Issue 25 November/December 11 North Tees and Hartlepool NHS Foundation Trust

Incorporating Keeping iNToucH The magazine for North Tees and Hartlepool NHS Foundation Trust

Shining Stars awards see page 17

High levels of satisfaction with the minor injuries unit page 10

Role play helps new apprentices to care for patients page 15 New service gives cancer patients in hospital extra care and support page 13 Friendship and support helps the pain

A new support group is I felt terrible. Going through providing friendship and the pain management support for people suffering programme was the best with chronic pain. thing I have done for myself. Congratulations The patient-led support group “It hasn’t been easy. You need has been brought together to find your own way to cope. by Jenny Clegg, who is This group is a lifeline for me Stuart working voluntarily on a and I hope that it will be for Stuart Shepherd is celebrating becoming clinical attachment with others too. the first male nursery practitioner, in the psychology under the “Not everyone will cope area, to achieve the BA (hons) degree in supervision of counselling the same way I have. I’ve children and early childhood. psychologist, Anne Bendjik, suffered over 20 years of pain. Stuart, who has worked at the Rainbow within anaesthetics and It made me short tempered. Nursery at the University Hospital of pain management. I went from being employed Hartlepool for nearly six years, completed Members of the group all Diane Williams as an office manager, to his foundation degree before completing suffer from some kind being unemployed, to being the final year at Teesside University, where of chronic pain and have Diane Williams, 47 from unemployable. It takes away he was awarded a 2:1. completed the pain Hartlepool, is the secretary of your identity. It’s not just about He said: “I’m really pleased with my results. management programme the group. She suffered with coping with an illness. It has been hard work, but it’s worth it. I’ve run by the pain team at back pain from her early 20’s “My husband is fantastic. I always enjoyed learning and I’m glad I’ve the University Hospital of due to whiplash following a try to look my best, make done the course. It’s good to learn about North Tees. car accident. an effort and take pride in the theory and put it into practice. Jenny explained: “The group Mum of two Diane, who has my appearance. No day is “I’m now working towards gaining Early is patient led. It was been married for 25 years, an easy day. I take each day Years Professional Status (EYPS), which something that the patients recalls: “In 1998 I started to as it comes now, with a is being funded by Hartlepool Borough really wanted to set up. Chronic suffer with back pain and was positive attitude.” Council. It’s a graduate level programme pain can affect a person, both diagnosed with two prolapsed Ian Innes, 59 from Billingham, that is the only government endorsed physically and psychologically. discs in my back. is married with two children and one grandchild. The pain professional accreditation for the early The group provides a support “I just carried on until the of sclerosis in his spine and years sector. network of people who know pain became unbearable to arthritis are just some of the I absolutely love working here; I couldn’t what each other is going live with. I had my children forms of chronic pain he is imagine doing any other job. It’s a great through, without having to in 1992 and 1994. I plodded living with every day. nursery for not only the trust staff’s explain themselves. along until 2004. When I Ian’s pain started from the children but anyone who wants to use “The group wants to be had an MRI scan in 2004 I age of 15 after an accident. the nursery.” positive and provide new was told I would need an He said: “It can get you down. Child care co-ordinator Margaret Hayden friendships, and that’s how operation. I had my first spinal You don’t want to be a burden added: “I’d like to congratulate Stuart on they decided they wanted the operation in 2005. on your family. such a fantastic result. This demonstrates group to be called The Tees “I knew something wasn’t “This group is about friendship, Stuart’s commitment to learning and Valley Friendship Group. quite right for about 30 dedication to his profession.” having someone else to lean “The Tees Valley Friendship months after the operation. on and a great way to make Group meets every two “My spinal surgeon at the yourself get out of the house. weeks on a Tuesday at the University Hospital of North We’ve become good friends Octagon Design and Marketing Elmwood Community Centre Tees confirmed there was a Ltd specialise in gaining already. Just to have a chat in Stockton. The group is lot of damage on my spine. over a cuppa is great. advertising support for only open to patients who I had excessive neuropathic “You know you’re not the only magazines so Anthem have been on the pain leg pain. one suffering. Jenny has been management programme.” “I was on so much medication is now a great helping hand in getting the group going.” produced, Patients can share their packaged, stories, treatment successes distributed and failures. But more and importantly they are creating new friendships. It’s a great delivered boost for the group to get out at minimal and meet people and give cost to each other support too. the trust. For more information please contact Diane Williams on 07883031481 or email teesvalleyfriendshipgroup@ Jenny Clegg welcomes Ian Innes to the group gmail.com 002|003 An extra special surprise There was an extra special Midwife Anita Scott (pictured) surprise for one mum at the took beautiful Angel to be University Hospital of Hartlepool’s weighed and when she placed birthing centre. her back in Kelly’s arms there When little Angel Webb arrived was a ring on Angel’s finger. at 8.37am to the delight of mum Kelly, 28, a full time mum from Kelly Webb, she never imagined Leamington Parade in Hartlepool, that a surprise marriage proposal said: “I had absolutely no idea. would follow. Andrew had this all planned. Everyone knew except for me. It was just perfect.” Dad Andrew Hanlon, 22, a scaffolder from Billingham, said: “It has been the best day of my life!” Midwife Anita Scott added: “It was really emotional for us all. It was such a wonderful surprise not have a history of problems during labour. for Kelly and I was delighted to and are fit and healthy. The birthing centre is like a be a part of it.” The centre has four delivery home-from-home for soon-to- Midwives, supported by rooms – one with a birthing be-parents with a warm and midwifery assistants provide a pool and another with a welcoming atmosphere. wide range of choice of delivery range of special birthing Women can choose to come to for women with uncomplicated equipment which allows women the birthing centre by speaking and low risk pregnancies who do to stay upright and supported to their community midwife. Dedicated youngster raises money for chemotherapy unit A local girl has used her summer unit and will benefit from holiday as time to raise money for Lucy’s donation. the chemotherapy day unit at the Her generosity and dedication University Hospital of North Tees, has already rubbed off on simply stating “I’m just trying to those around her as Jackie’s help those with cancer.” granddaughter Brooke, six, says Lucy Trainer, 10, spent six weeks she hopes to do the same as Lucy washing cars and baking and when she is 10. Ward manager Val Storey said: selling cakes to raise money, she “We’re very grateful for this Staff Nurse Pam Turner, personal assistant Gill White, secretary Sue Sharp, also held a raffle. In total Lucy healthcare assistant Lorraine Robson and plaster technician Jackie Wilson generous donation which will be raised an impressive £70. used to buy extra comforts for Lucy said: “I started at the those being treated on the unit. beginning of the six weeks holiday “It’s lovely of Lucy, who is so Colleagues raise funds and have just finished.” young, to be thinking of others Her dedication was influenced and being prepared to give up her by her neighbour of six years, own time to do something to help for local hospice Jackie Hendry, who is receiving not only her neighbour but also Colleagues from the trust fun. We all had special, treatment in the chemotherapy other patients in the unit.” have been raising funds for personal reasons for joining Hartlepool Hospice by taking the walk. I personally wanted part in the popular Hartlepool to take part in the walk after Hospice midnight walk. a member of my family was Orthopaedics secretaries Sue cared for in the hospice and Sharp and Gill White, staff nurse this was a nice way to give Pam Turner, healthcare assistant something back to say thank Lorraine Robson and plaster you for the kindness shown technician Jackie Wilson joined by the staff. the crowds to celebrate five “We are certainly going to join years of Midnight Walks, raising up again next year and we’ll over £500 for the hospice. hopefully get more of our The walk took its usual 5.5 colleagues to join us too.” mile route from Hartlepool’s All money raised will go towards Maritime Experience to Seaton the specialist care services Carew Golf Club, and back. that the Hartlepool & District Sue said: “We had a wonderful Hospice provides to the people Left to right: chemotherapy specialist nurse Kelley Williams, chemotherapy unit time; the walk was a lot of of Hartlepool and east Durham. matron Val Storey, Jackie Hendry with granddaughter Brooke and Lucy Trainer November/December 11 North East has record year for quitting smoking through NHS stop smoking service The North East NHS stop smoking services and long term health prospects. We are thrilled achieved the highest number of quitters per so many people managed to quit in the North population size of any region. (NE achieving East last year. The stop smoking services in the 1,225 quitters per 100,000 people compared North East make a huge difference for people. to 911 quitters nationally) Those who use the services on offer are four Last year was a record breaking year for North times more likely to succeed in stopping East smokers trying to kick their addiction smoking than if they try to go it alone. using NHS stop smoking services. “Quitting smoking is a terrific achievement. The statistics from the NHS Information Cigarettes are unbelievably addictive and it can Centre show that 26,038 people quit smoking take a few goes to kick the habit for good, but successfully with the region’s six NHS stop having the right advice and support from the smoking services from March 2010 to April NHS advisors, makes a massive difference. It 2011- 553 more than in the previous year and is fantastic to see such big rise in quit attempts an increase of 2.2 per cent. within region as well.” In Stockton and Hartlepool, around 18.4% of all Ailsa continued: “However, despite the record smokers used the trust’s stop smoking service quit figures, there is still a lot of work to this year to make a quit attempt. This is highest be done to tackle smoking. Every cigarette proportion of smokers using the service in the does you damage – whether that be health North East and second nationally. related or financially – and continuing to Stopping smoking can be tough, but the tackle tobacco is central to us achieving number of people in the region attempting better health for our families, reducing the to stop smoking is also on the rise. The massive drain on the NHS and giving our stop smoking services recorded 58,660 quit children the best start in life. attempts in the North East last year – which is Clare Marsh with her daughter Olivia “The North East as a region is doing an amazing up 4.3 per cent on 2009/2010. Photograph courtesy of The Hartlepool Mail job in leading the way in tackling smoking and we hope to see the record numbers of quitters any benefits of giving up smoking until after and quit attempts continue in the future.” “Stopping smoking is The annual statistics on smoking in England Olivia was born. report 2011 from the NHS Information Centre probably the biggest step “So the thing that kept me going was putting also highlighted that: away the money I would have spent on anyone can take to improve • The North East NHS stop smoking services cigarettes into a glass jar each week, so I achieved the highest number of quitters per their short and long term could see the money growing. I put £35 a population size of any SHA. (NE achieving week into the jar and through the course health prospects.” 1,225 quitters per 100,000 people compared of my pregnancy I saved enough money to to 911 quitters nationally) buy everything we needed for Olivia – all the The trust’s service manager Pat Marshall, • 21% of the adult population in England are said: “As well as the obvious health problems nursery furniture, clothes, toys - the lot. estimated to smoke caused by smoking, such as cancers, heart “It really helped seeing the money being saved • Prevalence amongst the routine and manual disease, COPD and stroke, we are seeing like that. It definitely kept me going. Now the working groups (28%) is double that amongst more and more people wanting to quit money I would have spent on cigarettes professionals (14%) because of financial pressures – the actual goes into a bank account for Olivia, and on • Approximately £17.7 billion was spent on cost of smoking is an increasingly important general shopping and things. It feels so consuming tobacco in 2010 factor in the decision to quit. good knowing I’m doing something good for • In 2010 there were around 461,700 “We are certainly hearing people commenting someone else with the money.” hospital admissions in England attributable more and more on the cost of cigarettes. Clare is also now experiencing the health to smoking. This relates to 5% of all “Six or seven pounds for a packet of benefits of not smoking: “Olivia is at the hospital admissions cigarettes is a lot of money when food and age now where she’s starting to walk and • Approximately 81,700 deaths in 35 year fuel bills are rising - I always encourage those because I don’t smoke I don’t have any worries olds and over in England in 2010 caused by who are giving up to put the money they about keeping up with her. My parents and smoking. This is 18% of all deaths would have spent on cigarettes away each grandparents smoke and when I see them Stop smoking services in the North East day or week, so they can see their savings with her, they can only really play with her for offer a range of support sessions, in health grow. It makes it real and gives them the a few minutes before they’re exhausted. centres, community centres and pharmacies. motivation to keep going.” “I walk for miles with Olivia in her buggy. We Appointments can be made throughout the Clare Marsh, 29, a specialist therapy assistant have a dog which needs walking a few times day, during the evenings and in some areas at the University Hospital of Hartlepool, a day and I don’t get out of breath any more. on Saturdays. stopped smoking in 2009 when she was I’m loads fitter than I used to be. So my health People can access local help by phoning pregnant with her daughter Olivia, now one. just isn’t an issue any more.” the trust’s stop smoking service on “I had a major motivation to give up being as I Ailsa Rutter, director of FRESH, said: 01642 383819. Alternatively phone the was pregnant, but when I was pregnant I had “Stopping smoking is probably the biggest national smoking helpline 0800 012 1612 or terrible morning sickness and I didn’t really feel step anyone can take to improve their short click on http://smokefree.nhs.uk/ 004|005 Fond memories of a kind- hearted colleague Colleagues who lost their dear including the doctors and how she friend just over a year ago, looked kept the doctors right. back on fond memories of staff “Joan encouraged us all to do nurse Joan Dixon, who sadly the midnight walk raising funds passed away last year at the age for the hospice and many of the of 55 after a battle with cancer. girls Joan worked with still carry Healthcare assistant Steph, who on doing the midnight walk in was a good friend to Joan along memory of her. with many of her other work “Joan idolised her son Matthew, colleagues, said: “Joan was a who has just gone off to university good friend. She had a wicked, in London. Joan would have been dry sense of humour and she so proud of him. enjoyed a good night out with all “Most of all Joan was a hard Charlie Hall cuddles and reads a story to empathy doll Lily and Maebh Snell reads to empathy doll Lewis in the baby room the girls. worker, kind and considerate. “She enjoyed a good pub quiz. These are just some of the good Everyone wanted to be on her qualities you would want in a team because she always won! friend and work colleague who Empathy dolls help “Everyone spoke highly of Joan will never be forgotten.” children through their own emotions

Soft-bodied empathy dolls are being used to help children at the Rainbow Nursery at the University Hospital of Hartlepool to explore a range of everyday emotions. Colleagues look back of happy memories of Joan Each of the dolls plays a part in the every day activities with the children and have their own story which develops Fun and games in store at over time. Nursery manager Janet Bland hospital nursery said: “Each of the rooms in Children at the Rainbow the nursery have now been nursery at the University replaced with a cosy dark den “They’ve become Hospital of Hartlepool were in with coloured lights and new members of Harriett Pearson plays with empathy for a treat as the latest toys and buckets and spades. doll Rosie in the toddler garden games were delivered, thanks Nursery manager Janet Bland the nursery to nursery staff, parents and said: “The children were really now. The children the nursery has their own doll. carers as well as friends and excited when the new toys We’ve created a real character hospital staff that collected and equipment arrived. They’ve supermarket vouchers. been having a great time. The love them.” for each of them. They have More than 2,000 Tesco, vouchers are really valuable to things they like and things they Morrisons and Sainsbury’s the nursery and I’d like to thank don’t like. They’ve become schools vouchers gathered at everyone for their contribution.” invaluable for helping children to identify, understand and cope with their own feelings. “Empathy dolls are used to help children recognise sadness and celebrate happy times. We use them to help children to develop emotional awareness and empathy for others. “They’ve become members of the nursery now. The children love them. It’s all about helping the children with social interaction, emotions Skye Duffield with empathy doll Cho and the ability to empathise Chang Li from the pre school room Rohan Vagadia, Skye Duffield and Grace Pearson try out the dark den with others.” November/December 11 Neonatal conference a great success

Experts in the care of premature and Samir Gupta said: “Our speakers from all sick babies met on Teesside recently. The across the UK and abroad were doctors conference was organised by consultant working at the leading edge of neonatal care neonatologist North Tees and Hartlepool and it was excellent to hear the work and NHS Foundation Trust Samir Gupta. Clinicians research they are doing to provide the very Community cardiac dietitian Elaine Tennant from The James Cook University Hospital highest quality care for these very vulnerable and Sunderland Royal Hospital supported young patients. the meeting. It was designed to bring “We received excellent feedback from the Feeling better delegates up to date with the latest many delegates who attended the conference advances in the care of premature and sick and it certainly put our area on the map as a babies with heart or circulation abnormalities centre for excellence in neonatal care.” is just a phone During the conference Samir, who also chairs or disease. the UK Neonatal Cardiology Research Group call away under Medicines for Children Research “We received excellent Network, hosted the first meeting of NICHe A specialist dietitian at North Tees and group (neonatologists with interest in Hartlepool NHS Foundation Trust is feedback from the many cardiology and haemodynamics). This group encouraging people with heart disease delegates who attended works on developing collaborative research in and those at risk of heart disease to find UK and abroad and standardising training in out how they can improve their health by the conference.” neonatal haemodynamics. making small changes to their lifestyle. Community cardiac dietitian Elaine Tennant is running one-to-one sessions at a number of locations throughout Easington in County Durham. She said: “Weight loss can help prevent or treat several health problems, including type 2 diabetes, heart disease and high blood pressure. “Anyone can be at risk of developing high cholesterol and high blood pressure, but being overweight can increase your risk, which can lead to heart disease and stroke. “Losing even a small amount of weight can help you feel better and make a big difference to your health. “I’m here to point people in the right direction and help get them on the way to leading a healthier lifestyle. “Making small changes every day and eating a healthy balanced diet to and reducing your fat and salt intake and increase the physical activity you do will improve your health. It is easy to fit small changes into your day-to-day life rather than to change everything in one go.” To find out more and to make an appointment with Elaine contact the department of nutrition and dietetics at the University Hospital of Hartlepool on 01429 522529. Samir Gupta (left) chats to guest speaker and neonatal specialist Ian Laing from the University of Edinburgh over lunch 006|007 Know your limits A hospital consultant is asking women do not drink more than 2-3 people to think about the dangers of units daily. Drinking above these drinking and know their limits. levels can increase your risk of heart Consultant gastroenterologist disease, liver disease, stroke and Richard Thomas at North Tees and other diseases. Hartlepool NHS Foundation Trust Richard said: “Alcohol is becoming wants to remind people about the one of the leading causes of health Know Your Limits campaign which problems. It’s easy to get into a tells drinkers how many units of routine of regular drinking which alcohol are in their drinks and help is above the lower-risk guidelines, them stick to their limits. without realising you might be putting your health at risk. It’s recommended that men do not “When I started working as a drink more than 3-4 units daily and Play specialist Christine Goodwin with patients, families and the cast. consultant it was rare to see anyone under the age of 40 with liver disease but now we’re seeing people in their 20s. Fun and games brighten “Liver disease doesn’t have many symptoms. It’s often only diagnosed when you have a blood test. By up a hospital stay the time you develop symptoms such as going yellow or your belly Play specialists at North Tees swelling up, it’s too late. The damage and Hartlepool NHS Foundation is then irreversible. “Obviously working in medicine, my Trust helped young patients colleagues and I see the problems have lots of fun during national that irresponsible drinking causes, Play in Hospital Week. but it affects other parts of the Children were treated to a week health service too. of fun and games including a Consultant gastroenterologist “You can still enjoy yourself but know pantomime courtesy of Starlight Richard Thomas the safe limits and stick to them.” Children’s Foundation, a party and lots of arts and crafts. Lisa runs to help charities “If children are too poorly to go close to her heart Support secretary in anaesthetics organ donation Mya’s life gave into the play areas Aidan Hammond enjoys the treats Lisa Girdwood was so proud hope and an opportunity to at – we take play at the party to have completed the Great least six more families. able to bring the pantomime North Run and came to work “The money raised for the Jo to their bedside. to the children’s ward to keep the next day wearing her t-shirt and Mya Memorial Fund will help It is all about the children entertained and and medal! children who have been either help take away their worries Lisa joined Ian Richardson who directly impacted by the loss of improving their – they always seem to enjoy lost his wife and eldest daughter an immediate family member it. Children are at their most in a car crash in August last year and those who have family members directly affected by stay in hospital.” vulnerable when they are in on the 13.1 mile run to raise money for the Jo and Mya organ donation. hospital. Not only are they ill, Memorial Fund which was set up “I took on this challenge to support The team of play specialists but are also separated from after the tragic accident. Ian and ran in the memory of Jo work alongside doctors and familiar surroundings. nurses to welcome children She said: “I completed the and Mya, as well as raising funds “It’s important for children to and awareness of organ donation and teenagers to hospital and challenge in two hours and 23 keep up their usual interests minutes and I’m delighted to have and The Butterwick Hospice. prepare them to cope with whenever they can. We use raised £400 to divide between the “I’d like to say a big thank you to surgery or other procedures specific distraction techniques Jo and Mya Memorial Fund and all of my colleagues and friends using play and distraction to make sure they feel the Butterwick Hospice. who sponsored me and helped items to help them through the comfortable and well informed It was a fantastic day, emotional me raise money for two very hospital experience. during their stay in hospital. and not to mention painful at worthwhile causes.” Hospital play specialist Christine We have a range of equipment the end all with an incredible Goodwin said: “It’s great to be for children of any age in a atmosphere. I have raised a separate area to the hospital fantastic amount for my chosen ward. Children feel like this is a charity which is close to my heart. safe environment. “Sadly my friend Jo Richardson, 40 and her daughter Mya, six were “There are arts and crafts, tragically killed last year after their books, games and a room car was hit head on by another car especially for teenagers with a driving down the wrong side of TV, sofa and music. If children the A1 motorway. Jo’s husband are too poorly to go into the play Ian survived, along with their areas – we take play to their three month old daughter Ava. Ian Keira Pounder tries out the arts bedside. It is all about improving made the decision to have Mya’s and crafts their stay in hospital.” organs donated and through

November/December 11 Life-long friends retire together Life-long friends Maureen Kelly each other and we go on holiday and Anne Brumpton have bid a together with our husbands. sad farewell to colleagues in the “It’s been great working together medical records department. at the end of our careers Clerical officer Anne worked at and we’ll be enjoying our the trust for more than 25 years retirement together.” and Maureen for eight years. Maureen added: “We’ll miss They both started their working the team here terribly. We’ve First voluntary patient life together at the age of 16 at ICI made some good friends. and became the best of friends. We’re both looking forward Their birthdays are only a couple to spending more time with helpers join the trust of weeks apart! our families and many more A group of six volunteers have is working towards a career in Anne said: “We’re like sisters! We holidays together.” go shopping together, we live near become the first voluntary nursing, She said: “This will give Anne added: “We’ve already got patient helpers at North Tees and me some hands-on experience “It has been a a cruise booked!” Hartlepool NHS Foundation Trust. to see what it’s like on the wards. Assistant director of public The new volunteers will be on I’m looking forward to spending pleasure working involvement and information the wards talking to patients, time on the wards and speaking governance Jan Atkinson said: supporting the running of clinics to the patients. I’m looking with Anne and “It has been a pleasure working by greeting patients, getting the forward to having a hands-on role with Anne and Maureen. They patients a drink when it’s safe to do and helping the patients prepare Maureen. They so, making sure their relatives are will be missed by everyone here. for their mealtimes.” On behalf of everyone, I’d like comfortable, helping the patient will be missed by to unpack their belongings and Stephanie Cullen, is a mum of to wish them both well for a three and a Durham graduate with everyone here.” happy retirement.” carrying out patient satisfactions surveys while the patients are still a degree in medial anthropology, in hospital. originally from Florida, she moved Director of nursing and patient to the UK 24 years ago. She safety Sue Smith said: “I’m really said: “I’m hoping to gain some excited and delighted to welcome experience through volunteering the first voluntary patient helpers in a hospital. I’m looking forward to the trust. to being thrown in the deep end. “The volunteers will become part I love a challenge.” of the patient experience team. Pam Nicholls works in Asda and This group are our pioneers. the Butterwick shop. She said: “It’s all about making sure the “The best part of my job is the patient has the best care and customer interaction. I wanted experience while they are being to do something to help people treated in our hospitals. and put something back into “First impressions and last the community.” impressions are important. Our Christine Thompson works patients deserve the best and this is where our new volunteers administration in the NHS. She come in. said: ”I’m looking forward to “Things like making sure patients talking to the patients, so I’m Local artist brightens receive really good customer going to enjoy carrying out the care. It’s important to make sure patient surveys.” patients are greeted. David McConnell from Norton up children’s day unit “Patients appreciate having is retired. He said: “I already someone to talk so they will really volunteer one day a week in appreciate having someone there Age UK. I’m always looking A local artist has transformed the for a chat or even someone to for something to do. This is children’s day unit at the University read to them. It’s about having Hospital of North Tees. perfect for me as I really enjoy that human touch. meeting people.” Commercial artist Stephen “Our volunteers that we already Robson has completed a brightly It’s a great opportunity for anyone have working in the WRVS shops just wanting to give something coloured fun park scene on the on the welcomers service, and wall areas in the children’s day back to the community, do the chaplaincy volunteers are just something to develop their skills unit as well as decorating the phenomenal – we couldn’t do or anyone who is hoping to have treatment room and children’s without them. ward treatment room. One of the volunteers is Tracy a career in healthcare and wants Senior clinical matron Heather Gornall from Little Stainton. to get some experience. Duckers said: “The mural is very She said: “Now that the Volunteers can give as little or cheerful which helps to put the children are all at school I as much time as they can offer children at ease. wanted to put something back and must be age 16 or over. If “Children can be quite frightened into the community and meet you are interested in becoming coming into hospital. The day unit new people.” a volunteer and you’d like to find looks so much brighter and will Abbie Reeves is a student at out more please contact Linda be appreciated by all those who Stockton Sixth Form College and York on 01642 383273. use it.” 008|009 It’s the perfect nursery for Adam and Jude

Finding the perfect nursery for your child isn’t “As soon as I walked in the baby room I felt always easy, but mums Claire Harker and the lovely atmosphere and knew Adam would Natalie Hogg have found theirs at North Tees be happy here. It’s perfect and it’s conveniently and Hartlepool NHS Foundation Trust. just on the way to work. Claire, from Norton, is a maths teacher at “I would describe the atmosphere as calm and Bishopsgarth School and mum to 11 month purposeful. There are always lots of activities old Adam. for the children. Adam loves to crawl up the She explained how she started her search little climbing frame. It’s clear to see the for the right nursery. She said: “I looked at children are getting lots of interaction. many nurseries but something really stood “When Adam first came here he was only out about the one at the University Hospital eight and a half months old. I’ve already recommended it to my friends. of North Tees. “Selecting a nursery can be a daunting time. “It was a nice surprise to find out that you or As a parent it’s a relief to have found your family don’t actually have to work in the somewhere I know Adam is happy. I can’t sing NHS to bring your child to the nursery here or their praises enough.” at the University Hospital of Hartlepool. Natalie, from the Headland in Hartlepool is mum to two year old Jude. She works in advertising and marketing at Race for Furniture in Stockton. Natalie and Jude Jude, who will be three in December, has been coming to Rainbow nursery at the Childcare coordinator Margaret Hayden said: University Hospital of Hartlepool since he was “We’re absolutely delighted to have Adam and four months old. Jude at the nurseries. Our wonderful, caring Natalie said: “I didn’t realise immediately that anyone could use the nursery. My sister staff make sure the children are being looked works at the hospital and her son comes to after in a stimulating environment packed with the nursery. She kept saying how fantastic the lots of activities.“ nursery is. We offer childcare places to children from six “When I walked in I immediately felt weeks to five years and we welcome school comfortable and the staff made me feel really children during the school holidays. We also welcome. The facilities are great and I felt provide free early education places for three to happy leaving Jude to be looked after. five year olds. “The location for me is ideal for me and For more information you can contact nursery the allocated parking outside of the nursery managers Andrea Hurt or Denise Lakinski is great. at the University Hospital of North Tees on “I know that Jude is really happy there and 01642 624770 or Janet Bland at the University Nursery assistant Kirsty Exton with Claire and Adam gives puts my mind at rest too.” Hospital of Hartlepool on 01429 52 2482. Nursery children grow their own five a day

Children at Rainbow Nursery at the tomatoes, peas and strawberries. University Hospital of Hartlepool have been Nursery manager Janet Bland said: “The learning about the benefits of eating fresh children have really enjoyed spending time fruit and vegetables by growing their own outside in the nursery garden over the five a day. summer. They have fun while learning and Among the fruit and vegetables grown in the it’s really enjoyable for them pick their own nursery’s garden are apples, pears, plums, fruit and vegetables.’’ The hospital’s nurseries offer childcare “The children have really places to children from six weeks to five enjoyed spending time years and we welcome school children during the school holidays. They also outside in the nursery provide free early education places for three garden over the summer.” to five year olds. Shay Thompson picks a pear from the tree

November/December 11 Patient survey shows high levels of satisfaction with the Princess Royal minor injuries unit

opens Stockton North Tees and Hartlepool NHS Foundation carers’ centre Trust has published the results of a week- long survey designed to find out what people The chairman and chief executive of the thought about the new minor injuries service trust (pictured) were among the invited at One Life Hartlepool as part of the integrated guests when the Princess Royal opened urgent care centre. the new The George Hardwick Foundation A random sample of 80 patients were invited to Carers’ Centre in Stockton. complete the survey before they left the unit. The Princess Royal , who is patron of The Forty per cent of those invited (32 patients) Princess Royal Trust for Carers, has visited responded with the overwhelming comments carers’ centres all over the UK and is the about the new service being very positive. ideal candidate to open the Foundation’s The results of the survey showed that: new flagship centre in Wellington Square • 94 per cent of patients thought the reception Shopping Centre, Stockton. process was efficient The centre has many services for carers’ • 78 per cent felt they were given enough such as Thyme-Out day spa where privacy at the reception carers can come to relax and George’s • 100 per cent thought staff at the reception Place where parents can leave their were polite and friendly children while they access the services, • 100 per cent felt they were treated with or even enjoy a spot of shopping in politeness and dignity during examination Wellington Square. and treatment Centre manager Ingrid Brough-Williams • 91 per cent said their pain was adequately said, “We were delighted to welcome controlled (the remaining nine per cent said The Princess Royal back to The George they were not in pain) Hardwick Foundation. The centre is • 100 per cent thought the unit was clean Sister Jacqui Downes with a patient in MIU the result of much hard work and • 100 per cent thought the service was very we are all incredibly proud of what we good or good see that patients needing emergency care have achieved.” Eighty one per cent of patients were given are phoning 999. We would urge people to an initial assessment by a nurse within 15 err on the side of caution if they are unsure minutes and all patients who responded said if someone is injured or takes ill. It is not a they were assessed within 30 minutes. good idea to sweep a seriously ill or injured New Twenty two per cent of patients said they person into a car and take them to what you did not have to wait to see a doctor or nurse, might think is the right place. The people at urologist seventy five per cent of patients were seen by the ambulance service are the experts in a doctor or nurse within 30 minutes and the this and they will advise you on the correct remainder (three per cent) were seen within course of action. Of course if it is serious they joins the an hour. will be with you quickly, effectively bringing Clinical director for accident and emergency the emergency services to your door and trust at North Tees and Hartlepool NHS Foundation providing emergency care en route to the Trust Andy Simpson said: “This survey was most appropriate hospital. “It is early days but it does appear that people The trust has strengthened its urology team carried out within the first month of the new understand what they need to do if they need with the appointment of a new consultant arrangements because we wanted to find urgent or emergency care and, as a Hartlepool urologist Manohar Jesuraj. out what people thought of the service and resident and a doctor in emergency medicine, Manohar, who joined the trust from identify any areas for improvement. this is what I was most concerned about as South Tees Hospitals NHS Foundation “I would like to pay tribute to the doctors, Trust, specialises in women’s bladder and nurses and reception staff who are working the new arrangements were put into place.” urinary tract problems as well as benign very hard to make the new arrangements Regular surveys will be carried out to gather (non cancerous) prostate disease. He also successful for the people of Hartlepool. comments and feedback. Patients and their provides and children’s urology services “We’re seeing high numbers of attendances families can give feedback or discuss their for patients from the whole area served at times in the unit but are dealing with them concerns by contacting: by the trust at the University Hospital of very efficiently. This shows that people do • NHS Hartlepool - Client Relations North Tees. know about the service but to make doubly [email protected] or He has developed a female urology and sure we are continuing our communications text 07700 380000 bladder dysfunction service and works in with an advert in the Hartbeat magazine and • North Tees and Hartlepool NHS Foundation collaboration with the urogynaecology team. advertising on Radio Hartlepool. Trust - [email protected] or by phone on “From the information we have so far we can 01429 522874 or 0800 015 3031. 010|011 Rutter Song is a great gift A singer and songwriter have with some fitting words. I combined their talents to create a wanted to do something nice for delight charity single to raise funds for the the hospice.” Butterwick Hospice. Consultant gastroenterologist The single is on sale in the two Porter Johnny Doyle at the Matt Rutter has been appointed Stockton shops, the Thornaby University Hospital of North as an honorary senior lecturer at store and its also for sale in the Tees and his friend Cameron Durham University. hospice itself. All money raised Ingram produced the song In My Matt has helped establish Teesside will go to the hospice. Thoughts and thought that as one of the most successful Fundraiser for Stockton Butterwick it would be a nice gesture to areas in the country at screening donate it to the hospice. Hospice, Patricia Boynton added: and combating bowel cancer and is The song, which features on an “We’re really grateful for such delighted with his new role, which a lovely gesture which will help will strengthen academic links with album which they have made, Prize from the British Society raise funds for the hospice.” Durham University in his specialist has now been released as a of Gastroenterology. single and is on sale in Butterwick To find out how you can help field of gastroenterology. Durham University’s new senior Durham University is the third shops for £3. raise funds for the Butterwick lecturer has also supported Johnny said: “It’s a lovely song Hospice contact 01642 628930. oldest in the country and the city campaigns which encourage the boasts the world heritage site, general public to have regular a leading centre of scholarship bowel screenings to detect bowel for over 1,000 years. Matt also cancer as early as possible. believes that the relationship Matt said: “This builds on the between the hospital and such existing relationship between a prestigious university not only North Tees and Hartlepool NHS fulfils the academic background Foundation Trust and Durham of the University Hospital of North University, which contributes Tees but also is a demonstration of to a great status for the trust. the growing pedigree of the trust. This is a significant role for me This is not the first honour Matt and undoubtedly any research has received during his time at carried out will benefit patients in North Tees and Hartlepool NHS our area.” Foundation Trust. In 2008 he Chief executive Alan Foster said: was awarded the Goulstonian “I’d like to congratulate Matt Lectureship by the Royal for further enhancing his own College of Physicians and in and the trust’s reputation through 2006, the Hopkins Endoscopy this appointment.” Johnny hands over the cd to fundraiser Patricia Boynton Lynda gets back in her dancing shoes

Just months after major surgery, lead dietitian years, had major surgery for a hip replacement of Hartlepool. The operation took one and at the University Hospital of Hartlepool, Lynda after struggling for six years. I was given a a half hours and I was awake as surgeons Brooker is back in her dancing shoes. ceramic hip replacement which should last told me you have a better recovery. I didn’t Lynda, who has lived in Hartlepool for 36 for between 25 and 30 years. feel anything. I had some pain after the Lynda said: “I was dancing with considerable operation but this only lasted between six pain. My hip replacement was booked for and eight weeks. March this year and I was told I couldn’t “All of the staff were just great and the ward dance for about 12 weeks after it. was lovely. I couldn’t have wished to be “I love to dance. I dance at least four times looked after any better. a week at the Carol Hammond Dance Studio “Orthopaedic consultant Rajani Kanth in Hartlepool. So being told to put your feet Logishetty has done a brilliant job. Shane up and rest isn’t easy, but there was nothing Bohan, my physiotherapist gave me else I could do. exercises to do and that’s got me up to a “I’ve been dancing for 11 years and I compete good level of fitness. in the yearly IDTA National Amateur Ballroom “I feel 100% better and I’ve only got a five and Latin dance competitions. To dance in inch scar – it’s amazing! the national finals in Blackpool, you need to “Ballroom dancing had become very difficult. compete in regional qualifiers. Only the first I’ve got a longer stride now, a greater range 16 qualify for Blackpool. of movement and I’m dancing much better. “Over the years, I’ve come first in the Latin After only one and a half months of training, qualifiers eight times. I have also been lucky in the qualifiers for next year, I came fourth in to be in the final six dancers in the national Ballroom and second in Latin. finals at Blackpool, twice in ballroom and six “Dancing is just fantastic. It makes me feel times in Latin, three times coming second. great. I’m on my way to retirement age but I “I had the operation on ward four, the joint don’t feel like I am. I recommend dancing and replacement unit at the University Hospital healthy eating to help you feel younger!”

November/December 11 Dexter shows nursery children his latest tricks

Children at Rainbow Nursery Nursery manager Janet at the University Hospital of Bland said: “The children Hartlepool received a surprise loved watching Dexter doing visit from a four legged friend. his tricks. Nursery assistant Zena Elsdon “Some of the children have their brought her friend’s dog, one own pets, but this is a good way year old Dexter, a Cocker to encourage all of the children Spaniel, along to show off his to interact with animals and latest tricks he’d picked up at K9 teach them how to look after Hasan among friends and colleagues at his retirement presentation Kapers in Hartlepool. and care for them.” Popular surgeon says farewell

A surgeon who brought new of governors and chairman Paul surgical techniques to Stockton Garvin placed on record at Hasan’s and Hartlepool has said farewell last meeting his thanks and after 16 years with the trust. appreciation for the contribution Hasan Bandi joined the surgical he had made throughout his team at the University Hospital term of office. of Hartlepool from a teaching Paying tribute to Hasan clinical hospital in Iraq. He had acquired director of surgery Pud Bhaskar Nursery nurse Ruth Howie, Zachariah Bedding, Harriett Todd, nursery his skills in laparoscopic (keyhole) said: “Over his years with assistant Stuart Shepherd, Lilah Robinson, nursery assistant Zena Elsdon surgery from experts in Japan with Dexter, Laycie Tait, Rhodri Sharp and Matthew Pischos with childcare the trust Hasan has helped where he had been sent by the co-ordinator Margaret Hayden to put the trust on the map Iraqi government. with leading edge surgical He led the way in new surgical techniques and has passed on techniques for a number of his considerable skills to surgical procedures such as many people. removing an appendix, hernias Tracey takes on the “Hasan has also become a and gastric banding. close friend and adviser. He Hasan was an examiner for the has always been approachable, Royal College of Surgeons and Three Peak Challenge friendly and attentive to all brought exams to Hartlepool Administration manager for horrendous weather conditions and I’m sure we will all have which gained praise from family health Tracey Blackford but it was a fantastic experience the college and the teams of memories to cherish.” (pictured fourth from right) for such a great cause. I’m examiners. He was also a clinical Medical director David Emerton has taken on the Three Peaks really pleased to have added: “Hasan’s achievements Challenge for the TFM charity tutor and set up MASCOT (the contributed to the team’s grand minimal access surgical centre have been great and benefited Cash for Kids. total of £65,000. patients and colleagues. It has Tracey only decided to take at Teesside). “I’d like to thank all of my not just been about what he has part four days before the He has also represented staff as colleagues, friends and family challenge started, which saw a governor on the trust council done but the gracious way in her climb the three peaks Ben who sponsored me. Their which he has done it.” Nevis, Scafell Pike and Snowdon generosity will really help the Hasan said: “I have made many within 24 hours and raise £350. local charity for under privileged, “Hasan’s professional relationships and She said: “It was really sick and disabled children in great friends. I was always challenging both mentally and Teesside, North Yorkshire and achievements have ambitious and wanted to put physically especially against the County Durham.” Hartlepool and later Stockton been great and on the map. It is good to see benefited patients that laparoscopic surgery is continuing and developing and colleagues. with new doctors to take the It has not just services forward. “Everything in life is a journey. been about what Since I qualified from medical he has done but school this has been a 42 year journey and I am pleased that the gracious way it finished with this trust. I am in which he has also glad that we raised our family here because it is a fantastic done it.” place to be.” 012|013 New service gives cancer patients in Stuart Watkin explains the new cleaning system to Deepak Dwarakanath hospital extra New decontamination care and support unit enhances North Tees and Hartlepool NHS Foundation Trust has set up an acute oncology service which will give cancer patients expert patient care advice and support if they are brought September saw the opening of the recently into hospital. completed endoscope decontamination unit in Specialist oncology nurse practitioners the sterile services department at the University Maggie Wright and Tracy Nugent join a team Hospital of North Tees by clinical lead for endoscopy of oncologists led by consultant physician Deepak Dwarakanath. Dawn Ashley. Tracy and Maggie have nearly It is essential that endoscopes used for bowel 20 years experience between them working cancer screening, bronchial, gastro and colonic with patients who have been diagnosed investigations and procedures are cleaned to a with cancer. very high standard to avoid the risk of infection. The new unit cleans the scopes in a specially designed cassette using detergents, disinfectants “We’re here to look and pure water rinses. Following a 45 minute wash cycle, the cassettes after patients who are moved to drying cabinet and fed with high quality filtered air for up to four hours, after develop severe which they can be safely stored within the side affects after cassette for up to 72 hours. It is planned to extend this period in the future to seven days. chemotherapy.” This means that the scopes can be transported around the hospital, or even cross-site without the It follows national guidance from the National risk of contamination. At the opening Deepak Dwarakanath said: “I am Chemotherapy Action Group and the Specialist oncology nurse practitioners Tracy really impressed the set up of the unit and the Department of Health, which recommended Nugent and Maggie Wright quality of the system. As a clinician it gives me all hospitals, should provide acute oncology the confidence that the scopes I am using are of teams as part of the services. “People affected by the highest standard of cleanliness.” Tracy said: “We’re here to look after cancer deserve the General manager of BES-Decon Garth Rowbottom, patients who develop severe side affects who supplied the cassette washing equipment after chemotherapy and patients who have highest quality treatment and Peter Rolinson of Environmental Water cancer but need to come into hospital to be Services who provided the reverse osmosis plant treated for other problems. if they come into hospital to provide the whole process with high quality “The service runs between 9am-5pm for other reasons and pure water were also present at the opening. Monday to Friday. It means these patients Head of engineering compliance and energy can be seen by an expert within 24 hours of this is what this national Stuart Watkin, who managed the project said: “By being admitted or if they are admitted on a working closely with our contractors throughout weekend we’ll see them on the Monday. guidance is designed the project, we were able to meet some very tight “We’re providing support to the ward staff, to achieve.” deadlines and improve the way we operate our raising awareness of these patients’ needs service, how we track endoscope usage, and how and expert advice for these patients when best to complete all the necessary maintenance and testing. it’s needed, ultimately reducing the length Consultant physician Dawn Ashley said: “Decontamination of endoscopes has moved of stay in hospital and reducing the risk of “People affected by cancer deserve the forward significantly in the past year, it is great them being brought back into hospital. highest quality treatment if they come into that we can be at the forefront of developing a “Patients can request to see us and the hospital for other reasons and this is what service that enhances patient care by providing ward staff know to get in touch as soon as this national guidance is designed to achieve. medical equipment cleaned to the highest they need us. Setting up this service was a priority for possible standards.” “The service has only been up and running the trust. Tracy’s and Maggie’s drive and The CSSD service has already taken on some for a couple of months. We’ve had a really enthusiasm is already making a difference community work, and will also take endoscope positive response so far from colleagues on to the quality of care we are providing for decontamination business from critical care, the wards, patients and their families.” cancer patients.” theatres and urology. November/December 11 Trust marks National Work Life Week To mark the Working Families’ there are several flexible working National Work Life Week the arrangements available to our trust showcased the importance staff, including the option of of work life balance and how staff annualised hours and career are benefiting. breaks, where appropriate. Shirley Palfreeman (pictured) has “Staff have the opportunity to been an occupational therapist since work part time or job share and 1973. In December 2007 Shirley requests to alter working hours took phased retirement. and patterns can be made during She said: “I found it difficult to employment. We recognise reduce my working hours. I went that there may be occasions in a from working full time to a three day member of staff’s life that they may week and then to two days. need to take time off work and we Maggie stands proudly in front of her tombola stand “My husband has retired so it’s nice offer types of leave to help staff to have time during the week to do achieve a work life balance.” what we want to do. My father is 87, it’s good to be able to help him out and spend time with him too. “I have thoroughly enjoyed my career. I feel extremely privileged to be working in the NHS and have the opportunity to have found the perfect balance in my working life. It’s something I’ll never take for granted” Director of human resources and organisational development Clare Curran said: “The trust is committed to helping employees achieve a work life balance. In addition to Occupational therapist the many various types of leave, Shirley Palfreeman Maggie presents her cheque to ward matron Carol Alexander The great North Tees and Stroke unit receives Hartlepool runners reunite Some of the staff who took part of Children Overseas (COCO) a £552 thank you in the Great North Run back in has been displayed in the 2008 gathered together to hand trust’s restaurants with photos A Norton woman who had very good with me and it feels over the signed menu from the of the event. suffered a stroke earlier this nice to give something back to pasta party to head of catering Consultant in accident and Colin Chapman. emergency Dougal Southward year has been raising money to the ward that treated me.” The menu, signed by Olympic said: “This is just a great reminder She has recovered well since say thank you to the unit which gold medal winner Steve Cram for the people who thought they’d her stroke, barring some minor cared for her. who led the training for a team never run a marathon. It was Maggie Glennon, who was speech and mobility problems. of 13 novice runners to raise great to see some of the people treated in ward 41 with clot- Prizes for Maggie’s tombola money for his charity, Comrades who took part again.” busting drugs following her were donated by friends and family, as well as stroke in February, has been shopkeepers, who were made running a tombola in the aware of Maggie’s cause by a University Hospital of North Tees leaflet campaign. foyer, and has raised £552. Ward matron Carol Alexander Maggie said: “The team were said: “We are really grateful for the money which will go towards training for staff and “We are really extra comforts for patients.” grateful for the Maggie added further thanks to her husband, her neighbours money which and friends who donated will go towards the prizes for the tombola, as well as a special thank training for staff you to consultant physician Infection prevention and control team secretary Sandra Lancaster, dermatology and extra comforts David Bruce who performed secretary Rita Siberry, chaplain Lynn Purvis, head of catering Colin Chapman, the clot-busting therapy to help consultant in accident and emergency Dougal Southward and consultant for patients.” her recover. surgeon Colm Hennessy

014|015 Healthcare assistant Sophie Hornbrook helps apprentices Sarah Wilson and Demi Demi Stedman and Jolene Brownless practice feeding as Charlotte Allport plays Stedman complete nursing documentation the role of a patient Role play helps new apprentices to care for patients

A virtual ward was set up at the University Hospital of North Tees to kick-start training for 21 new healthcare apprentices who have joined North Tees and Hartlepool NHS Foundation Trust for the next two years. Apprentices, who will be working on wards at the University Hospital of North Tees and the University Hospital of Hartlepool while they complete a diploma in advanced level clinical health care support level 3 in health and social care at Stockton Riverside College or at Hartlepool College of Further Education, were divided into groups to play the role of patients and healthcare assistant in scenarios to get them into practice. Director of nursing and patient safety Sue Smith (pictured left) with senior nursing colleagues Cath Siddle and Tasks took the apprentices through a Esther Blakey with college tutors and the new apprentices typical day on the wards starting with hygiene and learning about the importance of of the apprentices including Julia Siddle, 18, positioning patients for feeding, learning patient documentation. and Jessica Watson, 20, from Hartlepool. Julia about adapted cutlery, helping with personal It’s the start of a career in nursing for many said: “The training is really good. You don’t feel like you’re thrown in at the deep end. This has given us chance to ask lots of questions before starting work on the wards.” Jodie Hill, 19, from Eaglescliffe played the role of a patient who was partially sighted and had suffered a stroke and couldn’t communicate. She said: “By also playing the role of a patient I’ve had an insight into how a patient could feel. I want to be a nurse and this is the first step on the ladder for me.” Director of nursing and patient safety Sue Smith said: “The apprenticeship scheme gives students practical, hands-on experience working as healthcare assistants while gaining a nationally recognised qualification. “I’m always impressed with the attitude, skill and hard work of our healthcare apprentices. They play an important role giving support to the nursing staff, contributing to making sure Amiee Lowe takes care of Jodie Hill as she plays the Julia Siddle practices mouth care, while Jessica our patients get the high standards of care role of the patient Watson pretends to be the patient they deserve.” November/December 11 New exercise ✯ sessions to improve the lives of people with neurological Writer in residence conditions People with neurological conditions are set to is now using an electric wheelchair to get benefit from new exercise sessions being set around. After her diagnosis and short period researches for up at Billingham Forum especially designed to of rehabilitation she struggled to keep fit meet the needs of people living with conditions because she felt there were so many barriers such as multiple sclerosis, parkinson’s disease, preventing her going to a gym. NHS drama people recovering from a stroke or head injury She said: “Like many people living with long When the BBC asked if a writer could or any other neurological condition term conditions I want to keep as healthy as I can and I was finding it difficult. I thought, if spend time with NHS staff to do Physiotherapist Serena Hartley from North Tees and Hartlepool NHS Foundation Trust said: only we could have some sort of gym where background research for a play she was “We offer therapy sessions and encourage we could go which had equipment we could working on the trust didn’t hesitate people to continue exercise programmes use from a wheelchair. I mentioned this to a to help. to maintain optimal strength and function few people and then things started to happen. Head of communications Claire Young to improve their quality of life and to gain I can’t speak highly enough of Serena. She has explained: “We were approached by the the known health benefits of participating in worked hard to make this happen and I’m sure Writers’ Room, part of the BBC which regular exercise programmes and it’s true that many people will benefit.” looks for new talent and encourages patients can feel at a loss when their therapy Serena added: “We’re hoping our writers, to have a writer in residence. In comes to the end. They can feel they have physiotherapist Claire Ward will also be able particular the writer wanted to spend time nowhere to go to continue with the exercise to offer a drop-in service at the class so with staff looking after older people for a programmes and this can be quite depressing people can talk to her about anything that’s drama she is working on which tells this for people living with a neurological condition. worrying them. If people can get help and story from the NHS’s point of view. advice early it might prevent them having to “We were delighted to have Fiona Evans “We’re hoping our come into hospital. with us for the best part of two weeks. “We’re very excited about this new She spent time on the wards but also in physiotherapist Claire development and are delighted to be working the community so she could get a picture Ward will also be able to with the Billingham Forum. When the pilot of how different staff care for patients ends we will evaluate it. If it is as beneficial to both in hospital and at home.” offer a drop-in service at people as we think it could well be rolled out to other leisure centres.” The BBC is planning to hold a writing the class so people can competition later this year for NHS staff The exercise classes will begin later this year. so, in return for her stay, Fiona (pictured talk to her about anything left with the Stockton community stroke that’s worrying them.” team) held two writing workshops. Fiona, who has written for a number of “We decided we would see what could be soaps, said: “I know you hear stories of done to help and discovered we may be able how hard staff work but I really saw that to get some funding. To ensure we created for myself and how every day people something which looked at things from the were going above and beyond the call service user’s point of view we formed a of duty to help patients. I found some steering group and invited some of our former things quite emotional and ended up patients to join. crying a few times. Thanks to the people “We ended up with a rich source of information who just let me watch them at work and from which I wrote the bid. We were delighted those who took the time out of their busy to be awarded £18,200 from NHS Tees and the schedules to talk to me I’ve got a great Tees Neuro Forum which will pay for specialist deal of information and ideas for my play. equipment which can be used by wheelchair “The writing workshops were good too; users or people with limited mobility. It will also there are some very imaginative and pay for physiotherapist Claire Ward who will set talented writers in the trust. the sessions up and work with fitness trainers “I was really grateful to spend some time at Billingham Forum where the sessions will here and just wanted to say thank you to be held to raise their awareness of the needs everyone for their warm welcome.” of people with neurological conditions.” For more details please visit The person who sewed the seed to get the Physiotherapists Serena Hartley (right) and Claire www.bbc.co.uk/writersroom project off the ground was Chris. Diagnosed Ward show a patient how to use one of the special with multiple sclerosis a few years ago Chris Motomed exercise machines 016|017 ✯ ✯

✯Trust celebrates its Shining Stars In a glittering event sponsored by a number of generous organisations the trust has held its first award ceremony to recognise and acknowledge the amazing work of its staff who go above and beyond the call of duty to help patients and volunteers who support the work of the trust.

In opening the event chairman Paul Garvin said: “It is great to see so many people here. ✯ An event like this gives us an opportunity to acknowledge the fantastic work done by people in front of and behind the scenes which makes the organisation as successful as it is. I know the judges had a very hard time choosing the winners.” MCs for the evening non executive director Steve Hall and director of human resources and organisational development Clare Curran got the proceedings off to a great start with a heads and tails ice breaker and their combination of wit and wisdom made the event go with a swing. Congratulations to everyone who had been nominated, shortlisted and awarded a special Shining Stars award in one of Unsung hero – Leadership – 10 categories. Physiotherapist Amy Wynne Theatre support worker James Sullivan ✯ November/December 11 Trust celebrates its Shining Stars ✯ ✯ ✯ Party goers enjoy the Equality and diversity – Iceheads breaking and tails heads ice andbreaker tails game Human resources managers Michelle Taylor and Tracy Minns ✯

Outstanding contribution to volunteering – Working in partnership with other agencies – Weight management service Jacob Dent ✯ ✯ ✯

Working behind the scenes – Patient safety administrator Sue Turner Team of the year – Ward hygienists 018|019 ✯ ✯ Trust celebrates its Shining Stars✯ ✯ ✯ Learner of the year – Associate practitioner Linda Fleet Developing excellent services – The stroke team Each winner received a specially made Shining Star award and a prize donated by a sponsor. ✯The trust also recognised five people for more than 40 years service to the trust. Two people were there to receive their awards which were presented by chief executive Alan Foster. They were

Dedication to quality improvement – The chaplaincy team

James Sullivan collecting his award ✯ ✯Shirley Peel from pathology ✯

Linda Merryweather from radiology ✯ November/December 11 ✯ Trust celebrates✯ its Shining Stars The other long service awards went to

Pauline Stark William Henderson Janet Robinson

Closing the evening Alan said: “This has been a fantastic evening. We have our winners here who were nominated by their colleagues✯ for the amazing job they do. I’d like to pay tribute to all our staff who work as a team to provide high quality care for our patients. I hope this event is the first of many.” You can find the souvenir brochure at www.nth.nhs.uk. ✯

020|021 ✯ Campaign launched to raise awareness of COPD and encourage smokers to quit

The trust is supporting a new affects breathing, it is the second terrifying feeling. It’s like having “I have four sons who also all stop smoking campaign that biggest cause of emergency a plastic bag being pulled tighter smoke and I have pleaded and has been unveiled by Fresh and admissions to hospital and costs and tighter over your head and begged them to quit. I don’t the British Lung Foundation to the NHS an estimated £491m the more you panic the more you want them to get to my age and highlight a cruel, lingering disease every year. can’t breathe. be in the same position as me that destroys the lungs. Consultant physician at North “I now rely on oxygen and because of not quitting smoking ‘Every breath’ aims to highlight Tees and Hartlepool NHS have to use a wheelchair to get when they had the chance. I the long-term effects of smoking- Foundation Trust Richard Harrison around. For someone who has have learned to cope with the related chronic obstructive said: “Chronic obstructive been fit for the majority of my effects of COPD, but wouldn’t pulmonary disease (COPD), the pulmonary disease (COPD) is life, this is really hard to take. want anybody else to have to. umbrella term for emphysema a disease many smokers don’t I have a 12 year old daughter I hope this encourages more and chronic bronchitis, in a bid know much about until they who has just started boxing and people to quit smoking.” to encourage more people to are diagnosed. I wish I could help train her like I Anyone who would like to quit smoking. “It affects the function of used to with my other children. quit smoking should contact Despite the largest drop in people’s lungs and can make Being unable to do this makes the NHS smokefree helpline smoking in England, the North everyday activities such as me feel really emotional and I on 0800 011612, or the trust’s walking upstairs, shopping or East still has the worst rate of regret what smoking has done stop smoking service on doing housework difficult. COPD in the country. Around to me. 01642 383819. 8,700 people were diagnosed “In COPD if you stop smoking with the condition in 2008-09, the damage done will be limited but it is estimated that around so it’s vital that, as soon as the 32,000 more people in the North diagnosis is made, you stop. East have the disease but have There’s help available from the never been diagnosed. NHS stop smoking service to help people do this.” “Keeping fit was Denham Thomas, 59, from Hartlepool, was diagnosed with such a massive COPD 12 years ago. He said: “I quit smoking when I was 40 part of my life so after suffering from really bad having to give up exhaustion and breathlessness in my late thirties. I had previously at an early age been a fitness instructor and started to notice that being a because I couldn’t smoker was making me get out breathe properly of breath really quickly and I couldn’t exercise like I used to. made me feel “Keeping fit was such a massive really sad.” part of my life so having to give up at an early age because I A survey of smokers in the couldn’t breathe properly made ✯ North East found that 67% me feel really sad. I was also weren’t even aware of COPD forced to give up my job as a or the debilitating effect on pub landlord because I wasn’t people’s lives. able to carry out work duties like COPD is the UK’s fifth biggest lifting things around or walking killer, killing more people than up the stairs. breast, bowel or prostate cancer “My feeling of breathlessness every year. The symptoms of has just got worse and worse COPD are often presumed to be over the years and now even the normal side effects of being walking through the front door a smoker – breathlessness and a has become a battle for me. Any smoker’s cough. form of physical activity leaves Because it is a disease which me gasping for air which is a

November/December 11 Tooth fairy fund to promote healthy teeth Thousands of schoolchildren across Teesside are set to receive help to improve their dental health after a successful bid by the trust’s community dental service.

The trust was one of 12 organisations The project is part of the foundation’s 40th throughout the country which successfully anniversary celebrations and Wrigley’s own bid for £9,000 funding from oral health charity centenary celebrations this year. the British Dental Health Foundation and the Wendy continued: “We are delighted to have Wrigley Tooth Fairy Fund. been awarded this funding. The key stage two The successful bid will help the trust to resource pack will be greatly appreciated by offer support to 59 primary schools and eight our schools who are already doing great work special educational needs schools in North in foundation stage to promote oral health. Tees, Middlesbrough, Hartlepool, Redcar and “The pack, which we’re hoping will be Cleveland to include and develop oral health available in November, will enable key stage education into the curriculum for seven to two children to learn about the importance of 11-year-old pupils. good oral health through interactive resources Oral health promotion coordinator Wendy which will help the curriculum.” McGee said: “We are already working hard to The British Dental Health Foundation’s chief reduce levels of tooth decay through existing executive, said: “Funding for oral health projects in schools as well as other services”. promotion and education is becoming The project is being funded by the British Dental increasingly scarce as public spending Health Foundation’s Oral Health Education continues to be cut back. Project, which was established earlier this “It is an area of major concern to the year to support the work of local oral health British Dental Health Foundation. As well as promotion teams across the UK and which has lobbying Government to keep oral health a been made possible by a generous charitable priority, we will continue to work hard to Oral health promotion coordinator Wendy McGee, donation of £100,000 from the Wrigley Tooth secure new funding to help more projects like oral health promotion advisors Lindsey Neville, Penny Fairy Fund. this in the future.” Ryan and Marie Burgum Local involvement network groups view hospital room

Local involvement network mock up room which has been groups, who represent the set up in the basement of the Members of the healthcare user group Pat Burridge, Brian Ferguson, Norman interests of patients, took a University Hospital of North Tees Mackey, Linda Shields, Raymond Stephenson and Peter Wilkinson look behind the scenes at the and share their views on how the work being done to plan for the room design in the new hospital new hospital. will work in practice. County Durham LINk, Stockton Lead director for the hospital on Tees LINk and the trust’s project Kevin Oxley said: “It’s healthcare user group got a really useful to have feedback chance to view the new hospital from people who represent patients. If we get their opinions early in the design process it “It’s really useful means we can make sure the to have feedback final design meets their needs. “It’s one thing looking at plans from people on a piece of paper but its much who represent better to actually walk around one of the rooms to see how Members of County Durham LINk Pam Spurrell, Michael Dalton and Cliff Allison patients.” designs could be in real life.”

022|023 Calling all Flufighters It’s that time of year when said: “Last year we had the health team are out and about you start thinking about highest percentage of front line offering vaccinations around servicing your heating, checking health staff in NHS North East the trust, and are running 12 the antifreeze in your car vaccinated and we’re aiming hour clinics for staff on the and hopefully - having your to build on that position again wards throughout October flu vaccination! this year. and November. Last year the strain of flu hit “To lead the way, the chief “Flu can be serious and even the North East quite hard and executive and executive directors fatal, even for normally fit was a particular risk to younger had their vaccinations in the first and well people so it’s important Healthcare people and pregnant women week and we’re encouraging that we protect ourselves and as well as the normal at risk all staff with patient contact our patients.” groups. This year again we are to get their vaccination as soon user group This year we are also running for expecting the flu virus strain to as possible. the first time, our Golden Syringe be quite severe, affecting our “By staff having their flu Award. These prestigious awards announces patients and placing extreme vaccination early and before pressure on emergency services we start to see patients being will be given to the directorate and admissions, paediatrics and admitted with it, they are able and staff group achieving the new chair critical care. to develop the best immunity best percentage uptake. Our flu vaccination campaign possible and by doing so not Please don’t make the mistake of The trust’s healthcare started on 3 October and after only protect themselves and thinking you’re fit and healthy so user group (HUG), which the third week we had already their family, but also patients you don’t need the vaccination. represents the views of vaccinated more than 1,500 and colleagues. By doing that you run the risk of patients in hospital and the members of staff. “We want to make it as easy passing the bug to a vulnerable community, has a new person Director of operations and as possible for staff to get member of your family, possibly in the chair. performance Julie Gillon the vaccine. Our occupational a grandparent or a child. Bill Johnson (pictured) has taken over the reins from Linda Shields who chaired what was the hospital user group for many years. “The HUG is a very important forum. Its members are all patients, former patients or carers who ensure patients and carers’ views are taken into account when we develop services.” Associate director, patient and public involvement, Jan Atkinson said: “We’re very grateful to Linda for the fantastic contribution she made and we welcome Bill as the group’s new chair. “The HUG is a very important forum. Its members are all patients, former patients or carers who ensure patients and carers’ views are taken into account when we develop services.” If you would like to know more about the HUG please contact marion.atkinson@ nth.nhs.uk. Chief executive Alan Foster has his flu vaccination

November/December 11 Transatlantic link strengthened at spinal support group walk A transatlantic link made by the at the University Hospital of group which supports patients North Tees’ spinal unit, resulted waiting for back and neck surgery in members of group joining their was strengthened at a special new found friends in America for weekend of events. a spinal fun walk. Naturally when When The Princeton Brain and the support group was planning Spine Clinic from New Jersey USA its own walk this year the invited wanted to set up a patient support Princeton Brain and Spine Clinic to group the group which came come and take part. up first on a google search was The walk was the culmination of The Tees Valley Spinal Support a busy weekend for Princeton Group. An exchange of emails Brain and Spine Clinic’s consultant resulted in members of the neurosurgeon Nirav Shah. On the group, which supports patients Saturday he joined one of the waiting for back and neck surgery regular patient support groups and was overwhelmed by the A patient shares he story at the spinal support group numbers of people attending and the numbers of patients who had neck conditions would mean they excellent work done by the whole surgery who came back time and couldn’t walk five hundred metres, spinal team.” time again to support those who never mind five kilometres. Nirav Shah said: “I want to thank were waiting for theirs. Spinal support group trustee Linda you all again for the hospitality On the Sunday he joined over Botterill, who has had three back that you have shown us. We a hundred others who were and neck operations herself, said: truly feel we have a home in the taking part in the 5k walk near “We had a fantastic weekend and UK. We have patients who need the Tees Barrage to raise funds it was brilliant that Nirav and his to hear from those who have for a special teaching camera for family could join us on the walk. We walked the road before them. the unit. Walkers and come from raised £6,500 towards the camera We were moved and inspired by far and wide to support the unit which was excellent. The support what you all have created and Surgeons Chandra Bhatia and Manoj and to show how their surgery group has gone from strength to maintained with the spinal support Krishna with American guest Nirav had transformed their lives; many strength and it offers something group; it serves as the gold Shah and Verti, the group’s mascot thought their debilitating back and unique and complementary to the standard for patient advocacy.” Chaplains’ end of life care role comes under the media spotlight When researchers at Channel 4 actually meant some time ago on the Liverpool Care Pathway “We have audited the first 600 heard about the trust’s unique and decided that, while we were (a laid down way of caring for a patients to have this service. It service for patients at the end meeting the physical needs of patient in the last 48 to 72 hours has been welcomed by patients’ of the life and their families none patients, we were not meeting of their life) automatically have a families and staff. Only two other than writer, broadcaster their spiritual needs. families turned down the offer of visit from a chaplain. Previously and Oxford academic Richard “It took time to set up our a chaplain.” Dawkins wanted to come and service because we decided we it would have been up to the Richard Dawkins, author of The find out more. needed ethical approval and an family to ask or the staff, who God Delusion and a regular Consultant in palliative care understanding of what staff in are often busy dealing with the presenter on television, and the medicine Edwin Pugh said: “We the trust felt about the subject but physical needs of the patient, to production team spent the best looked at what palliative care now all patients who are placed suggest it.” part of a day speaking to Edwin Chaplain Paul Salter added: “This and Paul to understand the is not about praying over the chaplains’ role and the value it patient, unless this is what they was adding to the experience of patients at the end of their lives and their family would like. More and their families. often than not, it is about general Edwin added: “He did ask why pastoral care. For example it can psychiatrists couldn’t carry out be about healing in the family this work and I said death isn’t where members brought to the a mental illness; it’s a natural bedside of the dying person may occurrence and our chaplains not have seen each other for have the right set of skills to many years. It is just as valuable support people whatever their belief and faith as they make this to people with no faith because final important journey.” we can help the patient to put The interviews will be featured their affairs in order and deal with in a Channel 4 programme Sex, things the staff just don’t have Death and the Meaning of Life to Richard Dawkins (right) with Edwin Pugh during the filming time or expertise to address. be broadcast in the new year.

024|025 Lasting memory of much loved consultant unveiled

A much loved and missed Afterwards Julian’s family orthopaedic consultant was unveiled a picture and a plaque remembered by family, friends on the wall of the orthopaedic and colleagues at a thanksgiving outpatients. General manager service held in the chapel at the for orthopaedics Rowena Dean University Hospital of North Tees. recalled her fond memories of Julian du Fosse sadly died in 2009. working with Julian and said the Fellow consultant orthopaedic picture, an atmospheric Dutch surgeon and long standing friend scene, would be a wonderful Tony Nargol paid tribute to Julian reminder of him, his care for and everyone in the congregation patients and the contribution he was invited to light a candle. made to the trust.

Trust commended for its approach to patient safety A visit from a national expert such enthusiastic staff. I took on patient safety confirmed the away a number of really strong trust is taking the right approach positive impressions from to patient safety. my visit. Stephen Ramsden, a former “I was really impressed with NHS chief executive and now the way the trust has reduced director at Transforming Health mortality and the care of the Limited, called in to meet deteriorating patient.” director of nursing, quality Sue added: “Stephen and patient safety Sue Smith, commended innovations such associate medical director and as the electronic whiteboards clinical director for orthopaedics white give staff an at a glance Chris Tulloch and medical and view of every patient. He also nursing staff in elderly care. met executive directors and the Sue Smith said: “We are on a chairman and was impressed Paul Garvin addresses the audience at the AGM relentless journey to improve with the focus on patient safety patient safety and I value visits at every level and the leadership like this because they provide an shown throughout all levels of Annual general meeting objective view of where things the organisation. are going well and, importantly, “I always want to know how what else we might do to we can improve further; it’s nice hears of another further improve patient safety.” to be praised but it’s far more During his visit Stephen (centre) valuable to hear where we could spoke to consultant physician make further improvements for successful year for Steve Yeomans, senior clinical patients. Stephen suggested matron for elderly care Pauline a number of things, such as the trust Townsend and ward manager looking at patient harm in the At this year’s annual general to make considerable savings in Jayne Graham (pictured with same way we have tackled Sue and Chris Tulloch). mortality. This will help us take meeting the audience heard years to come. Stephen said: “It’s always patient safety even further and that the trust had yet another Chief executive Alan Foster a privilege to look around we will certainly be taking these successful year. added: “Transforming services another trust and to meet ideas up.” Chairman Paul Garvin said: so they meet the needs of the “The annual general meeting people we serve both now and is like an end of term report in the future is paramount. The and this year it was a pleasure health service is changing at a to address the audience and very fast pace and we have to tell them about the dedication try and not only keep up but and commitment of our staff get ahead of it. However, some who have, once again, worked hard to improve performance things never change. I showed and quality.” the audience a book by Florence The audience also heard about Nightingale where she talked the trust’s plans for the new about how light and space were hospital and the challenging necessary to provide the ideal period it is entering where there nursing environment. This is is little or no growth in NHS what we are aiming for in the spending resulting in the need new hospital.”

November/December 11 Trust supports campaign to help people stay safe and warm in their homes

The largest-ever campaign to help people Changes across Teesside to stay safe and warm in their homes during the cold weather was launched at the beginning of October and North Tees in working and Hartlepool NHS Foundation Trust is right behind it. The Stay Safe & Warm campaign is led by Cleveland Fire Brigade and aims to raise environment awareness of the dangers faced by people who struggle to keep warm during the cold months and to highlight the help and support leads to a more available to them. Over 25,000 people in the UK die each year because they can’t keep warm in their own homes. This is due to either faulty heating productive service or because worries about the cost of fuel force them to turn their heating off or down to unsafe levels or because they use cheaper Clinical director for community services patients they look after. and less safe forms of heating which can Linda Watson has seen for herself what a “One section is all about creating a cause fires. well organised working. It sounds fairly difference a room can make to the way a Many of these people are in the most team works. obvious but the more organised your vulnerable groups, such as older people, single She called in Billingham health centre to working environment the less time parents with children, people with disabilities visit the district nursing team who have you waste looking for documents and or mental health issues and those with a long- moved to a new room and have changed equipment and the more time you can term illness. the way they organise their work. spend with patients.” Head of community safety at Cleveland Fire Linda said: “The Institute for Innovation Linda, pictured with district nursing Brigade Les Jones said: “Being able to keep and Improvement’s productive community sisters Alison Costello and Moriag Orpen warm at home during cold weather can literally service programme has some very and clinical team lead Linda Fairhall, heard be a matter of life or death. simple but brilliant ideas and they’re how the new arrangements were “Our aim is to identify those people who really benefiting both our staff and the streamlining services for patients. A may be at risk and to take swift action to keep large whiteboard tells nursing staff at a them safe.” glance which patients have been visited Deputy director of nursing Cath Siddle is and what, if anything, still needs to be the trust’s campaign lead, she said: This is a fantastic campaign and as a trust we are very “The new done as part of their care. happy to be supporting it. District nursing sister Alison, who has environment coupled “To play our part in the campaign we will been on maternity leave, has noticed a with the productive be asking about home heating arrangements dramatic improve since her return. when a person is admitted to hospital. community services Gary Wright from organisation “If anyone is identified as being at risk it will modules has development added: “The new be reported to the fire brigade who will work environment coupled with the productive with the patient’s family or carer to tackle the enabled the team to community services modules has heating issues before the patient is released enabled the team to be more productive from hospital.” be more productive by improving communication and Anyone who is worried that they may not by improving reducing interruptions. This benefits them be able to heat their home properly or is by making the working environment concerned about a family member, friend communication and less stressful and means they have or neighbour, should call the Fire Brigade reducing interruptions.” more time to spend with patients.” on 01429 874063. More information is also available at www.clevelandfire.gov.uk/warm. 026|027 November/December 11 Catering put to the taste test at member event

Foundation trust members had two presentations at their recent member event at the University Hospital of Hartlepool. Associate director of estates and facilities Peter Mitchell talked about recent developments in catering and how the trust has improved the Head of catering Colin Chapman talks to members as they taste the food quality of food it offers to patients and staff. Peter said: “The ward hostess service we provide has made a big difference to the patients in comparison the old system. We’ve “No patient who has had received some really positive comments from an operation is sent back the patients. “We’re serving food on the wards rather than to the ward when they plating it up in the kitchen. The ward hostesses are in pain. But once the help the patients to choose from the menu and make sure they get the food they want at the patient is on the ward they right temperature and on time. It allows the ward hostess staff to take specific requests are visited by our clinical and frees up valuable nursing time. nurse specialists.” “We’ve recently extended the hostess service offering meal ordering two hours before service Associate director of estates and facilities Peter and we’re seeing a significant improvement in Mitchell talks about recent developments in catering patient satisfaction and reduced waste. “Patients are being offered a wider range of main meals, hot breakfasts, snacks and light bites out of hours. We cater for cultural and religious needs as well as for patients who need special meals because they have difficulties with swallowing, for example. “Getting the right meals that satisfy a patient’s nutritional needs, as well as their taste, is important in helping them to make a quicker recovery.” Members and governors got the chance to talk to head of catering Colin Chapman and try out a plated meal solution which is being put to the test on the emergency assessment unit. The system by iWave offers highly nutritious meals to patients within minutes of their request. This method uses less energy in comparison Ward hostess supervisors Joanne Boyle and Linda to conventional kitchen systems, reduces Brownless serve the food waste, ensures food temperatures are correct and offers a wide variety of nutritious meals. trained in assessment and the management Peter continued: “The catering service is of pain who look after the patients in the Consultant anaesthetist Saqib Aslam working well, but we’re continually looking to recovery room and the anaesthetist is improve it and trying out new systems like this constantly in attendance. one will help us do just that.” “No patient who has had an operation is sent “Getting the right meals Managing pain back to the ward when they are in pain. But Consultant anaesthetist Saqib Aslam gave once the patient is on the ward they are visited that satisfy a patient’s members a snap shot of how pain is managed by our clinical nurse specialists. nutritional needs, as well after an operation. “The pain management service at the trust has He explained: “The planning starts before the gone strength to strength in recent years. The as their taste, is important operation when the anaesthetist discusses chronic pain service is well established and has in helping them to make a with the patient what the most suitable been a trust-wide service for a couple of years technique is for the particular operation. now. Everything is being done locally, providing quicker recovery.” “We have a fantastic team of nurses who are an improved service for the patients.” 028|029 Member’s noticeboard

Member events Council of Our Saturday morning member events are a good way to find out more about an area of the trust’s work which interests you. governors Look out for 2012 dates in the next Anthem. If you would like to hear more about a service or a particular area of our work please meeting contact the membership office with your suggestions.

The governors are the voice of our members who help shape the future of the hospitals. Members and the general public are welcome to observe the meetings which are held around four times a year. Please contact the membership office for Board of more information. directors meetings

The board of directors meet around six times a year. Members of the public and staff are welcome to observe the meetings. This is your chance to Your trust see how the board operates and gain first hand knowledge on the trust’s needs you! latest developments.

We want to increase our membership Spaces to attend the meetings are limited so that we are truly representative of so please contact the membership office the community we serve and that more in advance to ensure your place. The next people can become involved with their board of directors meeting is on Thursday local hospital. Please encourage your 24 November at 1.30pm in the boardroom, family and friends to join the trust as University Hospital of Hartlepool. a member. We would especially like to hear from anyone aged 16-25 years old as we have a number of potential opportunities they could be involved with. You can join by contacting us on [email protected] , calling 01642 624060 or applying at www.nth.nhs.uk

Contacting your membership office You can get in touch with your membership office at 01642 624060 or [email protected]

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