60 seconds with Paul Noblet, Head of Communications and Engagement
History graduate Paul Noblet spent eight years as a local councillor in south London. Prior to this he had worked for members of parliament and in communications for a political party.
Paul joined the Whipps Cross team from Centrepoint, a youth homeless charity, where he led work to improve housing and Universal Credit for thousands of vulnerable young people. A Leytonstone resident, the former-councillor is Head of Communications and Engagement for the Whipps Cross Redevelopment, a job that means as much to him personally as it does professionally.
What role does the Communications team play in the overall Redevelopment team?
The team’s role has changed as the redevelopment has progressed but essentially we try to act as the bridge between local people and staff and the NHS teams and architects who are working to plan the layout of the new hospital and how services will be provided.
And what are the greatest challenges in good communication?
Remembering people are not the same – not everyone gets their news from social media or has a PhD. 2. Recognising that communication is a two-way thing – creating a dialogue is always more engaging and creates better results. 3. Keeping things human – avoid technical words, let people know what something means for them and their family and friends.
What exciting projects are your team working on in the next six months?
We’re close to phase one of construction starting, the building of the new multi-storey car park. That means being able to show and talk about things happening on-site which will be a fantastic boost for staff and people across the local area. Looking further ahead, the team are working with the new Academic Centre for Healthy Ageing to communicate the work it will be doing over the coming years. And, in the summer, we will be working with councils and other NHS organisations to publish the latest report on the progress being made in transforming services across the local area ahead of the new hospital being built.
What you feel your top three strengths are?
Patience, adaptability, problem solving.
What is the best piece of advice you would give to anyone that wants to start a career in communications?
Think about who you are trying to communicate with, never panic, and if you don’t know the answer to a question don’t make one up.
What is one thing that you could not live without?
Apart from my family, it’s probably a tie between Liverpool Football Club and cats and dogs.