Cold snap Baby talk And the winner is... It’s time for winter readiness. We’ve earned Unicef’s There’s still time to make Are you prepared? (p2-3) approval for our infant Staff Awards nominations care (p7) (p17)

January/February 2019

www.thepulse.scot.nhs.uk thepulse

GOLD STANDARDS FROM OUR TEAMS! Our innovations win two major accolades at Scottish Health Awards (p12-13) 10 MENTAL HEALTH AWARENESS 11

Partnership events Picture: L-R Dorothy Carbray, Pledging to remove Lynn Hammond, Liam Rankin, to help strategy Frank O’Donnell, Dr Debra O’Neill mental health stigmas development The staff and pupils at Airdrie Academy have launched its new collaborative A new Mental Health positive mental health campaign Strategy is currently being drafted. ‘Heads Up’. It aims to raise awareness It’s to support the Scottish about mental health problems, Government’s 10-year National including suicide, and to empower Mental Health Strategy which was young people to start having positive published in 2017 which will look conversations about mental health to at: stamp out stigma. • Prevention and early As part of the initiative, the school detection is partnering with Stigma Free • Access to treatment and Lanarkshire (SFL), a Lanarkshire-wide joined-up accessible services movement that is bringing people together to influence change and • Physical well-being of people challenge mental health stigma and with mental health problems discrimination. “We are inspired by the school’s staff • Rights, information use and The staff and pupils of Airdrie and pupils and the work that they planning Academy have signed the SFL pledge are doing now and will do through • children and young people’s and are committed to being active their pledge. This voice of support mental health and playing a meaningful part in the can change minds, behaviours, and • Data and measurement. movement. This means creating an ultimately, lives.” As part of the Lanarkshire understanding through awareness, The school is also working in strategy, a series of development opening conversations and having partnership with Airdrieonians who events with wide partnership support available when a staff member are embarking on several projects, involvement have been arranged or pupil does want to talk to someone including suicide prevention. As to map out existing services and about mental health worries or issues. suicide is the main cause of young to scope out future developments Jenny Hutton, interim public mental deaths in , the club recognise and priorities. health and well-being development the importance of teaming up with manager, NHS Lanarkshire and chair Suicide Prevention of Lanarkshire Recovery Network said: to raise awareness. “We are delighted to be involved with For more on Stigma Free Lanarkshire, Airdrie Academy in working together visit: www.elament.org.uk/ to tackle mental health stigma in lanarkshire-recovery-network/ or Lanarkshire. telephone 01698 265232. Helping our staff cope One year of helping LIAM GIVES BACK AFTER with work’s challenges those in distress A new ‘Mindfulness’ initiative has been cognitive therapy. introduced at Carluke Community The practice of Mindfulness involves In November, partners in the Health Centre to boost the well-being becoming more attuned to the present Health and Social Care North SUPPORT HE’S RECEIVED and reduce stress for mental health moment – including body, thoughts Lanarkshire distress brief administrative staff. and feelings – which can alter our intervention (DBI) programme Fifty-year-old Liam Rankin has had his Through the support provided by clinical now part of a pilot project launched by NHS This group of staff are the frontline relationship to stress and distress. celebrated one full year of life turned around thanks to the support psychologist Dr Debra O’Neill and the CMHT, Education for Scotland (NES) which will see of care and often face challenging connected, compassionate support. provided by the community mental health Liam has been supported and encouraged to him provide ‘Psychosocial Interventions for The first group sessions were positively team (CMHT) at ’s Hunter Health become a community champion for See Me Psychosis’ training across Lanarkshire for situations when speaking to people in received by staff who attended and Morag Dendy, interim head of Centre. - Scotland’s programme to end mental health mental health staff who have a keyworker role distress. To address this issue, senior plans are under way to continue them. planning performance and quality stigma and discrimination – and regularly and work with people who have experience of charge nurse Nicola McLean from the assurance at Health and Social Since 2010, Liam has been supported by It is hoped that Mindfulness practice holds events to raise awareness of the stigma psychosis. psychological therapies Care North Lanarkshire, said: “We a multi-disciplinary team - involving a will assist staff with improving well- around mental health issues in the workplace team (PTT), arranged Mindfulness wanted to recognise all the hard community psychiatric nurse, specialist Dr O’Neill said: “Liam has been an active being and responses to distress at work and across the community. sessions for staff. work that all the partners have put occupational therapist, clinical psychologist participant through the support offered by – and indeed at home. in over this first year to implement and clinical support worker in partnership Through this role, Liam has also become a the team. He has used this positively and, with Administrators across mental health Comments from staff who took part DBI. with social work services - for those with media volunteer for the See Me ‘Time to Talk’ the psychosocial interventions training, he services in Clydesdale were afforded included: “Valuable, helpful skill to complex mental health needs. initiative, appearing in national press and on is now providing training to mental health access to a series of Mindfulness “It’s their efforts which are helping relieve stress at work, at home, in radio. professionals across NHS Lanarkshire to help sessions in September which ran for to support people and enable them Liam said: “The support I’ve had has been family relationships and friendships” them better understand the issues around four weeks for groups of four to five. to manage their current distress fantastic. Everyone has been so nice – they Through his experience, Liam now plans to and “I thoroughly enjoyed the sessions mental ill-health.” and make them more confident have gone above and beyond. They’re always set up a choir involving community mental Run by the Mindfulness Trainers and I would look forward to them each about managing any future there if I need them – I wouldn’t be where I health staff and See Me volunteers which For more on the See Me programme, visit: Network in NHS Lanarkshire, the week. Nicola, along with the other distress.” am today without them.” will tour across Scotland. In addition, he is www.seemescotland.org sessions followed the evidence-based lovely ladies that were in the group model of Mindfulness-based stress brought some well needed peace and reduction and Mindfulness-based calm to my life”. 18 STAFF BENEFITS RETIRALS 19 SO LONG & ENJOY YOUR GET BACK TO NATURE (IN STYLE) WELL-DESERVED RETIREMENT We have teamed up with NHS Staff essence of Scotland. Some cabins have discount code. Friends, family and colleagues gathered Benefits and Forest Holidays to offer one enchanting views of Loch Lubnaig while To enter, answer the following question: to pay a special goodbye to health records lucky reader a £250 gift voucher to be others occupy a grassy forest glade. manager Anne Baker who retired from NHS Lanarkshire in September. used at any time of the year. At Ardgartan Argyll, the loch-side setting In which two Scottish locations can Anne, who was based at University Hospital A Forest Holiday is whatever you choose of the cabins will take your breath away. Forest Holidays be found? Monklands, is one of the original members it to be - from activities led by its forest From the comfort of your cabin (or of the health records department, having rangers, to exploring the forest on foot the tranquility of your hot tub), enjoy amassed a remarkable 39 years’ service or by bike, to spending the evening magnificent views across the tranquil Please send your competition answer during her career. underneath a canopy of trees, gazing Loch Long to the snow-capped mountains including your name, location and contact at the stars from your own private hot beyond. number to: Colleagues gathered to pay a special tub. Bring the dog for walks along the farewell to Catherine (Cathy) Courtney Whether your cabin of choice is a Alison McCutcheon, Communications forest trails, invite the whole family for Department, NHS Lanarkshire who retired in September after an Anne Baker Janis Oldcorn Katrina Taylor a long-awaited get-together or make it sumptuous Silver Birch, a romantic Headquarters, Kirklands, Fallside Road, exceptional 40 years’ service. a romantic break in Scotland - a Forest Golden Oak hideaway or a luxurious Bothwell G71 8BB Cathy, who was a team leader for nursing Holiday is anything but ordinary. Golden Oak treehouse, NHS Staff can staff with the sexual health service at Coathill save five per cent off at Forest Holidays or email alison.mccutcheon@ Forest Holidays have two stunning Hospital, trained and qualified as a nurse at lanarkshire.scot.nhs.uk with locations in Scotland - Strathyre and all year round. St Vincent’s Hospital in Dublin. ‘Forest Holidays’ in the subject line. Ardgartan Argyll. At the gateway to the To access the offer, log on to your account In 1979, Cathy moved to Paisley where she trained in midwifery before moving to Highlands and surrounded by forest, at www.nhsstaffbenefits.co.uk and search Bellshill maternity in 1981 as a labour ward Linda Christie loch and mountain, Strathyre is the very for ‘Forest Holidays’ to find the exclusive The deadline is Friday 11 January. sister. In 1984, Cathy took up the post of sister in the neonatal unit and shortly afterwards began occasional sessions in the family planning service in Lanarkshire (now known as the sexual health service). In 1997, Cathy was the first midwife in Cathy Courtney Maureen Deacon Margaret Haddow Lanarkshire to graduate with a Masters at ’s Stobhill Hospital and, on Margaret, who was based within the in Midwifery. qualifying, worked in theatres. ophthalmology department at University In 2002, Cathy left the neonatal unit to work In 1987, Katrina took up employment with Hospital Hairmyres, began her career with full-time in family planning, providing NHS Lanarkshire, firstly with the A&E NHS Lanarkshire as a clinical support worker, contraceptive services to women across department at University Hospital Hairmyres firstly at and thereafter Lanarkshire, a role in which she remained and latterly with the treatment room at at University Hospital Hairmyres. until her retirement. Hunter Health Centre which she joined Margaret then trained to become a registered In her spare time, Cathy enjoys walking, in 1997 and where she remained until her general nurse and worked in this capacity music and swimming. She has a large family retirement. at University Hospitals Hairmyres and with many nieces and nephews who she is Katrina is married and has a daughter, Lynn, Wishaw before joining the ophthalmology very close to and spends time with. She also and two step-children, Helen and Stewart, as department at University Hospital Hairmyres is very close to her elderly dad who is still well as eight grandchildren. Originally from where she remained until her retirement. managing at home in Dublin. Kilsyth, Katrina has lived in East Kilbride for Margaret lives in Larkhall and has a son and over 30 years. In her spare time, she enjoys two grandsons. Friends and colleagues within the theatre walking, attending church and socialising. recovery unit at University Hospital To mark her retirement, Katrina has planned Colleagues paid a fond farewell to clerical Monklands paid a special farewell to a trip to Australia to visit her sister. officer Maureen Deacon who retired from staff nurse Janis Oldcorn who retired in her post at Rutherglen Primary Care October after an astounding 47 years’ After 39 years’ service, associate Centre in December after a remarkable service. practitioner in paediatric physiotherapy 42 years’ service. Janis began her nursing training Linda Christie retired from her post at In her early career, Maureen worked at the Oh, yes in 1971 and, after qualifying, began in July. Hoover factory before joining the health working at Glasgow Royal Infirmary in Linda joined NHS Lanarkshire in 1979 service to work at the ‘old Rutherglen clinic’. she did… the medical ward before moving to the following the opening of the then Monklands She thereafter took employment with the sick children’s unit. General Hospital. Ballantay family planning clinic in Castlemilk Congratulations goes to Janis then joined NHS Lanarkshire, In 1993, Linda moved to the community before moving to the Rutherglen Primary Elaine Steele from the adult working at Law Hospital in both the surgical nursing team at Central health centre, Care Centre in 1987 where she remained until critical care unit at University department and intensive care unit. Cumbernauld before joining the paediatric her retirement. Benefits for all Hospital Wishaw who was In 1984, Janis joined the recovery physiotherapy team where she remained Maureen was born and bred in Rutherglen. department at University Hospital until her retirement. She is married to Alec and has three children, Register for free to have For information on the winner of the November/ Monklands where she remained until her Linda lives in , Airdrie with her twins Iain and Pauline, and Alexander. She full access to all the fantastic mortgage and financial December Pulse competition. retirement. husband David. She has two daughters, a son also has two grandsons Rhys (15) and Jack (11). offers available in your area. advice, online loyalty Elaine’s correct entry wins and six grandchildren as well as two great- Maureen is looking forward to her retirement All the companies on the shopping and the her four tickets to see the After a remarkable 42 years’ service, grandchildren. which will afford her more time with her website offer discounts fantastic local discounts Christmas pantomime Katrina Taylor retired from NHS husband Alec. and there are many more available, visit: Aladdin at the Kings Theatre, Lanarkshire in August. Congratulations goes to nurse Margaret Colleague Tricia Willis said: “Maureen will offering great deals. www.nhsstaffbenefits.co.uk Glasgow on 18 December. The treatment room nurse, who was based Haddow who retired in September with be missed as she is the oracle within the at Hunter Health Centre, trained as a nurse over 30 years’ service. health centre.” 02 LATEST NEWS 03

thepulse WINTER’S COMING – Texts to help tackle missed appointments Contents NHS Lanarkshire ARE YOU PREPARED? is piloting a new Monklands update 4 text reminder All NHS Lanarkshire staff have a vital If travelling by private car check that: service to help Syphilis awareness 8-9 role in maintaining health care services • Lights are clean and working reduce the number whatever the weather brings. Mental health focus 10-11 of appointments • Battery is fully charged John White, director of human resources, patients miss. Scottish Health Awards 12 said: “The NHS is an essential service and all • Windscreen, wiper blades and other The two-way text staff are expected to make every reasonable windows are clean and the washer bottle IT & Knowledge 14-15 service is being effort to attend work to support the safe filled with screen wash solution tested within Retirals 19 delivery of patient care. • Tyre condition, tread depth and pressure two specialties – Spotlight 20 “All staff, including managers, should make (of all the tyres, including the spare) paediatric orthopaedics and respiratory sure they are familiar with the adverse services – from 27 November. As well • Brakes are working properly conditions policy which is available on as reminding patients when their FirstPort.” • Fluids are kept topped up, especially appointment is, it will also give them the windscreen wash (to the correct option of cancelling the appointment Staff should be aware that travel disruption concentration to prevent it freezing), anti- if they can no longer attend or do not is possible and public transport may be freeze and oil require an appointment. subject to cancellation. • Keep vehicle adequately fuelled Heather Knox, director of acute services, The general advice is: said: “Every appointment which a patient • Plan your whole journey and prepare • Monitor weather forecasts fails to attend costs the NHS £136 and adequately for all eventualities, including wastes an appointment which could be • Plan journeys allowing additional time being unable to complete your journey by used by another patient. vehicle. • Consider travelling with a colleague if “The two-way text message will be sent possible. For further information on vehicle safety three days before your appointment and in winter see: www.readyscotland.org If travelling by public transport: will also allow you to reply and cancel if John added: “The key message is that you can no longer attend or don’t require • Monitor websites and news for managers and staff should have discussions the appointment. information on changes/cancellations in advance of winter to ensure both “This will hopefully make it much • Prepare for longer waits if service is personal safety and service continuity. We easier for patients to manage their delayed will share Met Office weather warnings appointments and will help us to make and advice when these warnings have the • Dress for the conditions including suitable slots available to other patients when an potential to cause disruption for our staff, footwear. appointment is cancelled.” patients and services.” Got a story? The project will run for 12 weeks and If you have any ideas, stories will be evaluated to assess the impact or features you would like to on the number of appointments missed see included, or would just like Extended GP We are now a Living Wage employer and if patients have found it beneficial to tell us what you think of the to receive a reminder with the option to NHS Lanarkshire is the first regional health Pulse, please get in touch... opening hours cancel. board to be accredited as a Living Wage If successful, the system will be rolled out Alison McCutcheon over festive season employer by the Living Wage Foundation Scotland. This means that every NHS to other specialties. Tel: 01698 858111 Some GP practices in Lanarkshire are Lanarkshire employee earns a real living wage, Alison.McCutcheon@lanarkshire. increasing their opening hours to help recently set at £9 per hour, by 1 April 2019. scot.nhs.uk ease the pressures of the festive season and Retirement policy for all the anticipated increase in winter illness. The foundation awards the Living Wage Additional days for participating practices employer mark as a symbol of responsible Managers are reminded to make staff include: business practice, celebrating employers that aware of the ‘Preparation for Retirement’ procedure. • Wednesday 26 December 2018 choose to go further than the government’s minimum wage. Their research shows that The retirement policy sets out a process • Wednesday 2 January 2019 paying the real Living Wage helps businesses to allow employees to retire with dignity. • Saturday 5 January 2019 recruit and retain staff, reduce absenteeism and It applies to all staff who are permanently Editorial policy encourage higher productivity. retiring regardless of • Saturday 12 January 2019. As the staff newspaper of NHS Over 4,000 organisations, including NHS asset and are fundamental to the success their age. Lanarkshire,the Pulse aims to celebrate Patients should check directly with their that is based on the actual cost of living. It is the work and achievements of staff Lanarkshire, voluntarily choose to pay the real of NHS Lanarkshire. In achieving living The policy includes phased retirement calculated each year and is announced by and services. It also shares information practice to confirm festive opening hours. Living Wage because it believes that a hard day’s wage accreditation, we’re demonstrating to allow the member of staff to continue about the changes and issues that affect the Living Wage Foundation as part of Living staff at work. We would like to hear your Self-care advice for ailments such as work deserves a fair day’s pay. This commitment our commitment to being a responsible to earn their normal pay while reducing Wage Week in November. It is currently thoughts and suggestions about the coughs and colds is also available from applies to not only directly employed staff but employer, supporting our staff and the wider the hours they work in the final three kind of stories you would like to see in also to third party contracted staff. community too.” £9.00 in the UK, with a higher rate for London. months. the Pulse. Contact Alison (above) with your local pharmacist or NHS Inform at your stories, comments and ideas. www.nhsinform.scot or 0800 22 44 88. John White, director of human resources, said: The real or national living wage is an To find out more about the Living Wage, The procedure can be found on the “Our staff are without doubt our most valuable independently calculated hourly rate of pay visit: www.livingwage.org.uk policies section of FirstPort. 04 HOSPITAL NEWS 05 REVIEW OF OPTIONS FOR MONKLANDS The Scottish Government has confirmed its commitment to the replacement or refurbishment of University Hospital Monklands. The NHS Lanarkshire Board decision on the preferred option for the replacement or refurbishment Bagging a great idea of the hospital will now be taken following the conclusion of the independent review for patient well-being of the public consultation on the Monklands Morag Torrance, clinical support Replacement/Refurbishment Project (MRRP). worker with the long-term Announcing the review, Health Secretary Jeane conditions/community district Freeman said: “The Scottish Government is nursing team at Health committed to the replacement or refurbishment Centre, has introduced a unique of University Hospital Monklands, in order to “In order to retain public confidence in this way of providing some comfort to create new modern health and specialist services process it is clearly important that these concerns terminally ill patients who require to for the people of Lanarkshire, and those in the are properly considered and responded to. I carry a syringe driver. Monklands catchment area. have therefore asked the chief executive of NHS Following feedback, Morag identified Scotland to establish a review in order to provide “I have, however, noted the concerns raised about the need for a portable bag in which me with an independent assessment of the the consultation, both in the Scottish Parliament patients could carry their equipment consultation.” and by local people. In particular, there have without feeling self-conscious and been questions over the quality of information Neena Mahal, chair of NHS Lanarkshire, said: “We made colourful shoulder bags for this and analysis undertaken and the robustness and welcome the Scottish Government’s ongoing purpose. accuracy of the evidence which informed the commitment to the replacement or refurbishment Not only does the bag enable patients options appraisal process. of University Hospital Monklands. to carry their equipment more “At the recent Annual Review of NHS Lanarkshire, “It is important that our stakeholders have discretely, it offers patients a sense of I reiterated my support for a redeveloped confidence in the process and the outcome. We normality, minimising the awareness Monklands and welcomed the continued therefore welcome an independent review of of their condition or illness. involvement of staff in the process. I also believe the process and look forward to progressing this District nurses who visit terminally ill that clinical input is invaluable in ensuring the much needed facility for the people of Lanarkshire patients at home now regularly offer plans best meet the needs of local people. as soon as possible.” the bag to those who wish them. Morag said: “The bags are all unique and the patients are very pleased to Garden opening, panto style use them. It is a very difficult time for these patients and this simple Wishee Washee wowed wards in Wishaw gesture of a bag makes them feels less when he opened a new garden. Oh yes embarrassed and possibly forget that he did. their treatment is continuous.” Panto star, Ian ‘Sheepie’ Smith, took time out of rehearsals to formally open the new Consultation on the therapeutic area next to the care of the elderly Replacement or Refurbishment of BookWise solves capacity issues wards. University Hospital Monklands University Hospital Monklands is bookings, and were managed using Ian, who is starring in Aladdin at Motherwell using digital technology to manage spreadsheets. Now, room requests are Theatre, said: “It was an honour to open the consulting room capacity in its general submitted electronically which makes fantastic new garden for older patients. I was outpatient department and orthopaedic the review and approval process more so excited that I was asked to do it. I just can’t outpatient department clinics. efficient.” believe they trusted me with a pair of scissors! This has resulted in reducing waiting Lucky for me that I was in a hospital. Room scheduling software supplied times for patients and streamlining by BookWise Solutions was first fully “Hopefully the sun will come back next year A big thank you to Dobbies who gave their pathways to care. implemented in 2016, replacing the and the patients and staff will get a chance to us £1000 towards the cost of the garden and Kerry Paterson, service support manual system used previously to enjoy this wonderful, colourful garden.” to Serco, as they carried out the bulk of the manager, said: “Increasing demand to request sessions. Janice Miles, senior nurse for older people’s landscaping work in the garden.” meet capacity needs and to reduce the Kerry added: “BookWise allows all room services, said: “The garden has been designed Rhona Dunsmore, Serco general manager waiting time for patients had caused bookings to be visible which enables us as a special relaxing space for older patients soft services, said: “We’re really proud of what our accommodation requests to soar. to easily identify any potential errors on and their families, away from the ward we’ve achieved and so grateful to Ian for “Originally, these requests involved a bookings in a timely fashion, allowing environment. undertaking the opening and to everyone lengthy process, made through a mix early resolution prior to problems “It is also visible from the windows who has donated their time or money – huge A further review will decide the outcome of email, phone calls and face-to-face occurring, saving time for everyone.” and has been created in zones so that thanks to the hospital community who have of the Monklands redevelopment plan. the view from each area is different. been behind us all the way.” 06 HOSPITAL NEWS 07 NEW LIMS Oh baby, we’re ALMOST READY a friendly lot NHS Lanarkshire delivers communication system (OCS). laboratory services from all Ian added: “It is reassuring we says Unicef! three acute hospital sites. are making good progress In total, there are approximately towards the important Health visiting services in 1.3 million requests for developments in diagnostics Lanarkshire have once again been laboratory services covering such as order communication awarded the prestigious ‘Baby clinical biochemistry, for primary and secondary Friendly Award’ from Unicef. haematology, cellular pathology, care. The international award is given to microbiology and blood “This is a challenging and services that display best standard transfusion, resulting in around complex project that requires practices to protect, promote 3.5 million reports every year. the combined expertise of and support breastfeeding and Dr Ian Godber, clinical lead laboratory staff, eHealth and to strengthen mother-baby and for biochemistry, said: “A Technidata, who comprise family relationships. number of disparate laboratory the project team. The focus The award commended staff management systems had at this stage is to ensure a for their work to maintain their historically been in operation smooth transition to the new standards. across the three hospital sites. system. This is an exciting time Anne Armstrong, divisional nurse “Reconfiguration of these, along in the project and the team will director, said: “We are extremely with the implementation of a continue to provide regular proud that NHS Lanarkshire has Anne Armstrong, divisional single laboratory management updates to raise awareness of the been re-accredited as baby friendly. nurse director project’s objectives and to keep system, offered significant It is testament to the hard work and programme which provides a staff abreast of our progress.” opportunities to improve the dedication of healthcare staff across practical and effective way for efficiency and effectiveness of Donald Wilson, director Lanarkshire. health services to improve the care services, including facilitation of information and digital “The assessment included provided for all mothers and babies. of multi-disciplinary working, technologies, said: “Once interviews with 21 members of staff Anne Marie Bruce, infant feeding standardisation of operational we have consolidated on a and 44 new mums. All of the mums development midwife, added: workflow and improvements single LIMS we will start the who were interviewed as part of the “The team was also highly in the quality of service to process of rolling out order assessment said that they were very commended for arranging the clinicians and patients.” communication systems which happy with the care they received. 2018 Breastfeeding Summit, will enable clinicians across NHS Lanarkshire is working “The assessment team was which engaged all staff groups to primary care and secondary with Technidata to deliver the impressed by the mother-centred explore what can be implemented care to electronically request new laboratory information way staff discussed close and to increase breastfeeding rates tests and receive their results management system (LIMS) in loving relationships.” throughout Lanarkshire.” 2019. The implementation of the electronically. The Baby Friendly Initiative, Mums can find their nearest new LIMS will make a significant “This will introduce a range of Dr Ian Godber, clinical set up by Unicef and the World breastfeeding support group contribution towards plans benefits which will enhance lead for biochemistry Health Organisation, is a global at: www.feedgoodfactor.org.uk. to implement a digital order patient care.”

UK top 10 for Knit one, purl two, raise hundreds… Reinstated war memorial unveiled training team A family donated a bumper cheque for The fundraising drive saw friends and family To mark 100 years of the end of £1400 to the charity Crohn’s & Colitis UK as ‘Guess the birthday’ of the woollen unicorn the First World War, a special NHS Lanarkshire’s obstetrics and a thank you to the NHS six for the successful which raised an amazing £700. Remembrance Sunday event was held gynaecology team has been recognised treatment their granddaughter received On hearing of the money-raising efforts, on the site of the former Hartwood as one of the top 10 training departments when a patient in ward six at University Mrs Lanigan’s daughter-in-law Nicola, who Hospital on Sunday 11 November. in the UK by the Royal College of Hospital Wishaw. works for HBSC, told her employers of The small dedication ceremony was Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (RCOG) Christie Mulvaney (21) had been suffering Christie’s plight who in turn kindly offered to to unveil the reinstated war memorial for the second year in a row. for a number of years from ulcerative colitis double the amount raised. which was in place within the grounds The ‘highly commended’ gynaecology and and, thanks to the surgery performed by Mr Mrs Lanigan said: “Thank you to HSBC on of the former hospital. obstetric training and overall performance Komolafe, can now lead the life of a normal behalf of Nicola Lanigan who works for the The memorial, which was in memory is based on the feedback from trainee 21-year-old. company. The surgeon Mr Komolafe has of Hartwood staff who died in both doctors. To show their gratitude, Christie’s been first class and has given Christie her world wars, was removed for safe Dr Jane Burns, medical director, said: grandmother Helen Lanigan, from Motherwell, life back, we’re so grateful. She’s now doing keeping when the hospital closed but “That is a tremendous achievement and whose hobby is to knit, knitted a unicorn what she did before she was ill. She’s got a has now been reinstated for the benefit a testament to the excellent work of our and raffled this to raise funds for Crohn’s & great attitude now and is back to her enjoying of the local community. whole obstetrics and gynaecology team.” Colitis UK. her social life.” 08 SEXUAL HEALTH AWARENESS 09

New campaign RISE IN SYPHILIS spells out risks of CASES – MAKE ‘disease of the past The campaign to raise awareness of syphilis in Lanarkshire started in the run up to Christmas and will PATIENTS AWARE continue into mid-February. NHS Lanarkshire is responding to a rise in can cause serious damage to the heart, The festive party season is often associated the number of cases of syphilis diagnosed arteries and the nervous system. with the potential for an increase in risk-taking by its sexual health service. Dr John Logan, consultant in public sexual behaviour. Risk-taking behaviour includes Health staff are urging people who think health medicine, said: “The increase has unprotected (condom-less) sex, which can expose they may be at risk to get tested for syphilis. been most marked in heterosexuals aged you to an increased risk of becoming infected with NHS Lanarkshire is working jointly with between 20 and 40, and men who have sex sexually transmitted infections (STIs) such as syphilis, Health Protection Scotland, Terrence with men. gonorrhoea and HIV. Higgins Trust, Waverley Care and North “Because of this increase, we are reinforcing The sexual health and blood borne virus (BBV) teams and South Lanarkshire Health and Social the importance of getting tested and felt it was important to remind people of these risks, Care Partnerships to address the issue. practising safer sex using a condom and particularly as we are seeing an increase in the They are raising awareness to prevent where appropriate, lubricant. numbers of people in Lanarkshire being diagnosed further infections occurring and to “We want people to be aware of what with syphilis. encourage anyone who may have become syphilis is, how it can be prevented, the Trish Tougher, BBV networks manager, said: “With the Syphilis prevention tips infected to see their GP or attend a sexual long-term impact of syphilis infection and increase in syphilis we are witnessing, the campaign health clinic in order to be assessed and how to get tested for sexually transmitted message was simple...syphilis is back in town! People can help prevent syphilis by practising tested. infections even if not experiencing “While syphilis has never gone away, some people see safer sex such as: Syphilis is a bacterial infection that affects symptoms.” syphilis as an infection of the past. • using a condom every time you have sex both men and women and is passed on Dr Logan continued: “Untreated syphilis “We wanted to address this by letting people know with a new partner or until you have both been easily by vaginal, anal and oral sex. can have a devastating impact on people’s that in recent years, cases of syphilis have been on the checked out for sexually transmitted infections; People with syphilis may develop a sore lives leading to severe health problems increase in Lanarkshire.” • reducing the number of sexual partners you in the genital area, anus or in their mouth. in later life such as heart problems and blindness. The campaign is backed by the Terrence Higgins Trust have; The sore can appear anywhere between 10 (THT). • having regular sexual health check-ups at days to 12 weeks after infection and may be “Syphilis can be treated with antibiotics, painful or painless. They may also develop though it’s clearly best to prevent infection Chris Kimber from THT, said: “It’s better to get tested your local sexual health clinics where specially a rash over their body, palms of the hands by practising safer sex. and treated as soon as possible, especially if you have trained staff will see you. If diagnosed, treatment and soles of the feet, which may appear six in the past, or recently had, unprotected sex.” and follow up will help prevent the spread of “As health professionals, our staff have huge infection. For more information visit: months after infection. These symptoms respect and trust in their communities. For information on syphilis and where to access sexual www.lanarkshiresexualhealth.org can disappear without the person being They can inform people about syphilis, health clinics, visit: www.lanarkshiresyphilis.org aware of them. influencing them to get tested if they feel For information on access to free condoms in If syphilis is not treated, it will progress and they have put themselves at risk.” Lanarkshire, visit: www.freecondomslanarkshire.org Sexual health Global awareness day AIDS and HIV in spotlight checklist World AIDS Day (WAD) on 1 December “It is now possible to treat HIV in a way which deal of discrimination – which remains one reminded everyone of the importance of makes it undetectable. of the main deterrents to people If you are sexually active, look after your sexual health and that of any knowing their HIV status. “As long as people maintain the treatment getting tested. partners you may have. 2018 marked the 30th anniversary of WAD throughout their life to keep HIV undetectable, Jo continued: “We all have a part to play and, while the majority of people living they can’t transmit HIV in this, from showing our Make an appointment for a sexual with HIV in the UK know their status, there through sex. support of HIV campaigns to health check, particularly if you are in a new relationship. is still much work to be done to make sure “However, condoms must encouraging people to get tested. everyone knows their status and the risk also be used to help prevent “The message couldn’t be Unprotected (condom-less) sex factors. against other sexually simpler, the sooner people get leads to an increased risk of sexually In Lanarkshire, an estimated 3,800 people transmitted infections (STIs). tested for Hepatitis, HIV and transmitted infections such as syphilis, chlamydia and gonorrhoea, live with Hepatitis C while around 450 live “This is why it’s important other STIs, the sooner they can amongst others. with HIV. that people know their start life-saving treatment and Jo Duffy, who co-ordinated the day in status and get treatment if prevent passing on the virus to If you have ever had unprotected Lanarkshire, said: “Compared to 1988, required.” someone else.” sex, or shared needles through drug taking, you should be tested for HIV. (l-r) Dr Anne McLellan, lead clinician for the Lanarkshire sexual health service; Trish when WAD was first launched, people While the stigma of HIV has For more information go to: Tougher, BBV network manager; Jacqueline Martin, senior health promotion officer, living with HIV can lead healthy and also reduced over the last www.lanarkshire To find out more about testing visit: Dr John Logan, consultant in public health medicine. productive lives. 30 years, there is still a great hivandhepatitis.org/ http://www.lanarkshiresexualhealth. org/ 12 HEALTH AND SOCIAL CARE IN THE COMMUNITY 13

Eating cake – On top of the podium as their ‘gold standards’ Val’s blog is open for all all for a good cause! are recognised South Lanarkshire HSCP’s (health and social care The World’s Biggest partnership) director of health and social care runs a Coffee Morning is regular blog which provides updates from localities to Macmillan’s largest strategic level. fundraising event. The blog also provides a mechanism for people to To mark the event, book a slot at Val’s open door sessions to discuss health visitor staff at any issue relating to health and social care in South health Lanarkshire. Find out more and read Val’s blog – and centre held their archived versions – at www.slhscp.org.uk own Macmillan coffee morning on 27 If you have a news story or item you would like Val September which to feature or address in the blog, please contact Euan raised a total of £103. Duguid, South Lanarkshire HSCP’s communication manager, on 07917041853. With support from colleagues in the health visitor team, senior managers, District nurses Tina Cook Speaking out for and Sharon Gair district nurses and clerical staff gathered to take advantage of the scrumptious cakes on offer. a better future The funds raised will go towards those living with cancer to help them live life as fully as they can.

Free veterans service is here to help all in need Veterans First Point (V1P) is a “PSW and clinical staff specialist service for veterans then work collaboratively, and their families after life in ensuring that veterans the armed forces. receive co-ordinated Picture L-R: Lucy Scott, Vivian Boxall, Karen Kershaw, V1P Lanarkshire seeks support, appropriate to their Elizabeth Millar, Michelle Scott, Sandra McInnes and to support veterans in needs at the time.” John Swinney, Deputy First Minister and Cabinet Secretary for Education and Skills all aspects of their lives, V1P Lanarkshire is a close PROJECTS JUDGED including welfare, housing, partnership between An innovative project to address speech and language mental and physical well- veterans, NHS Lanarkshire, inequalities won their category at the prestigious Quality being. the Scottish Association for Improvement Awards 2018. The project has been delivered Mental Health (SAMH) and The free to use service by South Lanarkshire Health and Social Care Partnership the Lanarkshire Association – which is part of the (SLHSCP) in conjunction with South Lanarkshire Council for Mental Health (LAMH). BEST OF THE BEST community-based focus Education Resources and NHS Lanarkshire. The project As well as accepting referrals Health and Social Care Partnership, of health and social care in Exemplary innovation and was led by South Lanarkshire Community Planning from across health and social North and South Lanarkshire commitment to improving the said: “The work carried out at local Partnership. care, including the voluntary – is staffed by a specialist lives of people across Lanarkshire level by these partnership teams Across Lanarkshire, speech, language and sector, V1P also accepts self- stole the show at a glittering caught the eye of the judges for the communication need is identified as the most prominent team of psychologists, referrals. psychological therapists national ceremony. concrete benefits and difference inequality affecting children’s development. Dr Gascon added: “People they are making to people’s lives. and veteran peer support The Scottish Health Awards is the ‘Breaking the intergenerational cycle of speech, language can contact us by email, workers (PSWs). most prestigious and recognised “At the centre of both is the foresight and communication deficit for children and young phone or can just turn up event for people delivering high to take a different approach to people’ addressed this common challenge. The Carluke The PSWs are all ex- to one of our access points. quality health and social care care – underpinned by expertise, health visiting team and speech and language therapy servicemen or women and We will then arrange a services to the people of Scotland. commitment and passion. services, working alongside parents and children, used – crucially – offer a first registration appointment The Think Activity Project, which exemplary work of these projects And two projects – led by staff and “The approaches epitomise our improvement methods to tackle the issue at the earliest point of contact for anyone with one of our PSWs was pioneered in , have set the gold standard in safe teams in South Lanarkshire Health possible stage. The work resulted in a reduction of initial approaching the service. where a full assessment of partnership’s wider approach and and Social Care Partnership in close Biggar, took the Top Team Award. and innovative person-centred care. referral to the specialist support service by over 25 per Dr Maria Gascon, V1P service the veteran’s needs will be vision, working to improve health collaboration with other partners – The partnership team encouraged “These awards amplify that cent. lead, explained: “The PSWs carried out and an and well-being in the community – were judged to best of the best. hospital patients to engage in sentiment and highlight the Val de Souza, director of health and social care for SLHSCP, ensure that veterans see individual plan created.” with the community.” various activities - including a importance of a partnership said: “This project has set a benchmark of best practice someone – from the very For more visit: http:// The Care Home Continence Project, For more information on these virtual hike of Tinto Hill – to offset approach in addressing various and will be used as a reference point as we seek to address outset - who understands veteransfirstpoint.org.uk/ which has saw small changes to services – and for much more the negative impact of sedentary health and social care challenges. wider issues and forge a better future for our children. the military context and has drop-center/lanarkshire, continence care in care homes about the work of South behaviour. Well done to all involved.” first-hand experience of the telephone 0300 303 3051 elicit life-changing benefits, won Lanarkshire Health and Social “This award is testament to all organisations, partners and issues involved in transition or email LanarkshireV1P@ the Integrated Care for Older People Calum Campbell, chief executive Val de Souza, director of health and Partnership, please visit: individuals involved and their commitment to ensuring our young people can lead healthy, happy lives.” from military to civilian life. lanarkshire.scot.nhs.uk Award. of NHS Lanarkshire, said: “The social care of South Lanarkshire www.slhscp.org.uk 14 IT & KNOWLEDGE 15

Everyone will benefit from improved New IT services and integrated knowledge and IT service delivery process launches in January A new approach to providing • access ‘Knowledge’ articles; and IT assistance to staff will be • order hardware and software introduced in NHS Lanarkshire on directly via the eHealth service 10 January 2019. ServiceNow is an catalogue. enhanced self-service facility that is replacing the current service Guidance on how to use the new desk approach, which will close service will also be available through shortly after the launch of the new FirstPort, with IT service desk staff service. on hand to provide support when needed. The new system provides staff with a self-service tool to raise IT service Donald Wilson, director requests for assistance or order new of information and digital equipment themselves, speeding technologies, is encouraging staff up the process and reducing down to use the new portal. He said: time. “The aim of ServiceNow is to make customer engagement with IT The move to the new customer self-service portal brings benefits services simpler, quicker and more for eHealth through additional transparent. It’s a more modern functionality to flow and manage platform that supports a better calls more effectively, with improved relationship with users. management information reporting. As with all new systems, it can take time to get used to the change Accessed via the ServiceNow portal but the benefits will soon become on FirstPort, the system will enable apparent – for individuals and for users to: the organisation. • report any IT problems they are “The system also offers further experiencing and raise IT service enhanced functionality that we will The evidence is there… requests bring into play as we move forward The last few months have virtual book group. • regularly check the progress of to continually improve the service been a busy time for the Borrow Box - a partnership their calls in terms of customer experience evidence team based at the project between NHS and in the efficiencies to the • ask a question relating to an IT three acute sites and Law Lanarkshire and public query organisation.” House. libraries - will make reading Regular UWS (University of easier for patients in hospital SERVICENOW PORTAL the West of Scotland) student by providing access to Be warned – Fairwarning library users can use the e-books, e-magazines and facilities at all sites. audio books to reduce stress in operation A new Twitter account is now and boredom levels. live and regularly updated A central web-based The Fairwarning system identifies when patient HELPS KNOWLEDGE with interesting news on directory of approved clinical information has been accessed inappropriately. what is happening in our guidelines is available for staff Unless you are treating a patient, or managing the admin libraries and the NHS @ and independent contractors to support treatment, NHSLKnowledge in NHS Lanarkshire at: www. you must not access: A new enquiry management nhslcg.scot.nhs.uk/ • your own information SERVICES HELP YOU system ‘Service Now’ will go New guidelines can • friends, neighbours live to help with literature be submitted by email The new ServiceNow portal to request: • a search and summary of the documents and so on. and family member requests – email findforme@ to clinicalguidelines@ literature. This service is available information will also provide a new • a standard search of From 10 January 2019, requests lanarkshire.scot.nhs.uk lanarkshire.scot.nhs.uk and improved platform for to support service development, • colleague appropriate databases. You from staff for searching services The Reading Ahead challenge Finally, the evidence team the FindforMe searching guidelines and other Board information will receive a list of references and copyright permissions had a record number of sign- recently said goodbye to service provided by NHS projects; • high-profile patient relating to your topic with should be made through the new ups in 2018. The challenge for colleague Grant Donaghy Lanarkshire’s Knowledge information. links to full text articles if • an extensive systematic search of ServiceNow portal available the 2019 will start in September, who left NHS Lanarkshire Services team. available; all the available primary research Knowledge Services page on NHS Lanarkshire with a view to introducing to take up a post with NHS in response to a research question. FirstPort. has adopted a zero The team has been delivering • a rapid evidence search of a text sign-up service and Health Scotland. May take several weeks or months tolerance approach and all a range of literature search guidelines and high level All external NHS Lanarkshire to complete; and alleged breaches will be investigated through the Effective services and a copyright evidence to answer a specific customers working as part of an To find out more, visit FirstPort at: http://firstport2/ Management of Employee Conduct policy which is permission request service clinical question. Users will • a copyright permissions service to NHS Lanarkshire integrated team staff-support/knowledge-services/default.aspx available on FirstPort at: http://firstport2/staff-support/ for a number of years now, receive a response within 24 check that you have the necessary can request the service via email to To contact the evidence team, email libraries@ human-resources/default.aspx providing staff with the ability hours; permission to use tools, images, [email protected] lanarkshire.scot.nhs.uk 16 GENERAL NEWS 17

Avril Connor, Yasmin Allison, Elaine MacKinnon, Joyce Lynn, Susan Clements, Spending Quality time together Lesley Fleming, Moira McMurdie Staff across Lanarkshire have celebrated variety of topics carried out across hospital success in improving quality and safety for and community settings for both health patients and staff. and social care staff. The celebrations came as part of Quality “There were also a range of learning Week which ran from 19 to 23 November. sessions held throughout the week on NHS Lanarkshire’s quality strategy, A quality and safety celebration event, ‘Addressing the Great Taboo’, patient attended by approximately 150 staff, experience and use of Care Opinion, duty focused on 10 years of the Scottish Patient of candour, early resolution of complaints Safety Programme, realistic medicine, and quality improvement education Italian visitors reducing waste in healthcare and joy in programmes such as aEQUIP.” work. Feedback from staff has been positive, see advanced Marjorie McGinty, interim director of with staff appreciating the opportunity quality, said: “Quality Week was a great to share their improvement work, learn practices success. from each other and build their networks We were delighted to welcome two health care “It provided an opportunity for staff to to continuously improve the quality and professionals from Italy in October who were part share and learn from each other, with safety of health and social care for the of a study tour hosted by the Chief Nursing Officer short quality improvement sessions on a people of Lanarkshire. Directorate. Professor Nicola Ricci and research assistant Jessica Longhini, from the University of Verona, had heard about the transformational work happening in advanced practice across Scotland and were particularly keen to learn about the exceptional work NHS Lanarkshire was carrying out on advanced nurse practice in primary care and mental health.

Tuning up for Staff Awards debut Senior nurse, Joanne Jenkins, primary care LONG SERVICE RECOGNISED The inaugural meeting of the NHS Lanarkshire staff choir took place on 19 advanced nurse practitioner (ANP) Gabriella November which was chaired by Peter McCrossan, director for allied health Maxwell and Margot Russell from the practice 2018 was a very special year of the NHS. a significant difference to the health of the professions, and musical director Chris Pugh. development centre (PDC) collectively devised a We celebrated our 70th anniversary and communities of Lanarkshire.” Chris has a wealth of experience, having worked on shows such as Sister Act, programme for the week which included visits to mark the occasion in Lanarkshire we All members of staff were also awarded Grease and Legally Blonde at Glasgow’s Kings Theatre. to our out-of-hours service, meeting with ANPs wanted to honour our staff who also with a special commemorative badge. Up to 50 members of staff have joined the choir which will meet on the evening of in primary care (GP practices) and mental health have a very special record of service. Avril Connor, clinical coder with medical Monday 14 January and every Monday evening thereafter in the bistro at Kirklands and visiting the PDC. The week was finished with Thirty-two members of staff were Headquarters before debuting at the Staff Awards ceremony at Townhouse Nicola and Jessica meeting Irene Barkby, executive records at University Hospital Wishaw, presented with a certificate in recognition on 22 May. director of NMAHPs (nurses, midwives and allied said: “I can honestly say I’ve enjoyed my of achieving over 40 years’ service at a health professionals) and Maria Docherty, nurse 40 years with the NHS. There’ve been long service afternoon tea. director, South Lanarkshire Health and Social Care highs and lows and challenges along Partnership, to learn about NHS Lanarkshire’s role The events, held at University Hospitals the way but I’ve made a lot of life-long Not much time left to get in leadership. Wishaw, Hairmyres and Monklands, friends and wouldn’t have wanted to were the first of long service recognition work anywhere else.” Jessica said: “We would like to thank NHS afternoon teas to mark the remarkable Staff Awards nominations in! Lanarkshire for such a warm welcome. The Sam Millar, consultant interventional dedication and commitment staff have planning was amazing. We had the possibility radiologist at University Hospital Nominations for NHS Lanarkshire team (clinical and non-clinical), to see and explore every setting which we were made to the NHS during their service. Hairmyres, said serving NHS Lanarkshire Staff Awards 2019 close on 31 outstanding care, outstanding interested in about primary care. Everyone was The events were opened by Neena Mahal, for 41 years has been a privilege: “I’ve December. volunteer, outstanding quality and very kind and willing to explain the reasons and chair of NHS Lanarkshire, with certificates worked here so long because I really enjoy Patients, visitors and staff have outstanding learner. the methodology about the implementation of presented by chief executive Calum it. It’s been a real privilege to serve the the opportunity to nominate staff A dedicated nomination portal is advanced nurse practitioner in general practice.” Campbell. people of Lanarkshire.” and volunteers from across the available at: www.staffawardsnhsl.org Maria Docherty said: “It was a great opportunity to Neena said, “I would like to congratulate Alexandrina (Sandy) Taylor, district organisation for the care they Nominations can also be made by be able to showcase some of the work happening and thank all of our employees with 40 nurse, Biggar integrated community provide. calling 01698 377790 or by in Lanarkshire around advanced practice to our or more years of NHS service. Well done support team (ICST), said: “I’m still The award categories are: completing a form which is colleagues from Italy. It demonstrated the excellent on this amazing achievement. Their enjoying my work and still enjoy all the It’s been a privilege says Dr Sam Millar outstanding individual (clinical available at sites across the NHS opportunities to share and learn from each other commitment and contribution have made challenges.” and non-clinical), outstanding Lanarkshire area. through our transforming roles work.” 20 SPOTLIGHT

Maria receives major accolade Maria Docherty, nurse director, South Lanarkshire Health and Social Care Partnership, was awarded the ‘Special Achievement’ award at this year’s National Mental Health Nurse Forum Awards held at the Hilton Hotel, Glasgow, attended by the Minister for Mental Health. Maria was nominated by Mental Health Nursing Forum Scotland in recognition of the significant contribution she has made to mental health nursing across Scotland over the years and, increasingly, in the context of the integration of health and social care. ANOTHER CLEAN SWEEP FOR STAFF AT ROSPA AWARDS Staff within NHS Lanarkshire’s West of June Levick, head of hotel services, Scotland Laundry (WoSL), hotel services and said: “Continuing to achieve this level of maintenance services have won another recognition is due to the hard work and RoSPA gold award in recognition of the work commitment our staff deliver every day and they do to promote health and safety. the great support of Salus and partnership The departments have now collectively won in all that we do to promote safety in the 19 awards, all retaining celebrated gold status workplace.” again this year. The award marks a very high level of Maria Docherty The teams won the award at the prestigious performance, demonstrating well-developed Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents occupational health and safety management While the awards are an annual event (RoSPA) Occupational Health and Safety systems and culture, outstanding control and have been running for over 10 years, the special achievement award Awards in recognition of their approach to the of risk and very low levels of error, harm has only been given out twice before. prevention of accidents and ill-health. and loss. Maria said: “It is a real privilege Collectively, the departments employ nearly John Paterson, director of property and being a mental health nurse. I’m 1,000 staff, delivering laundry and linen support services division (PSSD), added his really honoured to be given this services to NHS Lanarkshire and other health congratulations, saying: “To secure gold recognition by my peers and can boards and domestic, catering, portering, standard at all is a considerable achievement only thank the mental health nurses transport, switchboard, helpdesk, maintenance for PSSD, but to be able to retain this high who nominated me.” and grounds services across NHS Lanarkshire. level of recognition several years in a row Maria was presented with her Alison Jamieson, deputy head of linen services, is even more challenging and impressive, award by David Thomson, Chair of said: “We are absolutely delighted that our so congratulations to all those whose hard the Mental Health Nursing Forum commitment to health and safety has been work is underlined by this achievement. Scotland. recognised by RoSPA yet again. The WoSL staff It is a testament to the great teamwork are extremely proud of this achievement.” of all the staff.”

National award for Health Valleys Healthy Valleys have received a tobacco-free nation by 2034. national award for its community- Healthy Valleys, in partnership based efforts to reduce the harm with NHS Lanarkshire, have helped caused by tobacco. The organisation support many individuals to stop has been presented with a Tobacco- smoking through their one-to-one free Generation Award by Sheila and group work support services Duffy, chief executive of ASH and have improved local knowledge Scotland, for work which is helping of the benefits of smoke-free homes Scotland achieve the goal of being a and cars.