TALKING POINT The magazine for South Tees Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust January 2012

Stars’ gifts brighten Deborah’s award TRUST chairman children’s Christmas Deborah Jenkins has BEAMING smiles greeted the Boro stars, and other gifts, autographing them as been named who dropped into the children’s wards they went. ‘Alternative at James Cook. Business Matthew Bates was joined by Person’ of Team captain Matthew Bates took fellow defenders Rhys Williams, 2011 in his fellow team-mates on a two-hour Tony McMahon, Joe Bennett, an award tour visiting all the youngsters who Jonathan Grounds and Seb Hines ceremony were hoping to be discharged in time along with goalkeeper Danny with a twist. for Christmas. Coyne, midfielders Nicky Bailey and The Alternative Business Awards Richie Smallwood as well as striker The players, who are riding high in take a light-hearted look at the Scott McDonald. the Championship and hoping for achievements of the region's promotion to the Premier League next They all scored a big hit with the business personalities with 15 season, were armed with bagfuls of children, and their parents, who were award categories up for grabs. presents and generously handed out delighted by the tonic the trip had given Deborah took the coveted prize, footballs, posters, annuals, sweets to their poorly children. sponsored by Northumbrian Water, for her numerous roles – past and present - in the region. Jack Robson and dad Ian meet the Boro players “I was very flattered and extremely surprised to receive the award,” she said. “The spirit of the evening was of fun and laughter, with a very light-hearted take poking fun at people who take themselves too seriously, but this particular award is much coveted, and I feel very touched that people thought I was worthy of it.” The event raised more than £18,000 for the Percy Hedley Foundation which helps children, young people and adults with cerebral palsy, sensory, speech, language and communication disabilities. Talking Point is New pharmacy to your magazine and it is only open at James Cook as good as you A NEW pharmacy for patients, visitors hours, which will and staff is moving into James Cook. help departments such as make it. Sainsbury’s and Healthcare at Home accident and have been chosen by the trust to Ideas and stories or suggestions emergency provide its outpatient dispensing to make Talking Point even better and clinics “The opening of operation in the hospital. are always welcome. which run the pharmacy is Please send your ideas to: The facility, which will open early this later on year, is a first for Sainsbury’s which a day. The editor - Lesley Connor very exciting news until now has concentrated on opening Public relations “Staff will pharmacies in its supermarkets across South Tees Hospitals NHS also be able for Sainsbury’s.” the country. Foundation Trust to pick up The James Cook University Sainsbury’s professional services prescriptions Hospital manager David Gilder said: “The they’ve been The Murray Building opening of the pharmacy is very given by their own Marton Road exciting news for Sainsbury’s and GPs and a full range MIDDLESBROUGH TS4 3BW represents a real step forward in our of over-the-counter medications will Extension: 55900 pharmacy operation. also be available to buy. We’re working Email: [email protected] closely with Sainsbury’s and Healthcare “Everyone at Sainsbury’s is looking at Home to ensure that the transition is You can also contact the public forward to working with the trust relations/communications team as seamless as possible.” to deliver first class care and services on 01642 854343, extension to patients.” Shoshana Bloom, Healthcare at 54343 JCUH or email Home, added: “The pharmacy service [email protected] The new pharmacy will have better – at The James Cook University Hospital and longer - opening hours for patients Talking Point is written and is the first contract of its kind to be and will also provide an additional illustrated by the public relations awarded as part of the strategic range of services to visitors and staff team and designed by Octagon partnership between Healthcare at which are not currently available. Design and Marketing Ltd. Home and Sainsbury’s. Based in the existing outpatient “Healthcare at Home is the UK’s pharmacy at the north end of the mall, leading homecare company and this it will be open 7am to 11pm seven days Octagon specialise in gaining alliance with Sainsbury’s has brought a week. advertising support for magazines the strengths of the two companies so Talking Point is now produced, The trust’s director of the pharmacy together to build an innovative packaged, distributed and delivered service Alan Hall said: “This is an approach to provision of pharmacy at a minimal cost to the trust. exciting development for the trust. The services that will deliver real benefit to pharmacy will be open much longer patients and the NHS.”

Add love and stir A FUNDRAISING recipe book in aid of the fundraisers Sue Stephenson of Norton and holistic cancer care centre at James Cook her friend Judith Pennington, pictured left has been launched. at the launch. The mouth-watering recipes have not only With the proceeds from sales of the book been written by professional and amateur going to the holistic cancer care centre, chefs from pubs and restaurants in the Sue said: “Judith and I are avid cookery Teesside, North Yorkshire and South book collectors and we had been wanting Durham area, but also volunteers to do this for a couple of years now. We and local celebrities such as have both been keen supporters of the Baroness Tanni Grey-Thompson, centre for a long time. The last thing we Gary Pallister and Liz Carling. did to raise funds was a sponsored fire The compilation of over 50 walk on Halloween.” lip-smacking dishes has been The book, priced at £6.95, is on sale at pulled together in a book the centre and an add love and stir entitled ‘Add Love and Stir’ by website has been launched at regular holistic cancer centre www.addloveandstir.co.uk.

2 Long service awards 2011

COLLEAGUES took a trip down “These awards are a well-deserved thank * If you have completed more than 25 memory lane when they collected you to our staff for all those years of hard years service in the NHS keep an eye on their long service awards at a special work and dedication.” staff bulletin for details of how to put event at Middlesbrough Teaching and yourself forward for a long service award Learning Centre. in 2012. As they received awards for 25 or more years NHS service chairman Deborah Jenkins asked staff members to share a favourite memory or to reflect on the changes they have seen over the years. Recollections ranged from advances in technology and reduced waiting times to the closure of North Riding Infirmary and the days when nurses could hide their hair under their hats! Awards were presented in order of how many years staff had worked for the NHS with Christine Sinclair, lead nurse for pain management, last to go for clocking up an impressive 40 years. Chairman Deborah Jenkins said: “If you add up the years that these staff members have worked in the NHS they have more than 2,000 years experience between them – that really is amazing. Chris Sinclair receives an award for 40 years NHS service

Long Service Awards 2011

Louis Noel Adele Lesley Clayton Sarah Goswami Margaret Metcalfe Prof Sunil Sinha Elizabeth Allen Eileen Colledge Ann Grainger Annette Mitchell Barbara Smith Susan Appleyard Margaret Cook Janice Green Kerry Morgan Julie Smith Kathy Austin Heather Cornfoot Julie Harris Janet Osborne Jeanette Sutherst Sue Ayres Debbie Cross Elaine Hetherington Chris Palliser Eileen Stobbs Jackie Bailey Derek James Susan Hibberd Janet Parvin Caroline Stockton Jacqueline Bancroft Cruickshank Michele Holden Dawn Passmore Sally Sutcliffe Julie Barlow Jillian Dakin Cheryl Holiday Diana Pearey Susan Theakston Sally Bathe Kumar Das Janice Holliday Alison Peevor Jennifer Town Anne Bell Carol Davies Helen Horne Maureen Pilgrim Colette Troughton Christine Bell Gillian Davies Karen I’Anson Simon Pleydell Anne Wall Kathleen Bell Dr Lalita Dean Yvonne Kelley Angela Prest Angela Wallace Suzanne Bell Miranda Jane Dixon Coral Kelly Debra Lisa Pridmore Diane Wallace Sue Blenkin Elaine Doyle Patricia Ann Kirby Tracey Pugh Glennis Wallace Helen Boal Mary Durrans Trevor Knowles Alison Roberts Jayne Wallington Jane Bond Kath Edmondson Kathryn Linker Julie Elizabeth Ruth Weatherall Gillian Bone Chris Elliott Jill Linton Robertson Helen Wescott Kathryn Jane Boyle Fay Fernandes Elaine Lloyd Karen Robinson Gill Wheater Nicholas Bradey Mike Foley Alison Lonsdale Mary Robinson Janice Mary White Jane Bradshaw Vicky Ford Christine Lynch Katherine Ann Arlene Wilde Wendy Brownlee Doreen Friedrich Clare MacArthur Rogstad Angela Williams Angela Byrne Alison Gallagher Helen Mahon Carol Ruddock Emma Louise Maggie Byrne Alison Gamble John Main Brendan Ruddy Williams Alison Callaway Eileen Glue Joyce Martin Lesley Secker Cheryl Willshaw Carolyn Carveth- Claudia Godfrey Malcolm Masterman Sheila Readman Eleanor Wilson Marshall David Goodman Samantha McCann Elaine Simms Margaret Wright Barbara Charville Elaine Goodman Karen McClements Christine Sinclair Andrew Wyllie

3 Trisha, 61, was born with a vascular Leading edge birthmark malformation which affected her face and tongue. She had treatment helps 250th patient operations as a child that left her with a THE trust’s specialist birthmark clinic has “But there are many people out there who lot of scars but her performed a leading edge treatment on its are not getting the treatment they should tongue was deemed 250th patient. because they don’t know it’s available. untreatable. Tricia South Tees was the first in Western Europe “We’ve seen people who have been told was very self conscious and suffered from to offer the procedure which treats vascular nothing else can be done for them and the sleep apnea and slurred speech until birthmarks using an injectable drug. results they have had with this treatment receiving the bleomycin treatment have been significant. “It’s an absolute miracle. I am much more The trust’s birthmark clinic sees more than confident and outgoing now. I just wish 100 new patients a year but thanks to the “We have a very good track record and a this treatment had been available when I introduction of this pioneering procedure high success rate. Newcastle and Durham was growing up.” many of them do not even have to undergo are both sending their patients to us and we invasive surgery. have also been training staff at Birmingham Children’s Hospital to help them set up their The scarless treatment involves injecting own clinic.” bleomycin through the skin into the strawberry birthmark or vascular Birthmarks can have a huge emotional malformation (where the veins, arteries or and psychological impact on children Trisha before Trisha after blood vessels are abnormally formed) and when they are growing up and vascular can produce dramatic results. malformations can be disfiguring and cause pain and discomfort. Reconstructive plastic surgeon Mr Tobian Rosie, eight, was Muir holds specialist clinics for adults and Traditional treatment involves laser surgery born with a large children at James Cook and the Friarage. or facial surgery, which leave permanent swelling on her right scarring, or high dose steroids which can lead leg and knee which Almost half the patients treated are from to other complications. other areas of the UK with some people left her unable to travelling from as far and wide as Oxford, Mr Muir added: “With the bleomycin kneel down and Cambridge, Edinburgh and Carlisle for injections patients usually need three to four often caused her a expert care. treatments and as it is a day case procedure, lot of pain. She has they do not require an overnight stay and are had about eight Trust results show 93% of patients respond to in and out of hospital very quickly. injections and they treatment with the injectable drug, with four have made a massive improvement. out of five of these showing significant ”The treatment is quite specific “You forget what a difference it improvement. The recurrence rate is and gives a very natural has made until you look back at the extremely low at just 1%. result but best of photographs. It’s surprising how much all patients say the swelling has gone down, before it Mr Muir said: “It is great they can feel to say we have helped would rub against her other knee,” said normal her mum. our 250th patient again.“ as this treatment can produce life- changing results.

Rosie before Rosie after

Matthew, 18 months, developed a deep cherry-coloured birthmark across his nose just days after he was born but after three bleomycin injections it has almost completely disappeared. “A lot of people have to wait years for laser treatment but we could start the injections straight away. It was not dramatic at first but friends and family started to notice a difference and now people mistake the birthmark for a patch of eczema. The difference is amazing,” said his mum.

Reconstructive plastic Matthew before Matthew after surgeon Mr Tobian Muir 4 “I don’t really do much other exercise but with this I know I’m not doing anything that is going to put me or my baby at risk.”

Lisa (left) chats to a carer Helping Caring for the carers mums-to-be A GROWING number of people in the on 07584 558564 on these days. Middlesbrough area are supporting Carers receive support on how to best meet stay fit and friends and family with long-term the needs of the person they care for and neurological conditions. how to ensure their own needs are met. healthy Thanks to a new partnership between Sharon Poskitt, neurosciences senior nurse, Sanctuary Carr-Gomm (SCG), NHS Tees, said: “We welcome the opportunity to work COMMUNITY midwives in Middlesbrough Council’s department of with colleagues from Sanctuary Carr-Gomm Middlesbrough are urging mums- social care and the trust, support is now to-be to attend aquanatal classes offered at the hospital. and Middlesbrough Council’s social care department in the development of this to help them stay fit and healthy. Lisa Davey, SCG support worker provides service. Addressing the needs of carers is very The classes at the Neptune Centre advice, information and support to carers important and I am sure Lisa will be an asset of patients with long-term neurological in Berwick Hills and the Rainbow to our team.” conditions such as Parkinson’s disease, Centre in Coulby Newham are cerebral palsy or motor neurone disease Lisa said: “Support for carers is essential. designed to encourage women in the neurosciences outpatient department It‘s important for the wellbeing of both to do regular moderate exercise at James Cook from 9am – 5pm, Tuesday, the carer and the cared for. I am delighted to ensure they are in the best Thursday and Friday. If staff or carers to join the team and to offer such a physical condition to cope with would like to contact her she is available valuable service.” the demands of pregnancy. “It’s all about helping to keep women fit during pregnancy,” said community midwife Rosie New course is just the job Cooper. “The fitter they are A NEW training course a major training course since office skills has increased so the better they cope with is improving staff from leaving school. much, my computer now pregnancy and the better they the Friarage’s estates and “It’s a fantastic course and works for me.” cope with labour.” facilities administration I recommend it to anyone For further information team’s computer skills, Classes are held at the Neptune who want to improve their on MOST see the training Centre every Tuesday at 9.10am enabling them to work skills, it is hard work but directory (trust intranet – ICT/ and at the Rainbow Centre every more effectively on their well worth it. I now have knowledge base/training) or computers and improving the confidence to have a contact the ICT application Friday at 9.30am. efficiency and productivity in go at things and my support training team on the department. Mum-to-be Emma Kaya is among knowledge of Microsoft extension 53576 JCUH. those already benefiting from Microsoft office skills the classes. training (MOST) - is a new qualification offered by The 34-year-old from Park End, the ICT application support Middlesbrough, said: “I have training team to all really enjoyed them so far. I have NHS staff, free of charge. It is been suffering from a bad back the only Microsoft-approved certification programme of but just being in the water helps. its kind and is recognised by The classes also give you chance businesses around the world. to talk to other people. Clerk, Sue Greenbank, said:” “I don’t really do much other Initially I was doubtful exercise but with this I know I’m about the course and Team work: (left to right) Theresa Forrest who has also not doing anything that is going whether it was the right one completed the course, Sue, Tina Bye and April Christie to put me or my baby at risk.” for me not having completed who are working on it

5 Odd balls In memory of a treasure

A TREASURE hunt around Masham, North wanted! Yorkshire was enjoyed by Friarage theatre staff MAVIS Pickering has enjoyed in memory of colleague, George Henderson. knitting a range of objects over Organised by Friarage theatres social group, six the years from seafarers’ hats to cars and 17 people enjoyed a fun time getting children’s Christmas stockings. lost down country lanes. But her latest project has caused Operating department practitioner, Catriona much amusement among her Stevenson (centre), along with her family beat friends and family. other competitors to win handsomely. Mavis, 74, of Middlesbrough, has George’s parents and family are happy the knitted more than 30 breasts – in George Henderson Memorial Cup is still used all shapes, sizes and colours - for and he is remembered by his colleagues. the infant feeding team at South Tees after seeing an NHS appeal for volunteers in a magazine. Infant feeding co-ordinator Victoria “We can’t Head said she was delighted when she received a call from Mavis thank Kirsty offering to knit her some breasts for staff training sessions and to help and her team promote breastfeeding. of angels “People just love them. They are a talking point and a great ice enough.” breaker,” said Victoria. “We use them for breastfeeding workshops and as a simple way of showing mums where and how their baby should latch on to the breast. “The coloured breasts are fun and we can use them to distract from the personal nature of the breast.” “If we can encourage mums to Kirsty McGurrell, Alison Russell, Maureen Gibson and Vicky Bell (l-r) pictured with the breastfeed even just for one day it can improve a baby’s special memory boxes future wellbeing. Mavis added: “It’s a lovely excuse Angels keep to keep knitting and it’s very therapeutic. It’s nice to have fun while you are being useful!” spreading their wings If you have an odd ball of wool AFTER losing her beloved baby Louis, ‘The Network of Inspiring Women’ lying around the house or fancy young mum Kirsty McGurrell set about conference in Birmingham. dusting off your knitting needles improving the keepsake she was given Vicky Bell is one such mum who has email [email protected] or call at the hospital. Victoria on 01287 284400. branched out with her angel work and Kirsty set up website 4Louis in aid set up charity 4Bell designing boxes of parents who had a similar for women who suffer a miscarriage in bereavement and the response from memory of her baby. parents was overwhelming. Alison Russell, delivery suite manager Two years on, Kirsty has gone and Maureen Gibson, bereavement nationwide providing boxes up and support worker welcomed the donation down the country. Her tremendous of the special memory boxes for James success is down to determination, Cook’s maternity unit. hard work and a deep empathy for all Alison said: “We can’t thank Kirsty parents who lose their precious baby. and her team of angels enough. The 4Louis charity recently won first The boxes have made such a Mavis Pickering (left) with infant prize in a charity drive receiving difference to parents and we wish feeding co-ordinator Victoria Head £7,000 from Benfield Motors and was them well in their future charity events also voted charity of the year at the and fundraising. 6 First scarless surgery for urology patients THE urology team at James Cook performed its “Advances in technology have allowed us to first scarless surgery procedure in October. develop keyhole surgery thanks to state-of-the This advanced technique sees surgery performed art cameras and instruments. through an incision in the belly button and “Now things have gone one step further and once the belly button is sewn up only a tiny scar these instruments have been miniaturised so that remains which is hardly visible. It can be used to they can get through the smallest of holes. Now Jemma’s story perform various procedures on kidneys and the we can use just one cut in the belly button and urinary tract with minimal cosmetic impact. achieve similar results to open surgery.” WHEN Jemma Purdy was told she would have to have her kidney One of the first patients to receive the treatment Aftab Bhatti, consultant urologist specialist in removed her main concern was the at James Cook was Tracey Wolf, a 37-year-old keyhole surgery said the urology department size of the scar she would be left with. at James Cook has been working with barmaid from Darlington who had her kidney internationally recognised expert Professor Mihir repaired through an incision in her belly button. But the 21-year-old was lucky enough to be one of the first urology Desai and the University of Southern California “It’s just amazing what they can do now,” patients at James Cook to undergo to ensure it remains at the forefront of minimally she said. scarless surgery. invasive surgery. “I know other people who have been left with Jemma of Thirsk was amazed when “A surgeon’s ambition has always been scars and they are paranoid about them. It’s nice surgeons removed her kidney to achieve a cure with minimum disruption to not to have a big scar to worry about when you through a single incision in her belly the skin and underlying muscles,” he said. go on holiday.” button without leaving so much as a scar. Jemma said: “I was really impressed with it. When I first woke up they showed me it and there was nothing there. “It’s just amazing how they get it all out of the one hole. “I was out of hospital the next day and I didn’t even need to take any painkillers. “I was conscious about any scarring so I was really happy to have this surgery – it’s a real confidence booster. “I can’t show my wound off because there’s nothing there to see!”

Friends phenomenal fundraising effort THANKS to the Friends of the to use the equipment, helping to Friarage’s phenomenal fundraising increase the number of urology a fantastic £120,000 worth of procedures carried out and the latest hi-tech equipment is decrease waiting times. benefiting urology patients at Consultant urologist, Mr Raj the hospital. Gowda, said: “I am delighted we The flexible video cystoscopes have this new equipment which will be used in the operating will help take the urology service theatres to provide higher to the next dimension enhancing quality images and improve the service we provide to patients diagnostic procedures for bladder at the Friarage and further afield.” cancer patients and patients Steve Lamb, chairman of the undergoing investigations. Friends, said: “As always the volunteers and local people The new video flexible who generously support us have ureterorenoscope will be useful pulled out all the stops to raise in diagnosing and treating this huge amount to help their certain types of kidney cancers local hospital. I am proud of their and kidney stones and avoid efforts and glad we can make a patients having more complex difference by making sure the Grateful thanks: (left to right) Steve Lamb with Emma Bradford, surgery in some cases. Friarage benefits from the latest urology sister, Dr Fawad Arif, specialist doctor in urology, Mr Alaiyi More hospital staff will be trained technology available.” West, consultant urologist and Mr Raj Gowda

7 Lyke Wake walkers’ long trek

A GROUP of 13 intrepid staff from cardiothoracic theatres donned their walking boots and marched 42 miles over the moorlands of North Yorkshire to raise funds for the surgical management of lung cancer. Between 14 and 16 hours after setting off from Osmotherley at 4am, the foot-sore band, pictured above, arrived in Ravenscar on the North Yorkshire coast. Their marathon effort raised around £2,100 which will be put towards a £12,000 target to purchase a video medistinoscope for to the fund, including Macmillan fantastic team event organised and use in treating lung cancer patients, nurses from Darlington who held car driven forward by the nursing staff. and the training of future surgeons. boot sales. I would like to thank every member Staff working from multidisciplinary Jonathan Ferguson, consultant of the team from fellow walkers to teams involved in the treatment of cardiothoracic surgeon who was those who were on hand every 10 lung cancer patients have contributed one of the walkers, said: “This was a miles with refreshments.”

Hospital opens new service for bereaved families A NEW bereavement service has opened Lead nurse for end of life care and appointment is booked. for families whose loved ones have died bereavement Elizabeth Price said: “We’ve The team also acts as a signposting service in hospital. been looking at having a centralised for relatives and the rest of the trust From January, a dedicated service at bereavement system for some time as and liaise with the coroner’s office, if James Cook means that instead of having we want to make the whole process as necessary, and funeral directors. to make a painful journey back onto smooth and easy as possible for families. Councillor Julia Rostron, Middlesbrough the ward to collect medical certificates “Before when someone died in hospital, Council’s executive member for and then attend an appointment at the family had to phone the ward the community protection, said: “We have Middlesbrough register office, families next day to see if a medical certificate supported this initiative since the hospital can now book one appointment with a of death was ready to pick up. small team who handle the entire process. first suggested it and worked closely with Unfortunately there are often delays Elizabeth to develop the service. The team, based in the Murray Building, with this when staff have to find the then chat to relatives, hand over any doctor to sign the certificate and the “Having a registrar on site is a wonderful belongings from the ward, provide a family can be kept waiting. service for bereaved relatives. The hospital medical certificate of death and take takes patients from a wide area and often “They then had to come back onto them one room along to see a registrar. relatives have a distance to travel to find the ward where their relative has died the hospital. The bereavement service to collect the certificate and often see removes the need for an additional unfamiliar staff because the shift had journey to the register office.” changed – it wasn’t a nice experience.” Elizabeth added: “The council has been The trust worked closely with brilliant – and from their perspective Middlesbrough Council to provide the they’re able to offer a better service new service and a registrar works full-time to families, particularly as the majority on site five days a week. The suite has of deaths which are registered in three rooms – one for Elizabeth and the Middlesbrough are from the hospital. bereavement support workers, a relatives’ “How we care for the relatives who have room and the registrar’s office. lost a loved one is an indicator of how Under the new service, when someone we care for all sick and vulnerable people dies on a ward, staff hand the family a and by offering one point of contact for bereavement booklet explaining that people we can hopefully ease some of someone from the service will telephone that burden for families during what is a The bereavement team them the next working day and an really distressing time in their lives.” 8 Cancer outpatient clinics open in new Endeavour Unit

CANCER outpatients are now being seen in the brighter and more modern surroundings of the Endeavour Unit at James Cook. The new two-storey building – part of our £35million cancer redevelopment - was handed over to trust in September following the completion Real stars: Jean presents the of the building. cheque to Claire Huntley, Over the next six months, more and superintendent radiographer, for more outpatients, both new and the STAR fund existing, will be asked to meet their consultant there, where they will be able to sit in comfort in the spacious The Endeavour Unit waiting area (bathed in natural light) to full use and both patients and staff ahead of their appointment. are delighted with the high standard of Our There is also a refreshment bar staffed the new facility.” by hospital volunteers and modern artwork adorns the walls and walkways. own This transition to the facility has begun and will be phased in to provide a full radiotherapy service by spring 2012, “The outpatient ‘stars’ when the linear accelerators, used in radiotherapy treatments, will be in use THE new Endeavour Unit has its in three main treatment suites, as well department very own ‘stars’ taking pride of as a CT scanner. and office place on a benefactors’ panel – Clinical director for radiotherapy and each one inscribed with the name oncology Dr Adrian Rathmell said: accommodation are of generous people who have “The outpatient department and office quickly building up donated over £1,000 towards accommodation are quickly building up cancer services. to full use.” Among the first to see them was the sister and friend of Pauline Martin – a tireless fundraiser who gave thousands to the hospital before she died of cancer. Her star simply reads ‘Pauline Martin and ‘the team’ and Jean and Sylvia were deeply moved and emotional. Their visit gave staff the opportunity to show them how some of the money had been used, including installing some illuminated panels in the ceilings of new treatment rooms. Once again, a big thank you from clinical oncologist Dr Nick Wadd and his team in the radiotherapy and oncology department.

9 A taste of hospital life….

PATIENTS have given staff ‘food for He said: “It’s important that people thought’ at the trust’s first patient coming into hospital for the first Celebrating experience and engagement event. time are reassured of what it’s like As part of our patient experience and the service they can expect from leadership strategy work, patients were invited to the healthcare assistants, nurses, talk ‘first hand’ about their experience consultants, doctors and therapists. SHARON Dawn Bateman, lead of being in hospital in terms of what I found it was the small things, over nurse wound care, celebrated her we do well and where we can improve. and above the call of duty that made innovative leadership by visiting all the difference.” the Royal Opera House with The event, in the academic centre at Deputy director of nursing and deputy chief nursing officer, James Cook focussed on compassion patient safety, Anne Sutcliffe, said David Foster. in care and hospital food, including taster session from a selection of the the trust now hopes to make this a Developing partnerships with hospital’s meals. regular event where we can listen to what patients are telling us community and industry have John Carr, catering services manager, about their experience and work in continued to improve patient said: “We know how critical partnership with them to continuously safety, endorse a positive wound- nutrition is to patient care and it care experience, help achieve was good showing patients how make improvements. targets and develop a skilled far hospital food has progressed over “The real test of our performance workforce and consistent approach the last 20 years, including the wide as a trust is the views and experiences across the trust. menu choices. of the people who use our services,” Sharon (second left) with staff “We serve 950,000 meals a year so she said. nurse, Samantha Roberts, Karen appreciate we cannot please everyone “We’re also inviting patients to take Covell, wound care manager but the comments and feedback part in a number of on-line surveys Molnlycke, David Foster, and Alison were valuable.” to tell us about their experience in McGrath, tissue viability nurse. A number of key themes emerged relation to the discharge process from from the event – many around hospital, their experiences regarding communication and discharge – infection prevention and control as which will be taken forward and well as their experience in accident and developed by the clinical matrons emergency departments, urgent care into an action plan. centres and outpatient departments.” It also included a DVD presentation Patient surveys can be accessed showing patient experience, which was through the trust’s website at filmed in the hospital and featured www.southtees.nhs.uk through the John Wilkinson, 60 from New Marske. patient survey link.

Grandtashes! A group of staff at James Cook have raised over £1,100 by taking part in ‘Movember’, the prostate and testicular cancer awareness campaign. Throughout November, moustaches were grown worldwide to raise awareness for men’s health issues in particular prostate and testicular cancer. Team captain Nick Smales said: “We have had great fun watching people’s moustaches take shape. We would like to thank everyone Food for thought: Patient Paul Daniel and deputy director of nursing and for their support and sponsorship.” patient safety Anne Sutcliffe sample some of the hospital food

10 THE division of acute medicine Outstanding staff presented an award to the ambulatory care team at James Cook in recognition of their outstanding contribution to quality of patient care, safety and risk management and their continued drive and enthusiasm. Individual outstanding contribution awards were also given to senior training facilitator Sue Murphy and advanced paediatric nurse High-flying practitioner Sarah Hamil. fundraisers BARMAIDS and members of Eston Labour Club took to the skies to raise funds for the holistic cancer care centre. The sponsored microlight flight was one of a number of events held by the club to help raise an impressive £12,900 for the centre. Mandy Oliver, Malcolm Baxter, Cath Cornwall and Robert McCreesh (pictured left to right) completed the challenge. The club holds a number of events every year for its chosen charity and this year the holistic centre has benefited from a range of events, one of which involved barmaids being pushed down a hill in a giant inflatable ball!

The patient safety team celebrate their success (left to right) Bernie Johnson, Over the years the club has raised David Charlesworth, Iain Greener, Judith Connor and Anne Sutcliffe a staggering £400,000 for local good causes. Malcolm said: “Club members have done everything from bungee jumps Patient safety to parachute jumps so we tried to think of something new for 2011 and came up with the idea of a award for trust microlight flight.” Lynne Gray, deputy manager of the SOUTH Tees has received national and practice development, and holistic cancer care centre, said: “We recognition from the Department of David Charlesworth, senior practice are delighted to have the support of Health for the work it has done to development nurse, travelled to Eston Labour Club and never cease to improve patient safety. London for the QIPP Safe Care be amazed by their fantastic efforts.” The trust’s patient safety team has Awards where they were presented been presented with a Safety Express with an award for sharing best award for piloting a campaign which practice in the field of patient safety. has helped hospital trusts reduce “We were delighted to receive the harm from pressure ulcers, falls, award as it recognised that our Tree of life urinary catheters and blood clots work has been widely shared and HUGE thanks to all the staff in (venous thromboembolism or VTE). implemented by others,” said David. the accident and emergency and outpatient departments at the Friarage The team has also initiated the Chief executive Simon Pleydell for very kindly donating the glass rollout of the safety thermometer – added: “Patient safety, patient plaque for Ellie Mae Wilson on the a new initiative to help clinical areas experience and quality of care are tree of life in the hub at the hospital. examine their own practices and at the heart of everything we do at implement changes in practice. It’s a lovely memory for all of us. the trust so it is fantastic to see our Bev Walker, assistant director of patient safety team receive an award Best wishes from Dean, Rachel nursing and patient safety, Judith for sharing best practice in this and Lucy Wilson, and all the Connor, lead nurse for patient safety important field.” families concerned.

11 Ladies in red LAST year, a review of corporate uniforms across the organisation clinical uniforms was carried out has begun, although it will take as they were dated and lacked two to three years for them to a corporate image and also to be completely standardised. support the trust’s bare below the elbows policy. Pictured is the senior nursing The change was consulted team in their new uniform, with staff and patients with although further details of who overall general support and the wears what will be available in process of rolling-out the new the next Talking Point. More than a silver service from Sandra HAPPY retirement and all the very best for the future to ward housekeeper, Sandra McIlroy, who has retired after 26 years keeping the Friarage clean and tidy. Sandra started her career as a domestic on the medical floor also working in the nurses’ home and doctors’ residence and for the last nine years on Ainderby ward. Thank you to Sandra for all her hard work over the years. She will be missed by everyone on Ainderby ward.

Military medics take “We’re looking forward to to the heights tackling this

THE DEFENCE Medical Services (DMS) team understanding of adventurous is mounting an expedition to Bolivia in June what happens to 2012 to carry out important medical research. patients in intensive challenge.” They aim to climb as high as 6104 metres care, how the body in the Corillera Real area in the Andes to deals with low oxygen Staying in investigate how people adjust and acclimatise levels in illness and why work keeps to the elements at high altitude. some patients cope better than others. you healthier Research on healthy volunteers will give The DMS team has over 60 members insights into severe illness and greater including expedition leader, Surgeon ANGELA Birleson, principal Commander Adrian Mellor, consultant clinician for occupational anaesthetist, Surgeon Commander Andy therapy, believes there Gibson, consultant eye surgeon, and are many benefits to Lieutenant Colonel Tim Lowes, consultant in encouraging people with anaesthesia and intensive care. neurological conditions Successful expeditions to Aconcagua in to keep on working. She Argentina and Mount Everest Base Camp has even completed a doctorate on the subject. and Island Peak in Nepal, have introduced personnel to the mountains and led to She said: “My PhD publications in medical literature. developed from my long-standing interest Training in Scotland and Wales will help in Parkinson’s Disease, develop the necessary climbing skills. Surgeon focussing on an Commander Mellor said: “We’re looking intervention to support forward to tackling this adventurous challenge people to maintain which develops skills useful to a military their employment. career and we can also carry out vital medical research to improve future treatments.” “There are major health benefits of staying in work Further details email [email protected]/ because work gives people www.mod.uk/DefenceInternet/MicroSite/ something to focus on Surgeon Commander, Adrian Mellor, on DMS/WhatWeDo/DefenceMedicalServices other than their illness.” summit ridge of Island Peak, Nepal MedicalScientificExpeditions.htm

12 Nurse call success A TELEPHONE overnight support service set up in Hambleton and Richmondshire is helping people nearing the end of their lives. Provided by the fast response team at the old Rutson Hospital it gives much-needed contact for palliative care patients out of normal working hours if they have a medical or nursing problem or just need some Last memory: Lord Crathorne friendly professional advice. and his family with artist Linda Pam McIvor, clinical manager, said: Kitson, trust chairman Deborah “Usually queries are relatively easy Jenkins and staff to deal with, such as a problem with medication or tips on relaxing if they can’t get to sleep. If we can’t help over the phone we may offer Family’s touching tribute in a home visit or refer to the out of memory of Lady Crathorne hours doctors service.” “As our team operates 24/7 we are A TOUCHING tribute has been paid to the Deputy director of planning Margaret available and more than happy to Friarage in memory of Lady Crathorne. McGloin said: “It has been acknowledged help improve services for people nearing end of life.” The Deputy Lieutenant of North Yorkshire the presence of art in hospitals can died in the hospital in September 2009 after help the healing process. These paintings a four-and-a-half year battle against cancer. are something for everyone to enjoy and will also create a lasting memorial to As a thank you to the staff who looked Lady Crathorne.” after her, the artist Linda Kitson (best known for her work as an official war Lord Crathorne added: “The gift was a artist during the Falklands conflict) in tribute to Sylvia and a way of thanking collaboration with the Crathorne family, the hospital staff for the wonderful way kindly donated eight paintings. they looked after her during her four and The Lord Lieutenant of North Yorkshire, a half year battle with cancer. The family Lord Crathorne, and family members particularly remember the extraordinary returned to the hospital to meet staff and care given by staff during the final week of view the water colours. Sylvia’s life in September 2009.”

Improving the ward environment for dying patients receives national praise A HOSPITAL ward refurbishment – ‘Best Response to DH Policy Award’. still a wealth of talent out there and including a purpose-built palliative some fantastic schemes.” care bay to improve facilities for Jo Makosinski, editor of BBH, said: Ward nine’s make-over included a new patients at the end of their lives – has “Despite the NHS reforms and the relatives room, palliative care facility received national praise. uncertainty of the healthcare estate in the current economic climate, there is (created from a former six bedded bay Ward 9, which cares for patients with allowing patients more privacy and respiratory problems at James Cook, dignity) and a modern nurses station. was highly commended in the Building Deputy director of planning Margaret Better Healthcare Awards. McGloin said: “We make a conscious The redevelopment, completed as part effort to ensure new areas support a of The King’s Fund ‘Enhancing the healing and caring environment and Healing Environment Programme for this was reflected through all the hard End of Life Care’ in partnership with work done on ward 9. It’s nice for the the Department of Health, was runner- trust and our building partners to be up in the estates and facilities category commended at the awards.”

13 Festive spirit in full flow… Thank you to everyone who gave up their time over the festive Star appeal: The 2011 Christmas season to support Christmas Stars appeal raised £570 to help parties, fundraising events and the future cancer patients. Staff, performing arts programme. patients and visitors were invited Ten years of tradition: Children to hang a star on the Christmas from the trust’s Playdays nursery were tree in the atrium in memory excited to welcome a ‘peace light’ of a loved one in return for a brought all the way from Bethlehem donation to Macmillan Cancer to the chapel at James Cook. It was Support. A Christmas Carol Service brought by Arthur and Sue Wooff from of Remembrance was also held the fourth South Bank Scout Group. featuring music from the Angrove Amani Hussain and Paddy Winters are Singers. Bladder cancer patient pictured here taking a closer look. Lead Bill Bell of Stockton, said: “The chaplain Malcolm Masterman said: “We Macmillan team at James Cook have taken part in this lovely Christmas have been a terrific help. There is tradition at James Cook for around 10 always someone there to talk to.” years. The aim is for the light to reach as many people as possible around the world to share with them the message of peace.” Christmas comes early: Christmas came early for the children’s wards when nine-year- old Ethan McElvaney and his family handed over £1,200 worth of gifts. Ethan, who is diabetic and was once treated on the ward, presented staff with a number of items to make life easier for future patients and their families including camp beds, digital televisions, Wii games, DVDs, kettles and crockery. Ethan’s family raised the funds for the Festive fun: There was not a spare seat gifts by raffling a range of luxury in the atrium when children from the hampers. Nursery nurse Dawn Cleveland Unit performed their annual McCabe said: “From the children’s nativity. Packed with popular carols point of view these gifts will just and colourful costumes the Christmas bring so much pleasure.” performance was hit with both staff and parents. Cleveland Unit manager Liz Pickard said: “All the children were fantastic. I was very proud of them all.” Boro stars kickstart celebrations: Boro players ensured young patients on the children’s wards at James Cook had a Christmas to remember when they turned up at the hospital with bags full of presents and MFC merchandise. The players chatted to the youngsters and their families and signed autographs. Scott McDonald and Jordan Wilcock

14 Festive spirit in full flow…

Time for giving: Children at Roseberry Primary in Billingham raised more than £700 to buy toys for the children’s wards at James Cook. The fundraising drive was led by 10-year- old classmates Millie Christmas choir: Youngsters from St Pius X Hudson and Brinley Roman Catholic Primary School got everyone at Turnbull who were James Cook in the festive mood with a selection both treated on of favourite Christmas carols and songs. Ward 22 at the same time and wanted to do something to help future patients. Carols around the Christmas tree: Events included a bake sale and a Pupils from Beech Grove Primary School non-uniform day and entertained guests at the holistic cancer the children formed care centre’s Christmas coffee morning a special committee with a range of carols and favourite to decide which toys Christmas songs. The coffee morning and games to buy. raised more than £800.

Presents galore: Young patients on the children’s wards had plenty to smile about when staff from Orange, Everything Everywhere made a special Christmas delivery. The Orange, Everything Everywhere team from Darlington did some extra Christmas shopping this year and delivered more than 70 wrapped presents Bikers bring festive cheer: The road to to the children’s wards at recovery was hopefully a bit brighter for children James Cook. and young people at the Friarage after RAF Leeming’s Motorcycle Club visited the children’s unit. The club members are no strangers to the It’s child’s unit, making trips every Easter and Christmas. play: Staff from Hambleton District Council held dress down days to raise £600 worth of equipment, toys and games for the Children’s ward at the Friarage Hospital. These will be used on the ward and in local children’s centres.

15 Children’s spinal service opens CHILDREN and young people with Ciaran had to undergo an operation and while these are useful, and spinal conditions now have access to a to straighten her spine – a procedure highlight what excellent results the specialist team at James Cook. which left her 7.5cm taller. But the surgeons achieve, I felt that families Carmel RC College pupil said it was needed more information about the This means young patients and great only having to travel 20 minutes whole process.” their families no longer need to to the hospital. travel all the way to Leeds or Newcastle for treatment. “The staff at James Cook have been absolutely fantastic,” she said. The specialised service ensures that all children in the area with back Ciaran has helped the paediatric spine problems are seen by experts and service produce a photographic guide have access to a specialist nurse who for future patients entitled “Scoliosis provides support and advice. Surgery – A Patient’s Journey” to help children and their families visualise Ciaran Jasper, 16, was one of the first what is involved. to benefit from the scheme when she was diagnosed with scoliosis, a Specialist nurse Cheryl Honeyman condition which had caused her spine said: “We show people before Ciaran Jasper with specialist nurse to curve in two places like a letter “S”. and after surgery x-rays in the clinic Cheryl Honeyman on Ward 22

The Malawian delegation meet the trust’s chief executive and IPC team

“We were so pleased to be able to host a visit from our Malawian colleagues.” Malawians visit trust THE trust is taking part in the visits at James Cook, Redcar and Carter World Health Organisation’s Bequest hospitals. African Partnership for Patient Safety Programme. Assistant director of nursing/deputy director of infection prevention and Last year, members of the infection control Alison Peevor, said: “We were so prevention and control team (IPC) pleased to be able to host a visit from travelled to Kamuzu Hospital in our Malawian colleagues which enabled Lilongwe, Malawi, to focus on hand two staff to complete the trust’s IPC hygiene and in October the team played training course and conduct a number host to our African colleagues. of audits and surveillance. The aim is They were shown IPC procedures, that they will take this back to Kamuzu Mathews Muhota and Emmie Kamwana attended training, carried out a hospital and implement a number of chat to Heather Lyle at Carter Bequest number of observations and department new IPC related initiatives.” 16 Jayne’s heart award is one you just can’t beat

NURSE consultant in cardiac rhythm waiting times and admission rates. 87% management, Jayne Mudd, has of our patients remain in the community become the first non-doctor to win and don’t need hospital treatment.” the prestigious award for outstanding medical contribution to cardiac rhythm management services at the heart rhythm congress. Jayne and her team see, diagnose and treat patients with arrhythmia, a condition where the heart beat may be too fast, or too slow or irregular, in community clinics in the Middlesbrough (Left to right) Lesley Butterworth, and Redcar and Cleveland area. discharge nurse, Bill, Mavis and Paula Morris Jayne, who is internationally recognised as the first nurse consultant in cardiac rhythm management, said: “I was delighted to have picked up the Red Cross award on behalf of our dedicated and innovative team. Since the launch of volunteers the community arrhythmia service in 2008, we have seen vastly improved honoured access and smoother patient pathways, and this has since been replicated Congratulations to Bill Wiggans around the country. and Mavis Dozey, volunteers for the British Red Cross Care in “Our new ‘blackout’ triage service is also the Home service, based at the showing drastically reduced hospital Friarage, who received awards at a bed days, referral to treatment times, Jayne with her award forum and awards ceremony. Bill received a badge of honour. He devotes a tremendous amount of time visiting patients recently Helping patients in discharged from hospital in their homes and also undertakes regular an emergency ward rounds checking if patients need support when they go home. THE generosity of Friends of the 2010 Resuscitation Guidelines Friarage means more resuscitation recommend if intravenous access Mavis received her 15-year service equipment is now available to cannot be established in the first two badge. She visits patients in their help patients. minutes of resuscitation, intraosseous home helping them with shopping, access (access through the bone so light housework, and even emergency drugs and fluids can be providing therapeutic care. given) should be considered. The Care in the Home service Thanks to the Friends, the provides low-level support to patients for up recommendations can be put further to six weeks. into clinical practice as three EZ10 For further devices have been bought for the “He devotes a information, hospital, along with ‘training bones’ so or if you are tremendous key staff can be trained. interested in amount of time Resuscitation officer Donna Campbell volunteering said the Friarage previously had the contact visiting patients EZIO device – similar to a small drill for Paula Morris, recently discharged intraosseous access – in the children’s service co- unit and accident and emergency. ordinator from hospital in Nurse practitioners Nia Lomer The new kits will be in theatre and on extension their homes.” and Christopher Blackham receive obstetrics, as well as one for general 64646 FHN or their training use by the resuscitation team. 01609 764646.

17 “In Teesside we have a large number of people who suffer with symptoms, but do not have a formal diagnosis.”

COPD outreach team staff watch specialist nurse Angela Charlesworth test patient Wilfred Routledge at James Cook Are you short of breath? AS PART of World Chronic Obstructive people who suffer with symptoms, but Pulmonary Disease (COPD) day, staff from do not have a formal diagnosis. If COPD is the COPD outreach team carried out a recognised and treated at an early stage simple test on patients, visitors and staff it can be managed effectively with life Breathing at James Cook which could be a lifesaver! style changes to slow disease progression and medications which can significantly more easily COPD is a term for people with chronic improve patient quality of life.” PRACTICE nurses, GPs, community bronchitis, emphysema, or both matrons and case managers meaning airflow to the lungs is restricted Stopping smoking is one of the easiest attended a COPD and asthma (obstructed). Spirometry - an easy methods of preventing COPD and other event organised by respiratory breathing test - allows COPD and asthma long-term conditions and the event specialist nurse for Hambleton and to be detected early and managed well. supports the trust’s smoke free policy Richmondshire, Joy Parrington, which aims to: Locally, deaths from respiratory diseases to promote the development of account for a fifth to a quarter of all early • Protect the health of patients, visitors standard guidelines for asthma preventable deaths every year and COPD and staff across North Yorkshire and York and is responsible for many of these alongside the national Strategy for COPD. • Provide a clean and pleasant asthma and lung cancer. environment Pictured (left to right) are Terry Dr Rehan Mustafa, respiratory medicine • Improve the safety of our hospital sites Robinson, respiratory specialist consultant, said, “COPD is usually the nurse, Joy, Julie Ryan, telehealth, result of tobacco smoke but other factors, • Improve patient recovery and comfort Sam Haward, Hambleton, particularly occupational exposure to The local stop smoking services can be Richmondshire and Whitby PCT and dusts and chemicals, may also contribute contacted on 01642 850850 extension Chris Ward, nurse consultant adult to its development. 52065 at James Cook or the specialist stop palliative care. “In Teesside we have a large number of smoking service on 01287 284487.

COPD facts Could it be COPD? If you answer 3 Do you bring up phlegm or 5 Are you a current smoker or these questions, it will help you find mucus most days? an ex smoker? out if you have COPD: 4 Do you get out of breath If you answered yes to three or more 1 Do you cough several times a day? more easily than others of these questions, ask your doctor if 2 Are you older than 40 years? your age? you might have COPD.

18 Clinical support services year of success

THE THIRD annual divisional celebration event was a great opportunity for newly integrated community and acute staff to come together and look at their accomplishments over the year. Chief of service Linda Irons highlighted the key successes from each department, referring particularly to the successful integration of acute and community based services and the delivery of the new Endeavour unit’s CT scanner and linear accelerators. therapy staff in Middlesbrough, • role of speech and language The rest of the afternoon was Redcar and Cleveland therapy and occupational therapy devoted to presentations on some • acute physiotherapy- led in supporting cancers of the central fascinating projects: talipes service nervous system • medical physics research into • treatment and care of haematological It was standing room only for the neonatal resuscitation cancer patients event, which also gave staff valuable • patient experience survey carried • pharmacy prescription networking time over celebratory tea out by community occupational tracking system and cakes. GMC chair visits James Cook CHAIR of the General Medical Council, The trust will have over 500 medical Professor Sir Peter Rubin, visited the staff needing revalidation over five year trust to find out more about its plans cycles. As responsible officer, Medical Children with panto staff for revalidation. director Professor Rob Wilson, will need to provide recommendations to the When revalidation is introduced in GMC for each individual. This will be Panto for 2012 doctors will have to regularly underpinned by evidence from annual demonstrate to the GMC that they are appraisals including patient feedback up to date and complying with relevant questionnaires and colleague 360 play week professional standards. degree feedback. Sir Peter met with executive directors THE National Association of before giving a presentation to doctors, Hospital Play staff teamed HR representatives and managers. up with Starlight Children’s Foundation to entertain the Sir Peter said: “I’m delighted to have children’s day surgical unit with a had the opportunity to meet doctors pantomime at James Cook. and managers at James Cook Hospital. It’s encouraging to see the work being Starlight provides entertainment and distraction in hospitals and done to develop appraisal systems in hospices as well as granting the trust and to engage doctors in the wishes for seriously ill children. preparation for revalidation, which will The aim of the play was not only begin from the end of 2012. to allow poorly children to laugh “It’s so important for the GMC to visit and dance but to raise awareness hospitals like the James Cook so we can Sir Peter Rubin pictured outside the of the benefits of play in the listen to, and improve the way we work academic centre with medical director Rob treatment of children. with doctors and managers to deliver Wilson, associate medical director Jim Hall safer care for patients.” and revalidation manager Sue Wooding 19 All winners need coaching

SOUTH Tees is committed to building a culture in which coaching is second nature, supporting staff to maximise their full potential. Currently the trust has over Darren Watson (centre) with the James Cook team at the launch 40 multidisciplinary coaches who offer staff a unique development opportunity. Michelle Parker charity launch Twelve months ago, research A FUNDRAISING campaign has been officially • Highly specialised ultrasound scanning nurse Grace Madzinga had launched to buy state-of-the-art equipment for equipment which can be used to identify the the opportunity to speak at the neurosurgery team at James Cook in memory position and extent of tumours during surgery an international conference in of a 42-year-old mum who battled two brain • An image guided neuronavigation system London. The thought filled her tumours. with fear and Grace contacted which allows 3D modelling of tumours Michelle Parker - or Shelly to her friends – lost the improvement alliance and before surgery so that the operations can be her fight for life in December 2010 but during performed with greater precision asked for their support. her final weeks she made lifelong partner Darren Watson promise to give something back to • Specialist endoscopic equipment which allows Three coaching sessions with keyhole surgery for treatment of tumours one of the trust’s many trained James Cook for the amazing care she received. coaches - consultant urologist Darren has set up The Michelle Parker The launch event took place at Rockliffe Jo Creswell - gave her the Charity with the aim of raising as much as Hall Hotel and was attended by chief executive confidence to speak to an possible towards the following state-of-the Simon Pleydell and representatives from audience of 500 people. -art equipment: neurosurgery. It featured a charity auction which • An operating microscope with specialist raised £5,000. Grace now feels ‘she has a voice’ immunofluorescent filters which will allow For more information contact Darren on and increased confidence in more radical removal of brain tumours 07973 462878. her working life. The positive reinforcement through coaching has made her stronger and believe in her own ability. Olympic fever hits the trust Do you have potential to TRUST staff will be invited to take part unlock or need support with in a range of Olympic themed fitness personal development? If you activities in 2012. are interested in coaching for you or someone you manage The occupational health team is please contact Denise Corbett launching a Workforce Workfit challenge on extension 52454 JCUH email which will include a range of taster sessions as well as some structured [email protected] or coaching at a variety of local venues. Amy Stabler on 54199 JCUH amy. [email protected]. Occupational health manager Pam McCourt said: “We will be offering staff a wide range of activities, most of which will have an Olympic theme! “Staff are being asked to fill in The occupational health team gets ready for questionnaires so we can find out what the Workforce Workfit challenge (l-r) Aline people would like to have a go at and Marron, Pam McCourt and Eileen Tilley when would be the most popular times for these sessions. “So whether you want to improve your the 2012 Olympic Games. badminton skills, set up a volley ball The HR led scheme is expected to start team, learn a few judo moves or have a in the spring and has been funded by go at your first triathlon we want you to NHS Northeast in partnership with the let us know about it.” Journal’s Great North Fitness Revolution. South Tees has been awarded £4,000 to For more information or to submit your improve staff fitness during the run up to ideas contact [email protected]

20 The green choice Hi. I’m Rajni Sisodiya, the trust’s • Turn off office equipment “We are very sustainability advisor, and an important such as lamps, fans, excited to be part of my job is to make sure we reduce photocopiers, our CO2 emissions, promote sustainable printers and PCs embarking on the development and, of course, save money! at the end of each As one of UK’s biggest trusts, we produce working day recycling project.” over 29,000 tonnes of CO2 per year and • Keep doors and have set ourselves an ambitious target to windows closed when heating is cut our emissions by 25% by 2015. If we are turned on to achieve this saving energy is a key area • Turn down the heating to 18-20 degrees. we need to focus on. Setting your thermostat up or down a It is a tough time with numerous targets to degree or two can make a huge difference chase but if we all follow some simple steps, in energy consumption savings will follow. Not only will we help to protect the environment, we will also help • Recycle whatever you can Waste not the trust achieve much needed savings: • Print on double-sided paper and cut paper • Avoid using appliances such as portable usage by 50% want not heaters, humidifiers, air cleaners • Cycle or walk to work if possible – it • Avoid additional equipment in offices produces no carbon emissions THE FIRST phase of a project to such as kettles, coffee makers, • Cut out short car trips – take the bus or car centralise recycling of waste has microwaves, fridges share with colleagues begun at James Cook • If you don’t need it, switch it off at the Soon, we are launching an energy/ The trust’s private sector partner wall. Appliances running on standby environmental awareness campaign and are power waste a great deal of energy. now recruiting volunteers who can lead the Carillion – responsible for waste collection at the hospital - has • Do you really need lights on in the office campaign in their wards/departments. If you during the day? Switch off – it’s good for want to become a ‘champion’, then drop appointed recycling company, the environment and financially me a line at [email protected] Sita UK, both to manage recycling • Turn off lights in conference rooms, or ring me on extension 52866 JCUH and to raise staff awareness and offices and other spaces when they aren’t and remember… skills to support their efforts. Every little helps! being used A wide range of materials are targeted for recycling including general waste, dry mix recycling, cardboard, paper, food, plastics, linen, wood, metal, green waste, mattresses and electrical items. Ian Roberts, assistant director of operations and maintenance, said: “Our target is a 30% reduction of landfill disposal to a recycling route. Sita has a very proactive approach to reducing landfill waste and a number of unique plants that can convert waste into various by-products.” Chief executive Simon Pleydell added: “We are very excited to be embarking on the recycling project and have been encouraged in this by our Waste winners staff. We are anxious to do our CONGRATULATIONS to the district re-negotiating rates for waste bit for the environment and some staff have already started nursing administration team, above, collection and standardising doing their own recycling in who won a bottle of champagne for the purchase of hand gels and their efforts in reducing the trust’s individual departments.” surgical gloves. costs by identifying waste. Work is ongoing to see if The team, who later donated the Can you think of a way to cut other initiatives can be piloted bottle to Cheryl O’Rourke’s raffle waste in the trust? Call 01642 and a similar scheme developed (page 23), saved £4,500 by 835592 extension 55592. at the Friarage.

21 Conker champions Helping hands THE first ever North East Conker Championship raised £200 for the oncology ward at James Cook. We are grateful for the generosity of local people and the support of all the Teesside Park manager Mike dedicated people who raise money to help patients at the trust’s hospitals. Clarke said: “Our retailers and shoppers are always up for a challenge and it was a great way to raise money for a good cause.” Fantastic fundraisers FUNDRAISERS have presented £1307.47 In memory to the Chemotherapy Day Unit at James Cook after holding a charity football match and seventies night at of Sonia Erimus Social Club. A SONIA Rennison memorial golf Teresa Scott organised the events, day raised £500 to benefit future together with daughter Lisa patients at the Friarage’s Mowbray Broomfield, in memory of her late suite. Sonia was previously outpatients husband Ian Scott. They are pictured manager at the Friarage, a much loved here handing a cheque to the unit’s will be used to help improve patient and well-respected colleague, dedicated manager Debbie Gippert. The money services in the new unit. to her work. David, Graham and Shaun Rennison would like to thank all the golfers, families, friends and Richard Boucher and Andrew Bickerton and the staff Comfort for their kind generosity in making it a very successful day. and care BABY Olivia Burton surrounded by towels, vests, babygros and a lullaby player which will help bring comfort and warmth to tiny tots at the Friarage’s special care baby unit (SCBU).

Family rally round THANKS to caring aunty Kim Stooke pictured (second left) and her family, the Friarage special care baby unit (SCBU) has two Charity trek special heated cot mattresses to keep tiny premature and poorly WALKERS completed a 10-mile babies warm. hike up Skiddaw – the fourth largest mountain in England – to Their successful fundraising help raise £1,100 for the breast drive included Kim’s husband, care fund at James Cook. Wayne and father John Sutherland cycling the coast to Darren Watkins and his sister coast raising £3,000. Claire Watkins handed the funds Congratulations and many thanks to to specialist breast care nurses Curt Tasker (staff nurse Jane Tasker’s The family wanted to thank the Sue Towes and Sarah Morter, son) for his effort and generosity in staff for caring for their surviving who have supported Claire in her completing the Great North Run in one twin, Joe Wood pictured here battle against breast cancer. hour 49 minutes to raise money to help with his family and SCBU staff. SCBU for the second year in a row.

22 Helping hands We are grateful for the generosity of local people and the support of all the dedicated people who raise money to help patients at the trust’s hospitals. Bangers boost Beans means funds Friends fund A BAKED bean-phobic family friend has helped John Bingham TO CELEBRATE British Sausage Week, local and his partner Gillian Iles raise pig farmer, Tim Chapman, joined forces money for the neonatal unit at with Caroline and Scott Young of the James Cook by taking a plunge in Coore Arms, Scruton. a bath of them. Tim donated locally produced sausages and The stunt was part of a charity Caroline and Scott designed three different night in memory of their baby sausages dishes which were well received Ruby Amelia who was born at the pub raising £400 for the Friends of 17 weeks premature in July the Friarage Hospital. and despite the care received Friend’s chairman Steve Lamb (centre) is in the unit, sadly died ten days pictured with Scott and Caroline Young, later. John is shown handing Tim and his daughter, Kate Chapman, who over £766.82 to staff nurse helped promote the event. Danielle Morley.

Sisters’ £8,000 thank you CHERYL O’Rourke, healthcare assistant with the district nursing team based at Eston, and her sister Lita Martin, housekeeper ward 25 at James Cook, have raised around £8,000 for the comfort of neurosciences patients after the care their father received when he was a patient in the haematology day unit. Pictured at their tombola stall in the atrium at James Cook are (left to right) Lita, Amanda Moore, ward 26, Cheryl and former healthcare assistant Sheila Millington. 50th birthday bonus THE FRIARAGE children’s community nurses have received £615, thanks to firefighter, Richard Henry. Richard asked for donations instead of gifts for his 50th birthday to thank them for supporting his family by looking after daughter Rosie, 13, who sadly died in August 2010. Sister Clare Wellford pictured with paediatrician, Dr Jon James, staff nurse Denise Vernon, Richard and Daniel (Rosie’s brother) said: “The nurses have very fond memories of Rosie - she was always smiling and had a wicked personality.”

23 “The awards recognise physiotherapists who have shown innovation and excellence to provide even better services for patients.”

(left to right) Helen Lal, senior specialist physiotherapist thoracic surgery, Halina Baker operational leader physiotherapy, Brighton Paradza, senior specialist physiotherapist, cardiothoracics and Sue Rees, vice chair of CSP Retirement joy Physios win award for for Jan helping patients return COLLEAGUES have wished Jan Lacey, who started her nurse training in 1965, a long and happy home sooner retirement. In 2001, Jan joined the patient flow THE CARDIOTHORACIC Society of Physiotherapy’s (CSP) management team but always retained close links to physiotherapy team at James Service Excellence Awards held the division of surgery. Cook have won a prestigious in November at London’s Hotel profession-wide award for their Russell attended by more than Jan began her training with the Queen Alexandra Royal innovative service. 100 physiotherapists from across Army Nursing Corps and following registration spent the country. most of her working within the surgical specialties, an They introduced a seven-day service based on a new shift Dr Helena Johnson, CSP chair, area of work that she really enjoyed. pattern meaning patients who said: “The awards recognise had coronary artery bypass surgery physiotherapists who have shown had improved access to the innovation and excellence to intensive rehabilitation services provide even better services for they needed. patients. The James Cook team have demonstrated both of The new service helped patients those qualities in abundance and leave hospital 0.6 days quicker thoroughly deserve their award.” on average, saving the NHS Chief executive, Simon Pleydell, £85,000 over a year. Across said: “The seven-day working all cardiothoracic surgical model in cardiothoracic conditions, the team reduced physiotherapy is a prime patients length of stay by two example of how staff have bed-days, which helped increase worked together and embraced the number of patients passing change to improve the service through the department. – with the patient firmly at the The team won the seven-day centre of everything they do – working category at the Chartered and outcomes.” Scholars’ corner Welcome THE latest cohort of pre-registration nursing and midwifery students from Teesside University began their clinical placement journey at the trust in November. Patients first - how Importance of Patient safety The 75 students took away the important and basic nursing and how following key messages reflecting the central the patient care and to protect trust’s core values and nursing and is to the trust communication the patient midwifery fundamental values and behaviours from the practice placement facilitators home trust induction.

24 “Learn through play the Montessori way” Montessori Pre-School Caring for children from 6 weeks to 5 years. Contact us: Our early years programme enhances self Blue Peter House, confidence, individuality, creativity & 127-129 Green Lane, Acklam, Middlesbrough TS5 7AD self expression. Tel: 01642 270511 • Early reading, writing & numeracy Montessori Pre-School Central, activities are provided including French. 46 Southfield Road, Middlesbrough TS1 3EU • Excellent OFSTED reports. Tel: 01642 252723 • Government grants for 3 & 4 year olds. Also incorporating: • High staff ratio for quality care. Thornaby Childrens Nursery • School holiday club for 4 - 8 year olds. 462 Thornaby Road, Thornaby, Stockton on Tees TS17 8QH www.montessoripreschoolnursery.co.uk Tel: 01642 750113

Nunthorpe Nurseries Group ❚ Stimulating, happy and safe surroundings ❚ Signing Tots ❚ Yog a ❚ Sessional places available ❚ Excellent newly refurbished outdoor play areas ❚ Flexible Nursery education grant places available We have nurseries at Acklam, Billingham, Ormesby, Brambles Farm, Nunthorpe, Park End, Middlesbrough, Ingleby Barwick & Stockton. email: [email protected] www.nunthorpenurseries-grp.co.uk Need a little help getting to, or in, hospital ?

WRVS, the older people’s charity, has Tel: 01642 325312 a hospital support service to

Every possible care has been taken to ensure that the information given in this publication is accurate. Whilst the publisher would be grateful to learn of any errors, it cannot accept • help older people attend medical appointments any liability over and above the cost of the advertisement for loss there by caused. No reproduction by any method whatsoever of any part of this publication is permitted • help older people during a stay in hospital without prior written consent of the copyright owners. Octagon Design & Marketing Ltd. ©2012. Britannic Chambers, 8a Carlton Road, Worksop, Notts. S80 1PH Tel: 01909 478822 • help them prepare to come home from hospital • help them in their own home after a stay in hospital

If you need a little help or know of OCTAGON someone who needs a little help anywhere DESIGN & MARKETING LTD in Britain, simply contact WRVS on 0845 600 5885 or visit wrvs.org.uk

To advertise in this publication Registered charity 1015988 & SC038924 please call the sales team on 01909 478822 South Tees Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, has not vetted the advertisers in this publication and accepts no liability for work done or goods supplied by Britannic Chambers, 8A Carlton Road, Worksop, Nottinghamshire S80 1PH any advertiser. Nor does South Tees Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust endorse 01909 478822 | www.octagon.org.uk | [email protected] any of the products or services. SUPPORT DESIGN PRINT

25 £350

Looking for a new place to live? Live Smart @ Home

by café culture and close to rail and subsidiary of Home group – with the back-up Why not move into one of our motorway links. Many properties boast of being part of a UK-wide organisation. We’re well-maintained and – above all Marina and sea views one of Britain's biggest housing businesses - affordable homes? and every year we open doors for thousands Our Stockton apartments owe their popularity of people across the UK. to their brilliant location many offering canal Views – with easy access to the A19 and a ten But don’t just take our word for it… minute drive from James Cook Hospital. The properties are also ideally located close to the ever popular Teesside Retail Park offering excellent shopping and leisure facilities We have available one, two and three bedroom well-maintained properties with 24- hour repairs call-out. Most properties are fully furnished with white goods provided. Prices start from £395 per month for a one- We attract a wide variety of customers – from bedroom apartment. working people and international students to Ray Swales corporate lets. We can offer accompanied viewings Monday I’ve lived here at Neptune in Hartlepool to Friday plus late-night and weekends “ for four years and can’t recommend it From North Yorkshire right up to North viewings subject to availability. enough as I’ve got a fabulous view of Tyneside, our homes are close to excellent the marina and my friends are always transport links and ideally located in reach of Call us freephone on 0800 028 3629 and ask pleased to come and visit. I work as a a wide range of big employers. about out special offers which include free lock control officer just a five minute gym membership on all Hartlepool properties Come to Hartlepool for stylish apartment walk away so it’s just as well I never get tired of looking at the water! The support living right beside the marina – surrounded Live Smart @ Home is a private landlord staff are excellent – when you first move in, they give you a very detailed tour explaining how everything works which Unit 36, Navigation Point, Middleton Road, Hartlepool Marina, Hartlepool TS24 OU3 is particularly impressive. Tel: 0800 0283629 Email: [email protected] ”

26 Eat well, all is well 10% off takeaway collection

FINEST INDIAN DINING 10% NHS discount with ID

Spice Times Restaurant Awards 2011 North East Finalist & County Champion for Middlesbrough

Wishing all of our customers a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year 1A Marton Est Square, Stokesley Road, Marton, Middlesbrough TS7 8DU Tel: 01642 326189 / 311999 7 Harland Place, Norton, Stockton-on-Tees TS20 1AL Tel: 01642 559500 www.jolsha.co.uk

27 Families’ Information Services Your local family services, activities Information on Childcare and Nursery and events are just a click away Education is just a phone call away

For advice and guidance on finding For all the answers on family registered childminders, day services in your local area just visit nurseries, out of school clubs your local directory and playgroups Middlesbrough www.middlesbrough.gov.uk/fsd

Redcar and Cleveland Just call your local Family www.redcarclevelandcyptrust.org.uk/familiesguide Information Service:

 Middlesbrough FIS 01642 354200  Redcar and Cleveland FIS 0800 073 8800

Designed & Published by Octagon Design & Marketing Ltd, Britannic Chambers, 8a Carlton Road, Worksop, Notts. S80 1PH Tel: 01909 478822