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▶ Smoke free ▶ Digital ▶ Royal Awards - ▶ Charity ▶ Grab for staff Dragons nominate now updates your flu jab 2020 The Year of the Nurse and the Midwife
Safe & Effective | Kind & Caring | Exceeding Expectation TrustTalk Winter 2020 Safe & Effective | Kind & Caring | Exceeding Expectation Welcome
Welcome to the Winter edition of our staff and patient magazine – Trust Talk.
Dear patients and colleagues, nursing initiatives including the nursing systems framework strategy and the clinical nursing fellowship programme. I find myself saying this every time, but what another busy year we have had. It has been challenging at times in Ann-Marie will leave the organisation in May 2020 and in different areas, but again, the will and determination of all the meantime we have started an international recruitment our staff, is truly amazing. process for a new chief nurse. We are seeing a high number of flu patients across the I would personally like to thank Ann-Marie for all that she region, in both care homes and neighbouring trusts. has done during her time with us; she will be sorely missed by myself and colleagues across the organisation. If staff haven’t already done so, it is more important than ever before for you to have your flu jab. This isn’t just to As always, I along with the rest of the Trust Board, would protect patients; this is to protect you, your family and your just like to say thank you to all our brilliant staff. We all friends. The last thing you want is to be ill yourself. appreciate the efforts that you go to make this organisation such a special place to work. It’s quick, easy, and pain free. Having the jab will dramatically reduce the chances of contracting flu. Look out in Trust Brief, I wish you all the best for 2020. your weekly email bulletin, for details on how to get your Regards jab. As we start the New Year I just wanted to let you know that Professor Ann-Marie Cannaby, Chief Nurse, is off to pastures new and therefore has resigned from her role. David Loughton CBE Ann-Marie joined us in April 2018 and has led many new Chief Executive Enjoy a chatter and natter at Chatty Café
The Chatty Café scheme encourages Councillor Jasbir Jaspal, the City of cafés, shops and public buildings to Wolverhampton Council's Cabinet designate ‘Chatter and Natter’ tables Member for Public Health and where customers and visitors who may Wellbeing, said: "Conversation, big and be on their own can sit if they want small, is important for our wellbeing to talk to other people – whether it on so many levels. Research shows that is for a few minutes while they enjoy keeping socially active and connected their drink, or for an hour of good with others helps us maintain good of company and conversation with their conversation. physical and mental health, and also cuppa." supports our thinking skills. Dozens of other local venues Any businesses, organisations or groups throughout the city, including "However, sometimes we all need a bit in Wolverhampton which would like to supermarkets, coffee shops, cafés, of help to make new connections. The become a Chatty Café and provide a community groups and New Cross Chatty Café scheme encourages venues chatter and natter table to customers Hospital, have also signed up to the to provides Chatter and Natter tables or service users can sign up by visiting scheme. For a full list, please visit to ensure that people who may be out www.thechattycafescheme.co.uk/ www.thechattycafescheme.co.uk. and about on their own can enjoy a bit join-the-scheme
P 2 TrustTalk Winter 2020 RWT now smoke free for staff
We are pleased to announce the support and Trust is officially smoke free for staff guidance can be – this came into play on January 1 accessed, including a quit plan and email 2020. support, by visiting www. Support for patients and visitors is currently nhs.uk/oneyou/for-your- being developed with the goal of having a body/quit-smoking/ totally smoke free Trust by October 2020. Or, if you would like to try vaping The Trust made this decision in an effort to as an alternative, why not visit vaping protect staff and patients from the health retailer Totally Wicked, who are offering damaging effects of second-hand smoke. This is 20 per cent off for all RWT staff. You can particularly important for those more vulnerable find them at Totally Wicked, 49A Chapel Ash, groups such as pregnant women and those with Wolverhampton, WV3 0UF or give them a call long-term heart or breathing conditions. on 01902 256362. It is important to us that everyone feels Still have a few queries? We have compiled supported in this change, so we are taking a a list of FAQs which we hope will ease any phased approach which includes creating an concerns you may have. Ask your manager environment that helps staff to abstain from for a copy or email smoking whilst at work. [email protected] The first part of the plan has seen us create More information around facilities a smoke free policy – a copy of this can be and support will be shared over the accessed on the policies and strategies section coming weeks! of the intranet. We are also in the process of transforming the smoking shelters into ‘quit zones’ where staff can vape − (e-cigarettes are 95 per cent less harmful than smoking according to Public Health England). For those who wish to use this as an opportunity to quit smoking altogether, free
P 3 Safe & Effective | Kind & Caring | Exceeding Expectation
Do you have a digital idea to transform your service? We want to hear from you. Digital Dragons
The dragons are ready to turn your spark into a flame – search ‘Digital
Dragons’ on the intranet or email Digital [email protected] Dragons with your idea. #digitaldragons
MI_6426214_13.01.20_V1 P 4 TrustTalk Winter 2020 Have you got a cyber solution to a problem?
Whether it’s an app, software, a system or device, the Digital Dragons are waiting to hear from you.
Technology is moving faster than ever before - it helps us in most aspects of our lives, from the office computer to our mobile phone. We rely on it in many ways. There have been many great advancements made in the last few years which enable our staff to do the best by our patients, but we’re looking to push this even further with your help. We’re looking for the rough diamonds, the entrepreneurs and the digital enthusiasts with real, practical ideas on how to support patients and improve service efficiency. You are the experts in your area, so why not share with us your thoughts on how technology can propel us even further! It can be an original idea or an existing product not currently in use at RWT - just tell us how it can enhance our services in the best possible way. Search Digital Dragons on the intranet for more information and to submit an application. Helpful resources such as FAQs and an application process outline are available on this page.
#digitaldragons
P 5 Safe & Effective | Kind & Caring | Exceeding Expectation Infection prevention at RWT
It is that time of year again when the winter vomiting bug is spreading around our communities, which has a big impact on our services. STOP Infection prevention is everyone’s business and responsibility so please follow the guidelines below to stop the spread of diarrhoea and vomiting to more patients. For staff info • Practice good hand hygiene between patient contact and tasks, including use of alcohol-based hand gel or Five ways to limit the spread of norovirus: hand washing with soap and • Stay at home if you are experiencing norovirus water, to reduce the risk of symptoms. Do not return to work or send children spreading infections. to school until 48 hours after symptoms have • Ensure a clean environment cleared. Also avoid visiting elderly or poorly relatives, which is so important to particularly if they are in hospital. help stop the spread of infections. It is everyone’s • Wash your hands frequently and thoroughly with responsibility to help keep the environment orderly soap and warm water. Alcohol hand gels don’t kill and clean. norovirus. • We do not know which patients are carrying multi- • Use a bleach-based household cleaner or a resistant bugs. Therefore it is vital that we use combination of bleach and hot water to disinfect standard precautions for all patients. Please make sure household surfaces and commonly used objects such we screen patients as appropriate, for example, all as toilets, taps, telephones, door handles and kitchen patients must be screened for MRSA within 24 hours surfaces. of admission, and we must ask the CPE admission questions and then screen if positive answers. • If you are ill, avoid cooking and helping prepare meals for others. • Outbreaks of infections can result in temporary ward closures to manage the situation, this hugely impacts • Wash any contaminated clothing or bedding using on our ability to care for patients and continue with detergent at 60°C, and if possible wear disposable routine work. The most common causes for these gloves to handle contaminated items. closures are norovirus and flu, but also other multi- resistant bugs such as CPE. Please be vigilant for The main symptoms of norovirus are typically: potential cases and report early so as to minimise the impact where possible. • suddenly feeling sick • We know the devices we use frequently, such as • projectile vomiting urinary catheters and peripheral cannulae, can cause infections for our patients in some cases. Please • watery diarrhoea consider before use, is it really required? Are there Some people also have a slight fever, alternatives? If not ensure that it is removed as soon as headaches, painful stomach cramps and aching possible. limbs. • Flu vaccination is available for all of you. The flu The symptoms appear one to two days after vaccine will help to protect you, your colleagues, and patients and loved ones, from becoming seriously ill. people become infected and typically last for up to two or three days.
P 6 TrustTalk Winter 2020 Nominations now open for 2020 staff awards
Nominations are now open for our Royal Awards. This year we have introduced categories, so if there is a person or team who you feel deserves to be acknowledged for their outstanding work, get nominating. Staff can nominate in the following categories: ★ Individual of the Year (x2) ★ Leader of the Year ★ Excellence in Innovation / Non clinical For an individual (employee Improvement Clinical doesn’t have to be in a Team or individual leadership role) ★ The Research Excellence ★ Team of the Year (x2) ★ Excellence in Patient Care Award - Team or individual Non clinical Team or individual Clinical
There is also an opportunity for patients The awards are a superb opportunity If you are a patient, or a member of the and public to say thank you too. to celebrate the significant contribution public and you would like to nominate of the Trust staff, and to share their staff, please cut out and return the ★ Patient Choice Award achievements for the wider benefit of nomination form below. You can post The Patient’s Choice Award recognises patients, service users and staff. your nomination to: an individual or a team who has made a real difference to their or a loved The closing date for nominations Freepost RTTJ-UXJU-HCEC one’s healthcare. is Friday, February 28th 2020. All Communications Department shortlisted nominees will be invited Hollybush House The Royal Awards recognise our to the awards ceremony on the The Royal Wolverhampton NHS Trust exceptional individuals and teams for evening of Friday, June 5th 2020. New Cross Hospital their dedication and commitment to Wolverhampton delivering excellent services. More information will be available WV10 6BR on the Trust intranet and on www.royalwolverhampton.nhs.uk
Nomination form - Patient’s Choice Award
I am nominating: Reason for nomination: Name:...... The judging panel will base their decisions on this information:
Ward / department / community ...... service / GP practice: ......
P 7 Safe & Effective | Kind & Caring | Exceeding Expectation 2020 is Year of the Nurse and the Midwife Nursing Now aims to raise the status and profile of nursing Here at RWT we globally. Run in collaboration with the World Health have signed up to Organization and International Council of Nurses, the the challenge and aim to campaign seeks to empower nurses to take their place at the run a number of events throughout 2020 including heart of tackling 21st century health challenges. special events that tie in with International Midwives' Day on Tuesday, May 5th and International Nurses Day on To celebrate 2020 as the Year of the Nurse and the Midwife, Tuesday, May 12th. Nursing Now is inviting employers across the globe to sign up to the Nightingale Challenge! We’re working to gather your feedback on what you’d like to see and we will theme the events accordingly – whether The challenge aims to equip and empower the next it’s about career pathways, health and wellbeing and more! generation of nurses and midwives as leaders, practitioners and advocates in health, while challenging 1000 employers We’d also like to invite nurses and midwives to take part in across the globe to provide leadership and development ‘reverse mentoring’. This will see senior members of staff opportunities for their staff – for example additional training, being guided by those at a junior level – offering senior staff mentoring, shadowing and members a fresh outlook and empowering the junior staff learning from other professionals members to influence work at a high level. More information or sectors. It is aimed primarily at on this will be shared soon. those aged 35 and under. We hope by the end of 2020 our nurses and midwives By providing such opportunities, will have been presented with a number of development nurses should have better access opportunities and will have grown in confidence; knowing to leadership positions which they can influence the way we work here at RWT and across means achieving the influence the NHS. they deserve. The Royal College of Speech & Language Therapists – 75th Anniversary
The Royal College of Speech & swallowing needs. Wolverhampton City Council and the Language Therapists is celebrating its voluntary sector. The Trust has a number of therapists 75th anniversary in 2020 and the Trust’s plus SLT support practitioners and The team will be promoting their work own speech and language therapy assistants who have undertaken lots of throughout the year; raising awareness (SLT) team will be marking the occasion on-the-job training. of their role in relation to stammering, by engaging with patients and staff − stroke rehabilitation, neurology and celebrating the past, present and future A thriving service, it is organised into more! of the speech and language therapy an adult’s service team, a children’s profession. service team and an admin team; all Look out on the Trust’s Facebook and working in partnership with services Twitter pages by searching @RWT_NHS. SLT’s work with people who have across the Trust and locally, including speech, language, communication and
P 8 TrustTalk Winter 2020 Observe & Act Observe and Act is a new initiative we can move forward with the “Part of the observation also involves set by the Trust which aims to involve improvements and reflect upon both speaking to patients, this ensures health care professionals from all areas the positive and negative findings. that you factor in patients opinion of the hospital to gain a patient’s-eye Hannah Scragg, Radiographer at RWT, of the service, and also ensures any perspective of a service or part of a said: “As a Radiographer I thought it improvements are in conjunction with service. would be a great opportunity to see the patient’s belief. The scheme is open and transparent a wider perspective of the services we “After the observation I sat with and ensures that we continue to make provide – everything from signposts the relevant manager to discuss my improvements. to respect, dignity and notice boards. findings, and explore ways of making The training consists of two face- I completed two observations, firstly improvements and also share the to-face learning sessions and two on A8, and secondly at Boots the positive findings of the observation. observations of a service. Pharmacy. It was fascinating to witness Boots also invited me to one of these two different environments from their operational meetings and an The initial training equips you with an outsider’s perspective, very few staff action plan was formulated from the relevant skills and outlines the elements were aware that I was conducting an of the service you will be appraising. observation.” observation, and therefore it was a The second training session discusses great opportunity to witness the true To get involved, call 01902 694479 the observations, and outlines how care that we provide to our patients. or email [email protected]
Welcome to the Trust
We are delighted that two new Adam Ryder, Lead Physician associate at Applicants must already have a science- physician associates (PA) have started RWT, said: “The aim of recruiting more related degree. work on the front line at the Trust. PAs is to provide long term continuity Students have to complete a minimum of high quality medical care, create a Tom Asprey and Liz James have of 1,600 hours of clinical training stable workforce working towards long completed the Post Graduate across a range of specialities in addition term retention of staff. Diploma Physician Associate Studies, to the taught academic components of in conjunction with the University of “There has been a lot of interest in the the programme. Wolverhampton. roles from other departments across Dr Jonathan Odum, Medical Director the Trust and we hope to recruit more The newly qualified PAs have now at RWT, said: “I am delighted we have PAs to other areas in 2020. started work in RWT’s AMU (Acute been able to appoint two brilliant Medical Unit) and AEC (Ambulatory "This is a job role which could be a lot physician associates. Emergency Care). of help to RWT to improve its resilience “Recruiting more PAs is another step and workforce capacity.” Supporting doctors, PAs can take in developing a highly skilled and medical histories from patients and The PA role is growing in the UK. As of sustainable workforce and something I perform physical examinations. October 2019, there were 1,600 PAs on 100 per cent support. the managed voluntary register in the Diagnosing illnesses, performing “Dr Shah and Adam Ryder are working UK with an estimated 2,855 graduating diagnostic and therapeutic procedures extensively to expand the programme by the end of 2020. and analysing test results also fall throughout the Trust.” within their remit. PAs must complete a full-time post For more information visit graduate diploma/MSc, which is offered Funding for more posts across the Trust www.fparcp.co.uk at universities across the UK including is now being looked into. the University of Wolverhampton.
P 9 Safe & Effective | Kind & Caring | Exceeding Expectation Our Charity Making a real difference The mission of our charity is to help The area gives a welcome break from coffee tables and dining chairs will enhance the care and experiences the clinical environment. contribute to the ambience of the of our patients and their families. department and assist patients in their There are also plans in place to utilise Charitable funds are used to provide recovery. charitable funds to help enhance additional resources that the NHS the healing environment on Ward 1 Plans for the refurbishment of the cannot provide. They are utilised in a and the Neuro Rehabilitation Unit at patient garden are under way and a timely manner to ensure that they are West Park Hospital. Specialist chairs gardening water feature has also been applied to where they are needed most. (including a sensory chair, a gliding purchased in preparation for work in With support from Stafford and recliner and a stroke treatment chair), the spring. Cannock Hospital League of Friends and the RWT Charity, the occupational therapy kitchen and garden area at Cannock Chase Hospital has had a revamp. The patient garden now has a new gazebo, planters and plants that can be enjoyed by patients and their families. Hitting the Support your local bullseye community and volunteer Thank you to Terry Skidmore and the Ettingshall Sunday Morning with us Darts League for supporting us again recently with a donation of £700. We are looking for enthusiastic volunteers The funds donated will be divided to join our team and to support the orthopaedic support future fundraising outpatients scanner appeal and activities and promotional the children’s ward. events. Full training and Leanne Bood, Fundraising support will be given Coordinator, said: “We can only and previous fundraising do what we do with the help experience is not essential; of the local community. The however you must be league supported us last year friendly, approachable Left to right; Cannock Chase Hospital Volunteers with projects to support our and enthusiastic about Jackie Bodman and Noreen Round with Rachel older patients and provide them supporting the work of the Robinson, Community and Events Fundraiser. with additional comforts. We are Trust and the charity. truly grateful for their continued For more information please contact Rachel Robinson, Community and support.” Events Fundraiser on (01902) 694473 or [email protected]
P 10 TrustTalk Winter 2020 Walking the runway for Children's Services We are proud to announce our partnership with Fashion SOS to bring you The RWT Charity’s first fashion show in aid of the Trust's children’s services which will be held at the Pavilion, Wolverhampton on April 3rd 2020. There will be a selection of ladies clothing and accessories available to purchase on the evening as well as the opportunity to purchase refreshments and snacks. We are also appealing across the Trust for volunteers to take part and walk the runway! We are a looking for models of all ages, shapes and sizes – please get in touch with the charity team on [email protected] to register your interest or buy tickets.
Help us to help more patients and their families through Gift Aid
Our charity provides additional resources to the Trust, above and beyond that which is provided by the NHS. We can help enhance their experience of the Trust and make a real difference to the lives of our patients and their families. We are truly grateful for all of the donations we receive Unity is a weekly lottery - for every £1 that one of our players but we can make donations go even further and help more pays into the lottery draw, 50p will go directly to The RWT people by claiming Gift Aid from the HMRC. Charity. There is a top prize of £25,000 each week, along with smaller prizes of £1,000, £25. For just £1 per week you Gift Aid allows UK charities to claim back the basic rate tax will be allocated with a six digit Unity Lottery number, which already paid on donations by the donor. This means we can will remain yours for as long as you wish to keep playing. claim back from the government 25p for every £1 donated, You can purchase more than one number if you wish. boosting the value of the donation at no additional cost to the donor! Every Friday, the lucky winners are selected at random and prize cheques issued and posted directly to you, so there is During the next year, if each donor said yes to Gift Aid, no need for you to claim. we could raise an extra £125,000 – so you can see why this is so important. Winners have to match 3, 4, 5 or all 6 digits of the winning number in the correct place in the sequence. If you have made a donation in the last four years and did not Gift Aid at the time but would like to, please contact Zoe For further information or to join up, please go to Lees, Charitable Funds Officer, on ext. 5375 or email http://www.unitylottery.co.uk/causes/the-royal- [email protected] wolverhampton-nhs-trust-charity For further information about the charity or how to support it, please contact the fundraising coordinator on 01902 447293 or email [email protected]
P 11 Safe & Effective | Kind & Caring | Exceeding Expectation
Since the last edition of Trust Talk we have given out three more Exceeding Expectation awards to some excellent members of staff. All three were awarded for going above and beyond the call of duty. October's winner November’s winner December’s winner Congratulations to Joyce Lewis, Well done to Sarah Johnson, Medical Congratulations to Hayden Gibbons, Healthcare Assistant from Ward A5 at Secretary within the neurology one of our porters at New Cross New Cross Hospital. department. Hospital. She is a reliable, hardworking individual Sarah works hard for three consultants, Hayden exceeds expectations daily; and has worked for the Trust for nearly she is very dedicated. Her attention he is a credit to the NHS and recently 40 years. Joyce provides excellent to work makes a positive impact to responded in a professional, caring patient care and is a great asset to the patients and staff members around her. matter to an emergency which Trust. happened within the hospital. Sarah has worked at RWT for 30 years Joyce celebrated her 70th birthday on and always goes the extra mile to make He is a non-clinical member of staff and October 28th and insisted on coming sure everything in her department is his drive and passion to deliver good to work! Staff on A5 surprised Joyce running smoothly. patient care and safety is amazing! with a party and invited her family and friends to enjoy the celebrations with her.
Can you spot someone who regularly brings our RWT values to life? • To nominate a member of staff, team or volunteer for the award, please go to www.royalwolverhampton.nhs.uk/about-us/awards/exceeding-expectation-award/
• The winners will be announced on social media and in the next edition of Trust Talk.
P 12 TrustTalk Winter 2020
It’s not too late to grab your flu jab! More than half of staff have had their all− Email the infection prevention (IP) team with important flu vaccine, but we want to make details of where you are (acute, primary and sure you are all protected against the horrible community) and how many colleagues need the virus. vaccine: [email protected] Don’t want the jab? Just think, you may come And, if your health wasn’t reason enough, into contact with a patient who has the virus having your jab will now put you in with a and become seriously ill; or worse, you may chance of winning an IPAD! carry the virus (some individuals can carry it You’ve got until the end of the campaign without experiencing symptoms) and pass (Friday, February 28th 2020) to get your it onto someone with an underlying health vaccine, then every person who has had the condition. jab (including all the staff members who had For these people, flu can lead to pneumonia, the jab way back in September) will be added sepsis or multi-organ failure – to name just a to a list and a winner from each division will few complications. Not the start to the New be picked at random. Year they were after! Search ‘Flu Campaign 2019’ on the intranet By having the free flu vaccine, you are for the facts about the vaccine, for flu pop- protecting those around you and limiting the up clinic times and an opportunity to give chance of it being spread at RWT – this means feedback if you choose not to have your we can continue to deliver services as normal. jab. Flu is now circulating in the community, but And finally, a big thank you to all those staff good news for staff − the main strain circulating members who’ve had the jab already, whether is well matched to this year’s vaccine, and it’s that was at one of our scheduled sessions or as not too late to get vaccinated! part of our recent #Jabathon attempt. Thanks for joining the flu-fighting force!
P 13 Safe & Effective | Kind & Caring | Exceeding Expectation
Every edition of Trust Talk will feature a member of staff telling us about their day job − this issue it’s the turn of Sarah Hughes, Lead Heart Failure Specialist.
How long have you been at RWT? I trained in the school of nursing at New Cross Hospital, qualifying in 2000. I initially worked on the acute medical unit and then specialised in coronary care. In 2005 I received sponsorship from the British Heart Foundation to be a heart failure nurse in Wolverhampton PCT and I have also worked as a community matron in the PCT. However I returned back to my calling of heart failure and worked in the community in Stafford for a few years, but I have been back in the Wolverhampton heart failure team since 2013. What is your job role? Heart failure specialist nurse lead – I have only been in the lead role since November 2019, but I had an excellent role model in my previous manager. What is your favourite thing about your job? I think it is the humbling experience of realising how resilient people are in the face of adversity. I have seen patients that have had their lives changed completely by a cardiac event and with support and time they cope with new challenges that they could never have imagined. I am humbled and honoured to be involved in their care journey. What are the biggest challenges you face? When you’re not at work, how do you like to spend your time? We all have staffing and cost pressures and waiting lists, but as a team we try to prioritise as much as possible to ensure I enjoy folk music and when I can I will go to some of our patient care is managed appropriately (p.s I have a teenager local folk clubs to support live music acts – we have some at home – that’s a huge challenge!). great clubs in the West Midlands. I also enjoy the theatre and watching amateur drama groups. I am also a bit fanatical What makes you proud? about litter; one sure way of getting me riled is dropping My team! We support each other. This can be a difficult, litter in front of me. So I have recently joined ‘Willenhall emotional job; knowing that my colleagues will listen and Wombles’ a local environmental group and hope to be out hold each other up when needed is beyond priceless. with my litter picker soon.
If you know someone who has an interesting job in the Trust and think they would like to share what they do then email [email protected]
P 14 TrustTalk Winter 2020 The emotional impact of working for the NHS: How Schwartz Rounds can help you How they work staff has been linked to better multidisciplinary working. Schwartz Rounds are monthly at RWT and normally take place in the Themes Wolverhampton Medical Institute. Topics so far have included: A panel, made up of two or three staff • Coordinating care in the members, present a case that relates community to a particular topic or theme – for • Changing children’s lives through example, giving bad news or being working together – acute Schwartz Rounds provide time and caught between the patient and their children’s services space during the working day for family. • “All in a day’s work” – security staff to discuss (or just listen to) the Panellists take a few minutes each to team emotional impact of working in a describe their involvement in the case, • Listening without prejudice - healthcare organisation. particularly focusing on how it made occupational health Rounds encourage staff to reflect on them feel and what emotional or social • Out of control - cardiology team their roles (what’s good and what’s issues it raised. challenging), while evidence shows ALL staff are invited (clinical and A dialogue is then opened to the us that individuals who attend rounds non-clinical staff), so look out for floor and staff can ask questions of feel less isolated after discussing their the times and locations of sessions the presenters and share their own experiences; ‘I know you feel’ or ‘that’s in Trust Brief − your weekly email experiences (all comments made happened to me’ can often bring bulletin. within the meeting are to be kept comfort during the more difficult times. confidential). To find out more visit By signing up to Schwartz Rounds, The purpose of Schwartz Rounds is www.pointofcarefoundation.org.uk the Trust is acknowledging that caring not to solve problems, but to support or contact Louise Nickell, Head of for patients can be challenging and is one another, while the opportunity Education and Training, on actively looking to support staff in that for increasing understanding among [email protected] work. Staff retirement from Microbiology
With more than 80 combined years of NHS service we in the department here at New Cross and across the would like to wish Hasmukh Mistry and Ian Parker all the region. best on their retirement. If you know of any long-serving staff leaving RWT Both Hasmukh and Ian have significant Microbiology please email [email protected] to expertise and have shared their knowledge with others be in future issues of Trust Talk.
P 15 Safe & Effective | Kind & Caring | Exceeding Expectation Award nomination
David Loughton, Chief Executive of RWT and Geoff Layer, Vice-Chancellor at the University of Wolverhampton with colleagues from the Clinical Fellowship Programme We are delighted to announce that The Clinical Fellowship "This nomination has been a tremendous boost to both Programme (Nursing and Medical) has been shortlisted to our team and our NHS partner at The University of for Best Educational Programme for the NHS at the HSJ Wolverhampton and I am sure it will bolster our continued Partnership Awards 2020, recognising their outstanding efforts to improve.” dedication to improving healthcare. Our partnership with TeleTracking UK has seen RWT also Zoe Marsh, Acting Head of Education / Clinical Fellowship shortlisted in the ‘HealthTech Partnership of the Year’ Programme Manager at The Royal Wolverhampton NHS category – specifically around our innovative ‘SafeHands’ Trust, said: “We are committed to delivering improved programme. outcomes for patients, and to be chosen among the other The winners will be announced on Thursday, February 27th incredible nominees is a wonderful achievement. 2020. Good luck! Congratulations to AMU
Staff on AMU with their prize hamper
Congratulations to our Acute Medical Unit (AMU) team who their work to prevent and reduce pressure ulcers. have won an award for their hard work reducing pressure Nicky Durmaz, Senior Sister, said: "As a manager we carry ulcers. out daily checks to support staff and are proud of all of Pressure ulcer prevention is a constant driver for AMU staff. our staff for providing excellent care in these pressurised As part of Worldwide Stop The Pressure Day AMU showcased circumstances."
P 16 TrustTalk Winter 2020
PRIMARY CARE SERVICES ‘BLAZE A TRAIL’ WITH APPRENTICESHIPS
Meet some of the primary Gelisha Lewis – care services team below and Tonicha Craig– Apprentice Apprentice Level 2 find out about the benefits of Level 3 Business Customer Service the apprenticeship program. Administration at Practitioner at West Park Surgery Thornley Street GP Our Primary Care Services teams are Practice Practice. looking beyond the traditional hiring routes and seeking to diversify their 1. How would you describe your 1. How would you describe your workforce through the appointment experience working at the experience working at the of apprentices. Trust? Trust? The apprentice scheme has been Since working at West Park My experience working as part a positive experience both for Surgery, I have found that I have of the Trust has enabled me to the practices involved and the become more confident and with step out of my comfort zone and apprentices. this new found confidence, I have gain so much more confidence, The majority of apprentices go on to found that I have been able to which has enabled me to develop be valued substantive members of make decisions autonomously. in many ways including my social primary care teams; some are now I feel my communication and and communication skills. interpersonal skills have increased on degree courses after just three 2. How has the Trust and I have become more of an years and positively progressing apprenticeship scheme helped organised individual. through the career structure. you in your long term career 2. How has the Trust development? apprenticeship scheme helped The Trust apprenticeship scheme you in your long term career has enabled me to develop my development? knowledge and skills of the The Trust apprenticeship scheme organisation I work for and the has helped me to develop tasks I have been completing skills for my long term career throughout it so far have enabled development. Long term, I me to use what I have learned have an interest in becoming in them within my physical work a personal assistant/medical role which has been beneficial. secretary. I have recently taken The scheme has also given me on a minute taking course and the opportunity to socialise and a medical terminology course, in interact with other apprentices which potentially could help me that work for different areas Maxine Rickhuss to gain these job roles for the within the Trust. Directorate Manager for Primary Care future. Services 3. What are your future plans 3. What are your future plans once you complete your once you complete your current programme? current programme? Hopefully after the completion of my apprenticeship I will be My future plans once I have asked to stay on as a full time completed my level three employee, however if not I will programme will be to be kept most definitely be looking for a on as a permanent staff member job within the Trust. here at West Park Surgery.
For further information on apprenticeiship at the Trust contact the apprenticeship team on:
01902 307999 ext 8220 @RWT_Apprentices
WT renti es i s https://www.royalwolverhampton.nhs. [email protected] Inspiring and developing our future workforce uk/work-with-us/apprenticeships/
P 17 Safe & Effective | Kind & Caring | Exceeding Expectation Launch of NHS Academy of Fabulous Stuff at RWT!
The Academy of Fabulous Stuff has The RWT FAB team would like to launched here at RWT! continue to promote and feel the energy which was seen on the day of The FAB Academy is a website where the launch. NHS staff share the great work they have achieved, showing what they are Firstly, they would like to recruit more doing at the front line, in the board ambassadors throughout the Trust to rooms, the community and primary facilitate this. For more information care. please contact Vanda Carter, Senior Research Sister and FAB ambassador, on The launch event, held in November, [email protected]. was very successful. Many members of staff from different departments The current FAB ambassadors gathered together to share their throughout the Trust are: successes through a five minute • Vanda Carter presentation. The person who presented the most detail in the five • Charlotte Hitchcock minutes received a FAB certificate, • Nikki Vanes medal and a box of chocolates. Well done to Sarah Hughes, Lead Heart • Sharon Kempson Failure Specialist Nurse, for winning the • Katie Haywood best presentation award! • Caroline Yates In addition to this, the guest speaker for the launch of event Roy Lilley, • Lisa Walker Founder of FAB, health writer and • Di Davis commentator for the NHS, had many rewarding comments to say about RWT. • Sam Mcintosh Roy Lilley said: “There are so many • Paige Beaden good things going on at RWT. The NHS • Clare Banks is full of enthusiastic, clever, keen and passionate people with a strong sense • Jo Weekes of vocation. If you have a FAB idea or want to learn “It’s okay to have dreams. For as more, please email your ideas and long as I can remember I have been queries to [email protected]. dreaming of a time when all the good things, innovations and concepts, that are the backbone of the NHS, could be shared. The Academy of Fabulous Stuff is proof; dreams do come true.”
P 18 TrustTalk Winter 2020 Patient experience spotlight
ent Experien Supporting Trans* People ati ce P Listen Learn Share Change is difficult for us all. Whether it is a personal change, • Never disclose information about or a change in the world around us, we are always challenged the person’s change of gender or previous identity to anyone without by change. their consent. Breach of this this Trans* people are those who have verbally or through other records, can result in criminal charges being come to the realisation that their without the expressed written brought and heavy fines resulting. It gender does not match the body in permission of the trans* person. It is not permitted to ask if the person which they found themselves at birth. is very important to obtain written has obtained a Gender Recognition It is not a choice or a preference. There permission/consent in order to protect Certificate. Fines of up to £5000 can are a number of different identities that both parties. apply for breaches. fall under the umbrella of ‘trans*’ : Please find below some of the positive • Always use the person’s preferred A person may choose to adopt clothing ways to support trans* people and name and pronoun: Respect the of the gender identity which is right details of our responsibilities as either person’s identity by using their new for them – and some may choose to care-givers or employers. These, name (if any) and the pronoun that fluctuate between identities. hopefully, will help us to manage they prefer. Be aware that some sensitive change positively rather than They might additionally undergo people may prefer gender-neutral being worried or challenged by it: gender reassignment surgery and pronouns – hir, ze etc. obtain a ’Gender Recognition • Confidentiality and security • Keep all sensitive records locked Certificate’ to officially certify their are paramount for trans* people. away: Sensitive records are those change of gender. Whatever their Reassure your trans* patients or that refer to an individuals’ previous choice, the law expects us as employers colleagues that you will safeguard name or gender identity. These and carers to recognise and respect their confidentiality and work can be paper-based or electronic. their choice of expression of identity, towards supporting them in their Remember, unless it is a medical to make reasonable adjustments, to workplace. necessity for a patient, disclosure of put into place protection within the • Respect their intent: As an gender change etc is not appropriate. workplace. employer, or a provider of care, we • Be informed: Take time to read, This applies from their ‘point of are legally obliged to recognise and learn and inform yourself about proposal’, whether this is verbal, adapt to a trans* person’s change of transgender issues. Suggested written or marked by a change of gender or personal appearance from reading: ‘The Equality Act 2010’, attire. Trans people do not need to the time that s/he declares it. This is ‘The Public Sector Equality Duty have medical intervention of any type regardless of whether any medical 2011’, ‘The Gender Recognition to be recognised as being involved the intervention has been or is intended Act 2004’, ‘Scottish Trans Alliance’ process of change, or having changed to be under taken. ‘Point of Proposal’ website is a great source of gender. is a legal definition and could be information: marked by someone simply choosing At this point, it is really important to https://www.scottishtrans.org to dress in the clothes of the opposite emphasise the point that trans* people • Support other people to gender to their birth. are not necessarily gay or lesbian. The understand the needs and concerns key change is about their own gender • Talk to the person: Have a of trans* people - without disclosing identity – not their sexuality. Whilst discussion and find out whether more than is legal, and only what the some trans* people might indeed be they want other people to know trans* person wishes you too. gay or lesbian, many still continue to about their change of gender, who • Be a support and a role model: maintain the same sexual orientation. they want to know, when they want Be a shining example of how to other people to know. Ask how best As with the other eight protected adapt to change and be a role to handle their transition and how characteristics, the Public Sector model at the same time as being a to manage any related questions Equality Duty requires that we do professional supporter. You may not from other people. The beginning of not discriminate either directly or fully understand the journey a person transition is usually the most anxiety- indirectly against trans* people. It is is undertaking, but respect and ridden for the person, sensitive very important to remember that it is a friendship are great starting points. and even dangerous. A patient criminal offence to disclose information may be quite adamant that no-one This information is a guide from our about changes in someone’s gender except the most essential of medical patient experience team, further status to another party, or details of personnel are informed. information to follow. someone’s previous gender either
P 19 Safe & Effective | Kind & Caring | Exceeding Expectation Healthy eating, healthy living We’re recruiting health & wellbeing champions Are you passionate about changing attitudes, supporting others to make improved lifestyle choices and creating a healthier culture in your workplace? The staff health & wellbeing team are recruiting health & wellbeing champions! Have the opportunity to start up conversations about mental health in the workplace, dispel myths and make it easier for people to seek support. • Provide information relating to new health & wellbeing initiatives Trust-wide • Signpost others to relevant resources • Collaborate with other champions to help promote national health campaigns. For more information on becoming a workplace champion or to sign up please email [email protected] Fruit & Veg Shed – now taking card payments! Whether it’s for lunch, a quick snack or to throw into your evening meal, HMD Fruit & Veg has fresh produce to suit any time of day! Based outside New Cross Hospital’s eastside entrance (next to the Emergency Department) the fruit and veg retailer has a number of healthy food items including a ‘5 items for £2’ offer alongside ready-made fruit pots and a selection of jams. Open 10am – 5pm, Monday to Friday. Please note they are now taking card payments, so you’re no longer stuck if you run out of change! Search @HMDFruit&Veg on Facebook for daily offers.
Safe & Effective | Kind & Caring | Exceeding Expectation Designed and produced by the Department of Clinical Illustration, New Cross Hospital, Wolverhampton WV10 0QP Tel: 01902 695377 MI_6426214_13.01.20_V1