Major incident inquiries and research highlight persistent problems in interoperability. Evidence points to failures in the ability of responders from different organisations to work effectively toge...

ALT: a man in a black tank top is standing in an elevator with his arms outstretched

ALT: a man in a suit is playing a violin while another man plays a double bass

ALT: a man in a black tank top is standing in an elevator with his arms outstretched

ALT: homer simpson screaming with his mouth wide open

Exploring the gaps, gaffes, and grim realities of emergency planning. Click to read We Have a Plan (Probably), by George Barber, a Substack publication. Launched a month ago.

The head of NHS England has announced she is standing down.

None of us gets to skip the check-out line. It’s a truth that’s as humbling as it is universal. Yet, in our reluctance to face it, we often miss the opportunity to embrace the very thing mortality is here to teach us: how to truly live.

ALT: a small boat is floating on a body of water with a person sitting in it

2024 has been a year of transformation - stepping into new roles, embracing change, and reflecting on the balance between structure and adaptability in emergency planning. As I near the completion of my Master's and contemplate the leap into a PhD, I’m reminded of the dualities that define my journey: strategic leadership alongside ambulance shifts, the rigor of academic exploration balanced by the creativity of spoken word. As 2025 approaches, I look forward to continuing this journey - fostering resilience in systems, communities, and the next generation. Here’s to growth, connection, and the uncharted roads ahead.

This weekend, as I walked the dog and reflected on my journey into emergency planning, I was struck by the incredible tapestry of people and experiences that have shaped both my career and who I am today. From the early encouragement of youth officers, who taught me to challenge the status quo and embrace my individuality, to the career-focused guidance of mentors like Kate, Gareth, and Steve, every influence has been pivotal. These connections—professional and personal—have not only shaped my resilience but also fueled my passion for supporting the next generation of practitioners. Emergency planning, much like life, is about weaving together the threads of experience, community, and collaboration to ensure we recover and thrive in the face of adversity.