THE NHS STAFF NEWSPAPER January 2016 HighNOVEMBERlights 2015

eHEALTH CHALLENGES Improving access to latest technology... THE geography of NHS Highland’s area means that poor network signals are a daily occurrence for many staff and patients. However, according to NHS Highland’s new head of eHealth Iain Ross, work is un- der way to improve connectivity for staff and patients, ensuring that they have more reli- able access to the services and systems they require. “One of the main challenges we face in Highland is the geography and areas where we have poor network signals,” Iain ex- plained. “However, we have pilot projects in place at present to trial how staff can utilise mobile access where there is no network.” Iain added: “The rapid development of technology has been a challenge. NHS sys- tems have had to be developed to support the technology that staff and patients are already becoming familiar with. We are look- ing at how we can make better use of satel- lite technology. Why is Aaron just “The eHealth functions across ‘magic’ in our book? Look at his video on are looking at ways to improve access to NHS Highland’s modern technology and indeed this is the YouTube channel: aim of both the NHS Highland board and the https://youtu.be/ national eHealth strategy.” Uk2zLsXJlRQ Continued on page 2 - - Technological challenges clinical functionality including access Continued from front to areas within PMS. Once this has With more than 10,000 active been completed, we will look to in- email accounts, 6,000 PCs and 451 troduce the functionality to support servers providing systems and ser- nurse handover documentation as vices to all of its users, technology well as a system called Ward View, Contents has become part of everyday life for which is a replacement for the tradi-

3 Pharmacy award hopes many members of staff in NHS High- tional ward whiteboard. land. “Within primary care, we are 4 Highland Quality Award One of the largest pieces of work looking options for filling some of the 5 UK Public Health Register the eHealth department gaps that exist, such as 6 Commuters’ Corner has undertaken in recent the ability to request di- 10 Lung cancer campaign times is the introduction agnostic results electroni- 12 At Your Service: Patrick Byrne of the TrakCare Patient cally and receiving the 14 Care home overhaul planned Management System results back as individual (PMS). values rather than an 17 Obituaries Plans are in place to image. 18 Department profile expand its usage and en- “In terms of the com- 23 Marathon hopeful sure colleagues across all munity and social care, 30 Other Lives: Kim Stapleton sectors are able to access the department are 31 Q&A: Evan Beswick what is an essential piece working with staff groups of technology. to look at what their re- Iain said: “At our re- quirements are and what Keep us informed cent eHealth strategy potential solutions and group, we discussed how IAIN ROSS costs might be. Do you know of something you we can provide an electronic record Ian continued: “There is signifi- think should be featured in High- across all of NHS Highland including cant work to be done over the next lights? An award, an achievement, primary, secondary, community and few years. In keeping with the board- a piece of research, an appoint- social care to ensure that users of wide Lean methodology, the eHealth ment, a retiral … you name it, eHealth function have equity of ac- department will be making small im- Highlights has a place for it. Please cess to systems and services. provements each day that will enable “We hope to make more use of us to deliver the eHealth vision for send your articles to the PMS system with the launch of the board over the next few years.” [email protected] (01463 704903) or visit the Staff Dropbox on the NHS Highland intranet RETIRAL home page. Farewell to You can follow ‘Laura Beds’ NHS Highland on... LAST month staff at

Raigmore bade a fond WEBSITE farewell to Laura www.nhshighland.scot.nhs.uk MacGillivray, affection-

FACEBOOK ately known as “Laura https://www.facebook.com/ Beds”, as she retired NHSHighland from after 29 years in NHS High- TWITTER land, latterly as the www.twitter.com/NHSHighland or hospital’s bed man- @NHSHighland ager. A number of people attended Laura’s retiral presen- tation, a testament to how much she will be missed across the hos- pital. - 2 - PHARMACY Two chances to win in national awards... A PIONEERING NHS Highland And with the staff at the pharmacy, patient safety initiative and an in- recent innovations she has introduced novative Islay pharmacist are both include a weekly ‘safety huddle’, a first- in the running for this year’s Scot- aid service, a tick removal service, a tish Pharmacist Awards. sexual health uptake service and a com- The health board’s Scottish Patient munity hospital supply and discharge Safety Programme – Pharmacy in Pri- service. The pharmacy also participated mary Care team (SPSP-PPC) has been in the NHS Highland SPSP – PPC pilot nominated as a finalist in the innovation on NSAIDs mentioned above. and change in pharmacy category and The first aid and the tick removal Catriona Brodie from Islay Pharmacy in services, for instance, came about the pharmacist of the year category of through the staff – including a former the prestigious awards. nurse and a Royal Navy medic – having The winners will be announced dur- the right skills set and the relevant train- ing an award ceremony at the EICC in Catriona Brodie, of the Islay Phar- ing and strict healthcare procedures on Saturday 27th February, macy, up for this year’s pharmacist of being put in place. hosted by TV presenter Carol Smillie. the year award Catriona, who studied Pharmacy at The SPSP-PPC team was nominated Frequently used NSAIDs include Strathclyde University in , said: for its work in improving medicine ibuprofen, naproxen and diclofenac. “The population on Islay increases from safety as part of a pilot involving seven In addition, the pilot looked at how around 3,500 to 10,000 during the sum- community pharmacies and dispensing NSAIDs could be made safer through mer months, and a lot of visitors walk- GP practices across the Highlands. pharmacists reviewing the way they ing around the island are unaware of the The scheme is part a two-year initia- were prescribed, as well as advising pa- dangers that ticks pose. tive across four Scottish NHS boards – tients on their use and side effects. “We advised them about how to NHS Highland, NHS Fife, NHS Gram- The pilot was conducted in three deal with tick bites, how to safely re- pian and NHS Greater Glasgow and community pharmacies: Brora Phar- move ticks from the body and how to Clyde – aimed at improving the safety of macy; Islay Pharmacy; and Argyll Phar- cope with the itching around the bite medicines for patients. macy, Lochgilphead; and two combined area. We also gave advice about the Highland team lead Clare Morrison, community pharmacy and dispensing early warning signs of the associated who is also NHS Highland’s lead phar- practice teams: Kyle Pharmacy, Kyle of Lyme disease, a potentially debilitating macist (north), said: “In NHS Highland, Lochalsh, with Acharacle medical prac- disease. we decided to concentrate on non- tice; and Boots Pharmacy, Ullapool, with “Also, because our staff has the right steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs Scourie and Kinlochbervie medical prac- skills set, under my supervision we are (NSAIDs) as these are more likely to be tice. able to provide a robust first-aid ser- associated with emergency hospital ad- Meanwhile, Catriona Brodie, the vice, where minor wounds and burns missions due to adverse drug reactions owner and manager of the Islay phar- could be treated by trained members of than any other class of medicine. They macy has been nominated for the phar- the team, dressing the wounds here in are also sold over the counter and are macist of the year award. the pharmacy. It certainly helps to stop dispensed frequently, so we knew there Catriona and her staff were recog- people turning up at the local hospital.” would be enough data for the pilot even nised for their unique service improve- And she is proud of the pharmacy’s in our most remote and rural sites.” ments to both the local community and involvement in the NHS Highland SPSP Having identified that there was a visitors to the island. – PPC pilot. potential for NSAID usage to be made In line with NHS Highland’s commu- “We gave out information at every safer, a brightly coloured knitted mascot nity pharmacy strategy, Catriona has point, ensuring that the correct advice called Bertiebrufen and a credit-card become the prescribing support phar- and warnings of possible side effects of sized information card were used to macist to the three GP practices on the NSAIDs and how to prevent them, was raise patient awareness of the risks. island. given to patients,” she said. - 3 - HIGHLAND QUALITY AWARD It’s an ill wind... REMEMBER the storms of last win- presented the award to John Stewart, ter? maintenance plumber and Michael Reid, The severe weather of 10th and 11th maintenance electrician, who accepted January 2015 resulted in large-scale it on behalf of the team. power loss throughout Highland. The team was nominated by south And, ultimately, it led to NHS High- area manager Jean Pierre Sieczkarek in land’s estates department’s maintenance recognition of their work during the team receiving the Highland Quality storms, when the team worked tire- vice delivery and the safety of patients Award. lessly day and night to ensure the com- and clients throughout Highland. At estates department safety events fort and safety of vulnerable people. The efforts of the entire team was held in Dingwall, in September 2015, the The work during the storms was recognised in the award presentation. Highland Quality Award was presented just one example of the commitment “The many selfless acts which this to the maintenance team who went shown by the estates team, members of award recognises meant that clients above and beyond the call of duty in which regularly travel considerable dis- could be kept in their care homes their response to the storms. tances and work in all kinds of weather, rather than being transferred into hospi- Nick Kenton, director of finance, day and night, to ensure continued ser- tal,” said Jean Pierre.

CAITHNESS Board issues advice leaflet to residents NHS Highland is issuing a leaflet to able to them. Similar leaflets were is- meetings with general practitioners in every household in giving sued to residents of Skye several Caithness in recent months, and one of residents some basic health advice and months ago, and the initiative comple- the actions has come from these meet- advising them who to contact if they are ments the work of the national ‘Know ings is to better inform patients about unwell. Who to Turn to’ campaign designed to which services they should access if they There is concern nationally that help people get the right medical atten- are unwell. many people go to see their GP when tion when they are ill or injured. The leaflets will advise people that they could be more appropriately Fiona Duff, primary care manager for they can get up-to-date information on helped by another professional, such as Caithness and , explained: health through NHS Inform, and will a nurse practitioner or a pharmacist. “We have always believed it important explain the circumstances in which they It is a problem that is particularly that each patient sees or is advised by should call 999 (for medical emergen- relevant in Caithness, where four of the the most appropriate person, and we cies) or 111 (for out-of-hours non- seven GP practices have doctor vacan- try to ensure that happens. emergency situations that cannot wait cies. “However, we are not sure that until the GP surgery is open). Advice Now, NHS Highland has prepared a everyone is fully aware of the range of will also be given on when to call a GP laminated leaflet and a wallet-sized card options open to them – a fact that has surgery and on the wide range of com- signposting Caithness residents to the been underlined by Caithness GPs. munity health and social care services wide range of healthcare services avail- “We have held two very useful available in Caithness. - 4 - UK PUBLIC HEALTH REGISTER Board’s staff are urged to sign up

NURSES, doctors, allied health professionals and other staff are all registered by the appropriate pro- fessional body to demonstrate their competence. Until recently, there was no equiva- lent registration for staff working in public health. However, all that changed four years ago when the West of Scotland UK Public Health Register Scheme (UKPHR) was established. This collaboration between NHS boards in Greater Glasgow and Clyde, Highland, Ayrshire and Arran and Lan- arkshire is attracting huge interest across Scotland, and the most recent NHS Highland staff member to be ac- cepted onto the register scheme is urg- ing more of her colleagues to participate in it. Yennie van Oostende, NHS High- land’s senior health improvement spe- cialist based in , com- pleted the portfolio of work required to join the public health register earlier this year. “The project enables public health practitioners who aren’t registered nurses or doctors to demonstrate their competence in public health in order to become accepted on to a UK-wide pub- lic health register,” said Yennie. evidence to show competencies which isn’t a registered health professional to “The local schemes are approved by are rigorously assessed at the end of the sign-up for the cohort in April. It’s an the UKPHR and this enables us to en- programme. engaging process which you are sup- sure quality, consistent practice in public “A number of public health improve- ported through and gain a nationally health in Scotland and across the United ment staff have been accepted onto the recognised qualification at the end of Kingdom.” register in the past four years, and we the process.” Jane Groves, until recently NHS are launching a new cohort in April Anyone interested in signing up Highland’s public health network co- 2016.” should contact Alison McGrory on Al- ordinator, said: “Practitioners who sign Yennie continued: “I would urge [email protected] or by calling up are supported to build a portfolio of anyone working in public health that 01586 552224. - 5 - COMMUTERS’ CORNER Going the extra mile? Make that 4,500 miles

We continue our regular series about how our staff travel to work. This month, consultant Dr Duncan Scott, who lives in and Strathspey, talks about his occasional commutes to Caithness.

MANY staff go the extra mile over the last few years, and the hospi- carriageway that winds its way across while working for NHS Highland. tal has benefited from clinical support the north east coast of Scotland. However, Duncan Scott is one from and the However, it’s a drive that Duncan Raigmore consultant physician wider NHS Highland board area. rather enjoys. who can literally claim to do so. The ongoing issue the hospital has “I’ve driven all over Scotland and Duncan provides a clinic for pa- faced with staff recruitment and re- the drive to Caithness has really tients attending Caithness General tention has seen clinical colleagues grown on me,” he said. “I stick on Hospital every third week, which sees and managers provide support across Radio 2 and that keeps me company him clock up over 4,500 miles each the hospital and in the community. during my commute. I’ve also got all year and help to keep the hospital Duncan continued: “Working in of my favourite music on my iPhone, ticking over. this way maximises the use of all our so I can listen to that, too. Not that driving long distances in resources and enhances the resilience “During the summer months, it the course of his work is something of NHS Highland’s local provision in can be a very pleasant drive with new for him. Caithness. Hopefully, this way of some stunning coastal scenery. “I used to run clinics on Skye and working, combining rotational and “My regular commute to Inver- work on call in the Belford, Fort Wil- locally-based doctors, will build a ness gives great views of the Cairn- liam, so I’m used to driving long dis- model that is fit for the future and gorms. However, my trips across the tances,” he said. ends all the uncertainty of recent north of Scotland offers contrasting “Even though I’m based at Raig- times. seascapes and open hills to the west more, I live in Grantown-on-Spey as “Knowing what a valuable service interspersed by interesting villages my wife is a GP in Aviemore. I travel we provide for the people in the far and scattered community settlements. 60 miles to and from work on a nor- north of Scotland make all the travel- It’s never a dull drive. mal day.” ling worthwhile.” “I enjoy spending time up there as Caithness General has seen a The journey to Wick is a long one the people are extremely friendly and number of changes to its services – a two and half hour drive on single their hospitality is first class.”

- 6 -

TRAINING

Involved in clinical trials? This course is for you

ALL NHS Highland staff involved in clinical trials are recommended to undertake Good Clinical Prac- tise (GCP) training, and ensure that their GCP knowledge is up- dated every two years. GCP is an international ethical and scientific quality standard for designing, conducting, recording and reporting trials involving the participation of human subjects, and compliance with this stan- dard provides public assurance that the rights, safety and well- SANTA’S helpers Doreen, Linda and Rachel (aka Doreen Bell, clinical advisor being of trial subjects are pro- for the tower block upgrade at Raigmore; Linda Kirkland, director of operations tected and that the clinical trial for Inner Moray Firth Operational Unit; and Rachel MacDonald, management data is credible. assistant to the director of operations) collected more than £450 from dona- GCP training is a contractual tions by hospital staff in the run-up to Christmas. The trio then jingled their way to the Archie grotto at the Eastgate Centre in to support Santa for an obligation for some staff on some afternoon. trials. Courses offering an introduc- tion to GCP will be held in the SYMPOSIUM Centre for Health Science, Inver- ness, from 11am-12 noon on 4th March, 20th May, 24th August and 24th November. Highlands to host Update courses for staff re- freshing their knowledge every two years will be held between the same times on 4th March, 9th June, 31st August and 15th Novem- diabetes event ber. A MAJOR event focusing on diabe- trists, dietitians, community nurses and The course presenters will be tes is to be held in Inverness in the any other healthcare professionals with Frances Hines, research, develop- spring. an interest in the subject. ment and innovation manager, The Highland Diabetes Symposium Among the keynote speakers from NHS Highland; Lesley Patience, 2016, to take place in the Kingsmills NHS Highland will be diabetes specialist clinical research nurse, NHS th Highland, and Dr Stuart McCully, Hotel on 29 April, is being seen as an pump nurse Lorna Grant and consultant director, CHCUK. opportunity to connect with Highland diabetologist Dr David MacFarlane. health professionals who are involved in The event, ‘Stepping Forward in To book a place on any of these courses email diabetes care. It will be open to GPs, Diabetes Managerment’, will be chaired [email protected] consultant diabetologists, diabetes spe- by NHS Highland consultant diabetolo- cialist nurses, practice nurses, podia- gist Professor Sandra MacRury. - 7 - CAMPBELTOWN

THE staff of took part in the Text Santa Christmas Jumper Day 2015 after pharmacist Marjorie Leighton saw the event advertised on social media and thought it would be a bit of fun in the run-up to Christmas while raising money for three very worthwhile causes. Marjorie approached support services manager Kirsteen Graham, who was happy to take on the role as organiser. She emailed the various departments and organised a raffle as well as a prize for a ‘guess the number of snowflakes’ competition. A total of £115 was raised. NORTH COAST Single care ‘hub’ favoured THE steering group looking into The recommendation comes follow- tated by Euan Mackay (Grangeston), the redesign of health and adult ing a formal options appraisal exercise who guided participants to assess each social care services across the which took place last month in Bettyhill of the models against a set of criteria north coast has recommended Village Hall. which had earlier been agreed. that a single care ‘hub’ facility be Representatives of community coun- Key considerations were which built in the area. cils and other local groups, NHS High- model would be the most sustainable In the new arrangements the pro- land employees, and GPs reviewed (such as being able to be adequately posal would be to have dual registration three options which had previously staffed) and the benefits of co-location. (residential and nursing care), which the been shortlisted by the steering group, Option B emerged as a clear front- steering group agreed would improve which has been meeting for several runner (721 out of 1,000), followed by access to local services. months. These were: Option C (508) while Option A – the The facility would also be supported Option A – status quo/minimal current arrangements – scored very by strengthened community and pri- change poorly (172). mary care services and improved joint Option B – build new care home in Gill McVicar, director of operations working through the co-location of one location with no other care home for NHS Highland’s north and west op- some staff and services. facility erational unit, said that no final decision However, the arrangements would Option C – build new care home in would be taken until a wider public con- see the closure of the existing care one location and maintain a second facil- sultation process has taken place, and homes in Talmine (Melness) and Mel- ity (either Caladh Sona or Melvich) relevant financial appraisal has been con- vich. The event was independently facili- ducted. - 8 - PATIENT SAFETY FUNDRAISING SPSP in action at Raigmore medical ward THE Scottish Patient Safety Programme has changed the way a ward in Raigmore Hospital tackles day-to-day duties, benefiting both patients and staff. Staff in Ward 7A, a medical ward, believe the programme is the reason why the ward has not had a death from an unexpected cardiac arrest in over a year. Kay Cordiner, senior charge nurse on the ward, explained that the staff were now more confident and empowered by the programme and in short space of time they were already seeing the differ- ence it makes. She said: “I attended a Scottish Patient Safety Programme event last year and came back with so many ideas. “Obviously, staff are already working to do their best for the patients in our care but the programme gives you new ideas to further improve. The programme promotes continuous improvement and A NURSING auxiliary in out-patients at Raigmore Hospital, Sheena Olsen, how best to empower front line staff to has helped to raise more than £400 for Marie Curie by making some beaded test out ideas in their ward, and the re- spiders (pictured) which she sold throughout November and December. The department also held a hamper raffle and it was hoped proceeds from that sults have been fantastic.” would push the grand total raised towards the £500 mark. Sheena is pictured Ideas that have already been imple- with colleague Rosemary Walker, a staff nurse. mented include ward safety huddles which are held three times during the day and twice at night. These give staff the ANNUAL LEAVE opportunity to chat about workload and how they feel. The huddle is also used to Failure to take time off in time discuss any communication matters or key updates that staff need to be aware of. could impact on board’s finances Treatment escalation forms have also ALL NHS Highland employees, of the financial year. There is no re- been introduced. These are plans pre- with the exception of medical and serve available to cover this charge, as pared by the consultant providing clear adult social care staff, must take this was utilised in full at the end of the instructions on what to do for any sce- their annual leave before 31st last financial year. It is therefore more nario that could happen out of hours. March. Failure to do so can have a important than ever before that all staff This means that the on-call doctor can knock-on effect on the board’s take their annual leave in full by 31st come in, see patient plans and immedi- financial position. March. ately know what to do in terms of treat- NHS Highland’s director of human “The board’s financial position is ment for the patient. This saves time and resources, Anne Gent, said: “Due to exceptionally challenging and it is possi- it saves them phoning people in the mid- the requirements of the NHS account- ble that this might make the difference dle of the night. ing regime, any leave that is not taken between breaking even and breaching Kay added: “I’m very proud of the as at 31st March must be recognised as our statutory duty of living within our work we have done in the ward and be- a creditor ‘owed’ by the board. budget. We would ask therefore that lieve it has improved the care we are “This would result in a charge you ensure all annual leave is taken by giving to our patients.” against the board’s budgets at the end 31st March 2016.” - 9 - SVQs Training scheme seen as ‘great boost’ for team FIVE NHS Highland employees cates (SVQs) as part of an in-house ini- have been enrolled in an innova- tiative. tive training course designed to The idea is to strengthen the cater- boost qualified hospital support ing department’s expertise at the Caith- Pamela Kennedy (left) and Julie Fair- staff in Caithness and Sutherland. ness General Hospital in Wick, Dunbar weather, who are studying for their Since September, Kelly Sutherland, Hospital in Thurso, in Level 3 Hospitality SVQs Pamela Kennedy, Kim McTier, Julie Fair- Bonar Bridge and with Marette Mackay doing the weather and Marette Mackay have been Hospital in Golspie. same at Migdale Hospital. receiving on-the-job training for their Four of the five staff members in- NHS Highland hotel services sup- Scottish Vocational Qualification certifi- volved are based at Caithness General port manager Steven Miller, said: “This is huge for everyone involved. When INVERNESS they qualify they will be a great boost to my department with these nationally recognised qualifications. “Three of them are doing the Hospi- Over-50s film club tality SVQ level three and two of them are doing Professional Cookery.” “Not only will it allow us to do a better job, but it will be a massive ca- gains in popularity reer progression for them. Kim McTier, for instance, who joined us as a catering

WHERE can you see Michael Caine, Audrey Hepburn and Ginger assistant will have a professional cook- Rodgers all in the one place? ery qualification once she completes the All these movie icons and more can be seen every Tuesday afternoon at the course.” Spectrum Centre in Inverness at a unique film club for the over-50s. He added: “Doing the courses in- NHS Highland community development officer Kate Maclean said: “The over house is a real bonus for NHS High- 50s film club runs every Tuesday between 1.30pm and 3.30pm in the Spectrum land’s hotel services in Caithness and Centre. We try to show a wide selection of different films such as comedies and Sutherland. It was set up with help from musicals featuring iconic stars from several decades. John Evans of NHS Highland’s own SVQ “We ran the club at the end of last year and it is increasingly popular. At the services and we got an assessor from a moment we play DVDs via a laptop, but if audiences increase we will use the company called Aspire to come in. All ceiling-mounted projector and ‘raked’ seating in the bigger hall. the training will be done in-house and “At present we use the studio, which is ideal for people who have difficulty they will condense what is normally a adjusting to complete darkness. And of course it’s all on the ground floor and two-year course into one year.” easily accessible. The SVQ course run by Aspire will “We have set a suggested donation of £3 and we are part of the Plus One be focused on training and competence- scheme, which means that a carer goes free. It’s a great way to spend an after- based assessments over the year, de- noon, and we have an exciting programme of films lined up for the next few signed to help people develop on-the- months.” job skills and knowledge. Contact Kate Maclean on 07713242476 or [email protected] for more “Once this course is completed, I information, or have a look at their Facebook page, which is entitled Spectrum would love to see us progress so that all Film Club. the other staff have a chance to get in- volved as well,” said Steven. - 10 - INACITIVY ARGYLL AND BUTE Get off your Partnership paves seat three times an hour! the way for IF you are reading this whilst sitting down you may want to stand up for a moment! This month’s challenge is to be up and moving throughout your day strategic plan every 20 minutes: i.e. three times per hour. You can set your phone FROM September to November feedback and comments received. This or your outlook calendar to remind 2015 Argyll and Bute Health and report also outlines the key themes that you every 20 minutes. Social Care Partnership (HSCP) emerged from the data collected which Remember, by simply limiting carried out a public consultation on provides additional insight on the priori- the time you spend sitting, you may its three-year strategic plan. ties and perspectives of the people living be able to reduce your risk of diabe- This detailed how the HSCP intends in the communities across Argyll and tes and heart disease. It will also decrease the aches and pain so of- to make changes and improvements in Bute. ten caused by sitting for long peri- the way it delivers health and social care Stephen added: “A full copy of this ods. over the next three years. It also ex- consultation report can now be Please check out the Beware of plained what services the HSCP was re- downloaded from the integration website the Chair information on the intra- sponsible for, what the priorities were, (www.healthytogetherargyllandbute.org.u net under the Occupational Health and why and how the HSCP decided on k). If you prefer a hard copy then email us section. them. at SocialCareIntegration@argyll - Lesley Marshall and Michelle Smith, Stephen Whiston, head of strategic bute.gov.uk and we will arrange for one occupational health physiotherapists planning and performance for Argyll and to be posted out.

Bute HSCP, said: “During the strategic “The strategic plan is currently being COURSE plan consultation period we received a updated to reflect the comments and wide range of feedback and comments feedback received during the consultation from the public, staff, service users, car- period especially across a number of key Funding for ers and a number of other stakeholders. areas including care at home, learning “On behalf of Argyll and Bute Health disabilities and mental health. research work and Social Care Partnership I would like “The revised strategic plan will be A COURSE, ‘Applying for Research to thank everyone who responded for finalised over the next month and will Funding’, is to be held from 10am- taking the time to participate in this con- then be presented to the Integration Joint th 4.30pm on 10 February in the Cen- sultation.” Board of the HSCP for endorsement in tre for Health Science, Inverness. The strategic plan consultation report March and it will thereafter be made pub- To be presented by Frances Hines, NHS Highland’s research, has now been published detailing the licly available.” development and innovation man- ager, the course will provide health- DEMENTIA care professionals with the knowl- edge, skills and confidence to cast research ideas in a form suitable for Series of network meetings planned grant applications, to identify suit- NHS HIGHLAND is hosting a num- bers of the Highland Dementia Working able sources of funding, and to write ber of Dementia Action Network Group. However, spaces are limited. grant applications which meet the meetings throughout 2016. Contact dementia nurse consultant requirements of funding bodies. The network is open to anyone who Ruth Mantle on 01463 888 290 or The course will outline funding sources, the criteria used to assess has an interest in dementia and wants to [email protected] or dementia advi- grant applications, and the charac- make a difference in their workplace sor Geraldine Ditta on 01463 516 004 teristics of successful applications. and/or community. or [email protected] to reserve a place. An application form for the The first meeting of the year takes Video-conferencing is available and it course can be found on the R&D place on Wednesday, 10th February in will be necessary to confirm the follow- page of the intranet, under the Assynt House, Inverness, from 1.30- ing details when you book a place so a heading ‘Staff’. 3.30pm. bridge can be facilitated: site location Otherwise, email All disciplines are welcome to the and room; site v/c number and site main [email protected] meetings, which are attended by mem- attendee email and telephone number. - 11 - AT YOUR SERVICE Dr Patrick Byrne: GP and consultant surgeon

Weekly newspapers throughout Highland run a series of articles by NHS Highland’s communications team which puts the spotlight on people who work in healthcare in their area. From now on, these articles will also be featured in Highlights. To kick us off, Dr Patrick Byrne, a consultant physician at the and a GP at Glen Mor Surgery in Fort William talks about his life and work.

Q. A consultant physician and a GP? That as I can discharge a patient into general prac- sounds like a lot of work? tice, knowing that I can see them there. Al- A. I originally trained as a general practitioner though that option is limited to those patients in Cambridge, and combined my role as a GP in Glen Mor, it is still a really good use of re- partner with teaching at Cambridge University. sources. There, I met my wife, Sarah, at the end of her surgical training, ready to take up a post as a Q. And do you enjoy having two separate consultant surgeon. Although she is trained in roles? surgery of the liver, the pancreas and the gall- A. I do. I think it’s very useful as there are bladder, she is also a general surgeon. It is this times when each side (that is primary and sec- wide variety that appeals to both of us: Sarah in ondary care) might not perceive the pressure(s) general surgery, and me as a GP. There are the other is under, and it allows me to bring the very few places remaining in the UK where one perspective of both sides to each other’s table. can be a true ‘generalist’, hence our move to It’s a useful interface, and a bridge between Fort William in 2009. Upon our arrival in the primary and secondary care. My hybrid job is , we met Dr Brian Tregaskis, one example where NHS Highland has been who is a consultant physician and clinical direc- very forward thinking in trying to anticipate a tor of the Belford Hospital. Dr Tregaskis ex- problem before it becomes a problem; fire pre- plained that he had been searching for a GP vention as opposed to fire fighting. Another who had passed an exam for hospital medicine illustration is the recent appointment of two (the Membership of the Royal College of Physi- NHS High- geriatricians at the Belford, who both are very cians, or MRCP). I had passed that exam during community focused. It’s about putting the pa- my GP training in Cambridge, and Brian pitched land tient first, bringing the care to them, maintain- the idea that I spend some time in a busy hospi- ‘ ing patient’s independence, and supporting the tal to bring my hospital-based knowledge and tries to excellent work of all our GPs who do this on a skills to the level of a consultant physician – daily basis. enabling me to run an on-call in the hospital, anticipate but still keep my general practice interests go- Q. I believe that a significant milestone for the ing. a problem Belford Hospital was reached recently. Can you tell us more? Q. How do you split the two roles? before it A. That’s correct – the Belford Hospital is 150 A. Most of the time I am hospital based with years old, and 2015 also marked the 50th year one full day a week in general practice – which becomes on its current site. To celebrate, we thought we is usually a Wednesday. I swap with one of the would hold a birthday party – consisting of a other local GPs who has considerable experi- one four-day-long conference featuring a host of ence as a former A&E registrar. It’s a massive internationally renowned speakers, many of bonus, as he comes into the hospital one day a whom spent time training and working at the week to help out in the A&E department. It also helps whenever there are general practice Continued on next page follow-ups needed for any patients in the ward,

- 12 -

’ AT YOUR SERVICE

come through the door next. No two days are Continued from previous page ever the same, and that’s the best part of the Belford over the years, before finishing up with job for me. a ceilidh on the Saturday evening. We decided to hold a general themed conference, with the Q. How do you relax away from the pressures aim of attracting staff from across all services – of such demanding roles? from porter to physiotherapist, from doctor to No two days are domestic staff, both past and present – and A. I’ll be honest, there are nights with the lap- celebrate the uniqueness of the Belford Hospi- ever the same, top open, finishing up some work. However, I tal. and that’s the love music and I play the piano, guitar, bass gui- ‘ tar and clarinet (although very badly in some Q. It’s clear from your accent that you’re not best part of the cases). I also enjoy cycling and I have a long-held from the North of Scotland? job for me ambition to finally climb Ben Nevis. It’s a truism A. No, I’m from Dundalk in the Republic of that the place you live is the place you know Ireland. I grew up and went to school there, least about – although I am working to rectify before heading over to the UK to start my GP that. At the end of the day, Sarah and I moved training. My father was a GP in Ireland, and I to Fort William first and foremost because of always wanted to follow in his footsteps. I love the fantastic lifestyle on offer. It helps that there the fact that you never know who is going to is a really interesting job for both of us to do.

ARGYLL AND BUTE ’ Cancer information and support service ‘hugely successful’ THE Macmillan cancer informa- Working with library staff, health ties. I am also delighted that it is being tion and support service which has and wellbeing spaces have been created rolled out even further across Argyll been rolled out to a number of li- in the libraries with Macmillan branding, and Bute and I look forward to continu- braries across Argyll and Bute is where people can access leaflets, infor- ing to work with Macmillan, Argyll and going from strength to strength. mation folders and refreshments. There Bute Council and the third sector inter- The pilot project was set up in are also drop-in times where people can face in the years to come.” Campbeltown and Rothesay by Argyll go along and talk to trained volunteers. Elspeth Atkinson, director for Mac- and Bute Council's libraries service in The initiative has been hugely suc- millan Cancer Support in Scotland, said: 2013, in partnership with Macmillan cessful and the team recently won “We’ve seen the difference that the Cancer Support, NHS Highland and the gold award for Tackling Inequalities information and support services in Argyll and Bute Third Sector Inter- and Improving Health; and The Provost Campbeltown and Rothesay Libraries face, to help people affected by cancer Award at this year's Excellence and Rec- has made to people in the area and this to improve their quality of life by ensur- ognition Awards run by the council. led to Macmillan investing a further ing they receive the right information.. Christina West, chief officer of Ar- £300,000 to expand this vital service.” Due to its success the service has gyll and Bute Health and Social Care Anyone who would like to volunteer since been expanded to Helensburgh Partnership, said: “This is a fantastic to help with the service should phone and Oban, with a new service planned service provided by Macmillan and has 01586 555932 or email macmil- for Dunoon in the spring. been well received in local communi- [email protected] - 13 - CARE HOMES Centre set for £1m overhaul A KEY part of the redesign of end of the year, has been awarded to health and social care services in McGregor Construction by The High- Badenoch and Strathspey will be- land Council, under arrangements gin to take shape next month with agreed as a result of the integration of a start to upgrade work at the health and adult social care which took Wade Centre in Kingussie. effect in the council’s area in 2012. A number of major improvements The refurbishment will help to en- are planned for the NHS Highland- sure that the Wade Centre will con- managed care home and day centre for tinue to play a key role in the provision older people. of NHS Highland services in the area. And NHS Highland says the refur- The health board is currently under- bishment, along with the recent ap- going a ‘major service change’ redesign James Watson, new charge nurse at St pointment of a new charge nurse at St of its services in Badenoch and Strath- Vincent's Hospital, Kingussie Vincent’s Hospital, reflects the health spey – an initiative which will see the reflected in the work that’s about to board’s continuing commitment to the provision of a new hospital and health start at the Wade Centre. delivery of quality health and care ser- centre in Aviemore and the eventual “As for our appointment of a new vices in Kingussie. closure of Ian Charles Community Hos- charge nurse at St Vincent’s, I have no Electrical and heating systems at the pital in Grantown-on-Spey and St Vin- doubt that James Watson will be a real Wade Centre will be upgraded, im- cent’s Hospital. asset to NHS Highland and the local provements will be made to residents’ However, the redesign is not just community..” en-suite bathrooms and fire safety about bricks and mortar. It will see con- Mr Watson (32), from Evanton in measures will be improved, including siderable investment in community and Easter Ross, has joined NHS Highland the installation of a sprinkler system. care-at-home services in Badenoch and from a private healthcare company – for Some new furnishings will be provided Strathspey, and some new ways of which he was north of Scotland regional and it is proposed to relocate the ther- working at NHS Highland’s two care manager – providing advanced nursing apy garden at St Vincent’s Hospital to homes in the area: the Wade Centre care in the community. the Wade Centre when the refurbish- and, in Grantown-on-Spey, Grant From school, Mr Watson went to ment is completed. House. Lithuania, where he did voluntary work An additional bedroom, described as Georgia Haire, deputy director of with young people with disabilities and a ‘step-up, step-down’ facility, will be operations for NHS Highland’s Inner with homeless children. created in the centre, allowing enhanced Moray Firth Operational Unit, which He qualified as a nurse from the services to be provided to help avoid includes Badenoch and Strathspey, said: ’s Inverness campus unnecessary hospital admissions for “I’m delighted that work is about to in 2009 and subsequently did a range of some people or to enable speedier dis- start on a major refurbishment pro- community nursing work within both charge from hospital. gramme at the Wade Centre. I believe the NHS and the private sector. The work will be carried out in it, and our recent appointment of a new He said: “I’m delighted and hon- phases, allowing the centre to continue charge nurse at St Vincent’s Hospital, oured to have been appointed as change operating – albeit at a reduced capacity underlines our continuing commitment nurse at St Vincent’s at what is an excit- – throughout the refurbishment. NHS to deliver quality health and care ser- ing time both for my profession and in Highland has arranged for the Wade vices in Kingussie. the development of services in Bade- Centre’s day care service to transfer to “We are making good progress with noch and Strathspey. St Vincent’s Hospital in Kingussie until reshaping of our services in Badenoch “Providing advanced nursing is in- the work is complete. and Strathspey to ensure that they best creasingly important in communities like The £1 million contract for the meet local needs. It’s been a wide- this, and it’s great to be a part of the work, which will start on 1st February ranging project, and our strong empha- challenge to change and improve the and is scheduled to be completed at the sis on developing community services is way services are delivered here.” - 14 - ROADSHOW DRUG AND ALCOHOL RECOVERY Finding out about learning Conversation opportunities at work... THIRTY members of staff working in café event both business and administration and estates and facilities roles in Argyll and Bute attended an NHS Education for Scotland (NES) roadshow at Ar- gyll & Bute Hospital in Lochgilphead at the beginning of last month. on the menu The roadshow took the form of drop-in sessions for staff to find out about learning opportunities at work CAITHNESS Drug and Alcohol support not only those with a sub- and career and personal development. Forum is working with people in stance misuse problem but also their Staff members were introduced to recovery to organise a community families and communities. By asking the recently-launched Education Path- -wide ‘conversation café’ event. what would work best for those in re- ways for Business & Administration The forum, in partnership with the covery, and what community assets and and Estates & Facilities job families. Scottish Recovery Consortium, the resources we can build on, we can be- The roadshow also gave NES the op- Community Alcohol and Drug Service gin to identify practical ways to support portunity to hear the opinions of staff and Highland Alcohol and Drugs Part- people on their recovery journey.” on how the education pathways look nership (HADP), plans to host the A forum member commented: “The and what support they needed to ac- cess learning in the workplace. event in April. recovery cafe events led to yoga Staff from Lochgilphead, Dunoon The aim will be to set out what classes, cooking classes or computer and Oban attended and have been more needs to be done in Caithness to classes. It just depends. They could inspired to take advantage of the sustain recovery from drug and alcohol identify a need for women-specific ac- learning opportunities available to problems. tivities, because a lot of recovery op- them through the NES initiative. In other parts of Scotland, conver- portunities can appear to be quite male The Government has recognised sation café events have provided step- orientated. But we need to have these that there must be a shift to support ping stones for people in recovery to conversations first with the community: the learning and development of the start organising the types of activities local councillors, local church groups people who make the NHS systems work. they would like to take part in. The and the community as a whole. We This shift has been identified as a relaxed, café-style environment is de- need to look at the talents and re- priority in Everyone Matters: 2020 signed to foster meaningful, productive sources that are already there.” Workforce Vision Implementation but fun conversations that start that “And we need to listen to people in Framework and Plan: To work in col- process. recovery about their needs and what is laboration with NHS Boards to agree The move follows a request from relevant to them. At the end of the day, and develop Education Pathways for the Caithness Drug and Alcohol Forum, it’s about how to motivate people and support workers in Business & Adminis- which had heard about similar initiatives get them involved. The community in trative and Estates & Facilities roles to in Glasgow. Caithness will have a say in what works increase capability and support career progression. “We decided to organise a study best for them.” The NHSScotland Education Path- tour about recovery projects with two Interestingly, recovery projects do ways can be found at members of the forum travelling to not necessarily cost a lot to set up. www.theadmincentre.nes.scot.nhs.uk. Glasgow to learn more and to see what Sharon explained: “The last project The Education Pathways are learning would work in Caithness,” said HADP we visited operated on very little fund- tools to support staff in their job. development manager Sharon Hollo- ing and was run by the community, for To ensure they remain current way. the community. There doesn’t have to and relevant, feedback and questions They visited three recovery com- be a lot of activities to begin with; it can are appreciated. Contact munity projects, each of which brought simply be about bringing people to- [email protected] if you have any comments, questions or re- together recovery activists to develop gether to share, listen and support each quire any support in using the NHS new and relevant activities that would other.” Scotland Education Pathways. help encourage and sustain recovery. The Caithness conversation café Sharon added: “Recovery projects event in April will be by invitation only. - 15 - NEWS IN BRIEF DEMENTIA

Stakeholder Nurse Nicole paves the way conference

THE Highland Alcohol and Drug CAMPBELTOWN nurse Nicole Partnership is to host its annual Napier has become the first nurse stakeholder conference later this in the town to become a dementia year. champion. It will be held in the Centre for A dementia champion is someone Health Science on the Raigmore who, within their existing roles and Campus in Inverness on Tuesday, through a diverse range of activities, 31st May and will feature presenta- seeks to improve the care experience tions and workshops focusing on for people with dementia, their families prevention through to recovery. and carers in a hospital or community Partnership co-ordinator Deb- setting. bie Stewart said: “We are de- It’s been a busy time for Nicole lighted that the director the Scot- recently as she has also undergone tish Recovery Consortium, Kulad- training to become a dialysis nurse for the outcome and I am really enjoying harini, will speak at the event. the recently introduced dialysis service Other presenters and workshops my new roles.” within Campbeltown Hospital. are being finalised.” Senior charge nurse Tina Watt Nicole said: “In the past year I have added: “Nicole has demonstrated a completed both my dementia champion huge commitment to learn and develop March target training and also my dialysis training, her career and she has worked very

MEMBERS of NHS Highland’s which allowed me to work within the hard over the last year in studying for board were told at their meeting new dialysis unit in Campbeltown Hos- both the dementia champion and dialy- earlier this week that work on the pital.” sis nursing roles. new children’s unit at Raigmore She continued: “It was a challenge “I am really delighted that she has Hospital was progressing well, with to manage my time between both sets been successful in both sets of train- completion anticipated in March. of training but I am very pleased with ing.” Meanwhile, the Full Business Case for the proposed upgrade of critical care services to the hospital YWCA SCOTLAND EVENT will be presented to the Capital Investment Group on 2nd February. Subject to approval, it is hoped that the project would get under Focus on gender equality way in April, with a completion YWCA Scotland is to present a The programme, to be hosted by date of December 2018. snapshot of the current views of David Bryan, hub manager of Social young women on gender equality Enterprise Academy Highlands and Is- Joint inspection in Scotland during event at the lands, is supported by Youth Highland The Care Inspectorate and Health Eden Court Theatre, Inverness, and will take place from 12.30-4pm on Improvement Scotland have car- next month. Thursday 11 February in the theatre’s ried out a joint inspection of ser- Called the ‘Status of Young Women Maclean room. vices for older people in Scotland. in Scotland: a Presentation- Attendees will be able to raise ques- However, NHS Highland’s Consultation Event in Highland’, the tions and add their own views on how board was told earlier this week, session will share research about the to improve gender equality through the inspecting bodies have decided experiences and aspirations of 60 participating in ‘cafe conversations’ to that they will not publish a report women – all aged under 30 – that was be held during the programme. The following the inspection process. conducted during 2015. conversations’ six themes will include: Board members were told that The survey aimed to find out more education, employment, family & rela- the inspecting bodies have pub- about the lives of young women in tionships, media & stereotypes, politics lished a letter to NHS Highland Scotland, as part of an initiative called and safety. reflecting on a number of observa- ‘Envisioning 2035’, which hopes to em- Registration for the event is free. tions relating to services in the power young women by supporting Anyone interested in attending should area. their drive for gender equality around visit the YWCA Scotland’s website: the globe over the next two decades. www.ywcascotland.org. - 16 - OBITUARIES Nation’s oldest women dies in home at 109

SCOTLAND’S oldest woman, who passed away in an NHS Highlands care home just before Christmas, was no stranger to new technol- ogy. Although she was blind, Irene (Rene) Chapman, who was 109 when she died on 18th December 2015, regularly re- ceived emails and had them read out to her. Rene, who was born in Twickenham, London, on Saturday 9th June 1906, moved to the 10-bedroomed Telford Centre in September 2012. Once at the Abertarff Place home, she quickly made firm friends with staff and residents alike. “Everyone loved her here,” said dep- uty manager Christina Mudditt. “She will be very dearly missed.” Rene first came to the Highlands – initially to stay with friends near Spean Bridge – some 40 years ago after falling Irene (Rene) Chapman pictured on her 109th birthday, 9th June 2015, with her in love with the area. nephew Clive Chapman and his wife Lesley A strong believer in family, despite them living some 600 miles away in “Her family came a lot to visit,” said “She was just amazing for her age Dorset, Rene stayed in regular contact Christina. “But they also sent her and she had a great sense of humour. with them, turning to computer tech- emails, which we printed out and read “It was a real privilege to look after nology undreamt of when she was born. them out to her. her.” Former locum chaplain was ‘a real gentleman’ TRIBUTES have been paid to a former locum chap- Oban High School, Nairn Academy, Perth Academy and lain at Raigmore Hospital who died last month aged Milne’s High School in Fochabers before being appointed as 83. rector at Dingwall Academy. The Rev Sandy Glass has been described as “a real gentle- His other great passion in life was amateur drama, and he man” and a “great friend” by NHS Highland’s lead chaplain, regularly directed school plays and was Highland secretary of the Rev Dr Derek Brown. the Scottish Community Drama Association. He said: “I recruited Sandy as a part-time chaplain in 1997. He was a long-serving member of the children’s panel and He very much relished his role and his caring personality was he received an OBE in 1993 for his services to child welfare. evident to everyone that met him. “Having been a teacher and amateur stage director he was “He was very generous and kind and a real gentleman. He always very clear about what was on his mind,” Derek contin- had a ready wit that made him a joy to converse with.” ued. Mr Glass was born in Dunbar and studied at Edinburgh, Hei- “He left chaplaincy when his role as an auxiliary minister in delberg and Aix-en-Provence universities, where he mastered the Church of Scotland grew, but he always remained inter- in Languages. He taught Languages at Montrose Academy, ested in the chaplaincy at Raigmore and was a great friend.” - 17 - DEPARTMENT PROFILE How equipment service delivers real benefits to Argyll and Bute patients RESIDENTS across Argyll and Bute are patients and through providing it in the commu- seeing “real benefits” from the Inte- nity we can help to reduce hospital admissions, grated Equipment Service, which man- support hospital discharges and support pallia- ages the issue, repair and maintenance of tive care patients who are being cared for at a wide range of health and social care home. equipment for patients living in commu- “We receive requests for equipment nities throughout the area. through our health and social care professionals Jointly funded by NHS Highland and Argyll such as occupational therapists, physiothera- and Bute Council, the service delivers and col- We look pists, community nurses and GPs and following lects more than 1,000 pieces of equipment in a request the team is able to deliver 99 per the community per month. forward to cent of all equipment within 48 hours. This equipment can range from small aids ‘ “We also provide an on-call service which such as shoe horns right up to more complex many years enables urgent requests to be responded to items such as community beds and hoists and outwith normal working hours which again slings. of continu- helps further support patients in their home Integrated equipment service manager Steve ing service environment.” Parfitt said: “The service is based at our new Steve added: “I would like to thank all mem- centralised hub in Helensburgh and our team at bers of my team for their hard work and dedi- the hub are delivering real benefits for patients cation to patients and we all look forward to across Argyll and Bute. many years of continuing service for the people “The service is provided free of charge to of Argyll and Bute.”

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- 18 - COLLABORATION BOARD MEETING Directors briefed on Skye petition MEMBERS of NHS Highland’s board were briefed at their meeting earlier this week on the situation regarding the petition which has Mental health called on the Scottish Parliament to urge the to reverse its approval of the major service change to health and social care services in Skye, Lochalsh and mission in Africa South West Ross. The petition was considered for the A MULTI-DISCIPLINARY group department, co-ordinated through the first time by the parliament’s public peti- of health professionals from a auspices of THET. tions committee on 15th December. range of institutions are collabo- In different parts of the world cul- Since then, the committee has asked rating with NHS Highland to im- tural factors mean that mental illnesses NHS Highland to respond to a number prove mental health services in are often attributed to supernatural of queries by 19th January. Zambia and Ghana. causes. This can lead to fear, segrega- Board members were told that the NHS Highland has a health link part- tion and violence. petitioners believed an Independent nership with these two countries sup- Fear and misunderstandings can ex- Scrutiny Panel should have been estab- ported by the Tropical Health Educa- acerbate negative attitudes, delay seek- lished to review the redesign process, tion Trust (THET - http:// ing help, and encourage unhelpful and and were calling for one now. www.thet.org). THET is an organisation unsafe behaviour. Meanwhile, the board was told, work which takes a partnership approach to Stigma and limited public knowledge is continuing on developing a Business developing healthcare services in low- mean that grassroot demands for men- Case and Initial Agreement for the re- income parts of the world. tal health policy and service develop- design. The partnership has run several pro- ment is not present. jects and some Highlights readers may Volunteers for the project in Zambia have met partnership co-ordinators and Ghana engage with socio- One-off issue

Pearson Moyo, Marron Mugala, Randy economically challenged communities THE latest issue of NHS Highland Agbodo and Thomas Balenibe at the with high illiteracy to co-produce News, which was distributed last Mental Health Conference in 2014. strategies to understand mental ill month, focused specifically on Staff at New Craigs Hospital in In- health, increase health seeking behav- health and social care issues in Ar- verness have also been supportive in iours, and improve safe environments gyll and Bute. their fundraising efforts, which have for those with mental health problems. Members of NHS Highland’s board been used mainly to support the refur- Co-production approaches strive to- were told at their meeting earlier this bishments of the mental health unit at ward facilitating sustainable change, week that this was a one-off approach to Chipata Hospital in Zambia. where power is shared and all contribu- reflect the fact the integration of health The current project is about mental tions are respected. and social care will take place in Argyll health literacy and patient safety and is Drama, forum theatre and creative and Bute this year, using a model that being managed by NHS Highland’s re- art forms are used to discuss sensitive differs from the one in place in the area search, development and innovation issues and share and expand knowledge. covered by The Highland Council. - 19 - PILOT INITIATIVE Service to provide support for armed forces veterans

A NEW service to improve the board’s meeting on 26th January ex- also improve access for veterans to design and delivery of services plained that the pilot scheme will in- psychological help through set clinics and support for armed forces vet- volve a team of ex-servicemen or and drop-in services and activities. V1P erans is to be piloted in NHS women who will act as peer support will maintain active working links with Highland’s area. workers, providing veterans in High- NHS Highland’s psychological services The NHS Highland Veterans First land with a listening ear, offering sup- and the wider range of NHS services Point (V1P) will be trialled in the area port and social networking and sign- that veterans access. for 15 months from February. posting them to key services. The V1P team will be recruited on A report to the NHS Highland Veterans First Point Highland will a phased basis and will be co-located within Poppyscotland Inverness. INFECTION PREVENTION AND CONTROL In 2008, the Scottish Government advised health boards that veterans should receive priority access to NHS care. This access covers any conditions C.diff target missed, likely to be related to their service, subject to the clinical needs of all pa- tients. board members told The following year, a Veterans First Point service was set up in Lothian, NHS Highland has missed a key Staphylococcus aureus bacteraemia working to implement a ‘one-stop infection control target, the (SAB). NHS Highland recorded 23.8 shop’ approach for veterans, their car- board will be told at its meeting cases per 100,000 OBDs in the period ers and families. In 2013, NHS Lothian next week. from July to September, considerably received funding to develop and spread There is a national target of 32 better than the 31.6 recorded nation- that model across Scotland. cases of Clostridium difficile (C.diff) per ally, as against a target of 24. 100,000 acute occupied bed days The report to the board explained Meanwhile, in Highland, the local (OBDs). However, in the period from that the level of C.diff cases was authority signed the Highland Armed Forces Community Covenant with a July to September NHSScotlsand re- higher than expected but that NHS corded 35.7 cases per 100,000 OBDs, Highland was continuing to work with wide range of voluntary and statutory and NHS Highland recorded 42.1 Health Protection Scotland “to ensure partner organisations, including NHS cases. that all agreed actions to reduce infec- Highland, and ongoing work has been Figures yet to be validated show tions are in place and that monitoring taking place to plan for the pilot to be launched next month. that there was an improvement in systems are robust”. NHS Highland from October to De- The board was also invited to note This week’s board meeting was cember, though the figure, 35.6, still NHS Highland’s infection prevention told that the development of the pilot, exceeded national guidelines. and control work plan. A mid-year which will be evaluated by Queen Mar- There was better news regarding review of the plan was presented to garet University, has been led by HHS another key performance target, for the board. Highland’s ‘veterans champion’, board nurse director Heidi May. - 20 - ENTERTAINMENT Welcome encore for baby unit fundraiser ORGANISERS of a major musical cheque to the tune of £12,000. rect to SCBU. Their generosity is really fundraiser to benefit babies in spe- Musician Kris Douglas and his wife overwhelming, we can’t thank them cial care are returning to strike a Stephanie hit upon the idea after their enough.” chord with supporters as they sixteen-month-old son Sam spent time Door staff services on the night will stage the popular event for a sec- at the Special Care Baby Unit at Raig- again be provided free of charge by Mo- ond year. more after he was born. ray Security Ltd. Tickets for SCBUSTOCK are now More than 300 people attended the Money from last year was spent on on sale with a stellar line-up performing packed SCBUSTOCK concert and or- equipment including a Vapotherm ma- at The Spectrum Centre in Inverness on ganisers say popular demand means this chine which heats oxygen, making inha- 27th February. year’s is on course to be a sell-out again lation less painful for babies with breath- Taking to the stage will be Sara Bills before even a ticket has been bought. ing difficulties. The couple know of at & The Hasbeens, Dr Wook, Verona, Kris said: “When I first thought of least one instance when it has enabled a Woodentooth, The Side & Lional, with SCBUSTOCK I had an initial target of sick child to be returned to the High- the varied bill providing an eclectic mu- £500 — to have exceeded that by so lands from hospital in Glasgow, hun- sical mix encompassing some of the much was just unbelievable.” dreds of miles away from loved ones. region’s most hotly-tipped bands and Stephanie, a nurse herself, said the Kris says: “We personally know that artists. raffle donations are already rolling in for parents and babies who rely on the Spe- Additional entertainment will be 2016, with festival tickets and luxury cial Care unit are going through what provided in the venue's bar area where getaway breaks among the coveted can be the most difficult time of their refreshments served by Bars R Us will prizes. lives. We hope SCBUSTOCK will again be accompanied by retro tunes from She said: “Local businesses have be able to help make a difference to tiny Gramophone DJ, and souvenir photo really got behind us — our costs on the babies, giving them the best start in life.” booth snaps by Betty Booth. night are being sponsored by Jacobite Tickets for the event cost £10 and Last year’s event was hailed a major Cruises and The Heathmount Hotel, can be purchased on success after organisers handed over a meaning every penny raised will go di- www.ticketsource.co.uk

TINNITUS Drop-in event to offer tea, cake and support A TEA for Tinnitus’ event is to be held in Inverness The department’s latest range of hearing aids will also be next month. on show. Tea, cake and support will be available from 1.30-3.30pm The tinnitus association has supplied information packs as on Tuesday 9th February, in Audiology Department, Zone 3 Tinnitus Awareness week is 8th-12th February; more info Out-patients at Raigmore Hospital. http://www.tinnitus.org.uk/TAW2016 The event will provide the opportunity for people to drop Everyone is invited, whether you have hearing difficulties, in for a cup of tea and have a chat about hearing loss and/or tinnitus, are a relative or are a member of staff, or just for tinnitus. interest. The Highland Sensory Improvement Group has supplied Anyone who is unable to attend but would like to speak to the department with some new hearing screening devices for someone confidentially about hearing or tinnitus should phone people to test out. 01463 704041 or email [email protected] - 21 - NEW POLICY TRAINING EVENT Course Guidance planned on use of on bedrails interpreters

NHS HIGHLAND and The High- land Council have taken a new partnership approach to improve staff understanding of the role and revised availability of their interpretation services. NEW guidance and training has A Learnpro module will be available Designed to support people st been developed around use of bed- as of Monday, 1 February and a practi- who do not have English as a first rails in NHS Highland. cal session is being built into the Prac- language, or who are deaf or hard Bedrails are commonly used as tice Development annual update days, of hearing, a joint training session safety devices to prevent people falling and will become part of the ‘Essentials will take place at the council’s from bed, and they should be used of Care’ induction programme for new training unit on Dochfour Drive, where patients are being moved from ward staff from March this year. Inverness, on Monday 29th Febru- one area to another on a bed or recov- The training has been designed for ary. ering from an anaesthetic. staff that use bed rails, make decisions After the half-day session on Bedrails are not appropriate for use about bed rail use, or advise patients the use of interpreters, staff from with people who are independently mo- about bed rail use. This includes stu- both organisations will be able to: bile, and although inpatient hospital dents and temporary staff.  Understand why NHS Highland/ beds have integral bed rails, this does The Learnpro module takes 20 min- Highland Council use profes- not mean that bed rails should be used utes to complete and contains six sec- sional interpreters. for every patient. tions of learning.  Be able to explain the differ- Accident data shows that bed rails These are introduction, deciding ence between interpreting and sometimes don’t prevent falls and can when to use bedrails, restraint, recom- translation. introduce other risks. Some patients mended tools, safety checks and alter-  Know where to go to book an who are mobile but have confusion or native management. interpreter. delirium can climb over the bedrail and The revised bedrails tool will be part  Be aware of communication fall from a greater height. of the NHS Highland seven day assess- support available to help people When bed rails are used, staff have a ment record to be rolled out in Febru- who are deaf or hard of hearing duty to ensure they are based on an ary 2016. The new assessment tool can (including British Sign Lan- assessment of the individual. Although be ordered separately via PECOS from guage). very uncommon, there have been cases 1st February. The order code will be  Be aware of up-to-date informa- where rails have caused deaths through confirmed in due course. tion in each partner agency with entrapment of a persons’ neck. The bedrails policy, which includes regards to the interpreting ser- Other injuries have resulted where a the new assessment tool, can be found vice and know where to look to person’s chest or limbs have become here: http://intranet.nhsh.scot.nhs.uk/ find the latest developments. trapped in gaps between the bedrails PoliciesLibrary/Documents/Safe%  Apply best practice when work- and the bed, headboard, or mattress. 20Use%20of%20Bedrails%20Policy.pdf ing with a client who needs an Bedrails are considered ‘medical de- This new policy will be reviewed in interpreter. vices’ regulated by the Medicines and one year, and the department would be To find out more about this Healthcare Products Regulatory Agency pleased to hear feedback at any point. training event and to book a place, (MHRA). Their guidance on the safe use Email Stephen Loch at [email protected] contact Nicki Walsh, learning and development adviser, The High- of bedrails can be found at: https:// or call 01463 706834. Alternatively, land Council, by phoning 01463 www.gov.uk/government/uploads/ contact Christine McArthur on 01700 703035 or by e-mail ing- system/uploads/attachment_data/ 501 549 or at christinemcar- [email protected] file/422784/Safe_use_of_bed_rails.pdf [email protected] - 22 - LONDON MARATHON Jelly babies keep midwife on the road... AN NHS Highland midwife based District, and even a trip to France to in Skye plans to pull out all the run in the Medoc Marathon. stops to raise more than £1,400 for “That involved running 26 miles charity running in this year’s Lon- through vineyards drinking wine in fancy don Marathon. dress, in 30 degrees heat; never again,” Natalie Scott (42) aims to use all the she said. tricks she’s learnt over five year of Yet Natalie only took up running training and running marathons this seriously five years ago. DOGGED DETERMINATION: Natalie April – including eating jelly babies to “Before that, I couldn’t even be gears up for a training run with her pet help ward off hitting the dreaded ‘wall’ bothered running for a bus,” she said. cocker spaniel on the day. “I was in pub one day with some Skye dressed as a duck or something, I ‘Hitting the wall’ is where things can friends talking about marathon running would hate to think what people were start to go wrong for a marathon run- and I said I wished I could do that. thinking. I would certainly get some ner: legs start to feel like concrete; “So I went from zero to running the strange looks,” she said. breathing becomes laboured; strides marathon in four months. That first one Natalie first heard about the Iolan- turn into a shuffle and negative thoughts was totally hell on earth, the and my the Midwifery Trust while studying in prevail such that the urge to quit can partner and my daughter, who is now . The trust was set up initially become overwhelming. 18, thought I was crazy. But the feeling back in 1983 with the proceeds of the Fortunately, Natalie has enough ex- crossing the line, it’s just a really fantas- now defunct Central Midwife Board’s perience to recognise the signs and her tic feeling of achievement,” said Natalie. home – a house called Iolanthe once own special way to counter them. With a best time of four and a half owned by WS Gilbert, of Gilbert and “I learnt about jelly babies some 17 hours running the 26 miles and 385 Sullivan fame. miles into the Loch Ness Marathon a yards course, Natalie wants to beat that She said: “It was on a master’s level couple of years ago,” she said. “They personal best on Sunday 24th April. course I was doing at Robert Gordon certainly help to keep me going.” “I’m aiming for 4 hours 20 minutes University. One of the tutors there re- But not just any jelly babies will do in London,” she said, adding: “Running ceived funding from the trust to do for the community midwife based at the the marathon is a mind game, you’ve got some research. I did pass that course, Mackinnon Memorial Hospital in Broad- to be stubborn and have lots of deter- incidentally, but it was harder than do- ford – they have to be red ones. mination.” ing a marathon.” “I sort them out before I go run- Natalie has friends from Broadford As far as fundraising goes, Natalie ning,” she said. “Imagine not doing that who run and train with her on a regular has already raised almost £1,000 to- and then having to eat the green ones. basis. wards her target. Unthinkable.” “I often go training with friends – a And she intends to boost that by With five full marathons under her doctor and three friends, all nurses, holding two curry nights for colleagues belt, Natalie’s run this April will raise who keep me going,” she said. and friends at Broadford hospital at her money for the Iolanthe Midwifery Trust. In the spirit of charity fundraising, home before April, starting with one The trust aims to improve care for Natalie is looking for ideas what to later this month. mums and babies by investing in mid- dress up in this year. Any members of the public or col- wives’ research and professional devel- “The trouble is they say that if you leagues from NHS Highland wishing to opment, are going to wear fancy dress then you sponsor Natalie can do so at the Virgin Her previous runs include three should go for a long practice run before Money Giving website at http:// Loch Ness Marathons, one in the Lake the event. If I went running through virginmoneygiving.com/NatalieScott - 23 - NATIONAL CONFIDENTIAL FORUM IMMUNISATION Helping to share childhood experiences of being in care Filling a gap THE National Confidential Forum offered information about support ser- exists to listen to, understand and vices if they may be of help to them. in services... acknowledge the experiences of Ben Lukins, project manager at the anyone who spent time in institu- forum, said: “Being heard and acknowl- THE health visitor team in the Hel- ensburgh and Lomond locality has tional care as a child in Scotland. edged has been a powerful experience now reintroduced a BCG immunisa- People from across Scotland and for individuals. We are very grateful to tion service for the local population beyond have been sharing their child- all those who have shared with us, in- in the locality. This service covers hood experiences of being in care with cluding those who had a difficult and the five GP practices in the area the forum. Those who have already distressing time in their childhood. The from Cardross to Arrochar. spoken to the forum include people forum is only a small part of a bigger The service was withdrawn a who stayed in children’s homes, board- journey for some people in dealing with number of years ago due to the reti- ing schools and hospitals and they range and reconciling issues that have affected ral of a key member of staff and par- in age from 20 to 80. Most people have them into their adult life. People have ents wishing to have their children immunised had to travel outwith the come to the forum offices for a hearing been clear about their desire to ensure area to access the service. where they talked about positive, nega- that what happened to them does not The service was repatriated to tive and mixed experiences, while some happen to children in care now. the locality following the motivation have chosen to share their experiences “We have also heard about positive and enthusiasm of health visitor in writing. experiences, with people telling us Morag Gordon (pictured). Morag Those who visited the forum met about the good care they received and undertook the required training last two forum members, who in their pre- why this worked well, which is also summer while at the same time con- vious work have listened to people talk- really valuable to our work. tinuing with her day-to-day health ing about very personal experiences. “What people tell us helps us under- visitor duties. By December, she was ready to undertake her first clinic, People have had help in paying for and stand what it was like to be a child in having arranged a venue, ordered sorting out their travel arrangements care in Scotland. This is helping us to the required vaccine and appointed and have been accompanied by up to build a picture of the legacy of care in clients from the waiting list. two supporters. Scotland, which will form part of the Morag said she was pleased that It can be difficult to decide to come national record and help policy makers the service could now be provided forward and there is help available in provide better and safer care in Scot- locally and it was good news for making that decision from a dedicated land for children now and in the future.” families that they would no longer advice and guidance phone line. This is Individuals who want to take part in have to travel. She added that she staffed by an experienced listener who the forum must be over 16 years old enjoyed learning the new skills re- quired and felt that it was good that discusses with individuals what sharing and no longer in care. Institutional care the health visitor team could now their experiences may mean for them includes residential care or health ser- provide this service locally. personally. This can be especially helpful vice or boarding school and could have Caron Beveridge, health visitor if it is not something that someone has been run by a local authority, health team lead, congratulated Morag on spoken about before. People have been board, a private provider or a charity. her achievement and her commit- ment in filling a gap in services avail- Anyone interested in finding out more can call the forum’s support staff on free able for families in the Helensburgh phone: 0800 121 4773; email [email protected] or and Lomond area. visit the forum’s website at www.nationalconfidentialforum.org.uk. - 24 - PHARMACY New research centre launched in Inverness ROBERT Gordon University (RGU) has teamed up with NHS Highland to establish a new phar- macy academic research centre in Inverness. Lecturers from RGU’s School of Pharmacy and Life Sciences have worked with colleagues in the Highland capital to create the Highland Pharmacy Education and Research Centre (HPERC). Based in the Centre for Health Sci- ence in Inverness, HPERC was officially opened in November by Professor Rose Marie Parr, chief pharmaceutical officer for the Scottish Government. The research centre is a new ven- Pictured from left are Professor Rose Marie Parr, chief pharmaceutical officer, ture for RGU and NHS Highland and Scottish Government; Professor Don Cairns, head of RGU’s School of Pharmacy has been established to support the & Life Sciences; Ian Rudd, director of pharmacy, NHS Highland; and Gordon provision of long-term clinical place- Rushworth, programme director, HPERC ments for a new postgraduate course at the university entitled ‘MSc in Clinical which will enable research collabora- communities is a key lifeline service and Pharmacy and Service Development.’ tions and achieve that special mix of this development will help to support HPERC will also build on existing industry, academic and NHS activity, that health system for patients.” undergraduate interprofessional teach- which is vitally important to grow the Gordon Rushworth, programme ing placements with medical students life sciences sector, and also support director for the Highland Pharmacy based in NHS Highland. In addition, the Scottish Government’s vision and Education and Research Centre, added: HPERC will act as a hub for pharmacy action plan for pharmaceutical care in “Opening HPERC is the culmination of researchers in the Highlands. the community. years of work establishing an effective Professor Parr said: “I was hon- “Having a community pharmacy net- teaching and research collaboration oured to be asked to open HPERC work across all our remote and rural between NHS Highland and RGU’s School of Pharmacy & Life Sciences. COURSE “HPERC will deliver innovative clini- cal placement teaching to undergradu- How to write a scientific paper… ate and postgraduate pharmacy stu-

A COURSE on ‘writing a paper’ is to be held in the Centre for Health Science, dents in Highland and be at the fore- Inverness, on 25th February. front of clinical and practice based re- To be presented by senior researcher Dr David Heaney, the course is in- search." tended for healthcare researchers who have not previously had their work published. It will give a brief overview of how to write a scientific paper for Professor Donald Cairns, head of publication and will include contributions from both a quantitative and qualita- RGU’s School of Pharmacy and Life tive research background. The basics covered will include identification of an Sciences, said: “I am delighted that the appropriate journal, devising a title, writing an abstract, structuring the paper School has partnered with NHS High- and avoiding common pitfalls, and there will be tips on clarity and style. land and look forward to working more To apply for this course an application form can be found on the NHS closely with them in the future. The Highland intranet on the R&D page, which is under the heading 'Staff'. Other- new facilities are excellent and establish wise email [email protected] an RGU presence in Inverness.” - 25 - - 26 - OPAT Patients treated closer to home IN the past year over 3000 bed antimicrobial pharmacist and two spe- days have been saved at Raigmore cialist nurses. Hospital thanks to the Outpatient Fiona’s colleague, Andrew Wilson, Antibiotic Therapy (OPAT) team, joined the team in September in 2014 as who have been working with a a second nurse specialist. His addition number of specialities across the to the team has allowed them to ex- hospital and the community allow- pand the work of OPAT around skin ing more patients to stay at home and soft tissue patients and those re- rather than in a hospital bed. quiring a shorter course of antibiotic Fiona Elder, OPAT nurse specialist, administered at the OPAT centre based explained that with the outpatient anti- at Raigmore Hospital, Inverness. biotic therapy service patients who He said: “The feedback we get from could have been in hospital for up to patients is very positive. They prefer three months could now be treated at having this treatment as an outpatient home. service. Even though they may not be in She said: “Before we were able to a ward environment they are treated give these antibiotics using an outpatient just as safely but can carry on with their service it was previously done in hospi- Andrew Wilson and Fiona Elder family and working lives. tal and, depending on the patient’s con- “We do our best to work around dition, could last anything from three delivered in a community setting is one our patients needs which can include days to three months meaning the pa- bed day saved for a patient who really treating them early in the morning as a tient was in a bed but they weren’t nec- needs it.” day case which will then allow them to essarily ill. There is a co-ordinated approach go to work that day. “We can now give those patients between hospital and community with “We work very closely with col- treatment closer to home providing an patients being monitored very closely leagues in hospital-based settings and alternative to remaining in hospital from start to finish by the OPAT team, also out in the community where we when they don’t need to be.” which includes a consultant lead, micro- have given training and are always avail- Fiona added: “An IV antibiotic being biology and orthopaedic consultant, able for advice if needed.”

Heath and social care staff in Oban celebrated the 20th anniversary of the opening of Lorn & Islands Hospital at their Christmas night out and Santa and his elves turned up to do a wee dance routine for the staff. A good night was had by all. - 27 - - 28 - HIGHLAND HEALTH SCIENCES LIBRARY Over sea and glen: Remote and rural support project

THE Highland Health Sciences Library important in extremely remote and rural areas continues to work with NHS Education where physical and electronic infrastructures Scotland and NHS Highland to develop are not particularly robust. ways of supporting working in remote This project gives the library an excellent and rural areas. opportunity to explore these experiences from We are currently working with both bodies the viewpoints of these users so that support on an educational/clinical project involving services meeting user needs can be continued seven staff based in extremely remote areas of to be built up. NHS Highland. These staff are from a range of The project will run from December 2015 disciplines including – ambulance personnel, until February 2016. Evaluation will be by pre nurses, GPs and allied health professionals. and post project questionnaires, focus group The main aim of the project is to test We- discussions and action plan/reflective diaries. bEx as a learning tool. WebEx will also be used Rob Polson ([email protected]), Subject to aid communication and facilitate collabora- Librarian, Highland Health Sciences Library tion within the group participating in the study. It will use iPads preloaded with a set of apps and communication software to test the viability Local library staff are of using such technology to support the work and learning of remote and rural practitioners in acutely aware of how impor- the Scottish Highlands. Fourteen health-related apps were selected to include on the iPads. tant they are to supporting These include: BNF, Dynamed Plus and the Scottish Palliative Care Guidelines. and sustaining staff Local library services are acutely conscious ‘ of how important they are to supporting and sustaining staff. These roles are particularly - 29 -

’ Ever wondered what our staff do in their spare time? OTHER LIVES ‘Other Lives’ reports on colleagues’ outside interests

Wildlife serves as muse for mosaics maker Kim THE natural wildlife of the Seaboard Vil- lages of Easter Ross has resident Kim Sta- pleton keeping a watchful eye for source material she can recycle into works of art. For NHS Highland’s deaf services team leader makes mosaics in her spare time. It’s a hobby that sees her seeking out charity It’s the shops, building merchants and even skips to find pieces so that I don’t have to break or cut it.” bits and pieces that match the colours of the process After gathering and then cleaning the mate- birds and other animals seen around her Shand- ‘ rial, Kim breaks it, if necessary, with a hammer wick home. I enjoy, and then cuts it into shapes with special clip- And Kim’s need to source the material has pers; one for glass and one for ceramics. She grown since completing a confidence-boosting not then puts the pieces, sorted by colours, into mosaic course in Elphin near Ullapool last Oc- her shed. tober as it has led to bigger and bigger projects. neces- “My shed is full of essential and beautiful “I mostly use broken crockery; it‘s a nice things – a pandora’s box,” she said. way of recycling it. If I drop something, I use it. When making her mosaics, Kim draws an And I got a lovely box of second-hand broken sarily image and then sticks the tiles onto the slate or crockery from Blythswood recently,” said Kim, board background. Once that’s done, she uses who works in Dingwall. the grout to fill in the spaces. She also gets material in shops and building Kim’s mosaics are mostly of birds, usually merchants across the Highlands, and the coast- depicted in flight or in action, but since she result line is another good source of material. went on a three-day mosaic course called Wild “Sometimes I use sea glass,” she said. “It’s Tiles and run by artist Jan Kirkpatrick, she has beautiful, it’s smooth, and it tends to be in small become more inspired. She said: “Jan taught me so much, including practical tips like using plastic milk bottles chopped into pieces to work the grout in with.” As for her mosaics themselves, once com- pleted Kim says she usually gives them away to unsuspecting people and for Christmas pre- sents. “One of my biggest blessings in life is that ’ I’m not afraid to have a bash at things,” she said. “It’s the process I enjoy, not necessarily the end result.”

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Q & What does your job involve? A

Working with locality teams Finally, what’s your favourite across Highland to provide Out of THIS MONTH: book? Hours Primary care in different Death of a Naturalist, by Seamus ways. In other words, what’s next Dingwall-based Heaney. for urgent primary care now the Dr Finlay model of GPs working If you won £10 million in the 24 hours a day doesn’t really out-of-hours lottery, what would you work for anybody. spend it on? project lead You’d find me and my partner Can you describe yourself cycling around the world, as please, Evan? Evan Beswick many times as £10 million would Easily describable in five words. cover. Or until our legs gave up.

Do you have and hobbies and What about a smaller sum; interests? say £1,000? A few. I moved to the Highlands I think our van is going to need a partly so I could cycle every inch new fuel rail soon. of them. I’m giving that a reasona- bly good stab. I’m also involved in If you could have dinner with Velocity Café and Bicycle work- three people, dead or alive, shop in Inverness – if you’ve been who would they be and what in I might have helped you fix would you cook them? your brakes. And I play the clari- Three is quite a tough one as net in an orchestra. Like, really there’s four in my family. I’d invite badly. my mum, dad and sister. And we’d cook my brother so he did- What was the first single you n’t feel left out. ever bought? No joke. It was Dario G, What are your pet hates? Sunchyme in 1998. Appalling. I try not to have any. But I do find it hard to stay composed when there’s a squeak or a click What is your favourite food? on one of my bikes and I can’t work out what it is. Bread. I love making, and then eating, bread. What are the best and worst things about your job? And how about your favourite film? We’re doing some quite new and genuinely exciting things The first film that Phillip Glass wrote the music for: Godfrey around remote and rural primary care. There’s loads of Reggio’s Koyaanisqatsi. barriers and issues, but the way all the teams have knocked them down one by one has been brilliant. Absolutely the And TV programme? worst thing is dealing with yearly budgets and not always I listen to the radio more. Late Junction on Radio 3 when being able to invest in the new models of care that are going Max Reinhardt is presenting is brilliant. to take a few years to start paying off.

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