Get to know our OH Associate Adviser- Jake Whittaker…

“I studied at Teesside University completing a degree in Sports and Exercise Science and graduated with a 2:1, with some experience working in a sports coaching environment with children.

Upon leaving university, I managed to secure a voluntary position as an Assistant Strength and Conditioning Coach at Carlisle United Football Club and enjoyed it so much, I ended up staying for the season- we ended up getting promoted to League One!

Whilst there I worked closely with the first team footballers in the gym, and out on the pitch, to make sure they were performing at their optimum. I also learned more about nutrition for elite athletes including routine weigh-ins and monitoring GPS data during training and matches.

I then decided that working in a team sports environment wasn’t a career I wished to pursue, as I had more satisfaction and enjoyment working with everyday people. I saw the advert for a development role within Choose Occupational Health and decided this aligned more with what I was looking for career-wise in terms of helping everyday people to improve physical and mental health inside and outside of work.

I have completed some courses within my time at Choose Occupational Health including a Display Screen Equipment (DSE) course, meaning I can complete DSE assessments for my colleagues and I am intending to take a further DSE course to progress my knowledge in this area.

Currently I am completing a Diploma in Occupational Health Practice to consolidate my knowledge and understanding of Occupational Health.

Outside of work I enjoy rugby and play for the first team at Carlisle Rugby Club. I enjoy, when I can, getting out into the Lake District National Park and I have ticked off 17/214 Wainwright’s so far. I can think of nothing better than being out in nature on a walk, up a fell, or near the lakes and finishing off a great day out with a nice pub meal!

My main interests are looking at ways of improving wellbeing whether that be mental or physical. I would say I am goal orientated and driven to get from A to B. I’m good at identifying what needs to be done or put into place to get there.”