THE NHS HIGHLAND STAFF NEWSPAPER May 2017 HighNOVEMBERlights 2015

CAITHNESS MATERNITY Board approves safe transition to midwife-led unit NHS HIGHLAND board members unani- mously approved a report updating them on the safe transition to a midwife-led Commu- nity Maternity Unit (CMU) at Caithness Gen- eral Hospital. At the meeting on Tuesday 30th May 2017, Dr Roderick Harvey, the board’s medical director re- ported that, as planned, more expectant mothers were travelling to Inverness to give birth and that the changes have resulted in “very significantly lower” emergency maternal and neonatal transfers. The decision to reconfigure the maternity unit at CGH from a consultant-led obstetric unit was made on the grounds of safety in November 2016. The move was made after investigations found that the deaths of two babies born at the Caithness General were "potentially avoidable". Six months on from the decision, Dr Rod Harvey said: “The ‘very significantly lower’ maternal and The Medical High Dependency Unit (MHDU) at Raig- neonatal transfer figures are key indicators that the more Hospital in Inverness had something astonishing to CMU and new arrangements are working as celebrate this month. Turn to page 15 to find out more... Continued on page 2 - - Board approve CMU other by voice, speak regularly, and Continued from front feel comfortable discussing concerns planned.” and enjoying working with each Figures show that eleven women team. The experience and sharing of gave birth at Caithness General be- a wealth of expertise has obviously Contents tween December 2016 to the end of been of great benefit to the overall April – as opposed to 73 women development of the CMU. With ro- during the comparable period from tation of midwifery staff now also 5 Ciaran makes dance final December 2014 to April 2015. underway this will further strengthen Dr Rod Harvey said: “During that the arrangements and enhance sup- 9 At your service: Eric Green time, urgent/emergency maternal port.” 13 Day in the life transfers were halved - from 14 Dr Rod Harvey’s report high- 15 MHDU 10,000 days women to seven - and emergency lighted the progress made on im- 18 Maternity liaison appointed neonatal transfers were reduced provements relating to the provision 19 Nursing excellence awards from six to one. of accommodation on the Raigmore 21 Reach out “The fact that there was only one Hospital Campus, ambulance services neonatal transfer illustrates the fun- and the progress made in the further Comings and going 22 damental reason why we made this development of a Highland-wide 24 Pupils given ‘masterclasses’ change.” ‘Hub and Spoke’ model for maternity 27 Other lives Before the board meeting, Mary and neonatal care. 28 Q&A Pat Douglas Burnside, lead midwife N&W Opera- He said arrangements have been tional Unit, said: “The transition to put in place to increase accommoda- CMU in Caithness has been a huge tion capacity in Inverness and make Keep us informed team effort by the maternity and access for families easier, and that neonatal services network across further work to create additional Do you know of something you NHS Highland - this in turn has family-friendly facilities was planned. think should be featured in High- strengthened the ongoing develop- He added that because maternity lights? An award, an achievement, ment of the ‘Hub and Spoke’ and neonatal transfers compete with a piece of research, an appoint- model in Highland as well as across other calls upon the services of Scot- ment, a retiral … you name it, the Scotland-wide CMU network.” tish Ambulance Service, work to Highlights has a place for it. Please She added: “It’s still early days, support and strengthen the resilience send your articles to but already we have seen an increase of the overall transfer arrangements [email protected] (01463 in interest in vacant posts since mov- between SAS and NHS Highland has 704876). ing to CMU. There are midwives out been made. there who are attracted to this way This included an additional invest- of working as it offers truly midwife- ment of £400,000 to increase ambu- led care.” lance provision in Caithness. He said NHS Highland’s divisional mid- this would be fully on stream in early You can follow wifery manager at Raigmore Hospi- 2018. In the meantime, some addi- NHS Highland on... tal, Caron Cruickshank, echoed this, tional capacity has been put in place.

stating that considerable progress Considerable efforts have been WEBSITE had been made since the setup of the made to engage with expectant www.nhshighland.scot.nhs.uk CMU in Caithness and that the new mothers and families and community

FACEBOOK arrangements are also working well stakeholders to explain the reasons and as planned from a Raigmore per- for the change. https://www.facebook.com/ spective To date, NHS Highland staff have NHSHighland She said that overall, the closer attended 20 meetings, events and TWITTER working relationship between the one-to-one briefings. These meetings www.twitter.com/NHSHighland or Hub (Raigmore) and Spoke have included Community Councils, @NHSHighland (Caithness) with the development of local councillors, Caithness Health personal daily contact between the Action Team, MSP, MP, Scottish Am- clinical leads and staff in both areas bulance Service and local groups. A “had been truly amazing”. local Caithness Maternity and Gynae- She added: “Not so long ago we cology Group (CMAG) has been could not have named each other’s established, and has now met three team leaders, now we recognise each times. - 2 - QUALITY AND SUSTAINABILITY Efficiency plans agreed

NHS HIGHLAND’s board agreed executive for NHS Highland highlighted to an update of the Strategic Qual- that: “The current models to deliver The Case for Change ity & Sustainability document and health and social care across our com- Annual Plan (2017/18) this month. plex and changing environment in High- 1) People are living longer and will re- At the meeting on Tuesday 30th May land are not sustainable. Meeting the quire more support from the health and 2017, board members endorsed a suite needs of the population has become care systems. It is important that our decisions are underpinned by robust of efficiencies and improvement projects increasingly difficult and now requires health intelligence and assessment of that have already been identified for the changes to parts of the service to en- need. current financial year. sure sustainable and affordable models Presenting the report, Deborah are in place for future generations.” 2) 30 per cent of the population are living with one or more long term conditions. Jones, the board’s director of Strategic Ms Mead emphasises that a ‘more of Commissioning, Planning and Perform- the same’ approach is not sustainable. 3) Two per cent of the population use 50 ance, reminded members that over the The strategic document set out the per cent of the total resource, and spend next three years it is estimated that case for change and was peppered with per person differs markedly between areas. NHS Highland will need to deliver cost real life examples from Highland evi- reductions of around £100 million with dencing some of the challenges and 4) There is a difference of 15 years in life around £47million in 2017/18 (around 7 work already underway to redesign expectancy across parts of Highland, per cent of the annual budget). services and the approach to delivering highlighting current inequalities and our commitment to early intervention and The initial strategic approach was quality improvement work. prevention. first discussed at the board meeting held In order to oversee the governance on 28th March 2017. to deliver the board’s annual and longer 5) Every day patients are medically fit to It has now been further developed term plans, the board approved a new leave hospital inpatient care but there are currently 135 delayed transfers of to reflect feedback from that board dis- performance and monitoring frame- care (March 2017) highlighting the need cussion and from other meetings includ- work. to make changes in where we invest re- ing with the Highland Partnership Fo- This will be supported through the sources. rum and the Highland Health and Social Scottish Patient Safety Programme, and 6) Our models including those for Rural Care Committee. NHS Highland’s Quality Improvement General Hospitals, Community Hospitals, Ms Jones told members that for Programme of work across the seven Out-of-Hours, and Outpatients are not as 2017/18, some £32.34 million of effi- key initiatives. Monitoring of a suite of clinically safe or are sustainable as they ciencies have now been identified, split measures are already in place relating to could be and need to change. between: £13.91 million for Highland emergency admissions, length of stay, 7) The care home sector is struggling to Health and Social Care Partnership falls, pressure ulcers and other key indi- meet increasing demand and complexity (HSCP); £6.5 million for Argyll & Bute cators. of need. Integration Joint Board (IJB); and £11.93 Ms Jones told board members that 8) Many of our services are very fragile million for central/corporate. NHS Highland broke even last year due to workforce issues linked to recruit- Savings still to be identified include (2016/17) delivering savings totalling ment and retention including GPs, gen- £13.76 million for Highland Health and £28 million. eral surgeons, some consultant special- Social Care Partnership (HHSCP), plus After the meeting NHS Highland ists, Allied Health Professionals, midwives and care at home workers. £0.9 million for the Argyll & Bute IJB. It chair David Alston said that the meas- is understood that the £0.9 million ures were not about making cuts, but 9) Local health and social care services shortfall in the IJB’s health savings is rather about finding savings and identify- (as well as local authorities) are under likely to be identified by the end of May. ing more efficient ways of working. severe financial pressures and will not be able to deliver statutory requirements Further details have yet to emerge He said: “The key thing is that we unless there are significant and rapid but the board agreed to action taken in are saying we need to change the way of changes. seven different areas—adult care, flow, health delivery. new models of care, realistic medicines, “With the changes, it is about pro- 10) Over the next three years it is esti- mated that NHS Highland will need to drug costs, remodelling assets and con- viding sustainable services for the future reduce costs by £100 million, with around tinuous quality improvement & local in a way that we can save money and £47million in 2017/18 (around 7 per cent initiative. also that we deal with the fact that peo- of the annual budget) In the Strategic Quality & Sustain- ple are living longer.” ability document, Elaine Mead, chief

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To take part please:

1. Register online as an individual or as a team. Materials to help promote the day in your department or team can be ordered or downloaded from www.whatmatterstoyou.scot

2. Have a ‘What matters to you?’ conversation with at least one person on or around 6 June

3. Reflect on how it felt and what happened.

4. Share your experience of having the conversation online at www.whatmatterstoyou.scot so we, in turn, can share your learning with others

For more information about the day, visit www.whatmatterstoyou.scot or our Facebook page www.facebook.com/whatmatters2you You can also follow us on Twitter @WMTYScot or Tweet using #wmty17

- 4 - STRICTLY COME DANCING Ciaran makes dance final 24-YEAR-OLD Ciaran Melens and just didn’t know they were there. It was his partner Sophie Rae made it to just an adrenalin rush from start to fin- this year’s Strictly Come Dancing ish. And the winners, Iain and Karen, Inverness finals held on Saturday thoroughly deserved to win.” 20th May. Getting to the finals was the result Ciaran - an NHS Highland plumber - of five months of intensive, metronome- and Sophie were second in the Friday like training. evening heat against six couples in the Ciaran, who also works as a retained local version of the hit BBC show. firefighter, said: “I remember thinking at And although he and his primary the first session what have I got myself school teacher partner didn’t place in into? But I enjoyed it.” the final, Ciaran said he had great time As well as having to learn a group and would thoroughly recommend the dance, Ciaran and Sophie also learnt experience. two individual dances from scratch - Father of two Ciaran, said: “I was The Argentinian Tango and the Street delighted that Sophie and I got through, Swing (a kind of street dance with an because everybody in the competition element of swing) was so good.” The event started on Wednesday Ciaran, pictured above, said it’s been “I can’t describe what the final was 17th May with a showcase of some the a fantastic experience and would urge like. Everything went so quickly, and the north’s finest professional dancers. Ci- folk to get involved next year. buzz that both Sophie and I got off it aran and Sophie also took part with He said: “If you are thinking about was just amazing. their group dance routine. The follow- competing, just do it. I don’t think I will “And I wasn’t fazed by the audience ing Friday they did their individual ever have another experience quite like either. Once we started dancing, you dances in the heats. it. Tick tock!”

SKYE Dental practice provides extra access PEOPLE LIVING in Skye and Lo- tree Dental Care will be run by dentist recruiting and retaining dentists at the chalsh will have better access to Mr Zahid Ahmad." Public Dental Service Clinic resulted in a NHS dental services thanks to the Mr Ahmad has relocated to Skye waiting list for appointments. opening of a new dental practice in with his family and will be joined at the The NHS Highland team had to pri- Portree. practice by fellow dentists, Muhammad oritise appointments for those patients Portree Dental Care’s team of three Anwar and Rana Osman. requiring emergency care and routine dentists will be located in the same Announcing the new service, Por- appointments for children as well as premises as the NHS Highland’s Public tree Dental Care will offer predomi- adult patients with additional needs. Dental Service Clinic at Sraid An nantly NHS General Dental Services. For example dependant elderly peo- Eorna. The aim is to ensure affordable, accessi- ple and those with significant learning A significant number of patients ble and quality routine dental care and disabilities and mental health prob- from the health board clinic, principally emergency dental services for everyone lems. those not prioritised as having additional in Portree and throughout the Isle of Alex Fraser, NHS Highland’s dental needs, will now be transferred to the Skye. service development manager said: new dental practice.. In a move to further reassure those “This is great news. Our focus has al- In a letter to these transferred pa- patients being transferred, Mr Lyon ways been to provide a sustainable and tients, NHS Highland's Clinical Dental added: “You will be entitled to all the accessible dental service for the people Director, John Lyon said: "As of 13th same NHS treatments that you received in North Skye that will help to maintain March, 2017 your registration for NHS with the Public Dental Service team and and improve the oral health of all living dental services will be transferred to if you pay for your NHS treatment then within the local community. Portree Dental Care, a new dental prac- the same charges will apply." “The new dental practice opening at tice which is opening in the same prem- The move is good news for local Sraid An Eorna will help us enormously ises as the Portree Dental Clinic. Por- patients, because recent difficulties in to do just that.”

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We continue our regular se- COMMUTERS’ CORNER ries about how our staff travel to work. This month, senior health improvement specialist Val MacDonald talks about signing up to the NHS Highland cycle2work scheme and her plans to use her bike to get to work. AN NHS Highland senior health The cycle2work improvement specialist is en- bicycle access scheme couraging colleagues to “get on enables employees to their bikes” this summer. save up to 32 per cent Val MacDonald, who works in the on the price of a new public health department based at bike, split over 12- Larch House in Inverness, recently monthly salary sacri- signed up to the health board’s cy- fice payments. siasts and has built-up her confidence cle2work scheme. for cycling on the roads by making a Val says she is already feeling the number of short journeys on her new benefits of cycling and hopes more bike. colleagues will join the programme, She also contacted NHS High- which was re-launched this month. land’s two active travel engagement She said: “The cycle2work pro- It’s a great officers, Lizbeth Collie and Sheila gramme really tempted me as it al- Wickens, and is encouraging col- lowed me to buy a brand-new bike feeling to leagues to do likewise. tax-free. I live in Dingwall and there “They’re my go-to people about are a number of cycle shops that are leave the car active travel options,” Val explained. signed up to the programme, so it “They’re both very approachable and

‘ ‘ was easy to get everything I needed. knowledgeable about the cycle2work at home and “I was able to get all of the neces- scheme and the different options sary safety accessories such as a hel- use my bike within working time such as the e- met, lights and high-visibility equip- bike and walking routes. ment included in the scheme. My bike “I would encourage colleagues to was also fitted with carriers to enable for getting speak to Lizbeth and Sheila to find out me to transport documents and more about active travel. They will equipment for work. to work provide you with advice on how to “I’m a keen runner and I wanted build confidence, bicycle maintenance to expand my fitness levels, and I had and the benefits of active travel. Give thought about using a bike to com- it a go – you won’t regret it.” mute to meetings in the local area. “I’ve cycled from my home to The savings are made by not pay- NHS Highland is working in meetings in Dingwall and elsewhere in ing tax or National Insurance on the partnership with a range of partner the Black Isle, and ultimately I want to amount of these deductions, meaning bike shops, including Halfords, as part commute from Dingwall to Larch the amount of the reduction in your of the cycle2work scheme. House in Inverness – that is my ulti- net pay – the money you get into the Staff can apply online at mate goal. It’s a great feeling to leave bank – is significantly less. www.cycle2work.info using our own the car at home and use my bike for Val has sought advice from friends employer code – NHSHIGH- getting to work.” and colleagues who are cycling enthu- LANDC2W.

- 6 - - 7 - BADENOCH AND STRATHSPEY Wade centre refurbished A KEY part of the redesign of and an additional bedroom, described as care-at-home services in Badenoch and health and social care services in a ‘step-up, step-down’ facility, was cre- Strathspey, and the developments in the Badenoch and Strathspey has been ated in the centre, allowing enhanced Wade Centre forms part of the new completed. services to be provided to help avoid ways of working. Work to introduce The Wade Centre in Kingussie has unnecessary hospital admissions for ‘step-up, step-down’ beds is also undergone major refurbishment works some people or to enable discharge planned for Grant House in Grantown- following a £1.4 million investment from from hospital. The centre has 10 beds, on-Spey. the Highland Council’s Care and Learn- eight of which are residential and two Georgia Haire, deputy director of ing Capital Programme. for respite. operations for NHS Highland’s Inner The refurbishment at the NHS High- The refurbishment will help to en- Moray Firth Operational Unit, which land-managed care home and day centre sure that the Wade Centre will con- includes Badenoch and Strathspey, said: for older people reflects the health tinue to play a key role in the provision “I’m delighted that work has been com- board’s continuing commitment to the of NHS Highland services in the area. pleted on a major refurbishment pro- delivery of quality health and care ser- The health board is currently under- gramme at the Wade Centre. I believe vices in Kingussie. going a ‘major service change’ redesign it underlines our continuing commit- Heating, electrical and lighting sys- of its services in Badenoch and Strath- ment to deliver quality health and care tems at the Wade Centre have been spey – an initiative which will see the services in Kingussie. upgraded and improvements were made provision of a new hospital and health “We are making good progress with to the residents’ en-suite bathrooms. centre in Aviemore and the eventual reshaping of our services in Badenoch The centre was re-roofed and fire safety closure of Ian Charles Community Hos- and Strathspey to ensure that they best measures were upgraded, including the pital in Grantown-on-Spey and St Vin- meet local needs. It’s been a wide- installation of a sprinkler system. The cent’s Hospital. ranging project, and our strong empha- garden area was also improved to allow However, the redesign is not just sis on developing community services is easier access and use for residents. about bricks and mortar. It will see con- reflected in the work that has been Some new furniture was provided siderable investment in community and done at the Wade Centre.”

CARERS WEEK One million step plan for charity launched

RIGHT NOW there are around support carers to look after their loved Las Vegas, Sydney, Poland and Canada 32,000 carers in Highland, looking ones, while recognising that carers are can take steps for unpaid carers in High- after older, seriously ill or disabled individuals with needs of their own. land by showing their appreciation. family and friends. Many people, wherever they live, what- To register and record steps during Caring is part of being human and at ever they do, can play a part. Carers Week visit the heart of family life. As populations During Carers Week, Connecting www.connectingcarers.org.uk/walk- age and people live longer, often with Carers, together with many of those 500.aspx. complex health conditions, more and carers, their friends, family and local Friends and family can join in, and more of people will find themselves community are taking steps to raise there are lots of plans for walks in local caring. Yet many still see caring as a awareness of the amazing contribution areas. These walks are detailed on the private matter. Many people don’t iden- carers make in Highland. The goal is to web site, from a gentle stroll along the tify themselves as carers; they are just walk 500 miles in five days or to put it banks of the River Ness to dolphin doing what anyone else would so don’t another way, walk one million steps! watching from a secret beach, climbing a always know what support is available. From gentle strolls with the dog to Monroe or a circular walk around beau- The focus for Carers Week is on climbing Ben Rinnes, people throughout tiful Arisaig. Every single step helps to building carer friendly communities - Highland can to sign up. In fact not just raise awareness of the work of unpaid places where local people and services in the Highlands, people as far afield as carers in Highland. - 8 - AT YOUR SERVICE Eric Green: Head of estates and capital planning

NHS Highland is running a series of articles which puts the spotlight on people who work in healthcare across our area. Answering the questions this month is Eric Green head of estates and capital planning. Q. Tell us more about what your job as of 130 people - either involved in the projects head of estates and capital planning en- or helping to maintain our buildings - it’s the tails, Eric? most exciting time since then, not just in Raig- A. I’ve been in the job seven years now. I’m more, but across all areas of the Highlands. based at home, but my team are currently in- Q. Can you give us more detail about volved in major projects in different parts of the some of the other projects? Highlands. A. One project (that is close to my heart) is Talking about major projects, there is a lot the upgrade at Caithness General Hospital. It, of redesign work at the moment especially with too, is 30 years old, the same age as Raigmore. the Skye, Lochalsh and Wester Ross and the At Caithness General, the estate team asked Badenoch & Speyside redesigns. things like: ‘What do we use the hospital for?’ We are building two new hospitals, and that and ‘What do we need to look at, so we can doesn’t happen very often. reconfigure the hospital to be ‘fit for purpose’ We have also been doing a lot of remodel- for the next 30 years?’ ling of services in these areas. This has resulted in an £6 to 8 million up- On top of that, we are improving and main- grade. Fundamentally, CGH is a very good taining the way we do things in other areas building; it’s just that it now needs to reflect the across Highland. The safe and sustainable deliv- board’s clinical strategy for the future. ery and provision of health care for all is part of Elsewhere, at the Belford there could be everything we do. another exciting development with it being re- Altogether Q. These are major projects, especially placed with a new hospital at Fort William. with all our building two new hospitals. How much Q. What’s the thinking about making the will these and other projects in Highland other projects, board’s hospitals and buildings ‘fit for pur- cost? ‘we are invest- pose’ for the future? A. It will be £30 million in total for both of the ing more than A. Our job is to implement the board’s clinical hospitals, and we are hoping to have them built strategy. So the team’s role is to reconfigure by the end of 2020. £100 million. our buildings to allow our nursing and medical Meanwhile, we are also undertaking a major It’s the biggest staff to do their jobs as efficiently as possible. refurbishment of the critical care services in We try to do this by ensuring our buildings Raigmore, which is a three-year £28 million transforma- tion in the can meet that demand. Essentially, we try to project. The upgrade will bring all critical care ensure that the clinical staff have got everything services, the Acute Medical Assessment Unit, Highlands they need, to do what they need to do. the Intensive Care Unit, the Surgical High De- since Raig- pendency Unit, theatre and the admissions area, Q. What do you do outside your work, together in one area. And the operating thea- more was built Eric? tres at Raigmore will be refurbished and an back in 1970s. A. I’m from John O’Groats, and am a small additional theatre will be added. crofter, with a very small sheep farm. Altogether with all our other projects, we I’m married with three children: one lives in are investing more than £100 million. It’s the Ireland, my daughter is just about to start biggest transformation in the Highlands since working as a physiotherapist at Raigmore, and Raigmore was built back in 1970s. For my team my youngest is still at school in Wick.

- 9 - ’ DEPARTMENT PROFILE: The Health Information and Resource Library The team that deals with training packs, posters and leaflets

THERE IS a department within NHS Highland that provides training materials, posters and resources for staff and members of the public alike. It serves the entire population of NHS Highland, from Wick in Caithness to Campbeltown in Argyll and Bute. Yet for all that, very few people are aware that the Health and Information Resource Library even exists. NHS Highland’s health information and resource (HIRS) assistant Nicola McIntosh said: “Prior to working here I did a lot of bank shifts in nursing and care at home, and very few people had Andrew Greig ever heard of the service. A lot of or- (left) and Nicola ders come from colleagues in public McIntosh of the health and primary care; however Health and Infor- we’re keen to expand the service.” mation Resource Library team at Most of the resources are pro- Laxford House duced by NHS Health Scotland and they regularly carry out audits to iden- synt House in Inverness for several ways of working and the HIRS library tify what resources are being used the years, before relocating to Laxford is no different.” most. House earlier this year during the of- Andrew added: “We have under- “Clients can register online and fice redesign project. taken our own Rapid Process Im- order resources such as training packs, Despite the upheaval, Nicola and provement Workshop to figure out leaflets and guidance on smoking ces- Andrew have kept the service running what resources are used the most. sation,” explained NHS Highland’s – and even managed to undertake an “This will enable us to be better health information and resource assis- internal improvement process. organised in terms of ordering re- tant, Andrew Greig. Nicola explained: “The move was sources, and also help us identify what “Our main clients are health pro- quite stressful for us but we got our resources could benefit the wider fessionals such as midwives and GPs; heads down and managed to organise communities across Highland.” however we regularly process orders ourselves.  HIRS Library relocated to Laxford from teachers and members of the “Every move provides an opportu- House earlier this year as part of the public. We plan to broaden the service nity for spring cleaning and Andrew office redesign project. into the community as we feel it can and I have identified ways to improve  To register an order from the really benefit people.” our organisation and storage. As an HIRS library go online at The HIRS library was based at As- organisation, we are looking at leaner www.healthyhighlanders.co.uk

- 10 - FUNDRAISING desire by a former member A of staff to highlight epilepsy has raised nearly £2,000 for the charity Epilepsy Scotland. Barbara Oliphant worked for NHS Highland for 22 years - first as a district nurse in Dunoon and latterly as a chil- dren’s community nurse - before she took early retirement last year due to her epilepsy. Barbara is very much missed by both patients and staff. And, although not happy about having to retire, Barbara decided to focus her efforts on raising awareness about epilepsy. So she asked her friend and colleague Julie Buckley, a clerical officer with the Children & Families Health Team in Dunoon, to join her on the West Highland Way walk. (Left to right) Julie and Barbara at the finish line of the West Highland Way Julie said: “Barbara had never done once she’s made up her mind. planning another walk as she enjoyed any walks like this before so I was more “I’m glad to say that Barbara made this so much. It just goes to show that than happy to join her. the whole route without any problems, you cannot let and illness or condition “She had to be hospitalised two apart from blisters and achy feet.” keep you down and this challenge has weeks before we were due to start due Julie added: “I can't express how certainly given Barbara a new outlook to a large seizure and there was discus- happy and excited Barbara is that she on life and I am so glad that I was part sion about her maybe not doing the has done this and it has given her such a of it.” walk. But you can’t hold Barbara back big confidence boost, she is already

PUBLIC HEALTH Aviemore water review plans A constructive meeting took place tential adverse health effects. For exam- of 10,000 or so people. in Inverness last month between ple, I am aware of the survey in the Dr Oates added: “However, from Scottish Water’s Chief Operating Strathy and note that some residents the evidence we already have, I would Officer Peter Farrer, NHS High- report that the tap water has a harmful like to reassure the local population that land’s Consultant in Public Health effect on their skin such as increased I have reviewed and discussed the sam- Medicine Dr Ken Oates and Moira dryness, redness and itch. pling data from this treatment works Malcolm of the Drinking Water “It is well recognised in the pub- with national experts and that we have Quality Regulator (DWQR). lished literature that some people have not seen any scientific data which sug- At the meeting on Wednesday 10th skin which is more sensitive than others gests that the water supply to Aviemore May it was decided an update on NHS and that for a few with existing skin and the surrounding area is in any way Highland’s consideration of the evidence conditions such as dermatitis or eczema, unsafe to drink, or to bathe in. will be provided in early summer. tap water can exacerbate their symp- “Indeed the opposite is true – that NHS Highland’s Consultant in Public toms. the water is of a high quality and over Health Medicine Dr Ken Oates, said: “At the meeting we agreed to seek the past five years has consistently met “The meeting was an open and compre- and review some additional local health the strict standards laid down for the hensive exchange of information about data over the coming weeks which will water industry in the UK and Scotland. the water supply to the Aviemore area help to quantify and clarify this issue “We intend to meet again to further over the past five years. further. This will enable us to determine review our ongoing work in a few “We noted and discussed the con- if the experience of the community in weeks’ time when all the findings will be cerns that have been expressed within Badenoch and Strathspey is in any way available and collated together. If any the community about the taste and unusual or outwith what would nor- concerns do come to light then I will smell of the water, but also about po- mally be expected in a large population ensure they are acted upon.” - 11 - HIGHLAND CHILDREN’S UNIT

Happy Birthday!

A very Happy Birthday to the Highland Children’s Unit which turned one this month (May). It has been a year since patients and staff moved into this purpose built unit and we really can’t thank everyone enough who helped make this possible.

- 12 - DAY IN THE LIFE… OF A COMMUNITY DISTRICT NURSE Ever wondered what a community nurse does? We spent a day with Eilidh Johns, a community staff nurse based at the Thurso Community Health Centre. This article first appeared in the Caithness Courier. 9:15 am Claire Mackay, the community Eilidh started her morning with team lead, said: “Caithness West visits to six patients who all live just Community Nursing team has a wealth outside Thurso. of experience which allows the nurses She said: “I’m what we call a to provide a high standard of ‘floater’ for the West Caithness Team. care. We are in a privileged position This means I am not contracted for being able to care for people within one GP practice caseload, I work be- their homes which requires the devel- tween three of them. opment of new skills and high level of During a short drive to visit a 93- decision-making. year-old patient from her Davidson “Many members of staff have stud- Lane office in Thurso, Eilidh, 25, tells ied hard by completing extra training me she has been a district staff nurse to meet the needs of the changing role for three years. of the community nurse and ensure Originally from Thurso, she re- evidence based practice. Advanced turned after doing her nurse training in clinical examination skills, prescribing, Inverness. Eilidh did her management tissue viability, COPD, degrees in dis- placement with in the West Caithness trict nursing and in advanced practice Team and, because she enjoyed it so are just a few of the Higher Education Eilidh Johns much, she knew she wanted to special- courses we have been able to com- ise in community nursing. Eilidh assesses and redresses the plete. But before she could join the West wound on Barbara’s foot and take a Caithness Team, Eilidh was first based further wound swab. 2 pm at the Dunbar Hospital in Thurso. She Eilidh arranges a further visit with After the meeting and a quick lunch actually started community nursing in Barbara next week to discuss an break, Eilidh takes new community Bettyhill before moving to Davidson agreed plan of care for Barbara’s nurse Karen Hendry with her to help Lane and Eilidh said she still does the wound and to discuss the result from on her afternoon schedule. occasional shift in Bettyhill. the wound swab. 2.20 pm 11.05 am 12.00 pm Their first patient is ‘Catherine’, Eilidh explains that her patient Back at the office, Eilidh hands in who suffers from long term pain and ‘June’ (not her real name) has several various samples collected throughout nausea. Arriving at the house outside long term conditions. Eilidh said: “She the morning. These will be sent to the Thurso, Eilidh has a chat with Cath- has venous insufficiency, and as a result Wick laboratory for testing. She then erine to assess her pain/nausea con- has venous leg ulcers.” relayed information about her patients trol. In June’s neat and warm home, with colleagues - district nursing sister After being treated, Catherine said: Eilidh chats with her and it’s clear they Anne Baird, and healthcare support “The nurses are wonderful. I wouldn’t know each other well. Eilidh questions worker Shaan Corbidge. be alive without them.” June closely about her medications and Eilidh said: “You have to like com- dosages, before bringing out a dressing munity nursing. It’s not for everyone. 3 pm supplies box stored in her home. Talking about the challenges, dis- Back in the car, Eilidh and Karen “The nurses come to change the trict nursing sister, Anne Baird said: “I set out to see ‘Mary’, an ‘end of life’ dressing twice a week and that are all couldn’t do another kind of nursing patient. very good. They are all very pleasant.” now. Community nursing gives you the As Eilidh and Karen prepare for chance to acquire new skills.” her treatment, her daughter said: “The 11.35 am “You have to have confidence in nurses are just wonderful. We are Eilidh’s next patient, ‘Barbara’ suf- your skills and be able to go out and very grateful for all the help they pro- fers from rheumatoid arthritis and has make your own decisions.” vide.” had several operations. One current concern is about a leg infection. 1 pm 3.35 pm Eilidh, who sees Barbara once a Eilidh attended a team meeting After that, Eilidh and Karen return to week, again starts the visit with a where her observations were put on a the office. Eilidh then starts to write friendly chat and asks some questions. more formal footing. up her patients’ notes for the day... - 13 - HEALTH & WELLBEING Healthy strategy pays dividends

The Argyll Community Housing Association was recently presented with a Healthy Working Lives Gold Award for its commitment to the health and wellbeing of its staff. Presenting the award, Alison McGrory, health improvement principal for Argyll and Bute Health and Social Care Partnership, said: "I would like to congratulate Argyll Community Housing Association (ACHA) on their Healthy Working Lives Award (HWL). This is a significant achievement that demon- strates a clear commitment to staff health and wellbeing." To achieve their HWL Gold award Left to right: Alison McGrory (Health Improvement Principal, Argyll and Bute ACHA demonstrated an ongoing com- HSCP), Marina MacArthur (HR and Training Manager, ACHA), Angela Coll (Health Working Lives Advisor Argyll and Bute HSCP), Charlene Munro mitment to staff health by producing a (Corporate Services Officer ACHA) and Rebecca MacIndeor (HR & Training three year HWL Strategy and action Assistant ACHA). plan. Staff undertook various health pro- ‘Go Sober for October’ and ‘Dry Janu- we have developed ways to promote motion activities, including virtual pe- ary’. Lifestyle checks were offered to all and encourage a healthier workforce by dometer step challenges from ‘Land’s staff and they were provided with infor- recognising the importance of staff well- End to John O’Groats’ and ‘climb a mation on a variety of health related being. Munro’ raising funds for charity. topics in the staff monthly newsletter. “As a result we have seen a reduc- In addition, staff took part in many Marina MacArthur, HR and Training tion in both accidents and sickness ab- national initiatives, such as ‘Stress Manager for ACHA added: “Since em- sence due to having supportive policies Awareness Day’, ‘Breathing Space Day’, barking on the HWL Award Programme and procedures in place.”

ISLAY Day case unit provides extra services A DAY CASE unit has been cre- more services locally and have been “The GP team will also continue to ated at Islay Hospital designed to working with the innovative GP team on work closely with their colleagues in provide additional services locally Islay, community representatives and Glasgow to ensure safe and appropriate and so reduce the need for people hospital staff to develop our Locality mechanisms are in place to maintain and having to travel to the mainland Plan to assist with this process. build upon the high standard of care for treatment. Through this plan we have been review- which patients receive. Alan Beresford, Argyll and Bute’s ing our current services to establish “The development of the unit will Health and Social Care Partnership’s where we can build on these services mean we will need to make alterations area manager for Islay and Jura, said: and, where clinically appropriate, de- to the layout of the hospital and invest “The HSCP currently provides a wide velop new ones. in an up-to-date clinical space to pro- range of services in the locality, either in “One of the key elements in the plan vide these services. to achieve this there the community or from Islay Hospital. is to create a new day case unit within will be a reduction in the number of At the same time however we are well the hospital so that we can provide a inpatient beds in the hospital from ten aware that many people do still have to ‘one stop shop’ style of service for the to six. We have been operating at un- travel to the mainland to access services community. We have been successful in der 50 per cent bed capacity for over and receive treatment. securing Integrated Care Funding to three years, so with six beds we should “We are, therefore, keen to provide assist with this development. meet demand for inpatient care.”

- 14 - NEWS IN BRIEF MEDICAL HIGH DEPENDENCY UNIT QI awards Dedicated staff TEACHERS, nursery staff, mid- wives, nurses, doctors, health visi- tors, social workers and anyone working to improve services for chil- dren, young people and families and schools are being urged to submit celebrate huge their work for the Quality Improve- ment Awards 2017. Practitioners are being given the chance to gain recognition for their quality improvement work after the achievement Scottish Government and Health- care Improvement Scotland an- nounced the 2017 awards are now open for entries. All staff using the 3-Step Im- provement Framework for Scot- land’s Public Services as part of the Maternity and Children Quality Im- provement Collaborative (MCQIC) and the Children and Young People Improvement Collaborative (CYPIC) are eligible to submit their work, whether it is within the NHS, local authorities or third sector or- ganisations. Projects and services can be of any size and there are ten exciting categories to choose from. The closing date for applications is Wednesday 28th June 2017. Short- listed entries will be announced in early September and winners will be awarded at an evening ceremony in Dr Grant Franklin (right) with some of the team from MHDU November 2017. For further information, and to THE MEDICAL High Dependency plained that good technique for inserting apply now, go to www.qiawards.co.uk Unit (MHDU) at Raigmore Hospi- central lines, regularly reviewing them tal in Inverness is celebrating after and early removal coupled with good reaching over 10,000 patient days nursing care is why the team have been Open day plans without a blood stream infection able to celebrate this milestone. from central lines last month. He said: “We are celebrating more AN NHS Highland health promo- Central lines are life-saving and the than 10,000 patient days, which equates tion specialist is encouraging people to attend an open day to learn about majority of patients in intensive care or to about nine years, since our Medical enjoying the great outdoors. high dependency units have them placed High Dependency Unit last had a blood The Highland Environment Fo- in order to receive medicine and fluids. stream infection associated with central rum are holding an Outdoor Volun- However, the use of these can result in lines. teers open day on Saturday, 10th serious bloodstream infections, a serious “This is a great accomplishment and June for people to get involved in infection that occurs when germs the team should be congratulated for outdoor activities and learn about (usually bacteria or viruses) enter the their attention to detail in patient care.” the benefits of green exercise. bloodstream through the central line. Iona McGauran, lead nurse for Raig- Held at Merkinch Nature Re- These complications can cause dete- more Hospital, added: “This is fantastic serve, 11am-3pm, NHS Highland’s health promotion specialist Dan rioration in a patient’s condition, in- news from the team in MHDU. Our Jenkins, said: “Getting out and about crease their length of hospital stay and patients are the ones who truly see the in the natural environment is argua- also increase the cost of care, but they benefits of this and I’d also like to offer bly one of the best things we can do are preventable. my congratulations to the staff who have for our health.” Dr Grant Franklin, consultant for achieved this through dedication and acute medicine for NHS Highland, ex- hard work.” - 15 - - 16 - NEWS IN BRIEF POLYPHARMACY Trials day INTERNATIONAL CLINICAL Trials Day was held on Saturday 20th May Prescribing this year. The day is held each year to mark what is generally held as the begin- ning of one of the first-ever trials to be carried out when Scottish physi- revolution cian James Lind worked as a ship's surgeon and through his treatment NHS Highland is at the forefront of Scotland. of men on the ship, definitively estab- a prescribing revolution that could It is estimated that if every practice lished the superiority of citrus fruits dramatically improve patient safety in Scotland conducted just ten reviews a above all other 'remedies' for the and help make considerable cost month of patients taking multiple medi- treatment of scurvy. savings over the next decade. cations, then as much as £16.8 million This year NHS Highland’s Cancer Trials team set up a stand in Raig- The report “Polypharmacy Manage- would be released in efficiency savings. more to show support and raise ment by 2030: a patient safety challenge” This figure is in line with estimates awareness of health research. was presented an international confer- of savings generated by initial pilots in Melanie Mcilroy, lead research ence last month. NHS Highland in a two-year trial of the nurse, explained: “It has been shown The SIMPATHY Project conference economic tools between 2010 to 2012. that research active trusts have bet- was held on Wednesday 27th April The health board is credited as be- ter outcomes for all patients, even 2017 at Scotland House, the Scottish ing an early developer (with other areas patients who are not involved in the Government’s EU office in Brussels. in Scotland) of the work. Further work trials themselves. The report was co-authored by Dr by NHS Highland - notably on the use of Follow the Highland’s Cancer Trials team on Twitter Martin Wilson, a consultant at Raigmore Sick Day Rule cards that has been picked @NHSHctrials Hospital. It aimed to address issues faced up as a Scottish patient safety project - by adult patients who have to take multi- were also cited as an example of the Eyecare review ple medications. Taking one or more board’s patient-centred innovations. prescribed drugs for their treatment is NHS Highland started work in this THE FIRST-EVER national review of low vision services in Scotland has known as polypharmacy. area in 2010 after developing innovative been published recommending that Dr Wilson said that as well as outlin- guidelines, then funding polypharmacy more eyecare services should be ing the advantages to improving patient reviews of patients’ medications. Work made available in the community. care safety, the report also highlighted has been ongoing in General Practices Gillian Mitchell of Highland char- economic evaluation tools developed in across Highland ever since. ity Sight Action, who is based in In- verness, co-wrote the important re- port “A review of low vision service FUNDRAISING provision in Scotland” with Dr Helen ig-hearted patients and staff at Court of NHS Education. B Southside Road Surgery have The recommends schemes to managed to pull out all the stops reduce geographical differences in for charity recently. services identifying a number of chal- The Inverness doctors’ surgery was able lenges to consider for future planning to handover a cheque for £350 to Torri- of services, including access, service capacity and effective integration and don Mountain Rescue after a fundraising signposting between service provid- campaign which saw them treble their ers. original target. The report, which has been wel- That fundraising went so well, the staff comed, highlighted a clear geo- then signed up to Moray Firth Radio’s graphic inequality of access to ser- Cash for Kids 500 Faces appeal and have vices for those with low vision. now raised over £120, again beating Chair of Sight Action Maureen their target of £100. MacMillan, said: “This is a fantastic Surgery manager, Beth Colliar, said: “We piece of work and it is a huge step forward for the provision of low vi- would like to say a huge ‘thank you’ to sion services. It is also a real credit to all our patients, staff and visitors who the hard work that is done by Sight helped us fundraise. Left to right are: Dr Sian Jones, GP; Action that our charity here in the See http://www.torridonmrt.org.uk/. and John Moffat, treasurer of Torridon Highlands was able to play such a http://www.cashforkidsgive.co.uk/ Mountain Rescue; and Jacz Paton; ad- large role in this groundbreaking campaign/500-faces-mfr/. ministrator at Southside Road Surgery report.” - 17 - CAITHNESS/RAIGMORE Maternity liaison appointed

MUMS TO BE from Caithness who will be attending Raigmore Hospi- tal to have their baby now have their very own maternity liaison officer to assist them with any lo- gistical questions or concerns they may have about their stay in Inver- ness. Rachel MacDonald, who took up the post last month, explained that the liai- son officer role is not there to replace the regular communications that take place between midwives and family. She said: “I’m a point of contact for expectant mums in Caithness who will be travelling to Raigmore to have their baby. Ideally the contact will start be- fore they are in Inverness but I am also have while at Raigmore, their travel the community midwifery units in High- visiting the maternity wards on a daily and / or accommodation for partners.” land. basis and introducing myself to women The liaison role, which is being pi- All mums on the casebook in Caith- from Caithness. loted initially, will be shaped and tested ness will be written to and introduced “I want to help make their time here over the next few months so that it to Rachel in her new role. They will also go as smoothly as possible and can offer best fits of the service it supports with a be given her email contact details and support or advice for any queries they future plan to roll it out to support all mobile phone number.

CARERS Policy to be trailed at Raigmore

STAFF ON two wards at Raig- tion. Staff will be able to complete the the patient, carer and staff in each area.” more Hospital are to trial a new questionnaire online should they prefer. Joyce highlighted that the care that visiting policy for families, friends The Carers (Scotland) Act 2016, families and/or carers provide may be and carers of patients as part of a requires that each local authority and delivered by one or more people. All ten-week pilot. health board provide services and sup- carers should be welcomed into NHS The trials on Ward 3A and Ward port for all unpaid carers. NHS Highland Highland hospitals, and provided with 7C of the Inverness Hospital will start has a duty to ensure that carers are fully facilities that support them to carry out on Monday 22nd May and will run until engaged in the delivery of care of their their supportive care. Sunday 30th July 2017. loved ones, friends, or neighbours in its As part of the policy, carer wrist- Prior to the ten-week trial, doctors, hospitals. bands are to be provided to identify nurses and allied health professionals Joyce Macleod, NHS Highland’s carers to all hospital staff. This also al- will be asked to complete a question- carer lead at Raigmore, said: “Raigmore lows the carer to have staff discount in naire and the data will be used to com- hospital has introduced a draft new vis- the staff canteen at Raigmore. plete an evaluation of the pilot study. iting policy, which invites all visitors to The ward will keep a log of each The comments made – positive or support their loved ones whilst in hospi- carer given the wristband and the carer negative - will be confidential and the tal. A copy is available with the senior will be offered further help via a refer- staff will be given feedback on the infor- charge nurse on each ward. ral for support from voluntary group mation gathered. “It also promotes access to the Connecting Carers. A post-pilot questionnaire will then patient from their carers, at times which For more information, email at be given out to staff for further evalua- may be negotiated to suit the needs of [email protected]

- 18 - INTERNATIONAL NURSES DAY Nursing excellence awards

NURSES and midwives in Argyll and Bute are to be recognised for their hard work and dedicated ser- vice with the launch of Nursing Excellence Awards. Set up by the Lead Nurse office of Argyll and Bute Health and Social Care Partnership, the scheme’s first awards were presented on Friday 12th May - International Nurses Day. Liz Higgins, lead nurse for the HSCP said: “Nurses and midwives across Ar- gyll and Bute are providing a first class service to their communities every day and we felt that it was important that they were recognised for their hard work and dedication to patients. In light The first-ever winners of Argyll & Bute’s Nursing Excellence awards of this, and also in response to ideas generated by the staff themselves, we tion to the local communities across Lines, Cathy Griffiths, Michelle Camp- decided to launch a series of Nursing Argyll and Bute. We have also decided bell)

Excellence Awards for nurses and mid- that as this was such as a success we  Lead Nurse Award for Mentor wives. will be making the awards an annual of the Year – Joanne Hill (Dunoon) “The nominations were based on a event and from next year it will be ex- series of behaviours that were evi- panded to include all staff working for  Nurse Director’s Award for Life- denced by the nurses and midwives in the HSCP.” time Contribution to Nursing (a caring for their patients. These included The first winners were: nurse who is retiring in 2017) – attentive listening, honesty, patience, Sheila Letford (Oban)  Nurse of the Year – Carol-Anne sensitivity and respect. I was really de- McDade (Helensburgh)  Team of the Year – Bute Mid- lighted by the high standard and the wifery Team (Ann McClean, Fiona number of nominations we received and  Health Care Assistant of the Hood, Lesley McArthur, Fiona Mac- my colleagues and I had the very difficult Year – Linda Black (Dunoon) callum) decision of choosing the winners.  Patients Choice Award – Mid “We have some really worthy win-  Co-Workers Nursing Star Argyll Extended Community Care Team Award – Tiree Team (Catriona Cowl- ners and I would like to congratulate (Rhona Larkin, Colette Morgan, Trevor them all on their hard work and dedica- ing, Mairi Maclean Storm Byfield, Alison Highland based University of Stirling throughout the programme has exceeded A student nurse has won a prestigious our high expectations. national award in nursing. “What makes Sophie unique is that Sophie Cameron, 21, won the most she does not know how exceptional she inspirational student nurse of the year really is. She is humble and has demon- award at last month’s Nursing Time strated an ability to manage complex care awards. The awards, which were open to needs in a compassionate and confident the whole of the UK, recognise out- manner.” standing students who have demonstrated The judging panel agreed with Dr the academic achievement, clinical prow- Beattie’s nomination describing Sophie as ess and personal qualities that will make “honest and authentic” and that her them excellent nurses. “passion” shone through during their in- Dr Michelle Beattie, lecturer at Uni- terview. versity of Stirling’s Highland campus and Sophie, who is from Nairn and is based also Sophie’s personal tutor, said: “Sophie at the highland campus, said: “Winning was an obvious candidate to nominate for this nursing award felt really overwhelm- the award. She is incredibly enthusiastic ing. I was humbled to make it as a finalist about nursing and her progression so to win felt like such an achievement.

- 19 - - 20 - UPCOMING EVENTS REACH OUT Documentary

AN AWARD-WINNING documen- tary is to be shown at Eden Court in Living it up signs Inverness this month. The film Resilience is part of Scottish tour to highlight the need to break the cycle of violence, addic- tion and disease caused by the im- up to campaign pact of childhood trauma. The one-hour documentary which will be shown on Saturday 10th Living It Up teamed up with NHS lot of work with older people in com- June starting at 12pm. After the Highland last month to tackle so- munities across Highland and we will showing there will be a hour-long cial isolation and loneliness in the spread the word of the aims and objec- panel to discuss issues generated by north of Scotland. tives of the campaign.” the film. The exciting digital service designed The Reach Out campaign has se- The documentary won the Car- mel Festival Award in 2016. It delves to help people get more out of life and cured the backing of local councillors, into the science of Adverse Child- stay happier, MSPs, MPs and hood Experiences (ACEs) and the healthier and Ross County understanding that a broken- safer has joined Football Club hearted/neglected child is more the health who have all likely to suffer from mental and board’s Reach signed a pledge physical illnesses as an adult. Out campaign to do more to C o n t a c t to combat lone- tackle loneliness [email protected] for further details. liness in com- in their commu- munities across nities. Trade briefing Highland. The campaign Launched in has also re- NHS Highland aims to help Scottish May last year, ceived hundreds healthcare firms spotlight interna- the campaign of pledges from tional business development and has secured the people across trading opportunities with similar organisations in countries around backing of a Highland who the North Sea by holding a confer- number of local played their ence in Inverness next month. businesses and part in tackling As a partner in the EU-funded charities as we loneliness. SHINE project, http:// bid to tackle The Living It Up www.northsearegion.eu/shine, the one of the big- website pro- health board is inviting small to me- gest issues fac- vides access to dium sized enterprises (SMEs) to ing our society information, Inverness to brief them about an today. advice and sup- upcoming trade visit. The visit to the Netherlands in NHS High- port about: the last week of September has the land’s health Flora Barton from Living It Up with her Local groups, potential of financial support from promotion spe- signed pledge to combat loneliness in High- clubs, organisa- the Scottish development agencies. cialist Jane land tions and activi- The preparation meeting will be Chandler said: ties to encour- held on Thursday 8th June 2017 in “We are delighted that Living It Up, a age people to get out, get involved, get the Centre for Health Science in branch of NHS Highland’s Technology active and feel part of their community Inverness from 9.30am to 1pm. Rep- Enabled Care department, have signed a Health issues, keeping well, healthy resentatives from Enterprise Europe pledge to help us combat social isolation lifestyles and remaining independent Network and the Netherlands Busi- ness Support Office will be present and loneliness. Long term health conditions, self- at the briefing. Lunch with be pro- “We look forward to working with management and help available for car- vided for attendees. Living It Up to spread the word of the ers To book a place on the prepara- campaign and the fantastic work that Visit the website at tion event and/or to find out more, they do.” www.livingitup.org.uk . V i s i t contact Donna Patience on 01463 Flora Barton from Living It Up said: www.reachout.scot.nhs.uk to sign a 2 5 5 0 9 0 o r e m a i l : “We are delighted to sign a pledge to pledge to tackle social isolation and [email protected]. join the Reach Out campaign. We do a loneliness in your community. - 21 - COMINGS AND GOINGS Pat plans epic railway jaunt

ONE OF NHS Highland’s senior best friends who lives in Tasmania is Ireland for a while to work in the urol- nurses, Pat Tyrrell, has decided to going to be 60 this summer. We’ve ogy department in Meath Hospital, retire after 37 years of service been friends since we were student Dublin. with the NHS in Scotland. midwives together. In August 1982 she returned to The board’s deputy director of “I also love train travel but I’ve Scotland to train as a midwife. Further Nursing and Midwifery had a long and never been outside Europe, so this is training as a health visitor led to her varied career which took her the length going to be a big adventure for me.” eventually to becoming a ‘triple duty and breadth of the country - the last 10 Upon her return, Pat will still be nurse’. This combined health visitor, years with NHS Highland. involved with working with some of her district nurse and midwife roles in one. Pat, originally from County Wick- colleagues in NHS Highland. A promotion in 2001 to lead nurse low in Eire, officially retired on May 21st “When I get back, there are a few for Argyll & Bute’s local health care 2017. things I’ll be doing. This will include cooperative. In 2003 Pat was appointed She now intends to take a long holi- some frontline nursing with the Marie associate director nurse for Lomond day with her husband. The three month Curie Service and community nursing and Argyll Primary Care. trip will include travelling across with the NHS Highland nursing bank. That role continued until the disag- Europe, and then taking the Trans Sibe- “I’m also going to be a clinical advi- gregation of the Argyll & Clyde NHS rian railway across Russia, Siberia, Mon- sor for the Scottish Public Services Board in 2006. At this time Argyll and golia and China. Ombudsman (SPSO). Bute became part of NHS Highland. On top of that, the couple will then “And I’m going to carry on working “I was lead nurse with the newly take the train to Hong Kong before as a trustee for the Queen’s Nursing formed Argyll &Bute Community travelling to Australia to attend one of Institute Scotland. I also hope to have Health Partnership until May 2015. And her best friend’s birthday. more time to do some local community then became deputy director of nursing Speaking after an informal leaving do work.” and midwifery in NHS Highland.” with the Nursing, Midwifery and Allied Pat began her nursing training in Pat said: “I’ve been incredibly fortu- Health Professional team at Larch Manchester in February 1977. After she nate to have worked with some fantas- House, Inverness, Pat said: “One of my qualified in June 1980, Pat returned to tic people within my career, especially in the last 10 years working in NHS Highland. ast month (April) Dr Kate “I think the nurses and midwives are L Stewart joined NHS High- really second to none in terms of their land as a consultant in Obstetrics contributions and dedication and com- and Gynaecology at Raigmore mitment to provide the best service Hospital. they can. While I’m really excited to Kate recently completed her now be able to take a more flexible training in Nottingham having approach to work, I will really miss all previously worked as a house officer in Raigmore. of them.” She is delighted to have re- She said: “The strategic focus on turned to the Highlands having quality in NHS Highland is really very been brought up in Inverness and positive. The recognition that we have is looking forward to working to look after and value our staff in or- with the Obstetrics and Gynae- der to achieve our priorities is critical. cology team at Raigmore whilst They know what is needed and we enjoying the quality of life on of- must trust them to do the right things fer in the area. for the people they care for.”

- 22 - COMINGS AND GOINGS Libby calls it a day

AfFTER 48 years in the NHS, 40 of those working in the emergency department at Raigmore, charge nurse Libby Massie retired this month (May). Libby started in Raigmore as a staff nurse in orthopaedics in 1977 before getting a job as a sister in what was then the casualty department later that same year. She said: “I was the only sister in the unit and we didn’t have a consultant but there was a doctor elsewhere in the hospital that had an interest in emer- gency medicine. Only when Miss Mur- phy joined did the department get its own consultant. Libby, centre, with colleagues from the Raigmore Hospital emergency depart- “Now of course we have emergency ment on her retirement nurse practitioners, unscheduled care practitioners and I must mention our impact as before that they’d see people have a great career here. emergency department assistants who with horrendous injuries coming into “I’ll miss it but I’m looking forward we wouldn’t manage without.” hospital. The Scottish Ambulance Ser- to spending time with my grandchildren Libby explains that if she could do vice has also changed a lot with the and enjoying summer days out. There’s her nursing career again she wouldn’t introduction of paramedics making a also the family home in Islay which I change a thing. huge difference. hope to spend more time.” She said: “From day one I loved this She said: “Even how we refer to the Susan Campbell, senior charge nurse job. I like the variety that we get on a department has changed. We’ve gone for the emergency department, said: daily basis and of course the changes from casualty to accident and emer- “The place will not be the same without across the years which have not only gency to emergency department. Libby. She’s been part of the depart- benefitted staff but also our patients.” “This has been a wonderful place to ment for so long and is a valued mem- Libby credits the introduction of the work and I do envy all the staff who ber of the team. We wish her all the seatbelt law in 1983 as having a huge have recently been appointed, they’ll best for a long and happy retirement.”

HS Highland has appointed a new want to have a fleet of vehicles that are N transport manager with over thirty well maintained and reliable so that my years’ experience in transport covering staff can to do their job safely and get commerce and the armed forces. home at the end of their shift.” Andy Peebles will also oversee the The NHS Highland transport depart- transport fleet for other health boards in ment covers the whole of north Highland, Scotland including NHS Orkney, NHS working round-the-clock to ensure essen- Shetland and NHS Grampian. tial supplies such as medical equipment, “I’ve been in post for two weeks and I laundry and mail are delivered on time. A have a vision of where I want to take this team of 11 drivers based at Raigmore valuable service,” he explained. “The Hospital in Inverness clock up hundreds of transport side of the job has always been thousands of miles each year. there, but the fleet management aspect is With over 25 years of service in the a new element of the post. military, plans to draw on his experience “My main focus is to ensure NHS of how government organisations work to Highland complies with all the regulations help improve processes and systems to regarding our operator’s licence, and I provide a professional efficient service.

- 23 - EDUCATION Pupils given ‘masterclasses’

NHS HIGHLAND and the Univer- sity of the Highlands and Islands are working together to deliver masterclasses to secondary school pupils across the region consider- ing a career in science, health or medicine. The first of the masterclasses, in collaboration with the Royal Society of Edinburgh (RSE), saw Professor Steve Leslie, honorary professor at the univer- sity and consultant cardiologist at NHS Highland, speak about “Getting to the Heart of the Matter”, with hands-on experience of state-of-the-art cardiol- ogy technology, including pacemakers and stents. The pupils also had the opportunity dary schoolchildren the opportunity to both nationally and locally. to handle the instrumentation and to develop their science skills, while at the “Recruiting healthcare staff to more see how ultrasound is used to image same time witnessing first-hand how remote areas can be challenging and it is heart valve function. those skills are linked to high-value em- important that local young people are Professor Ian Megson, the univer- ployment in key sectors in the local inspired and informed about future ca- sity’s head of health research and inno- community.” reers. I hope this RSE masterclass will vation, said “These masterclasses are a Professor Steve Leslie said: “I was be helpful in this regard. fantastic opportunity for the university. delighted to be asked to help with this “The students attending got to learn “We can work with colleagues to RSE masterclass, the school students of about the treatment of patients with help foster enthusiasm in the scientists today are the health care teams and heart attacks but the session also in- of the future in our local community. scientists of the future and it is vital that cluded hands on tutorials and experi- “We have put together an exciting students get as much information about ments which, although challenging, they programme to give enthusiastic secon- the different careers that are available seemed to enjoy.” Health workshops held at Wick High SPECIAL WORKSHOPS were specialists in their respective fields. During the workshops, students held for pupils at the new Wick Jenny said: “The workshops weren’t were given time for question/answer High School at the beginning of your normal lessons. Students were sessions with the different NHS High- this month designed to encourage asked to identify different pieces of land healthcare specialists - with the them to pursue careers as health- equipment and guess what they are used latter bringing in suitable props or care professionals. for. equipment to help demonstrate what The workshops for third year stu- “In the Radiography workshop, for they do during their working days. dents took place on Wednesday 10th example, they were shown X-rays of Facilitators of each workshop also May. The students choose from five different body parts and asked to guess outlined to the students how best to go different workshops, each lasting an which parts they are. The idea of the about gaining the necessary qualifica- hour to an hour and a half. workshops was to peek the students’ tions for jobs in the health care sector. The five workshops were on: Medi- interest, so that they decide to choose As well as the entry requirements to cine; Nursing; Radiography; Physiother- useful subject that can help them purse university courses, the students were apy; and Occupational Therapy. careers as healthcare professionals.” given advice about useful subjects to Organiser Jenny Sinclair, from NHS Around 20-30 students attended take, how to get relevant work experi- Highland, said each of the workshops each workshop, with each split up into ence; and what training is like at univer- were presented by Caithness-based smaller groups of 4-5. sity (e.g. placements etc.).

- 24 - CARE HOME INSPECTIONS Positive report for north coast home THE QUALITY of care provided at available online. It stated that residents Quality of Care & Support - grade a Sutherland care home has been had told them that the “care at the 4 good; Quality of Environment - maintained according to the latest home was marvellous” and the team at grade 3 adequate; Quality of Staff- report from the Care Inspectorate the home were described as “very wel- ing grade - 4 good; and Quality of despite a recent change of man- coming”. Management & Leadership grade 3 - agement. The positive findings echo the com- adequate. Manager Ian Blackhall had only been ments NHS Highland received last year Lorraine Coe, NHS Highlands’ Suth- in post a few months when a team from when it carried out the public consulta- erland District Manager, said: “The re- the independent regulator of social care tion on the care homes on the north tention of the grades is a real positive and social work services made an unan- coast. for Caladh Sona as this is Ian`s first post nounced visit to the Caladh Sona Care While the feedback supported the as a care home manager and he has only Home at Talmine on 23rd February proposed new model, people were ful- been in post a few short months. 2017. some of praise for the quality of care “The fact that the grades remained The team at the six-bed residential people received at both at Caladh Sona the same is an achievement for a new home achieved the same results when and Sinclair Court Care Home further manager coming into post, so my con- the Care Inspectorate made a visit back along the coast at Melvich. gratulations to Ian and the fantastic in October 2015. During the spot check on the Caladh team at Caladh Sona for this perform- The staff at Caladh Sona recorded Sona, the following grades in the four ance and the high level of care they of- many positives in the report that is categories assessed were achieved: fer on a daily basis.”

High standards maintained at An Acarsaid

A SKYE care home run by NHS High- land has maintained very high stan- dards according to the latest report from the Care Inspectorate. During an unannounced visit on 24th February 2017 to the An Acar- said care home in Broadford, the care services regulator inspected two of the normal four categories: Care and Support; and Management and Lead- Care home manager, Catherine tastic and is clearly shown in the re- ership. Smith, said: “Our staff team work sults maintained on this inspection.” The ten-bed residential home re- very hard to keep our standards up, There was only one requirement ceived grade 5 – very good - scores for and are delighted with the grades re- made. This stipulated that the service both, matching the grades awarded at ceived.” provider must ensure that a full writ- the last visit by the Care Inspectorate Kate Earnshaw, NHS Highland’s ten dependency assessment for each on 1st February 2016. area manager for Skye, Lochalsh and service user is carried out, taking into One comment from a service user South West Ross, said: “I, too, am consideration their physical, mental highlighted in the report stated: “The delighted that the home has achieved and social care needs. staff are 100 per cent in here. They such high standards. The dedication The requirement must be put in underrate how good they are.” and commitment by everyone is fan- place by 31st May 2017.

- 25 - HIGHLAND HEALTH SCIENCES LIBRARY Library set to transition once again: The past, the present and the future

Past the opening celebrations but as noted in a pre- The Highland Health Sciences Library began vious commentary this has not resulted in any life in 1969. At that time it was part of NHS lessening of his imbibing behaviours. Highland and supported by the Scottish Council Since 2006 the Librarian has been involved for Postgraduate Medical Education (now NHS in many changes. These include the retiral and Education Scotland), and the Scottish Home and non-replacement of key staff members, the sad Image courtesy: Am Baile Health Department. death of our colleague Kathleen, in a hill walk- At this point the Librarian and his team were ing accident, and more mundane events such as ensconced in the Elizabethan (II) grandeur of getting rid of the gate entry and fines systems. what was known as the “PostGrad” centre. Along the way some interesting experi- This was located roughly where the current ments have been tried – the 20 minute 20/20 Centre for Health Science is now (outlined in cricket/cake-based bite-sized teaching sessions black in the photograph, above right). being notable – not least for their epicurean In 1996, nurse education moved into higher and intellectual offerings. education. The University of Stirling were Future awarded the teaching contract and the Library As part of his managerial work the Librarian and its staff were subsumed into this institution. has to mix with the great and the good. Here With his polymathic, antiquarian and Mainwaring history comes full circle for the man. The Li- pompousness, the Librarian developed delusions brarian has worked and studied at the Universi- of grandeur as he equated himself with the likes ties of Aberdeen, Stirling and the University of of Philip Larkin (the late librarian poet). The the Highlands and Islands. One of the past asso- similarities don’t end there - Larkin liked to ciates of the Librarian who links all these insti- come in early and work late - as does our over- tutions together is the late Sir Kenneth Alexan- seer. Larkin himself never visited the library der. here, but it is not hard to see our taskmaster One of the aspirations of Sir Kenneth in his and Larkin sitting in the inner sanctum with the Librarian on the move role as Chairman of the Highlands and Islands fire sizzling away, drams in one hand, pencils in Image courtesy: Richard Croft Development Board (now Highlands and Islands the other scribbling away in notepads. The Li- Enterprise) was to develop a University in the brarian is fond of the Japanese haiku form of Highlands. The Librarian is extremely pleased poetry - here is one of his efforts: that now that this has been achieved “his” Li- “White paper/light, black type, brary is going to be part of that development. Put the world to rights” The transition from University of Stirling to the

Larkin’s poetic efforts are rather more ro- University of the Highlands and Islands is due bust, although not a haiku, here he expounds on for completion this coming August. the subject of work: For the present the Library will remain in its present location and services will remain the “ … Ah, were I courageous enough same. The Librarian and his team of assistants To shout Stuff your pension! look forward in getting involved and contribut- But I know, all too well, that's the stuff ing to the vast amount of interesting innova- That dreams are made on …” tions (e.g. the Scottish School of Graduate From Toads by Philip Larkin Medicine) and research going on - the library Present has already contributed much to the study of The Centre for Health Science itself was Sir Kenneth Alexander. Lyme disease, but the Librarian is particularly opened in 2006 and the Library relocated to intrigued by the involvement of the European phase one of this new building. The Librarian Portrait by Alberto Morrocco. Image courtesy: University of Space Agency (a branch library in the Interna- still suffers from unnerving flashbacks relating to Stirling tional Space Station?) in this work.

Remember, whatever your needs the Highland Health Sciences Library exists to help you. Save time and money. Don’t spend more than 10 minutes on a problem you may be having – contact the library instead. To find out more about the library call 01463 255600 (x7600). - 26 - Ever wondered what our staff do in their spare time? OTHER LIVES ‘Other Lives’ reports on colleagues’ outside interests Anyone for Cricket? At a loss to find something to do this summer? Then John Paul, a lead physio- therapist at New Craigs Hospital, Inver- ness, could have just the thing. John Paul and the Highland Cricket Club first

John plays for the Highland Cricket Club team after receiving the NOSCA league tro- based at Fraser Park, near the Kingsmill Hotel, phy last year in Inverness, and says the club would welcome NHS Highland staff and their families.

John said: “With lots of people coming to The club also plays in NOSCA's shorter the Highlands to work who have played the Cricket at cricket competitions. A T20 (20/20) tournament game, we are happy to welcome them at High- - a much shorter and more dynamic version of the game with 20 overs per innings - and a 30- land. We like to make them feel at home. H i g h l a n d ‘

over Knock Out cup. “Cricket is the ideal sport to play in the is fun, summer to help youngsters develop their hand- ‘ The club has focussed on developing a junior eye co-ordination. It certainly helps develop f r i e n d l y squad with a number of U15 games being organ- skill sets that can be used when playing other ised nationally by Cricket Scotland. In a bid to sports during the rest of the year. and multi- improve junior uptake, Cricket Scotland - along For John, a former club captain, one of the cultural with local clubs - have launched an All Stars pro- attractions is the club’s inclusive nature. gramme. He said: “Cricket at Highland is fun, friendly John, one of the club’s two UKCC level 2 and multicultural, with current club members coaches, said: “Cricket is an endurance game. from the West indies, Australia, England, India On the field, you are on your feet for a long and Pakistan all enjoying the game here. time and you have to focus and concentrate. “On the socialising side, the club is family- You also need to develop your skills set to be friendly. There’s a summer barbeque day, and able to bat, bowl, field and catch. all the family are invited. And as part of the Under new club captain Rob Nixon, the on- 60th anniversary, we are looking to have a good going youth focus is beginning to pay off. end of season dinner with a guest list and old John said: “We’ve got a youngster at the mo- club players invited. ment, who is moving on fairly well as a player. “We have tremendous sponsors – Cobbs, He is currently waiting for his trials for the Scot- for example, sponsor our teas with lovely cakes land U18 cricket squad. A good bowler, we’ve and good sandwiches; and local firm ScotBark, worked a lot with him.” provides financial support towards the junior Highland Cricket Club is about to start run- nd development programme.” ning the All Stars cricket programme from 22 With the pavilion at Fraser Park just refur- May for 8 weeks. The programme at Fraser bished three years ago, the club has gone from Park, Inverness, will begin at 6.30 pm. Suitable for boys or girls, aged 5 to 8 years old, register strength to strength. John Paul (right) at: https://www.ecb.co.uk/play/all-stars/centres. He said: “Last year we won three of the six receiving the NO- trophies available to us.” SCA Knock Out Further details can be found on the club’s Face- Highland Cricket is part of the North of Cup (30 overs) book page. Scotland Cricket Association League from former Eng- Coaching for 9 to 13 year old kids will start (NOSCA.net). With between 35 to 40 regular land player Mat- also on May 22nd at Fraser Park 6.30 to 8 pm. players; the club is able to field two teams each thew Hoggard last Beginners are welcome, £2 per session. For fur- year week. ther details email: [email protected]. - 27 -

Q &A Pat Douglas, receptionist based at Assynt House

What does your job involve? which are full of suspense and Welcoming visitors to the build- hold the reader’s attention till ing, answering and redirecting the last page. telephone calls and providing hospitality. If you won £10 million in the lottery, what would you How would you describe spend it on? After supporting yourself? Friendly, outgoing and Cancer Research I would treat approachable. myself to a fancy new black Audi A6 then head out on the highway Do you have and hobbies looking for adventure. and interests? I love walking and cycling during the good What about a smaller sum; weather. I also play golf and at say £1,000? A holiday to Ma- the weekend I help out with my deira to top up my tan. husband’s business at the Inver- ness Golf Club Pro Shop. I’m If you could have dinner with very sociable and enjoy spending three people, dead or alive, time with my family and friends. who they be and what would you cook them? Queen Victo- What was the first single you ria, Rod Stewart and Pub Land- ever bought? Young Girl by lord Al Murray. I would cook a Gary Phucket & Union Gap tasty curry and tapas for us to enjoy. What is your favourite food? I’d have Chinese for every meal if What are your pet hates? possible. People with bad manners and who do not have respect for And how about your favour- others are my biggest pet hate. ite film? Pretty Woman. What are the best and worst And TV programme? Anything with the charming and things about your job? The best thing about my job is eloquent Gordon Ramsey. meeting new people and catching up with colleagues visiting Assynt House. The worst thing is people “forget” their Finally, what’s your favourite book? I enjoy books manners.

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