Entering the world of PR can offer new and exciting challenges. Just ask Samantha Booth, who works for Maggie’s.
This organisation has 20 beautifully designed Maggie’s Centres across the UK and beyond where people with cancer, as well as family and friends, work with expert staff to create a bespoke package of support.
As Communications Manager (Scotland), Samantha’s focus is on raising Maggie’s profile in Scotland and working with the central team in London on UK-wide coverage.
Let’s find out more.
What does your role involve?
Every day is different, especially as I travel a lot to London and around Scotland.
Last year I worked closely with a BBC crew as they filmed a documentary to mark Maggie’s 20th anniversary, as well as a team from Children in Need to create a film shown on its appeal night.
I’m currently working with the BBC on more UK-wide filming, a mini-partnership with a newspaper and a project to raise awareness among Scotland’s politicians.
What career path you led here?
I knew from a very early age I wanted to write for a living. After studying English at university, I won a place on a scholarship scheme that led to 10 years as a newspaper features writer.
Deciding it was time for a change, I took voluntary redundancy to become a freelance writer.
Maggie’s asked me to help them in the short-term. A three-month contract quickly became permanent . . . that was five years ago and I still love working for Maggie’s.
Were you able to transfer skills?
Writing is still a huge part of my job and I use other skills I learned as a journalist, including interviewing, working to deadlines and responding quickly to events.
I was always quite empathetic as a journalist – at Maggie’s that’s even more important as the needs of the people who rely on the support always come first.
What are the challenges and rewards?
The biggest challenge is finding space for Maggie’s in the media landscape. There are lots of charities doing fantastic work but I believe Maggie’s bespoke approach to cancer support is quite different.
It’s hugely rewarding to see media coverage and the response.
I was lucky enough to be in the Children in Need studio with the family featured in the Maggie’s film as it was broadcast to an audience of eight million. It was emotional for them but I knew they were thrilled to have been part of the experience.
Oh, and meeting Little Mix afterwards made it extra special!
Top tips for anyone starting out?
Always be flexible and not just in the hours you work. An attitude of flexibility will help you feel part of a team. Just because you’re in the PR team doesn’t mean you can’t help pack boxes ahead of a big event!
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