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I have been working for Dstl for six months in the ISTAR team which is part of our Information management department. Dstl has supported me in the voluntary work I undertake for an emergency response charity, by giving me ten days special leave per year while deployed.

I am a member of MapAction. MapAction is a charity that exists to provide worldwide emergency mapping support in humanitarian disasters such as earthquakes. We deploy within 24-48 hours to provide support to Local Emergency Management Agencies and Governments, United Nations and charitable organisations such as Oxfam and Shelter. I have been a member of this charity for three years: deploying on five occasions to Mexico, Haiti, Ghana, Pakistan and Burma.

Having additional leave granted was critical to my acceptance of the post with Dstl. The option of paid special leave was suggested at interview by Dstl which really helped me make my decision.

I have deployed once so far since working at Dstl. My deployment was agreed without hesitation once I had shown how my work commitments could be covered. I left the same day. I won’t let my deployments affect the work I do at Dstl, and local management always has the final decision.

Dstl benefits from my commitment to MapAction as it is exceedingly practical and hands on by nature. I continually hone and acquire new skills when deployed. These include field leadership, communication skills, and new technical skills. I also develop personally as I have to make pressurised decisions in emergency situations, work as part of a team and experience various geographic terrain and social groups under stress.

When I return back to Dstl these experiences and derived expertise are of direct and significant benefit to my role here.