all.together
the MCHFT newsletter PM Visits Leighton Also in this issue... UNICEF Accreditation Charity Update Be Involved Urgent Care Awarded Speak Out Safely Theatres and Intensive Care Choose Well This Winter
#1 January 2014 welcome to all.together
Welcome to the first edition of environment highly, according and our workforce take extra care All Together, our brand new to a survey which took place of themselves. Flu is common newsletter designed to keep you in the summer. The patient- at this time of year and, whilst updated with the latest news led assessments of the care it can just be unpleasant for and activities of Mid Cheshire environment took place at most us, for some it can cause Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust. Leighton and at Elmhurst severe health complications. If Intermediate Care Centre you are pregnant, over 65 years It’s a very exciting time to be in Winsford, with all but one old or have a long-term health part of the Trust, with important category scoring 85% or higher. condition, you should be able to projects and advancements Details on the specific categories, get vaccinated against flu for free taking place at Leighton Hospital as well as other recent from your GP. MCHFT staff are in Crewe and the Victoria achievements relating to our also able to protect themselves Infirmary in Northwich. estate, are available on page 14. and their patients by having the vaccination from Occupational Our new Operating Theatres The new facilities that are Health, with more details and Intensive Care Unit are being built will provide us available on page 12. set for completion in the next with a fantastic opportunity to few months, and an update on further improve the quality and Winter also brings with it extra the expected timings involved safety of care available to our pressure on health services, in this project is given on page local community. However, it is with cold weather traditionally 5. Work is also now underway important to note that the services leading to more illnesses and on refurbishing our charity- already available at our Trust are accidents. The Choose Well funded Neonatal Intensive highly rated and achieving great campaign is an NHS initiative Care Unit. Local companies are things. designed to inform people of the still generously fundraising for best source of treatment for any equipment for the new unit – Our Maternity Unit has been particular condition, whether it’s further information and thanks are awarded an international a simple cough or cold through available on page 6. accreditation from UNICEF to life-threatening conditions. for its work on improving the Information on how you can Despite the Leighton Hospital mother-baby bond, whilst our ‘choose well’ is available on the site currently having a number Urgent Care Centre received back page of this newsletter. of refurbishment projects acknowledgement for its work in in progress, delivering extended primary care This is just a sample of some of patients have in the Emergency Department the content available in our new still rated at Leighton Hospital. None of newsletter, and we hope that you the hospital this would have been possible enjoy reading it. If you have any if it wasn’t for the hard suggestions or ideas of topics work and dedication of our that we could include in future staff, and we thank them editions, please email them to greatly for their continued [email protected]. dedication. For further details on these awards, With best regards, please see pages 4 and 11 respectively.
With winter now upon us, it is important that both Tracy Bullock John Moran the local community Chief Executive Chairman page 2 Prime Minister Visit David Cameron drops in at Leighton Hospital
On Tuesday, July 23, 2013, Prime and Intensive Care Unit which is Minister David Cameron visited currently being built and is funded Leighton Hospital in Crewe as part of primarily through £21.69million of a tour of the local area. Government funding.”
Accompanied by Edward Timpson, Edward added: “Leighton Hospital MP for Crewe and Nantwich, Mr is a key asset to our area and I’m Cameron spoke with Tracy Bullock delighted that the Prime Minster and John Moran, Chief Executive was able to attend and hear for and Chairman of MCHFT, about himself some of the positive things the hospital and the services that it that are happening for the benefit provides to the local area. of patients and the community in Pictured above: David Cameron general. with Edward Timpson, Tracy Bullock Speaking after the visit, Tracy said: and John Moran, and speaking with “We work closely with Edward to “I am very proud to have Leighton Treatment Centre staff (top). ensure that we meet the health Hospital in our local area and to needs of our local population and be a patron of their One in Eleven it is a great compliment that he has charitable appeal to help fund a to meet some of the staff at the been so enthused about the care that new Neonatal Intensive Care Unit. hospital’s Treatment Centre and am we provide that he invited the Prime pleased to hear that the hospital is Minister to come and meet with us “Having worked alongside hospital performing well despite high demand. too. staff in 2012, I have a great admiration for the hard work and “I hope that this government funding “Mr Cameron was very interested dedication that is shown throughout can help renew Leighton Hospital in our A&E department, as we the organisation, from nursing and and improve the services offered to are managing to maintain our healthcare staff through to the patients in Crewe and Nantwich even performance whilst many other domestics and kitchen teams.” more.” Trusts are struggling. We also spoke to him about our future plans, Speaking after the visit, the Prime including our brand new Theatres Minister commented: “I was delighted page 3 Improved X-Ray Technology at VIN
Patients attending the Victoria “This new Infirmary in Northwich (VIN) are process is now benefiting from better medical a lot quicker, imaging facilities, thanks to recent meaning that our refurbishment works. patients spend far less time having to maintain The Infirmary, based at Winnington potentially uncomfortable Hill, now offers direct digital positions whilst we take the system really will help us to provide radiography and is the first use of images.” an improved level of care and such technology at the Trust. hospital experience to our patients.” Gina Chisholm, a Senior Judith Spence, a Senior Radiographer also based at the The X-Ray department based at Radiographer based at VIN, said: Infirmary, added: “As well as Victoria Infirmary would like to “Digital radiography allows for x-ray speeding the process up, the new thank all of their patients for their images to appear on a computer system also has a greatly increased understanding during the disruption screen in seconds, similar to the way image resolution, meaning that caused by the installation. that people can review photos on a we can provide a much clearer digital camera. This means that we assessment of the patient. Pictured above (L-R): Judith can assess the results immediately Spence and Gina Chisholm, Senior and take any additional images at the “There is also a significantly-reduced Radiographers at the Victoria same time if we need to investigate radiation dose required using the Infirmary, with the new medical anything further. digital technology in comparison to imaging equipment. the previous technology, so this new
Trust Receives UNICEF Accreditation Staff at Leighton Hospital’s Maternity cancer. Importantly, it also helps to Hospital. Unit are working hard to develop build a strong physical and emotional As well as the important relationship between bond between mother and baby. receiving the mother and baby, according to a Baby Friendly recent UNICEF accreditation. The Unit recently underwent a two- accreditation, day assessment against the Stage we were also The Baby Friendly Initiative, Two standards of the Initiative and awarded established by UNICEF in passed each of the nine criteria the Cherubs conjunction with the World Health unconditionally with an average Charter earlier Organisation, is a global programme score of 93.5%. this year, which provides practical and meaning that we are breastfeeding- effective support for healthcare Pam Cornwall, Head of Midwifery at friendly. Additionally, our refurbished organisations to improve the care the Trust, said: “I am delighted that Labour Ward and Midwifery-Led Unit provided for all mothers and babies. we have been awarded this next opened 12 months ago, and work In the UK, the initiative works with stage accreditation, particularly as is currently underway to provide us health professionals to ensure that we passed three categories with with a new Postnatal Ward alongside high-quality support is provided 100% and four more with scores our One in Eleven Appeal-funded to mothers to enable successful above 90%. Neonatal Intensive Care Unit.” breastfeeding. “The whole team here have been For more information regarding the Breastfeeding protects babies fantastic in their work to increase Baby Friendly Initiative, please visit against a wide range of serious the number of mothers choosing to www.unicef.org.uk/babyfriendly, infections and diseases, both at birth breastfeed their babies, and this is and for further information on the and in the future, and additionally the first time that the hospital has Cherubs Charter, please visit helps to lower the been accredited at this level within www.cherubsbreastfeeding.co.uk. mother’s risk of the Baby Friendly Initiative. developing Pictured above: the logo for the breast and “It is an exciting time for the Baby Friendly Initiative. ovarian Maternity Unit here at Leighton page 4 iTIC New Facilities Near Completion
improving Theatres and Intensive Care
There are now only a few months efficient use of the facilities and services and staff from the Treatment before staff move into our new ultimately a better overall experience Centre temporarily moving into Theatres and Intensive Care for patients. Ward 11 and the vacated Theatres facilities, ready to treat patients in a and Intensive Care space. This will modern environment with state of the The project is very complex, with allow us to refurbish elements of art equipment. lots of elements that need to come the Treatment Centre and to create together. In February 2014, the a dedicated Surgical Admissions The construction of the building building will be officially handed over Lounge. started in January 2013, with to the Trust from our construction the new structure being officially partners, Interserve. We will then In November 2014, these vacated watertight by June. With the majority have approximately six weeks services will return to the Treatment of the external works now complete, to get the building ready for use, Centre, and an official opening of the effort has been focussed on the which includes installing all of the new facilities in their entirety will take inside of the building – all the internal necessary equipment, training all place in late 2014. walls are up, much of the mechanical staff regarding their new working and electrical works have taken environment, and cleaning every We appreciate that the construction place and the final coverings are inch to strict clinical standards. of our new Theatres and Intensive being fitted to the walls, floors and Care Unit may have caused ceilings. In late March 2014, Intensive Care disruption to patients, staff and will move its staff, patients and visitors over the past year, but we Along with this fantastic new equipment into the new facilities, hope that you will join us in our environment we will be introducing with the Theatre units set to be excitement and anticipation of what new systems, such as a scheduling operational a few days later. fantastic benefits the new facilities and management system for will bring to the hospital and the local Theatres, as well as new ways of The next stage of the project will community in general. working. This will all lead to more commence shortly after Easter, with
Pictured above (clockwise from top-left): the Orthopaedic team view one of the new Theatres; a look at the building’s exterior; one of the lighting pendants which has been installed into the Theatres; the Recovery Area; one of the Nurses’ Bays within the Intensive Care Unit.
For more images of the building process, please visit the iTIC (Improving Theatres and Intensive Care) project on the Trust’s website - www.mcht.nhs.uk/itic. page 5 Supporters View Neonatal Plans A Big Thank You Mid Cheshire Hospitals Charity would like to say a huge “thank you” to all the support it received for the One in Eleven appeal from the local community, Trust Members, Trust staff and businesses in the area. We could not have hit our £1.8 million target without your support and on-going fundraising efforts.
The re-development work on our Neonatal Intensive Care Unit began in July, and we are on track to open our brand new Neonatal Intensive Care Unit in late Spring 2014. Fundraisers who have helped to realise the dream of a new Neonatal Unit being built at Leighton Hospital Since hitting our target for the building work, had the opportunity to see what their hard work would support has continued for the appeal and over create. £50,000 has been raised in additional funds through the One in Eleven appeal, which will Representatives from Asda Crewe, Wincanton be put towards equipment for the new Unit. So Logistics, the Ray of Hope group and the Frank thank you again! Hockenhull Trust (all pictured above with MCHFT staff) were able to view the plans, tour the space where the We would like to mention Sainsburys in renovation works are taking place and visit the existing Nantwich who have raised over £3,000 and Neonatal Unit and recently refurbished Labour Ward. Asda in Crewe who have raised over £6,000, both for the One in Eleven appeal. We have Tracy Bullock, Chief Executive of MCHFT, said: “The also had a number of individual donors support we’ve received has been unbelievable. We who have completed sponsored challenges would not be where we are now without the generosity recently and all raised in excess of £800 each. of our supporters and every single person that has donated or raised money. It was very special to We hope to launch our next major appeal in welcome back some of these supporters to see how Spring 2014, and we will keep you posted on our plans are progressing and we hope they will return news of what this will be. to see our brand new unit next Spring.”
The existing Neonatal Unit accommodates up to 15 babies at any one time, but more space is desperately needed. The new unit will still care for the same number of babies, but will provide far more room around each Ways to Donate cot unit allowing families more privacy and dignity at If you would like to make a donation to Mid such an emotional time. Cheshire Hospitals Charity, there are a number of ways you can do so: There will be increased space for equipment storage and parent overnight accommodation – there are By text - Text mchc00 and your amount (e.g. currently only two overnight rooms, but the new unit will mchc00 £10) to 70070. Texts are free on all have two single rooms and three double rooms. The networks. Maximum donation by text is £10. new unit will also be temperature controlled and have better acoustics to reduce noise, both of which are Online - visit www.mchcharity.org. important in helping babies back to health.
Loose Change Scheme - MCHFT staff The One in Eleven Appeal raised £1.8m for the project members can give the ‘loose change’ from thanks to the generous support of local residents, their net salary to the Charity each month by groups and businesses and an amazing donation of rounding down their income £1.5m from the Frank Hockenhull Trust. to the nearest pound. This initiative replaces the For further information on the One in Eleven Appeal, previous ‘Pennies from and the new Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, please visit Heaven’ scheme. www.mchcharity.org. page 6 Motoring Giant Helps Infants
Bentley Motors has donated more than £3,000 to support the One in Eleven appeal.
The Appeal hit its target earlier this year to fund the refurbishment work, and extra donations such as Bentley’s £3,257 will help to provide new equipment and further enhance the new unit.
Fashion Fundraiser Dedicated followers of fashion were able to help out with fundraising recently, after the Charity held its first evening of fashion and shopping.
Richmond Village in Nantwich played host to a catwalk of outfits from stores based in the town, as well as a number of stalls selling gifts, jewellery, and Christmas items.
The fun evening raised over £1,300 for the Charity, who would like to thank all of the sponsors and Leonie Williams, Head of HR Operations at attendees for their help. Bentley, pictured above (right) with Laura Bailey, MCH Charity Fundraising Manager, said: “Leighton Hospital plays a major role in the local community, treating hundreds of patients each day. The service and care it provides is outstanding and Bentley is delighted to show its gratitude and support the Logistics Team hospital through this donation. We hope it helps them continue their highly valued work, caring for Scale New Heights the many patients they look after.” Colleagues from Gist Logistics in Crewe scaled Approximately one in eleven of the 3,000 babies new heights in July, by taking on the Three Peaks born every year at Mid Cheshire Hospitals NHS Challenge in aid of Mid Cheshire Hospitals Charity. Foundation Trust will need additional support.
A team of warehouse operatives climbed Ben Laura Bailey, Fundraising Manager for MCHC, Nevis in Scotland, Scarfell Pike in Cumbria and said: “We sincerely thank Bentley for its Snowdon in North Wales, all within 24 hours. tremendous generosity. This donation will go a long way in helping us enhance our new Neonatal Unit Thirteen walkers and three drivers all helped to with the best facilities possible.” raise an amazing £2,000 in sponsorship. Gist Crewe employees then donated a further £5,000, which they had been awarded by Marks and Spencer having been chosen as Food Logistics Depot of the Year. The £5,000 prize is traditionally Gist staff spent on facilities for staff, but the Gist Crewe present the employees wanted others to benefit from their cheque to success. Many thanks Gist! Laura Bailey, Fundraising The £7,000 total was split between Mid Cheshire Manager. Hospitals Charity and St Luke’s Hospice.
The total distance walked in the challenge is estimated at 42 kilometres (26 miles), with a total ascent of 3,000 metres (9,800 feet). page 7 New Wheelchairs A volunteers group has been thanked for helping purchase new wheelchairs for hospital patients. Cakes Raise
The Royal Voluntary Service has worked Thousands closely with the Trust to help bring in 40 brand Staff, patients and visitors at the new wheelchairs for the benefit of visitors and Trust have once again raised patients at Leighton Hospital. a grand sum towards improving cancer care, as part of September’s The service, which operates tea bars at Leighton World’s Biggest Coffee Morning in aid of and Victoria Infirmary in Northwich, has worked Macmillan Cancer Support. with the hospitals since they were built and raises funds by serving a range of food and Teams at Leighton Hospital in Crewe raised a total of drink, including almost 200 teas and coffees £4,041 through various coffee and cake events, with every day, to hospital patients and staff. the hospital raising the largest total in Cheshire for the second year running. Carol Nevison, Head of Region for the Royal Voluntary Service, said: “It is a brilliant feeling The Macmillan Unit also hosted charity stalls and a for us that we are able to help patients out by raffle, with prizes donated by local companies. The working with the Trust to provide these new first prize - a combined television and DVD unit which wheelchairs. We have a great relationship with was provided by Thompsons Solicitors in Stoke – was the hospitals here, and we are currently looking won by Sylvia Pugh from Winterley. at what additional projects we can work together on. Speaking about the event, Julie Pieczarka, Macmillan Cancer Information and Support Manager, said: “I “However, none of this would be possible without would like to thank everybody who attended, donated the dedication of our small army of volunteers, or gave their time to assist us. They all played their who give their time freely to help make a part in helping us to raise this great amount for difference to patients and visitors to their local Macmillan - it wouldn’t have been possible without hospitals, and I sincerely thank them for that.” them.
John Moran, MCHFT Chairman, added: “We “We were helped have had a long and successful partnership significantly by 11 of our with the Royal Voluntary Service, and their Macmillan Unit and contribution over the years has been fantastic. Outreach volunteers, These new wheelchairs will be a great addition and for this I am and will help us to further improve the service very grateful. I and experience that our patients have here. We would also like have such a great voluntary community at our to thank all the hospitals, and it’s heart-warming that so many local companies individuals from the local area are keen to help who kindly out.” donated prizes for our raffle, as their support over the years has helped to make a big difference to the amounts that we have been able to raise each year.
“Every penny raised will make a huge contribution to improving the care and support that we can provide to cancer patients, not only locally here in Crewe and the surrounding areas, but also across the country.”
Other areas of MCHFT to hold events in aid of Macmillan included the Estates and Facilities Pictured: Representatives from the Royal Division, the Pharmacy Department and the Voluntary Service and MCHFT with one of the Breast Care volunteers, who all raised new wheelchairs. vital funds by holding their own coffee mornings. Want to become a volunteer at the Trust? Turn to page 10 for further information... page 8 Update on the Friends and Family Test Summer 2013 saw the first on what they think of our services. we receive through surveys, listening publication of national data relating We are always looking to improve events, complaints and compliments, to a new initiative designed to ensure quality for our patients and this is amongst others, we can be clear transparency, celebrate success and just one way that people can help to when we are getting it right and improve patient experience within the shape their local NHS services. where we need to improve.” NHS. “Looking at our results to date, it is The results of the Friends and Family The Friends and Family Test gives very reassuring that the number of test are published nationally via the each inpatient and A&E attendee the people who would recommend our NHS England website (www.england. opportunity to say how likely they services far surpasses those who nhs.uk) and a summary of the would be to recommend their ward or wouldn’t. Trust’s results for April to October is department to their friends and family provided below. if they needed similar care. “Our dedicated Customer Care Team studies each and every response, The scheme was extended in In the first six months since its and feedback is provided to the October 2013 to cover Maternity official launch, almost 5,000 patients relevant wards and departments. Units and details of these results will provided their feedback regarding This allows for positives to be be included in future editions of All their experience at Leighton Hospital celebrated and built upon, whilst Together. in Crewe. The vast majority of also identifying weaker performance patients have said that they would areas so that improvements can be We would ask that if you do attend be ‘likely’ or ‘extremely likely’ to made. A&E, are an inpatient at Leighton recommend it as a place to receive Hospital, or attend the Maternity Unit treatment. “Listening to our patients and their at our Trust, that you complete the families is very important to us as survey questionnaire. Your feedback Julie Smith, Director of Nursing an organisation and we really value is important to us and will help us and Quality at the Trust, said: “The their feedback on the service we to ensure your patient experience Friends and Family Test is a simple provide. The Friends and Family Test meets your expectations. way for our patients to provide us is just one way that we do this and with regular and up to date feedback combined with all the other feedback
The tables below show the overall scores received by the Trust for the Inpatient and Hitting the Right Notes A&E Friends and Family Test. The scores are calculated as a percentage by NHS England.
Inpatients National Month MCHFT Total Average April 69 71 May 75 72 June 75 72 July 76 71 August 71 72 The Trust’s Staff Choir is going from strength to strength, September 68 72 having now made a number of public performances since October 77 72 being established in February 2013.
Their first public recital took place at the Trust’s Annual A&E Members Meeting on October 1, 2013, and the group now National have a number of performances booked over the next few Month MCHFT Total Average months. April 57 49 If you are a member of staff and wish to join the Choir, May 65 55 please contact Melissa Steele on 01270 612128 (internal June 64 54 extension 2128) or email [email protected]. July 60 54 Pictured above: the Trust Staff Choir August 55 56 perform at the Trust’s Annual Members September 56 52 Meeting in October 2013. October 58 55 page 9 Mid Cheshire Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust belongs to you. As our patients, staff and local community, we value your opinions and assistance so that we can continue to provide high quality services that matter to you. Here are BE INVOLVED! just some of the ways that you can get involved in the Trust and really help to make a difference, as well as an update on an issue that you have asked us to look into. Become a Governor Members and staff will soon get the chance to Meet and Greet stand as one of the Trust’s Governors. Leighton Hospital is currently looking for In January 2014 we will be inviting Members volunteers for its new Meet and Greet programme. to stand as Governors in the Constituencies of ‘Public’, ‘Staff and Volunteers’ and ‘Patient and The programme aims to provide directional Carer’. assistance to patients and visitors to the hospital. Members interested in becoming a Governor will While the Trust is very pleased with the continuing be invited to complete and return a nomination upgrades to its infrastructure, we know that it form. Voting packs will then be issued to allow can cause patients and visitors some difficulty in Members to vote for a Governor to represent them. finding their way around. Governors have the opportunity to influence our If you are able to give two or three hours a week work in order to help develop and improve the Trust to help provide assistance, please contact Emma for the benefit of patients, their families and our Clarke, the Trust’s Voluntary Services Manager, on local communities. This ranges from attending local 01270 612311 for further information. events and groups to improving patient experience and our environment, as well as appointing Non- Executive Directors.
All Governors will receive training and support, and no Board-level experience is necessary - just a Appointment willingness to be involved and represent people in your area. It is a fantastic way to learn more about Cancellations the Trust and gain a real sense of achievement by In the last edition of IN, our previous newsletter helping us to continually improve. for Members, we promised to provide you with an update on an issue that was causing problems for a number of patients - appointment cancellations.
The Trust is pleased to announce that follow-up Board Meetings appointments in Outpatients will be booked using Public and staff are invited to attend the monthly a new process, which is being phased in over a Board of Director meetings, starting at 9.30am in number of months. the Board Room at Leighton Hospital:
If you are required to attend the hospital for a • January 6, 2014 • March 3, 2014 follow-up appointment within six weeks, you will • February 3, 2014 • April 7, 2014 be asked to arrange your next appointment at the Reception Desk in Outpatients before you leave. and will direct you to the However, if your next appointment is due in more than Reception Desk if required. six weeks’ time, then we will contact you to arrange your appointment approximately four weeks before you This new process is being are due to attend. brought in to minimise any unnecessary changes to your Staff in the clinic will advise you at the end of your follow-up appointments in the future. We thank you for appointment about how your follow-up will be arranged your assistance and patience.
You can change the way that you are involved with the Trust by simply contacting the Membership Office - just call 01270 612365 or email [email protected]. page 10 Urgent Care Centre Receives Award The Urgent Care Centre at tribute to his memory to Leighton Hospital has been institute an award in his chosen as the winner of a name. Mid Cheshire Hospitals raised as soon as prestigious award set up NHS Foundation Trust possible. in memory of a Shropshire “The service that the Urgent supports the Nursing doctor. Care Centre provides Times Speak Out It is not disloyal to alongside the Accident and Safely campaign. This colleagues to raise The Centre has been Emergency Department is means we encourage concerns; it is a presented with the Dr Steve vital for both patients and any staff member duty to our patients. Hugh Award in recognition the hospital itself, treating who has a genuine Misconduct or of its work delivering those who might otherwise patient safety concern malpractice should extended primary care have had to make their way to raise this within the never be tolerated, in partnership with the to A&E. organisation at the while mistakes and Accident and Emergency earliest opportunity. poor practice may Department. “Its service has greatly reveal a colleague enhanced patient care and Patient safety is our needs more training It has also been recognised is thoroughly deserving of prime concern and or support, or that for the ‘innovative clinical our award.” our staff are often we need to change pathways’ that have helped best placed to identify systems or processes. enhance patient care at the The Urgent Care Centre where care may be Your concerns will be point it is most needed. team delivers a community falling below the dealt with in an open Deep Vein Thrombosis standard our patients and supportive manner The Urgent Care Centre is service and several other deserve. In order because we rely on the eighth recipient of the pathways which allow to ensure our high you to ensure we award, which was set up in patients to be treated standards continue deliver a safe service memory of Dr Steve Hugh, at home rather than be to be met, we want and ensure patient who was ShropDoc’s highly admitted into hospital. every member of our safety is not put at respected medical director staff to feel able to risk. We also want this for many years. It also supports the Accident raise concerns with organisation to have and Emergency Department their line manager, or the confidence to admit Dr Russell Muirhead, by accepting many patients another member of the to mistakes and to Chairman of the Shropshire who are better treated by management team. use them as learning Doctors Co-Operative, said a GP, enabling A&E staff opportunities. Dr Hugh’s ethos of clinical to concentrate on the more We want everyone excellence made it a fitting acutely ill or injured patients. in the organisation to Whether you feel able to highlight are a permanent wrongdoing or poor employee, an practice when they agency or temporary see it and be confident staff member, or a that their concerns volunteer, please will be addressed in a speak up when you constructive way. feel something is wrong. We want you to We promise that where be able to Speak Out staff identify a genuine Safely. patient safety concern, we shall not treat them Raise Concerns with prejudice and Patients - speak with they will not suffer the Ward Manager or any detriment to their the Customer Care career. Instead, we Team (01270 612410). will support them, fully investigate and, Staff - speak with if appropriate, act on your Line Manager or Pictured above: Russell Muirhead (Chairman, Shropshire their concern. We a member of the HR Doctors Co-operative), Simon Chapple (GP, Urgent Care will also give them Team. Centre), Verity Lockett (Service Manager, MCHFT), Debbie feedback about how Tildsley (Operations Manager, Urgent Care Centre), Ian we have responded Winstanley (CEO, Shropshire Doctors Co-operative). to the issue they have page 11 be.in FLU ential PLAY YOUR PART Be a Flu Myth Fighter! Busters The NHS is strongly encouraging Myth – Having the flu jab gives you flu. people to think about getting the Not true. The influenza vaccine does not contain a live flu virus, so flu jab to protect them from flu it therefore cannot give you flu. There are some fairly common side this winter. effects, but these are only mild – your arm may feel a bit sore where you were injected, and some people may get a slight temperature For the majority of people or aching muscles for a couple of days. Other reactions are very who catch it, flu is unpleasant. rare. However, for some it can lead to chest infections, severe Myth – Once you’ve had the flu jab, you’re protected for life. complications or even death. Not true. As the viruses that cause flu can change every year, you Globally, seasonal flu accounts need a new vaccination annually that matches the new forms of the for between three and five virus that are in circulation. The vaccine usually provides protection million cases of severe illness for the duration of the flu season that year. annually, and between 250,000 and 500,000 deaths. Myth – I’m pregnant, so I shouldn’t have the flu jab because it will affect my baby. By having the flu vaccination, Not true. Pregnant women should have the vaccine, regardless of you can protect yourself and what stage of pregnancy they are in. If you’re pregnant, you could your loved ones. People can get very ill if you get flu, which could also be bad for your baby. carry and pass the virus on Having the jab can also protect your baby against flu after they’re to others without having any born and during the early months of life. symptoms themselves, so even if you consider yourself healthy, Myth – I’ve had the flu already this year, so I don’t need the you might be risking the health vaccination. of others. Not true. As flu is caused by several viruses, you will only be protected by the immunity that you have developed naturally If you are pregnant, over 65 against the particular strain that you caught. You could go on to years old, or have a long-term catch another one of the viruses in circulation, so it is therefore health condition, you should be recommended that you have the jab even if you’ve recently had flu. able to get the vaccination for Also, what you thought was flu could have been something else. free from your local GP surgery. Vaccinations are also now Myth – I’ve not had the widely available to everybody vaccine yet this year, so I’m from places such supermarkets, too late to have it. although there may be a charge Not true. Whilst it’s better to for this service. have the flu vaccine as soon as it becomes available, it is To help protect patients, staff always worth getting vaccinated at Mid Cheshire Hospitals NHS before flu comes around. Since Foundation Trust are also able we don’t know when flu will to have the vaccination for free. strike, the sooner you have the Just contact the Occupational vaccine the better. Health Department on extension 2372 for further information. Act Now!
Pictured above: Tracy Bullock, Chief Executive, receives her flu jab from Dawn Lafferty, Ward Manager. page 12 LEARN
CONNECT ACTIVE Trust Victorious in Cheshire Challenge
Mid Cheshire Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust achieved a resounding win in August, as staff took on colleagues from East Cheshire NHS Trust in the first ever NHS Cheshire Challenge.
MCHFT teams were victorious in the football, rounders, table tennis and rugby competitions, while the netball tournament was won by a team consisting of staff from both Trusts.
As well as the sporting competitions, there were numerous activities for staff and their families to participate in, such as hockey, golf, circus activities, Pictured top - MCHFT urban football and swimming. teams with their NHS Cheshire Challenge The event was part of MCHFT’s Health and trophies. Wellbeing programme, designed to help improve the physical health and mental wellbeing of all those Pictured above and employed by the Trust. Research has shown that left - staff from the Trust staff who participate in these types of activities are compete in the football and generally happier, more productive and better at netball competitions. engaging with patients. Therefore, by looking after themselves, our staff will also be passing on benefits to our patients through improved quality of care. Make Sure You Choose Well This Winter With Winter now upon us, MCHFT is encouraging members of the public to ‘Choose Well’ and make themselves aware of the variety of healthcare services available to them on their doorstep.
The Choose Well campaign, a national NHS initiative, aims to give people information so that they know where to go in the first instance to get fast, expert advice when they need it, and how to help themselves if they have a common illness or ailment.
The campaign also aims to help ease the pressure on A&E and 999 services at the same time by reinforcing the message that these services are for serious and life-threatening conditions.
For further information on Choosing Well, please see the back page of this newsletter. page 13 Hospital Environment Scores Highly MCHFT has been rated highly by the local people that it Leighton Hospital in Crewe and Elmhurst Intermediate serves, according to a recent assessment of the hospital Care Centre in Winsford were assessed in 2013 as part environment. of PLACE, and the results were published in September (shown below). Both facilities received high scores from Patient-led assessments of the care environment, also the assessment teams, with all-but-one standard being known as PLACE, see patients, volunteers and other rated as 85% or higher. members of the local community coming into hospitals to assess how the environment supports a number of The reason that the score for the food category at important standards: patient’s privacy and dignity, food, Leighton Hospital was slightly lower than the Trust’s other cleanliness and general building maintenance. results was not based around the quality of what was being produced, which was felt to be of a good standard, but was due to occasional Standards: Leighton Hospital Elmhurst delays in its delivery. Cleanliness 93.80% 95.89% Food 79.95% 90.34% The Trust is currently looking at the audit Privacy, Dignity and Wellbeing 88.86% 85.00% results in finer detail, and will make the necessary changes so that standards Condition, Appearance and 87.79% 89.10% can continue to improve for the benefit of Maintenance patients.
Trust is a Recycling Star The Trust is officially a National Recycling Star, after being awarded a Bronze Star award.
The scheme recognises the recycling steps that the Trust has already taken, and provides advice and resouces on how to further improve recycling and waste management processes within the organisation. For further information on the scheme, please visit www.nationalrecyclingstars.com.
Improvements Parking Advice Acknowledged Anyone who has visited If you struggle to park on your MCHFT was named runner-up in Leighton Hospital in the past arrival at hospital, please use the 2013 Building Better Healthcare 12-18 months will not have been the Intercom units that are Awards. able to avoid the fact that a lot located at each entrance and of works to our buildings and car exit barrier. These are linked The awards are held each year to parks have been taking place. to our Security Team, who will celebrate innovation and improvement be happy to direct you to an in the built environment, medical At times this has made finding a appropriate parking area. devices and people working in the parking space very challenging, healthcare industry. and the Trust would like to Additionally, due to the building apologise for any inconvenience works, there is currently no The Trust was competing in the that this has caused. cash machine available at the category of People, for its work with hospital. If you do not have Interserve to improve patient care. the correct change with you to use the payment Highlights from the ten-year partnership machines, you can now between the Trust and Interserve pay for your parking with include the early completion of the a credit or debit card Treatment Centre at Leighton Hospital at the General Office and innovative construction methods to (located within the Trust increase efficiency. HQ on the First Floor). page 14 Celebrating 50 Years of Hospital Play
Young patients at Leighton Hospital demonstrated the benefits that play can have on their treatment, as part of National Play in Hospital Week.
The event, which ran from Monday, October 14, to Sunday, October 20, was organised by the National Association of Health Play Specialists (NAHPS) and supported by Starlight, a national charity which provides entertainment in hospitals and hospices across the UK and grants wishes for seriously ill children.
The week aimed to raise awareness of the benefits of play in the treatment of poorly children across the country and this year celebrated 50 years since the first ever Hospital Play Staff were employed in the UK.
Patients on the Child and Adolescent Unit enjoyed a week of play-related activities organised by the Hospital Play team, and included a visit by children’s entertainer, David Oakley (pictured above, giving patient Corey Moulton a balloon elephant).
Helen Kerr, a Play Specialist on the Unit, said: “National Play in Hospital Week was a great opportunity for us to raise awareness of the benefits of play, while organising a really fun week of activities, games and entertainment for our patients.
“Being unwell can be very distressing and scary for children, and play really does help to distract them from any pain or anxiety that they might be feeling, which in turn can help them to get better quicker.”
Your Rights and Expectations The NHS is there for us from the moment we are born. It Patients are the first priority in all of what the NHS takes care of us and our family members when we need does. Within available resources, patients must receive it most. effective services from caring, compassionate and committed staff, working within a common culture, and The NHS Constitution has been created to protect the they must be protected from avoidable harm and any NHS and make sure it will always do the things it was set deprivation of their basic rights. up to do in 1948 – to provide high-quality healthcare that is free and for everyone. The Constitution should be the first reference point for all NHS staff, and its values and principles should be given No government can change the Constitution without the priority. full involvement of staff, patients and the public. The Constitution is a promise that the NHS will always be In reaching out to patients, staff must uphold the NHS there for you. Constitution, with particular reference to: • Staff put patients before themselves; The Constitution brings together in one place details of • They will do everything in their power to protect what staff, patients and the public can expect from the patients from avoidable harm; National Health Service. It also explains what you can do • They will be honest and open with patients regardless to help support the NHS, help it work effectively, and help of the consequences for themselves. ensure that its resources are used responsibly. The Constitution sets out your rights as an NHS patient. Download the Constitution These rights cover how patients access health services, the quality of care you’ll receive, the treatments and The NHS Constitution is available to download from programmes available to you, confidentiality, information the NHS Choices website - just visit and your right to complain if things go wrong. www.nhs.uk/constitution for further information.
page 15 Choose Well For Your Health This Winter MCHFT is encouraging members of the public to ‘Choose Well’ and make themselves aware of the variety of healthcare services available to them on their doorstep.
The ‘Choose Well’ campaign, a national NHS initiative, aims to give people information so that they know where to go to in the first instance to get fast, expert advice when they need it, and how to help themselves if they have a common illness or ailment.
The campaign also aims to help ease the pressure on A&E and 999 services at the same time by reinforcing For further information on the Choose Well campaign in the message that these services are for serious and our area, please visit the websites for our local Clinical life-threatening conditions such as heart-attacks, strokes, Commissioning Groups (CCGs): serious accidents and breathing conditions. South Cheshire CCG Self-care is the best choice to treat common illnesses www.southcheshireccg.nhs.uk and complaints such as coughs, colds, sore throats, upset stomachs and aches and pains, all of which can Vale Royal CCG often be treated with a well-stocked medicine cabinet and www.valeroyalccg.nhs.uk plenty of rest.
People will also be able to find out further information on a range of symptoms on the NHS Choices website (www.nhs.uk). Here people can find up-to- date expert advice on a range of illnesses and complaints, as well as the facility to be able to locate their nearest NHS services such as GPs, dentists and pharmacists.
If you need urgent medical help but it’s not a 999 emergency, you can call the number 111. NHS 111 is a fast and easy way to get the right help and is available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. Calls are free from landlines and mobiles.
NHS 111 should be called if: • you think you need to go to A&E or need another NHS urgent care service; • you don’t know who to call or you don’t have a GP to call; • you need health information or reassurance about what to do next.
The NHS 111 service is staffed by a team of fully trained advisers, supported by experienced nurses and paramedics. They will ask you questions to assess your symptoms, then give you the healthcare advice you need or direct you straightaway to the local service that can help you best.
Local pharmacies can also provide confidential expert advice and treatment for a range of common illnesses and complaints, without the need to wait for a GP appointment. To find your nearest pharmacy, look in your local phone directory or visit www.nhs.uk for further details of locations in your area.