11 years and then taking on a role at CHoC. I’ve also worked as a Medical Director for NHS England for Cumbria and the North East before moving to Cumbria Partnership.
“I trained as a GP but I’ve been able to pursue other interests, including medical management, which has taken me into lots of different roles.
“Cumbria offers the opportunity to structure a career you want. Doctors can develop clinical interests and work with specialists in hospitals, and then use their skills in a GP practice or in the community.
“There are also links outside Cumbria with specialisms in hospitals in Newcastle, Preston and Manchester, so you can develop your skills and be part of a larger multi-disciplinary team.
“In Cumbria, GPs are keen to innovative things in the community and try new models of care.
“You can make opportunities open up for yourself, which is fantastic. There aren’t many places you can do that.”
Live
Craig has always enjoyed living close to family and friends in Cumbria, and he isn’t surprised that the high quality of life on offer is attracting others to the region.
“You can have a great standard of living in a great area,” he said. “House prices are cheaper than in other towns and cities and there are lots of benefits with the quality of life.
“People is Cumbria are resilient, and there’s a good sense of community. It’s rewarding to be part of that community - it’s a nice scenario for GPs to work in.”
Craig and his colleagues are keen to welcome new people into the county and introduce them to Cumbria.
“We’re keen to support people moving to Cumbria,” he said. “There’s a work-related induction and your colleagues will give you local knowledge and lots of informal advice. That’s the nature of people in Cumbria.
“I hope to be able to interest other doctors in coming to Cumbria to have a look and see what the county could offer them.
“Cumbria is a unique place to live. There’s nowhere else quite like it.”
Play
Craig has a good work/ life balance, which allows him to spend plenty of time outdoors in the countryside.
“I love being outside in the fresh air,” he said. “I enjoy walking, jogging, cycling and sailing.
“The fells are open to everyone and they’re free! You can get lots of exercise without a treadmill in sight.
“There’s a life outside the outdoor stuff as well. There’s arts and culture and plenty of great places to eat and drink.
“You can build a great social life with the people you get to know.
“Cumbria has so much going for it.”
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