Issue 18 February/March 10 North Tees and Hartlepool NHS Foundation Trust

The magazine for North Tees and Hartlepool NHS Foundation Trust

Rights, pledges and responsibilities set out in NHS Constitution page 12 Adventure in Ecuador Speech and language therapist James Faraday was lucky enough to take a trip to Ecuador. Anthem caught up with James to hear about his adventure.

James spent three months with dysphagia (swallowing The old in Ecuador in South America, problems). The department working voluntarily as a speech is pioneering treatments and and language therapist in a hospital techniques which have become in Quito, the capital city. commonplace in the UK, for James explained: “I worked in the example videofluoroscopy (a hospital Vozandes. It has excellent video x-ray of a patient’s swallow) facilities and a very skilled and fiberoptic endoscopic workforce. It was established evaluation of swallowing (a in the 1950s by American technique for assessing the missionaries, but now employs swallow by passing a small primarily Ecuadorians. I was made camera through the nose to look to feel very welcome by the staff. at the throat). “I joined a speech therapy James got the chance to spend department which has been time with outpatients and on developed over the past five the wards. He gave some basic years by Michelle von Debschitz, dysphagia training to junior a speech and language therapist doctors, and helped to develop from the United States. The resources and teaching materials. department is notable for having The language in Ecuador is the only speech and language Spanish, but thankfully James had service in Ecuador for patients studied this at night-school for a

The new A modern look for the Croft restaurant Staff and visitors at the University deserve a huge amount of credit for Hospital of Hartlepool can now tuck the success. into some tasty food after a revamp “It is great to hear hospital staff and of the hospital’s restaurant. visitors compliment the chic new The Croft restaurant has been surroundings and acknowledging made over with a redesign and the positive changes that have refurbishment to complement been made. the recently opened Wilbers “We are very excited and really cafe, providing a more attractive looking forward to the completion and up-to-date facility for everyone of the refurbishment of the Tees to enjoy. restaurant at the University Hospital Catering strategist Billy Cunningham of North Tees. said: “We’ve updated the menus to “The new and innovative menus include more healthy eating that we will offer on both sites options, bistro-style fresh cooked provide healthy, increased vegetarian to order meals as well as traditional options, fresh fruit and vegetables favourites such as roasts, jacket as well as matching the best of potatoes and fresh sandwiches. what is available on the high street. “We know that the restaurant is well “The restaurant represents a used and appreciated, however, but significant investment in facilities it’s been in need of updating. provided for staff and visitors facilities “We are extremely proud of the and shows the trust’s commitment service we provide and the staff to providing high quality services.” 002|003 Speech and language Adventure therapist James Faraday in Ecuador Speech and language therapist James Faraday was lucky enough to take a trip to Ecuador. Anthem caught up with James to hear about his adventure.

couple of years, so was just about able to get by! James continued: “Ecuador is a beautiful country with very diverse landscapes, including the Andes mountains, and lush rainforest. Quito is in the foothills of the Andes, and is more than 9,000 ft above sea-level – the highest capital city in the world. At this altitude even walking up a flight of stairs can leave you out of breath! “My time in Ecuador was an experience I will never forget. I learned so much from the people I met, and I returned to work in Hartlepool and Easington with fresh enthusiasm and ideas. I would like to say a big thank you to my colleagues in the speech therapy department here for helping to make this adventure possible.”

February/March 10 Associate practitioners make the grade Newly qualified associate practitioners at North Tees and Hartlepool NHS Foundation Trust gathered at a special ceremony to recognise their achievement. The associate practitioner grade is a career progression from healthcare assistant and, although it is a professional qualification in its own right, it’s also a stepping stone to becoming a staff nurse. Director of nursing and patient safety Sue Smith said: “I would like to congratulate all of the successful students on this fantastic achievement. It takes a lot of hard work and dedication from the students as well as the Director of nursing congratulates the successful students

Higher education programme leader Eyv Hardwick unveils the artwork, watched by principal embryologist Dave Gibbon Artwork officially handed over A fantastic collection of artwork months of work it’s excellent has been officially handed to see the finished designs in over and is on display in the place for everyone to enjoy. state of the art reproduction All of the students did a unit at the University Hospital fantastic job.” of Hartlepool. Higher education programme Earlier in 2009 the department leader for applied arts Eyv Director of nursing and patient safety Sue Smith and clinical educator Larry Nicholson invited foundation degree Hardwick said: “The students applied art students from presents student of the year Lisa McGuckin worked incredibly hard to Cleveland College of Art and produce their artwork, taking Design to submit designs into account the theme of local that could be exhibited in a corridor within the new ultra landmarks to enhance the calm environment of the unit. Children treated modern department to benefit the patients. “It was a great project and gave Principal embryologist Dave our students the experience of Gibbon said: “I would like to working to a live design brief to panto fun thank all of the students who which will stand them in good came up with some innovative stead when they head out into Children at the University games and activities with and exciting art work. After the commercial world.” Hospital of North Tees were the children, we promote

Issue 18 delighted to be visited by a positive experience to Februar y/March 10 North Tees and Hartlepool NHS Foundation Trust the cast of Starlight. guide the children through

The magazine for Nor th Tees and Har tlepool NHS Foundation Trust National children’s charity their stay. Got a story Starlight brought cheer “When Starlight panto time to the ward with a comes around, everyone for Anthem? special pantomime. gets excited. We’re really If you’ve got something to Hospital play specialist grateful to the cast of share with other Anthem Sandra Jackson said: Starlight for brightening readers please email “We are here to provide up our day and bringing [email protected] or the support that the a little bit of magic to phone 01642 624339. R ig h t s ,p le d g e s a n d children need. By playing the ward.” Fun on the children’s ward r e s p o n s i b i li t i e s s e t o u t i n N H S C o n s t i t u t i o n p a g e 1 2 004|005 Associate practitioners A double double celebration make the grade It was a much more than a double celebration for the parents of the first quadruplets made up of two sets of identical twin girls.

Delighted mum Lisa Kelly from “Eight-year-old Cameron Billingham made UK medical is delighted to have four history when she beat the sisters too.” odds of 10 million to one by Staff nurse Joanna Malbon, giving birth to two sets of part of the team caring for the identical twin girls. quads, has been a nurse since The four beautiful babies, 2003. She said: “I’ve never Heidi, Annabelle, Hannah and Jessica were cared for at seen anything like this in my the University Hospital of career, and it’s unlikely I will North Tees. again. It’s extraordinary. The quads, born after their “They have been lovely to work mother had IVF treatment, found with though, it’s been quite out they were going to have special to watch the four of Director of nursing congratulates the successful students the unique set of quads seven them grow and get strong. excellent support that the ward Stockton’s charity ball. weeks into the pregnancy. They “It’s been a pleasure to work managers have given.” Clinical educator Larry Nicholson were delivered by Caesarean with such a lovely family.” section in Newcastle, before There was a special award for added: “Some of these individuals Life has changed dramatically being transferred to the Lisa McGuckin, who had joined are continuing in their education to for the family since the birth, neonatal unit at the University the trust as a ward hostess, then complete the foundation degree and is unlikely ever to be the trained as a healthcare assistant, Hospital of North Tees. and eventually plan to train to same again. before completing the associate become registered nurses. They Lisa, 35, said: “I thought there Lisa added: “We couldn’t have practitioner qualification. have all worked extremely hard could be a chance of having twins, but never thought we’d asked for better care – the staff “I would like to and we wish them every success for the future.” get four in one go! have been fantastic.” congratulate all of the The successful students were successful students Lynne Alston, Valerie Boland, on this fantastic Nicola Carter, Margaret Colquhoun, Kelly Egan, Sarah Fletcher, Garry achievement.” Frampton, Cynthia Gibbon, Claire Lisa was awarded student of the Holland, Sarah Kidson, Wendy year for her achievements and Lindsay, Lisa McGuckin, Kay the determination she has given McMorris, Julie Nicholson, Debbie to progress in her career and O’Brien, Stuart Peacock, Elaine was further rewarded with Pickett, Tammy Saunders, Carolyn an invitation to the Mayor of Usher and Barbara Walton.

Staff nurse Joanne Malbon pictured with delighted Lisa, Sean, Cameron, Fun on the children’s ward Heidi, Annabelle, Hannah and Jessica at the University Hospital of North Tees

February/March 10 Flexible friend to help NHS patients

Patients at North Tees and Hartlepool Foundation Trust and at other trusts across the north east are to benefit from a new initiative set to be launched in early April.

The NHS Help Card has been down any special requirements designed to give extra help and and a tick list of different languages support to people whenever they on the reverse for those who visit a NHS hospital, GP surgery, cannot speak English. The NHS dentist or optician. Help Card will be available free The card features a blank panel on to any patients who wish to have the front where people can write one, as well as relatives, friends and carers. “We want everyone The card was pioneered by the City Hospital Sunderland’s to have a positive equality and diversity co-ordinator experience when Stephanie Smith with the support of North East Strategic Health they use their local Authority and was successfully health service” piloted across the trust’s five

Clinical coding officers Kathy Date, Rachel Mackey and Jill Goode Cracking A helping hand for Haiti

Staff at North Tees and Hartlepool across the world to cope. achievement for NHS Foundation Trust have rallied Domestics Sandra Large, round to boost the Haiti appeal. Margaret Huggins and Sheila Haiti was hit by an earthquake Charlton, who is retired, the coding team on January 12. The desperately organised a tombola at the poor country has little resources University Hospital of North Tees The clinical coding team is time, so it was a lot of hard and is relying on donations from to raise money for the victims of celebrating the success of three work – but it has definitely members of staff who have paid off. achieved the national clinical “The course took a year coding qualification. of home study, and then Clinical coding officers Kathy we had to take a theory and Date, Jill Goode and Rachel a practical exam at Mackey had already completed Northumbria University.” the foundation course and Head of information chose to complete the management Carolynne accredited course. Proudlock said: “I am delighted The national clinical coding with the success of our qualification (UK) is the coding staff. They have shown only nationally recognised dedication and determination qualification for clinical to gain this accredited coders in the NHS. The recognition – I am very proud of qualification, established by their achievement.” NHS Connecting for Health in The clinical coding team partnership with administration is responsible for translating and awarding body, the medical terminology into Institute for Health Record and nationally recognised Information Management. code format for diagnoses Rachel said: “We are all so and procedures, providing pleased to have passed the accurate and consistent coded Margaret Huggins, Sheila Charlton and Sandra Large raise essential funds for exam. We studied in our own clinical data. the Haiti appeal

006|007 Flexible friend to help NHS patients

Patients at North Tees and Hartlepool Foundation Trust and at other trusts across the north east are to benefit from a new initiative set to be launched in early April.

sites last year. Others have difficulty in Stephanie said: “After talking understanding what is happening with many different community or may not speak English. groups and through my work in “We want everyone to have a the city’s hospitals, it became positive experience when they clear to me that there was a need use their local health service and for something to help people the NHS Help Card will take away to overcome some common some of the common problems problems when using their local people face, putting the onus NHS service. firmly on the NHS to respond and “A lot of people have problems support patients whatever their getting around hospital, finding query or concern.” Ward sister Kristel Brown receives the cheque from Sandy Baxter their way to places and sometimes The card will be rolled out as watched by left to right John Tough, staff nurse Joanne Dixon and vice captain Jim Mongan may not hear their names being a six month region-wide pilot called during appointments. from April. Donation A helping hand for Haiti is par for

the devastating disaster, raising almost £1,200 for the appeal. Head of domestic services Nick the course Clements said: “I am very proud of the ladies. They took time A group of golfers recently “This year the executive to spend their day off collecting made a trip to hospital in the committee chose care for the many fantastic prizes and raised name of charity. elderly at the University Hospital £1,200 on the 12 hour tombola. The men, who are all part of The North Tees. On occasions the Wynyard Old Boys Golf Section elderly can be forgotten about “This isn’t the at Wynyard Golf Club, went and we believed that especially first time they’ve to ward 41 at the University at this time of the year this Hospital of North Tees to deliver donation contributed towards pulled out all the a cheque for the magnificent their care. stops to help a sum of £1,050. ”We were expecting to raise The Wynyard Old Boys Golf around £600 but the members worthwhile cause” Section was established a few dug deep and excelled “This isn’t the first time they’ve years ago. There are currently themselves by raising £1,050.” Domestic Sandra Large hands over around 30 members aged The cheque was presented to pulled out all the stops to help the generous donation to chaplain 50 years and over who are ward sister Kristel Brown by a worthwhile cause and yet Dave Russon members of Wynyard Golf Club captain Sandy Baxter. again their efforts have proved and live locally. Kristel said: “We are extremely successful. I would like to thank charity InCare, added: “It’s The members play throughout grateful for this generous all staff, patients and visitors good to know that people care the year in various competitions donation, Christmas is always who contributed.” so much for the victims of the internally and against other local a difficult time for people Many staff across the trust have tragedy. When the news reports golf clubs. in hospital, away from their been collecting money. Hundreds of the devastation in Haiti hit us Executive committee chairman loved ones.” of pounds has been donated and we were keen to raise money. John Tough said: “Each year The money is to be used the money is still coming in. I am just pleased that we have a charity is nominated and an towards buying reclining chairs Hospital chaplain Dave been able to pull together and event takes place in December for long term patients so they Russon, who is also CEO of will continue to help the Haitians of that year to raise funds for don’t have to stay in bed and run an international care and relief at this awful time.” the chosen charity. the risk of painful bed sores.

February/March 10 Enabling palliative care patients to regain control of their lives

North Tees and Hartlepool NHS Foundation Trust’s nurse consultant in palliative care has gained another qualification. Mel McEvoy has recently been awarded a postgraduate diploma in cognitive behavioural therapy and it’s enabling him to support patients as they adjust to a diagnosis of cancer. Here he tells Anthem all about it. Mel (right) pictured with clinical psychologist Mark McFetridge and chancellor of Durham University Bill Bryson Being diagnosed with a life limiting panic and, if time permits, dying catapults the person back differently and, by extension, illness or finding out you have a acceptance of the situation. This into that space where they felt feel differently.” short time to live is something is further complicated by our they had no control. People who are dying rarely fear most of us don’t want to think individual life scripts; the things the death itself. It’s the process about. However nurse consultant that have happened to us which leading up to it and the legacy in palliative care Mel McEvoy is have made us what we are. “I work with they’re leaving the family which finding his new skills in cognitive concerns them. behavioural therapy are proving Tapping in patients and help Mel said: “This is all part of not invaluable in supporting people at Mel explained: “Many people are being in control and feeling the what can be a traumatic time. what they are because of events them think about very natural panic, depression Cognitive behavioural therapy where they were vulnerable or in the situation and anxiety which goes with (CBT) is based on changing the danger early in life. For example the diagnosis. People feel out of way you think and, by doing that, losing a parent early in life or being differently and, control and some even wish it changing the way you feel. abused makes people want to by extension, was all over because they don’t Like bereavement, a shock control their lives so they are never understand how they will be diagnosis raises the same in that situation again. A diagnosis feel differently.” able to cope. All of their normal emotions; often denial, anger, of cancer or finding out they are strategies don’t work with something that is completely “Cognitive behavioural therapy outside their control. helps people to tap into their inner resources of their previous A different kind of control life experience. When we “CBT is about regaining control, have problems it is often our but in many ways it’s a different interpretation of the events and kind of control. To use the old our lack of self belief in being able adage it’s about changing the to deal with situation that leads things you can change, accepting to a biased way of thinking. It is the things you can’t change about opening wider the aperture and having the wisdom to know of the camera to take in more the difference. information. Many patients have “It’s also about looking at their life an illumination moment where and balancing the positive and the they recognise why they think the negative and realising that, before way they do and have a desire dying there’s still living to do.” to change. The desire to change, CBT comes in the shape of initial and the individual has to do this one hour session followed by two work, is at the heart of the success or three more sessions; whatever of CBT. the person needs. “I work with patients and help “I don’t do it for them,” said Mel. Carer’s diary them think about the situation “I give them the model or the

008|009 Friends and colleagues say goodbye to Liz

The ICT department turned out Graeme Dixon said: “Liz was in force to say goodbye to a an integral part of the team and popular member of the team. a pleasure to work with. Along IT helpdesk analyst Liz with Liz’s skills, knowledge and Bingham retired after 17 years character we will lose one of service. Liz joined the trust as the most recognised voices in the Barwick patient administrator the trust. system in 1992 from Yorkshire “She got to know many Bank, before soon becoming staff who thought very highly known as the nice lady on the of her and we would like to all IT helpdesk. wish her the very best for an IT operations service manager enjoyable retirement.”

Mel (right) pictured with clinical psychologist Mark McFetridge and chancellor of Durham University Bill Bryson tools so they can change the way “We want to they think about the situation and see that, however bleak it involve the relative looks, there are positive sides. It’s about supporting them as they or carer in end re-write some of the script in of life. They can their lives so they can cope with complete the diary whatever’s ahead.” New manager for As well as providing help and as often as they support himself, Mel is spreading the word to key workers. He feel they want to accident and emergency said: “These techniques are and then leave on so helpful and powerful. I am North Tees and Hartlepool a cardiology and stroke ward. NHS Foundation Trust is working with specialist nurses in the bedside table Rabina always wanted to be an delighted to welcome Rabina A&E nurse, so after returning cancer but also in other areas Tindale, senior clinical matron from Germany she worked where people are diagnosed with or locker for the and acting service manager for in accident and emergency life limiting illnesses. nurse or doctor.” accident and emergency. at St James’ Hospital in “CBT can transform how Rabina trained as a nurse in Leeds, before joining Mid someone sees themselves Harrogate and qualified in Yorkshire Hospitals NHS and, instead of dying, lives with 1990, where she worked as Trust as lead accident and the situation.” ward and the palliative care team an orthopaedic nurse for nine emergency nurse. Consultant in palliative care months. She took her skills to what they are experiencing. Rabina said: “I managed the medicine Edwin Pugh added: Munich for one year working on accident and emergency “Mel’s commitment and passion “We want to involve the relative department at Dewsbury is unquestioned. His skill is yet or carer in end of life. They can District Hospital and set up another way we are ensuring complete the diary as often as they feel they want to and then the minor injuries and nurse we take a holistic approach with practitioner service, also patients coming to the end of leave on the bedside table or locker for the nurse or doctor. They working in primary care and their lives.” walk in services.” can also comment on the comfort Rabina was chair of the Royal of your friend or relative. Caring together College of Nursing Accident “We hope that the diary will Mel has been working with the and Emergency Association improve communication between research and development team for one year and is a member to introduce a carer diary. relatives and health care staff, of the steering committee. He said: “Communication at the help families at a crucial and Rabina said of her new role: time of someone dying can be emotional time and give them “I’m excited. It’s going to be very difficult. The diary will give a greater sense of purpose in a big challenge but I have the the relative or carer a voice on the last days of their relative or Rabina Tindale support of a great team.” behalf of the patient and tell the friend’s life.”

February/March 10 Free calls packages launched for patients

Patients at North Tees and Hartlepool NHS Foundation Trust can now benefit from free unlimited calls to their friends and family thanks to the launch of new entertainment packages for patients in University Hospital of North Tees and University Hospital of Hartlepool.

Hospedia UK Ltd, the UK’s largest • Free games patient bedside entertainment • Choice of over 20 TV channels provider, has announced the In response to demands from launch of a series of new patients for a greater variety of Tracey Cafferkey from the Kay Smith Fund presents a cheque to North Tees entertainment that give free TV package options, Hospedia and Hartlepool NHS Foundation Trust clinical research scientist Liz Baker unlimited calls to patients has launched a range of short, watched by (left to right) consultant surgeon Pud Bhaskar, Brendan Cafferkey, and offer a range of television medium and long stay packages John Rooke, Debbie and Mick Sumpter and Louise Hall rental packages based on their that all also include free unlimited feedback. The new Hospedia calls – so patients can now packages include: have unlimited TV, phone, • Free unlimited calls for patients internet and games for as little as Local people to friends and family on 01, 02, £1.67 per day. and 03 land-line numbers • Reduction in the cost of “We spoke to patients calling mobile phones by up to and they wanted dig deep for 60 per cent • Length of pre-recorded much more flexibility, messages for inbound callers so we have introduced Kay’s charity reduced by over 40 per cent a range of packages • Free radio (including hospital radio) from £1 for 1 hour up Local people are continuing to continue the work that Kay • Free email and internet to £20 for 12 days.” to make a difference in the wanted so much and we’d like battle against breast cancer. An to thank everyone who has amazing additional £16,255 has continued to support this very been donated to pay for the worthy cause. If this substance third year of the mammaglobin really is the secret to detecting trial. The three year research breast cancer early it will make programme, which is now in a huge difference and save the final year, is designed to see many lives. if raised levels of this substance “It’s moving to see Kay’s can detect breast cancer early. determination living on in her Several fundraising events along family and friends. She was with private donations have all so generous for thinking of helped to swell the funds. others and she wanted to see Surgeon Pud Bhaskar from something good come out of North Tees and Hartlepool NHS her own personal tragedy. It’s a Foundation Trust said: “We’re privilege for us all to be carrying delighted to have this donation on this work in her name.”

Issue 18 February/March 10 North Tees and Hartlepool

NHS Foundation Trust

Got a story The magazine for Nor th Tees and Har tlepool NHS Foundation Trust for Anthem? If you’ve got something to share with other Anthem readers please email [email protected] or phone 01642 624339. R i g h t s ,p l e d g e s a n d r e s p o n s i b i l i t i e s s e t o u t i n N H S C o n s t i t u t i o n p a g e 1 2

Customer service adviser Claire Baker with patient Andrew Collier

010|011 Free calls packages launched for patients

Patients at North Tees and Hartlepool NHS Foundation Trust can now benefit from free unlimited calls to their friends and family thanks to the launch of new entertainment packages for patients in University Hospital of North Tees and University Hospital of Hartlepool.

Justvisting.com’s director Michael Lavery pictured with David Stout, acting chief executive at NHS North East New website helps to take the strain from visiting relatives NHS North East has become the site is especially useful for the first region in the country concerned friends and relatives to endorse an innovative, free who live away from their loved service, which aims to make life ones or can’t visit because of easier for people who have a other restrictions. loved one in hospital. He said: “Justvisiting.com is a The new website at www. fantastic idea which makes justvisiting.com provides a free, things easier for patients, online meeting place where relatives and NHS staff. Keeping friends and family of patients everyone up to date with how can stay up to date and in touch, a loved one is doing while in from anywhere in the world and hospital can be an additional at anytime. strain during periods of worry or Hospedia dual site manager with customer service advisers Claire Baker, Lisa It came about when pub landlord when time is at a premium. Ogden and Gary Blackburn Paul Smith offered customer Jeff “NHS North East is very pleased Cummings the use of the pub’s to endorse Justvisiting and we Hospedia commercial and media importantly the trials showed that website to keep relatives and would encourage all hospitals and director Ben Packman explains: with the new prices more people friends updated about his father’s healthcare facilities across the “We spoke to patients and they used the system on a day to condition. After crashing the region to highlight the website so wanted much more flexibility, so day basis, with three times the pub’s website Paul and Jeff got that more people can share the benefits of using it.” we have introduced a range of number of calls being made and together and created the website Michael Lavery said: “The site packages from £1 for 1 hour up people talking for up to seven which is designed to help take the strain off relatives who need has already attracted more to £20 for 12 days. This means times longer. to keep lots of people informed than 15,000 visitors and has that someone who just wants to Hospedia chief executive Tim when someone is in hospital. users logging on from around watch a couple of soaps can do Weil continued: “The significant The two are now supported by the world. so at low cost, but also someone increases demonstrated by the a third director, Michael Lavery. “Everyone we’ve spoken to has who is having to stay for longer trials show that patients see this The entrepreneurs are keen to been so impressed with the site’s periods of time in hospital can as a welcome change, allowing see their vision made accessible simplicity and the benefits it can pay a much cheaper daily rate and them to talk for as long as to people around the world, while bring to patients, their loved ones, get free calls as well – on average they like to friends, family and recognising its creation in the visitors, nursing and care staff. patients can save over 30 per cent loved ones as well as buying TV north east. Users of the site can create or during their stay.” in the way they want to use it. visit an online visiting room which The new free calls packages have Free calls for patients are just How it works establishes a network for all those seen a very positive response the first step. We are looking Users can create a secure ‘visiting touched by a patient’s recovery in from patients in trials conducted at ways of reducing the cost room’ and then invite friends and hospital. The site is free to use over the summer. Out of nearly of inbound call charges, and relatives to join. The person in and, unlike other social media charge of the account can post 300 patients surveyed, over 70 over the next year we’ll be sites, complementary advice and regular bulletins on how the per cent now thought the system adding more exciting content for information from established web patient is doing and authorised services like NHS Choices and offered value for money. More patients like films and TV shows visitors can leave messages of NHS Direct is just a click away. on-demand, audio books and support for the patient and for “We have around 175 active “The significant more healthcare information.” each other. rooms at the moment with Associate director of The Tyneside-based social people across the globe sharing increases operations for the trust Peter entrepreneurs behind www. news and supporting the patient’s demonstrated by Mitchell added: “Having a justvisiting.com joined NHS main carers and visitors. Our the trials show that TV at every patient’s bedside executives at a hospital in ambition is to integrate this was a government pledge and Gateshead to unveil the new service into the recovery and patients see this as a this is an excellent service for website. Acting chief executive of respite support offered by the welcome change” the patients.” NHS North East David Stout says NHS across the country.” February/March 10 Rights, pledges and responsibilities set out in NHS Constitution A new constitution, which sets out the right, pledges and responsibilities for patients, the public and staff has now been enshrined in the law. Right at the outset the constitution says the NHS is founded on a common set of principles and values that bind the communities and people it services and the staff who work for it. The constitution’s opening paragraph is a powerful statement about what the NHS stands for.

It sets out their families and their carers The NHS belongs to • rights to which patient, the public 5. The NHS works across the people and staff are entitled organisational boundaries It is there to improve our health • pledges which the NHS is and in partnership with other and wellbeing, supporting us committed to achieve; and organisations in the interest of to keep mentally and physically • responsibilities which the patients, local communities and well, to get better when we public, patients and staff owe to the wider population are ill and, when we cannot one another to ensure the NHS 6. The NHS is committed to providing fully recover, to stay as well as operates fairly and effectively best value for taxpayers’ money we can to the end of our lives. and the most effective, fair and It works at the limits of science The seven principles sustainable use of finite resources bringing the highest levels of 1. The NHS provides a comprehensive 7. The NHS is accountable to the human knowledge and skill service, available to all public, communities and patients to save lives and improve 2. Access to NHS services is based that it serves Chief executive Alan Foster health. It touches our lives on clinical need, not an individual’s times of basic need, when NHS values ability to pay care and compassion are what 1. Respect and dignity matter most. 3. The NHS aspires to the 2. Commitment to quality of care The constitution establishes highest standards of excellence 3. Compassion the principles and values of and professionalism 4. Improving lives the NHS in England 4. NHS services must reflect the 5. Working together for patients needs and preferences of patients, 6. Everyone counts

012|013 Rights, pledges and responsibilities set out in NHS Constitution A new constitution, which sets out the right, pledges and responsibilities for patients, the public and staff has now been enshrined in the law. Right at the outset the constitution says the NHS is founded on a common set of principles and values that bind the communities and people it services and the staff who work for it. The constitution’s opening paragraph is a powerful statement about what the NHS stands for.

Examples of rights, pledges, duties and responsibilities

Patients and the public Staff practice as set by the who use it and work for it into • You have the right to • Staff have a right to a good appropriate regulatory body one place. receive NHS services free working environment with applicable to their profession “It talks about the rights for of charge, apart from certain flexible working opportunities or role patients, staff and the public limited exceptions sanctioned consistent with the needs of • Staff should aim to maintain the and the pledges the NHS by parliament patients and the way people highest standards of care and aims to achieve and, importantly, • The NHS commits (pledges) to live their lives service, taking responsibility it sets out responsibilities for all • The NHS commits (pledges) not only for the care they of us. provide convenient, easy access to provide all staff with clear personally provide but also for “Our NHS is the envy of the to services within the waiting roles and responsibilities and their wider contribution to the world. This document is very times set out in the Handbook rewarding jobs for teams aims of the whole team and helpful because it gives us all a to the NHS Constitution and individuals that make a the NHS as a whole very clear way of seeing where • People should recognise difference to patients, their Chief executive Alan Foster our contribution will ensure it they can make a significant families and carers said: “We welcome the NHS continues to develop and thrive.” contribution to their own and • Staff have a legal duty to Constitution because it brings You can find out more about their family’s good health accept professional what the NHS stands for NHS Constitution on the and take some personal accountability and maintain and how we can all ensure it Department of Health’s website responsibility for it the standards of professional works in the interests of people at www.dh.gov.uk.

February/March 10 Respiratory team scoops prestigious awards British Lung Foundation lead redesign in the respiratory respiratory nurse Dorothy Wood category, highlighting its excellent and her team at North Tees and contribution to improved Hartlepool NHS Foundation patient care. Trust have been awarded the Clinical director of community prestigious Respiratory Care services Linda Watson said: “I Award at the Nursing in Practice am really proud of the service. Awards ceremony. Dorothy and her team have made The Nursing in Practice Awards a fantastic difference to the care recognise excellence and available for patients.” innovation in the primary care Ali Wilson, director of health setting and reward best practice systems and estate development in a variety of clinical areas. for NHS Stockton-on-Tees and The trust’s community respiratory NHS Hartlepool said: “This is an assessment and management invaluable service for patients in service (CRAMS) was initially the NHS Hartlepool area and it set up by NHS Hartlepool and is is fantastic that those who have run in conjunction with the British worked hard to make it a success Lung Foundation. are being recognised for their Based at Wynyard Road Primary excellence and innovation.” Care Centre in Hartlepool, Respiratory judge Marilyn the CRAMS team provides Eveleigh, and respiratory an appointment based and education UK sponsor Robert emergency service with oxygen Angus presented Dorothy with assessment and a walk in facility the Nursing in Practice Award for Hartlepool patients. at a special Birmingham NEC The team also recently received ceremony which was attended British Lung Foundation lead respiratory nurse Dorothy Wood, administration clerk a PBC Vision Award from by healthcare professionals and Carol Dowson, British Lung Foundation respiratory specialist nurse Donna Chapman the National Association of industries involved in all aspects and consultant physician Niall Kearney Primary Care for best service of healthcare. Hospital nursery signs for success

Children at the Rainbow Nursery time. It is amazing to watch how It’s fantastic and they enjoy training more staff and encourage at the University Hospital of quickly they learn.” communicating with us and each parents to become more involved Hartlepool are learning a new Signs for Success, which offers other by using signs. by using more materials available skill, thanks to the nursery staff. training and accredited courses, ‘’We are planning to continue from Signs for Success. Five members of staff at the originated from Kathy Robinson, nursery have completed the a parent of two deaf daughters. Signs for Success course, She now teaches the deaf, funded by Hartlepool Borough parents and encourages every Council and are now using child to be exposed to sign sign language in the children’s language at an early age. daily routine. Nursery assistant Claire Wood, Nursery manager Janet Bland who has completed the course, said: “The mums and dads think added: “The children have had it’s excellent that the children so much fun learning a new skill. are learning sign language. They Seeing just one child learn a new all really want to get involved. skill makes me so proud, and Everyone has really got to grips seeing so many of them doing it with it. is just amazing.” “We work with the children on Janet continued: “We don’t have supporting language and literacy any deaf children at the nursery skills from an early age. We’ve but sign language is great for been teaching all of the children children to learn another way sign language and have included to communicate.’ signed action songs as a way to “I think it’s important for children learn and have fun at the same to learn new skills such as this. The pre-school nursery children and staff show their skills

014|015 NHS chief executive drops in on fact-finding tour NHS chief executive Sir David Nicholson has paid a fact-finding visit to North Tees and Hartlepool NHS Foundation Trust.

Sir David was interested to find enable nurses to spend more out more about how hospital time at the bedside. Director of based and community services nursing and patient safety Sue were working together since Smith invited him to join one of the services were integrated in her regular quality review panels 2008. He also wanted to hear where a team of senior nurses about the momentum: pathways assess the patient environment to healthcare programme and and talk to patients about their quality improvements which experiences during their stay. benefit patients. Clinical director for orthopaedics Chairman Paul Garvin met Sir and trauma Chris Tulloch, matron David at the University Hospital Sue Moore and ward manager of Hartlepool and took him to Linda Wildberg welcomed Sir the surgical ward where matron David to the joint replacement Debbie Blackwood and sister unit to talk about the service and Hazel Truman explained the work the work being done to improve being done across surgery to services even further for patients. improve patient experience and Later Sir David arrived at the

University Hospital of North Tees pathway of care from hospital and met groups of staff who had to the support that community come to talk about the services teams, working jointly with they provided. The whistle stop colleagues in local authorities, tour took Sir David through from provide for patients once they are the health trainers, community home when they leave hospital. respiratory services, the new Chief executive Alan Foster said: hospital and community facilities, “We were delighted to have Sir the correct placement of feeding David with us. We are unusual tubes, choices and normality in if not unique in being an NHS childbirth and end of life care. foundation trust with hospital Consultant physician Helen based and community services Skinner introduced Sir David to and it was excellent to be able to representatives of stroke services show him how well this is working who talked about the whole in the interests of patients.” February/March 10 Staff update their skills to help stoma patients

Health care staff at North Tees and Hartlepool NHS Foundation Trust have been updating their skills thanks to a new free stoma care education resource.

The Foundation Course in Stoma MacRae said: “The course experiences and knowledge.” Care; a nurses’ guide to bowel has been really useful and Lead colorectal specialist nurse stomas is supported by an the workshop was an Norma Robinson added: “The education grant from an outside excellent opportunity to get team provides expert care to Chairman of Hartlepool Borough Council Carl Richardson at the launch of the new group source. It was developed by a together with other health many stoma patients. We ensure group of stoma care nurses and professionals and share that patients receive support and is accredited by the Royal College advice, so they are able to make of Nursing. decisions about their care. The course is undertaken by “The course has been “We are here to support stoma distance learning includes an really useful and the patients and their families, interactive CD made up of four workshop was an providing education and advice Support group modules which cover anatomy excellent opportunity regarding the equipment they and physiology, colorectal need to best manage and care conditions, stoma types, surgery to get together for their stoma enabling them to and related nursing care. Staff with other health return to a good quality of life. who had completed the course professionals and “Looking after a stoma can be becomes official were invited to attend a one-day challenging, however, there are a share experiences clinical skills workshop. range of products available to help The Hartlepool and District Clinical nurse specialist Chris and knowledge.” make life easier for patients.” Parkinson’s disease support group held its inauguration meeting to become an official branch of the Parkinson’s Disease Society. Previously the Hartlepool and District Parkinson’s support group, the new branch became affiliated to the national society at a well attended inauguration meeting of the new branch at the Hartlepool Historic Quay. Parkinson’s disease specialist nurse Karen Lister at North Tees and Hartlepool NHS Foundation Trust has played an important role in the support group, which was set up 18 months ago. Karen said: “My role is to provide ongoing support to people with the disease. I’ve spent time helping with the support group as “Parkinson’s is a devastating disease

Assistant practitioner Michelle Weatherall, colorectal nurse Tracy Pugh, colorectal nurse Sarah Carroll, healthcare and the group does assistant Margaret McAvoy, healthcare assistant Karen Jones, assistant practitioner Lynn Donnelly, healthcare assistant a marvellous job in Angela Bates, staff nurse Carol Storr from the James Cook University Hospital and clinical nurse specialist Chris MacRae, staff nurse Claire Pollock, staff nurse Kelly O’Hara, staff nurse Rachel Horsley and sister Kimberley O’Brien from the providing support University Hospital of North Tees pictured with educator Sam Caile to those people.” 016|017 Success for play specialists

Four members of staff at North Tees and Hartlepool NHS Foundation Trust are delighted to call themselves registered hospital play specialists. Sandra Jackson, Jennie Hobbs, Chris Goodwin and Lynn Dowson have completed the Edexcel, level four, BTEC professional diploma in specialised Chairman of Hartlepool Borough Council Carl Richardson at the launch of the new group play for sick children and young people. The year-long qualification meant that the girls travelled to Edinburgh each week to complete the course. Their studies don’t Support group Play specialists Sandra Jackson and end there - they will Jennie Hobbs continue to maintain a file of professional “We encourage children to practice and will re-register keep up their usual interests with the Hospital Play Staff and use specific distraction becomes official Education Trust (HPSET) every techniques to minimise stressful five years. events and make sure they feel well as holding outpatient clinics “Since I’ve worked Hospital play specialist Sandra comfortable and well informed across the trust and running a Jackson said: “The role of the during their stay in hospital. telephone help line four mornings with them, they’ve play specialist is to use play to “We make sure that the a week. noticed a big welcome children to hospital children are aware that we don’t “It’s important that people who and prepare them to cope with carry out any nursing duties have been diagnosed know they difference - they surgery or other procedures. and are there to make their can call someone if they need hospital admission help and for those who care for can just pick up the as comfortable them to know that they are not phone and call me.” as possible. We alone. It’s really important that encourage the children people with Parkinson’s and their of life, said: “I am honoured to to communicate with families know that they are not get behind this national appeal. us – they need to alone and that the Parkinson’s Before I was appointed, some have the opportunity Disease Society is here to support of my patients had Parkinson’s to speak out and them in Hartlepool.” for seven years without seeing a understand what is Ebbie Hulland, regional manager Parkinson’s nurse. happening. We’re also here to support the of the Parkinson’s Disease “Since I’ve worked with them, parents or carers during Society, added: “Parkinson’s is a they’ve noticed a big difference - their child’s stay.” devastating disease and the group they can just pick up the phone Matron for paediatrics does a marvellous job in providing and call me. The care and support Heather Duckers we can give is extremely important support to those people. I have no added: “The hospital to people with Parkinson’s and doubt that by becoming a branch play specialists play of the national society it will be their carers.” a very important able to achieve even more.” The Parkinson’s Disease Society role in caring for Karen, who is one of 275 specialist is aiming to make sure everyone children. I would like nurses across the UK, has also with Parkinson’s disease has to congratulate all got behind a national appeal to access to a specialist nurse. four of them on their raise funds for more Parkinson’s More information and ways to achievement. It took disease nurses. make a donation can be found a lot of hard work She provides support to more at www.parkinsons.org.uk or and dedication and than 300 patients with Parkinson’s call the donation helpline on Play specialists Lynn Dowson and this demonstrates disease to improve their quality 01753 688687. Chris Goodwin their commitment.” February/March 10 The healthy choices make a difference It’s not easy to change the habits “It’s certainly been of a lifetime but Joanne Liddle from Hartlepool has proved that with worthwhile. I don’t the right support and guidance, you can make healthier choices think I could have that can make a big difference. got started without Joanne, 38, had weight-related problems so her GP referred her to the help and advice Brian pictured with Mathew Trewhella the health trainer service provided and having to by North Tees and Hartlepool NHS Pastures new Foundation Trust. report to someone After a thorough health check, every week keeps for Brian Joanne discussed her diet When superintendent with senior health trainer Pam me going.” ultrasonographer Brian Allan Cairns and she suggested some said his farewells he said that simple changes. too and cycle around Billingham – Hartlepool would stay in his When Joanne went to her first it’s now part of my everyday life heart, wherever he goes. appointment in April last year she and I really enjoy it. Brian came to Hartlepool 15 weighed 17stone 5lbs and now “I’ve got bags of energy and I no years ago he moved from she is a healthy 12stone 7lbs. longer have high blood pressure. his native Durham to Seaton I’ve got some great recipes Carew. He shortly became a much respected member of “I felt like I needed from Pam. I’ve learned that the team. it’s all about portion sizes. I Clinical director for radiology to make a change make healthy sandwiches for lunch and make sure I drink plenty Matthew Trewhella said Brian ”Pam was so easy to talk to would be missed and wished and show a good of water. she really listened without judging him well on his new job at “It’s certainly been worthwhile. I example to my me. With Pam’s help I’m more Siemens Medical. don’t think I could have got started active, I walk everywhere now Brian added: “This change in without the help and advice and three children.” and I eat more healthily. I’ve got career is going to be entirely having to report to someone different for me but I will a job and just feel more confident Joanne said: “I felt like I needed to every week keeps me going. always hold Hartlepool and and in control of my life.” everyone in it very dearly. make a change and show a good “Losing weight and improving my Pam added: “Joanne has proved I have met some fantastic example to my three children. I health has completely changed just what can be achieved with people and made some never used to exercise, but after my life. The support I’ve had from a little bit of extra support and great friends.” each appointment with Pam at health trainer service has been help, which is what we are here Brierton Community Sports fantastic. I’m enjoying buying for. Most people want to enjoy a Centre, I started heading straight new clothes – it’s an incentive for Issue 18 Februar y/March 10 better, healthier lifestyle and really North Tees and Hartlepool NHS Foundation Trust to the gym. I’ve got myself a bike every time I reach my next goal. want to quit smoking or take up

The magazine for Nor th Tees and Har tlepool NHS Foundation Trust more exercise. “However no one finds it easy on their own and often great New Year’s resolutions fall away because people need a little bit of extra help or encouragement to keep going. “We worked together to set some small, achievable goals R i g h t s ,p le d g e s a n d and with Joanne’s hard work and r e s p o n s i b i l i t i e s s e t o u t i n N H S C o n s t i t u t i o n determination she’s been able to p a g e 1 2 start leading a happier, healthier and fitter life.” The health trainers are here to provide support to local people to Got a story improve their health. They look at the things that might be stopping for Anthem? someone from making a change, If you’ve got something to then help them on the road to share with other Anthem making their goals a reality. readers please email For more information about [email protected] the health trainer service in or phone 01642 624339. Hartlepool and Stockton please Senior health trainer phone 01642 853998. 018||0019 Showcase event celebrates quality

Quality, safety and patient care has been highlighted in showcase event at North Tees and Hartlepool NHS Foundation Trust.

Julie Olsen presenting the trustwide The event, chaired by non to see a very wide range of “We were pleased clostridium difficile audit which won executive director and chair of examples of this from small an audit prize the trust’s clinical governance developments to large projects to have some of committee Steve Hall, showcased which have made a significant the excellent work being done difference to patient care. our governors with right across the trust to improve “We were honoured to have us at the event and patient and client care. Maxine Power from the National He said: “Staff right across the Patient Safety Agency as our it was good that trust are totally committed to keynote speaker. She talked about they could see our improving care and the services the ongoing and relentless drive to they provide for patients and improve safety and commended commitment to clients. It was absolutely fantastic the work we’ve done which is well recognised across the country.” patient care and “We were As well as listening to speakers quality on display.” the event also recognised the honoured to have work of a number of teams and supporting people to adopt a individuals who had illustrated healthy lifestyle. Consultant Maxine Power their work in a special poster. anaesthetist Tariq Azad was First prize went to the team who from the National awarded third prize for his work improved standards of prescribing Non executive director Steve Hall in monitoring women after a Patient Safety among junior doctors. Community Caesarean sections. health trainers at Newtown, Agency as our A special award was given to Durham Road, Stockton took Stuart Harper in accident and second prize for their work in keynote speaker.” emergency for his individual effort in improving services patients from residential and nursing homes. Stuart has worked to address the issue of patients from residential homes arriving at hospital without proper identification. His idea of the nursing or residential home fitting the patient with a red identity band containing vital information is improving the speed that patients can be seen and treated when they arrive at hospital. The judges also commended the paediatric play service. Their specially trained staff offer support to children and their families and have now extended the work they do so they can support children by taking them to theatre or for tests. The judges also gave a special to posters about controlling infection in the community and the work of the dementia nurse specialist. Steve Hall added: “We were pleased to have some of our governors with us at the event Deputy director of nursing Cath Siddle pictured with director of nursing and patient and it was good that they could safety Sue Smith, matron for accident and emergency at the University Hospital of see our commitment to patient Delegates and exhibitors deep North Tees Stuart Harper and Maxine Power care and quality on display.” in conversation February/March 10 Generous donation helps local boy Kind hearted staff from the x-ray department at the University Hospital of Hartlepool have raised funds to help a local boy suffering from a rare health condition. One year old Adam Butterfield has Emanuel Syndrome - a rare chromosome disorder affecting every cell in his body, meaning that he could suffer from a string of health conditions and needs care for the rest of his life. It was when mum Nicola McAllister brought Adam into the x-ray department that staff decided they wanted to help. After holding a raffle and donating “We’re so pleased to hear that

along with other Mum Nicola McAllister and Adam, pictured with Clare Butt, Angela Proudlock, Marie Bennett, Maria Wenn, Andrew donations enough Palmer, Karen Lee, Marion Gowland and Louise Bushnall in the xray department at the University Hospital of Hartlepool money has now money instead of buying and Adam we decided that we Nicola added: “I would like to say Christmas cards, the team of wanted to help and we’re just so a big thank you to all of the staff. been raised to staff handed over £237.50. pleased to hear that along with Their generous donation means fund a sensory Assistant practitioner other donations enough money such a lot to our family, the radiographer Louise Bushnall has now been raised to fund a support we have received has room for Adam.“ said: “When we met Nicola sensory room for Adam. been excellent.” Onwards and upwards for Elaine Friends and colleagues who came to wish her well saw another side of associate director for clinical support services Elaine Criddle. Her colleague Tony Naylor has used some IT wizardry to put her head on an ice skater so the assembled crowd enjoyed the novelty of Elaine’s triple Salko as part of her farewell presentation. “I’m looking forward to the challenge of this new role.” Director of operations Kevin Oxley said: “Elaine has been fantastic to work with and we all wish her well in her new job as head of clinical services management at South Tyneside NHS Foundation Trust.” Elaine added: “I will really miss the people I’ve worked with but I’m looking forward to the Elaine and Kevin pose for a picture at her leaving presentation challenge of this new role.”

020|021 From good to great - transforming community services Senior managers and health professionals from North Tees and Hartlepool NHS Trust’s community services directorate have met to discuss how they will make the Department of Health’s document on transforming community services a reality.

At the special event director of here to be passive but active we have always done it that way. strategic development and deputy and we all need to do it with However, we also need to look at chief executive Carole Langrick enthusiasm and energy.” the bigger picture, if we change invited everyone present to get Clinical director of community one thing and don’t look at the involved with the work which services Linda Watson discussed rest, it can all fall apart.” aims to make a good community the opportunities and challenges Alex Sinclair (pictured) is supporting service really great by becoming ahead. A programme board has Carole and Linda on the work more preventative, people- centred been set up to support the work to transform community services. and productive. with sub groups looking at how She said: “Over the coming weeks While she acknowledged some of to be more productive (under the there will be an opportunity for the excellent services we provide productive community services community colleagues to share she said there is much work to programme) and transferring their ideas and views and plan be done over the coming months more services out of hospital together how they take their and years to ensure we meet the and into the community under services from good to great.” requirement of commissioners the momentum: pathways to You can find out more about and demonstrate all of our healthcare programme. transforming community services services are high quality and value Linda stressed the need for at http://www.dh.gov.uk/en/ for money. everyone to look at the way they Healthcare/Primarycare/TCS/ She said: “We need to transform work and see if there are areas index.htm our services from good to great that can be improved. She said: You can find out more about and that is my challenge to you “We all need to challenge what productive community services all. The time for talking ends today we are doing and the way we by clicking the productive and the time for doing something do it, we shouldn’t continue to community services link at about it starts now. We are not do things a certain way because www.institute.nhs.uk. February/March 10 VIP treatment for an extra mile Seven staff and a volunteer were treated to a VIP night out at the Mayor of Stockton’s charity ball as a thank you from North Tees and Hartlepool NHS Foundation Trust.

Directors and their teams were asked to nominate staff who deserved extra recognition for the efforts and achievements. Linda Shields, who is a very familiar face around North Tees and Hartlepool NHS Foundation Trust was nominated by deputy director for clinical governance Carole Pearson for the way she Nicola and Brian Shute hand over the generous donation to lead colorectal had supported this important area specialist nurse Norma Robinson of the trust’s work. Mortuary manager Michelle Lancaster was nominated by a number of colleagues for the Trust benefits way she supports bereaved relatives and for the work she has done to support staff in the care from generous of the deceased. “All of these donation colleagues and Staff and patients at North Tees and our volunteer Hartlepool NHS Foundation Trust will Linda deserve some special benefit from a generous donation from a recognition.“ former patient and her husband. Deputy chief executive Carole Langrick (back right) pictured with (back, left to right) right Michelle Lancaster, Janet Walker, Lisa McGuckin and Jean Walsh and (front, left to right) Linda Shields, Jackie Metcalfe Smith, Jude Cooper and Hazel Truman Associate practitioner Lisa Brian Shute, 39, from Thornaby Tees and it has changed my McGuckin from critical care was for her contribution to the health who works at Goldsmiths in way of life.” the top achiever on the associate and wellbeing of many people Middlesbrough, raised £450 for Brian added: “I wanted to practitioner programme. She was by clinical director of community the colorectal department at give something back to the nominated by director of nursing services Linda Watson. the University Hospital of North department to say thank you and patient safety Sue Smith. Hazel Truman from surgery was Tees by taking part in the Great to the fantastic team for the General manager for education nominated by general manager North Run last year. excellent care and support that learning and development Jackie for surgery Nicola Jones for the my wife received. Metcalfe Smith retires in March significant work she has led in “I wanted to give “We are really pleased that after 25 years’ service. She was the directorate to improve care for something back to our fundraising efforts will nominated by colleagues in her patients through the productive help to further improve department and her nomination ward and by using lean ways of the department to the quality of service given was supported by director of working to free up time for staff to say thank you to to patients and benefit the human resources and organisation spend more time with patients. the fantastic team whole community.” development Clare Curran for Healthcare assistant Janet Walker, who works in the Woodbridge for the excellent care Lead colorectal specialist her significant contribution to nurse Norma Robinson said: education, learning and training Practice at Thornaby Health and support that my “We are very grateful for this throughout her career. Centre was nominated by wife received.” generous donation which Sister Jean Walsh who, because integrated service area manager will be used to help develop of her passion for fitness especially Oonagh McGeever. Janet has Nicola Shute, 40, said: “I had and enhance the care and in older people is often known as made a difference to many people major colorectal surgery at the support provided to patients in the Green Goddess of Hartlepool, throughout her 31 year career University Hospital of North the future.” leads a district nursing team in and has asked to work past her Hartlepool. She was nominated retirement age. 022|023 VIP treatment for an extra mile Seven staff and a volunteer were treated to a VIP night out at the Mayor of Stockton’s charity ball as a thank you from North Tees and Hartlepool NHS Foundation Trust. Colleagues wish Wendy (centre) good luck Goodbye and good luck Wendy A crowd of friends and see Wendy leave the trust; she colleagues gathered at the has made a huge contribution University Hospital of North to the care of cancer patients Tees to say goodbye and good and has been a pleasure to luck to chemotherapy ward work with. manager Wendy Anderson after “We all wish her the best 25 years at the trust. of luck in her new role at General manager for medicine South Tees Hospitals NHS Sue Piggott said: “We are sad to Foundation Trust.”

Deputy chief executive Carole Langrick (back right) pictured with (back, left to right) right Michelle Lancaster, Janet Walker, Lisa McGuckin and Jean Walsh and (front, left to right) Linda Shields, Jackie Metcalfe Smith, Jude Cooper and Hazel Truman “This is the second All of the nominees received a thank you certificate and spent year we’ve taken a very pleasant evening in the a table at this red company of the Mayor of Stockton Kelly meets Siobhan Porteous and baby Oliver with big brother Luke and other guests at the gala carpet event and dinner in the Wynyard Rooms Beauty queen visits neonatal unit I hope all of these which had been well and truly transformed for the occasion. North Tees and Hartlepool NHS neonatal unit, speak to the staff Foundation Trust was delighted and meet the special babies special people Deputy chief executive Carole to welcome beauty queen Kelly who are being cared for. felt like royalty for Langrick was the host for Waites to the neonatal unit. “Without the unit, and help of the evening. Kelly, from Trimdon, who has the doctors and nurses I may the evening.“ She said: “All of these colleagues recently been crowned Miss not have been here today.” and our volunteer Linda deserve County Durham 2010, paid Part-time model Kelly, who Lead nurse for occupational health some special recognition. This is a visit to the neonatal unit has also appeared as an extra Jude Cooper was nominated by the second year we’ve taken a where her life was saved 25 in TV shows including 55 general manager for occupational table at this red carpet event and years ago. Degrees North, Wire in the health Elaine Wilson. The trust I hope all of these special people She said: “I didn’t have an easy Blood, Lawless and the football has been one of the most felt like royalty for the evening. start to life when I was born four movie Goal, could be in with months early and weighing less a chance of becoming Miss successful in the region in the It’s our way of saying thank you than 2lb. UK Galaxy and could go on H1N1 and seasonal flu vaccination because it’s people like these “It was a privilege to be given to feature in Miss Galaxy 2010 programme, largely through Jude’s that make our trust the fantastic the opportunity to visit the in Florida. efforts and leadership. place that it is.” February/March 10 A welcome visit from the chairman Staff at North Tees and Hartlepool NHS Foundation Trust were keen to meet chairman Paul Garvin and tell him about the service they provide.

Allyson McCue and Hazel Rose show the chairman around Lawson Street Macmillan nurse Melanie Smith, Macmillan social worker Jayne Hall and Health Centre Sue Gouldthorp

The district nursing team at Thornaby Health Centre 024|025 Chairman Paul Garvin has been out meeting staff in the hospital and the community, including a visit to the accident and emergency department at the University Hospital of North Tees. The chairman got a chance to hear about a successful pilot exercise scheme provided by the heart failure specialist nurses, for patients with heart problems. He heard about the excellent work done by the Macmillan nurse and Macmillan social worker before learning Jane Metcalf about the role of the district nursing team. The day finished with a tour Trainee doctor of Lawson Street Health Centre in Stockton which survey response A tour of the accident and emergency department with matron Stuart Harper and provides services such as senior clinical matron and acting service manager Rabina Tindale retinal screening, podiatry scoops first prize and musculoskeletal services The body which oversees to the local area. the training of doctors, the postgraduate medical education “I hear about so and training board (PMETB), asks trainees about their experiences many people who in training in the country’s have received healthcare establishments. The annual survey looks at excellent care education and training, working both in the hours and how the organisations they are training in balances the hospital and in needs of the service against the the community time needed for training. The results help PMETB and trusts and it has been a across the country to improve pleasure to get their training programmes and maintain high standards. to know more Last year the incentive of a £500 about the work prize resulted in a far higher response with North Tees and they do.” Hartlepool NHS Foundation Trust winning first prize for the numbers Integrated service area of trainees responding. The school manager Oonagh McGeever Heart failure specialist nurses Trudy Hunt, Andy Baker and clerical officer Bev Fox of anaesthetics and intensive care said: “We were delighted to medicine had a response rate of welcome the chairman to 98 per cent. meet the staff. The team Clinical director of education Jane provide a valuable service Metcalf (above) said: “It’s important to local people and we that tomorrow’s consultants have have invested in modern a good experience while training. facilities to provide the very The survey helps us identify where best care.” we need to improve even further. Chairman Paul Garvin added: It was a brilliant idea to have a “It has been great to meet prize because a high response rate so many of the staff. I hear gives a much more representative about so many people who view and helps us see where we have received excellent care need to target our efforts.” both in the hospital and in The £500 will be reinvested back the community and it has into education and development been a pleasure to get to resources to maintain the high know more about the work standards that we strive for of our staff. throughout the trust. “Being able to care for Jane added: “On behalf of the people in their homes is medical education department I’d very important, reducing like to thank all trainees who took the number of people who the time to complete the survey have to stay in hospital and - and to the administrative teams providing the very best care for cajoling them into it!” for our patients.” Retinal screener Sue Pott explains about the retinal screening service February/March 10 David Bruce with Greg McLatchie Alex Cunningham gives the vote of thanks The trust’s Scots share their culture at a Burns’ Night supper

North Tees and Hartlepool NHS Foundation Trust colleagues with their roots north of the border shared their cultural heritage by organising the trust’s first Burns’ night supper.

The tradition celebrates the birth clinical director of pathology John Billy Cunningham said the songs and a rousing chorus of of Scotland’s most famous poet Frater, a keen piper. ceremonial address. Auld Lang Syne by Adrian Morris Robert Burns who was born on 25 Consultant physician David Bruce Consultant gynaecologist Alan and Alan Bach. January 1759. The event demands was chairman for the evening and Roberston, convinced that And yet another Scot, non the piping in of the haggis and he enthralled the audience with Burns – had he gone to medical executive director Alex this was performed admirably by an animated rendition of the saga school would have become Cunningham gave the vote of of Tam O’Shanter. The Hartlepool a gynaecologist - toasted the thanks. He said: “It was a great Hospice’s John McPhee said lassies and recited a poem he’d evening and I was delighted to the Selkirk Grace and consultant written in Burns’ style “to be a be asked to perform the vote “This is the surgeon Greg McLatchie gave the gynaecologist oh aye.” of thanks.” first time we’ve immortal memory toast to the Consultant diabetologist Jean David Bruce said: “This is the celebrated poet. MacLeod replies frae (from) the first time we’ve organised a organised a Burns’ The trust’s catering department lassies and occupational health Burns’ Night supper and I hope provided a wonderful setting for consultant Christine English it’s the first of many. It was Night supper and the event with tartan table cloths performed a moving recital of good to share this very special I hope it’s the first and personalised place settings. Holy Wullies prayer. event with friends and colleagues A tasty haggis was served, but The evening was rounded off from both north and south of of many.” not before catering strategist with a collection of four of Burns’ the border.” 026|027 Christine English recites Holy John Frater pipes the haggis in Wullies prayer

Billy Cunningham addresses the haggis Hartlepool Hospice’s John McPhee with guests

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