THE NHS HIGHLAND STAFF NEWSPAPER December 2018 HighNOVEMBERlights 2015

AWARD WINNERS Staff’s hard work and dedication pays off

STAFF AND TEAMS working for NHS Highland have Two senior nurse practitioners, Lorraine Watson and won a bountiful number of awards in the run up to the Anne Campbell, based in East/Mid Ross Adult Community Festive Season this year. Mental Health team won two awards at the Mental Health Whether they were UK, national, or local, these awards help to show the level of dedication and commitment that staff Continued on page 2 make to provide the best possible delivery of health and social care to the communities they serve. And in Highlights, we have included stories in this Christ- Festive fun on ‘Christmas Jumper Day’! mas edition marking their achievements. Professor Angus Watson won the Innovation Award for his work in research, development and innovation and Lesley Blaikie, won the Nurse Award for her work to support people living with cystic fibrosis at the Scottish Health Awards in No- vember. Specialist pharmacists Liz Buist and Rebecca McLelland’s poster about the pilot to improve the wellbeing of patients with mental health issues in remote and rural practices won the Service Development Category at the College of Mental Health’s International Conference. The Drug and Alcohol Recovery Service team at Osprey House, Inverness were awarded an HQA for improving access for patient’s drug and alcohol support. Raigmore ’s domestic services team also won an HQA for demonstrating their willingness for going ‘above and beyond’ to support patients, especially earlier this year after the clostridium difficile outbreak, the ‘Beast from the East’ the flu outbreak, and significant issues in the hospital’s theatres. Despite work pressures, big-hearted staff across NHS Highland took time to help raise money for Mr James Beastall, Trauma and Orthopaedic consultant at good causes. Find out more on page 7. Raigmore was recognised for his work with an Honorary Cita- tion from the College of Podiatry. - - Staff recognition

Help us to fight loneliness and Continued from front social isolation. Check out: http://www.reachout.scot.nhs.uk Contents

4 Statement from David Alston 5 A&B’s Joanna Macdonald 6 Consultation 8 CarePortral goes ‘live’ 9 Specialist pharmacists Award 10 HQA awards 13 Award winner: Mandi Smith 14 Queen’s Nurses 16 Technology: Suicide app Above: Raigmore’s Domestic 17 Comings & Goings Services team receiving its 19 Smoke-free charter HQA from David Alston 21 Q&A: David Ross Keep us informed Below: Rebecca McLelland, Karen Macaskill and Liz Buist; Do you know of something you Lesley Blaikie; and Angus Wat- think should be featured in High- ton receiving their awards lights? An award, an achievement, The Osprey House, Drug and Alco- a piece of research, an appoint- hol Recovery team receiving their ment, a retiral … you name it, award from NHS Highland chair, Highlights has a place for it. Please David Alston. send your articles to mark. Nursing Forum Awards. They won [email protected] (01463 704876). both the ‘Dementia Care’ and ‘Practice of the Year’ awards at the annual event in Glasgow. Mandi Smith, lead specialist heart failure nurse, at You can follow was one of five UK winners of the NHS Highland on... ‘You’re Simply Marvellous’ Award.

Two nurses were awarded the WEBSITE prestigious title of Queen’s Nurse. www.nhshighland.scot.nhs.uk Cathanna Smith and Julie Lennon were both presented with a certifi- FACEBOOK cate and badge by ’s chief https://www.facebook.com/ nursing officer Professor Fiona NHSHighland McQueen during the awards cere- TWITTER mony at The Principal Edinburgh on www.twitter.com/NHSHighland or George Street hotel (Thursday 29th @NHSHighland November 2018). And last, but not least, the On- cology Department at Raigmore won the Hospital Pharmacy Team of the Year Award at this year’s Scottish Pharmacy Awards.

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CHRISTMAS MESSAGE

Personal message from Elaine Mead, Chief executive, NHS Highland

As we move into the last few hectic days I have been proud to be a part of the of the festive season, I want to take a mo- NHS Highland story. ment to thank you all for the work that I plan to stay living with my family in you do every day providing care to people my home in the Highlands, and look to all who quite literally trust you with their of you to continue the great work that lives and loved ones. I have been keeps us all safe. It is with mixed emotions that I come Thank you from the bottom of my to the end of my tenure as Chief Execu- proud to be heart. tive with this wonderful organisation, and extensive family. a part of There is no way to sum up the experi- ‘the NHS Elaine ences that I have had over the last thir-

teen years, but I can reflect on the kind- H i g h l a n d “The best way to find yourself is to lose yourself ness, compassion and professionalism that story in the service of others.” I have seen across every one of the hun- Mahatma Ghandi dreds of services that I have had the

pleasure to visit. It has been a privilege to have had the opportunity to lead this organisation, and

’ REVERSE ADVENT CALENDAR

taff at Wick’s Town & County Hospital had a fantastic re- S sponse to their Reverse Advent Calendar appeal to help local families and residents in need enjoy a Merry Christmas this year. Rather than receiving a treat each day as with traditional advent calendars, the big-hearted staff asked that colleagues and visitors donate a treat to someone who needs help instead. Pam Garbe, NHS Highland’s Rural General man- ager for Caithness, said: “It was such a lovely thing to do, and something that reminds you what Christmas should really be all about.” Pictured right delivering the donations to Caithness Food- bank are (front row, left to right) - Michelle MacGregor, Cris- tian Neculau, Rachel Guy and Wendy Oag, and Caithness food- bank staff (back row left to right) volunteer Alexander Glasgow and chairman Grant Ramsay.

- 3 - QC APPOINTED DOCTORS AT WORK Chair offers apology Pupils experience

PUPILS TAKING part in this year’s ‘Doctors at Work’ pro- for ‘hurt and sorrow’ gramme have experienced for the first time what it is like to work as At the November Board meeting ried out by John Sturrock QC. As a a General Practitioner (GP). of NHS Highland we acknowledged QC he will bring a rigour to the The ‘Doctors at Work’ pro- that there is a great deal of hurt review and, more importantly, he gramme, which has been running and sorrow among our staff: for will bring his skill as an internation- in NHS Highland for seven years, those who have been the victims of ally recognised mediator. We must is a five day placement for secon- unacceptable behaviour; those who let him help us engage in better dary pupils in Highland who are feel they have been unjustly criti- conversations. Mr Sturrock has interested in studying medicine. cised; and for those who simply do commenced his work and has Dr Shona McClure, a GP at Culloden and a GP Teaching Fel- not recognise some of the ways in started meeting with staff. low with NHS Highland explained which NHS High- With his appoint- that pupils are given the opportu- land has been ment comes the nity to observe the work done by portrayed. There opportunity to doctors across a range of special- are different move forward and ties in a variety of medical and views but what is my appeal would surgical disciplines. However, until common to all is As the Board be that everyone this year the programme did not the hurt and sor- brings to this re- include any experience of general row. of NHS High- view both an open practice. She said: “It can be difficult for As the Board mind and a big land, and as pupils to arrange to shadow a GP of NHS Highland, heart: a mind open at work for a variety of reasons, and as chair of chair of the to hear things that including patient confidentiality the Board, we ‘ may be uncom- issues, especially for those pupils Board, we apologised sin- fortable, for what- living in remote and rural loca- cerely to anyone apologised sin- ever reason, and a tions. who has experi- cerely to any- big heart to em- “This year, building on the al- enced bullying, brace the solutions ready successful programme, NHS past or present. one who has and resolutions Highland’s Medical Education GP team introduced a session entitled I think it is needed to move experienced ‘what is a GP?’ which gave pupils a important that forward. Our chance to observe simulated GP you are all, as our bullying, past thanks to all those consultations followed by interac- staff, aware of or present. who have engaged tive discussions about the skills this acknowl- with the process they observed. They also had the edgement and so far. opportunity to talk to GPs about apology. The report pre- their careers. The Board of sented to the Feedback from the pupils tak- NHS Highland Board on 27th No- ing part in this new session was extremely positive with the major- has consistently vember by Adam ity reporting an increase in their recognised that there have been Palmer, Employee Director, and confidence in their knowledge of incidences of bullying within the myself, outlined the steps that the the role of a GP after the session. organisation. Regrettably, in any organisation has already taken and Comments from pupils taking large organisation, that is often the asked the Board to accept a num- part included ‘general practice is a case. But we should not regard this ber of recommendations’ for imme- very varied and interesting job as inevitable and it is important diate action. This was agreed by with lots of knowledge and prob- that we all do all that we can to the Board and the recommenda- lem solving as well as the personal prevent both bullying and other tions can be read by following the aspects of the job’; ‘GPs deal with all the problems facing a patient forms of unacceptable behaviour. link to the report. whether it be mental or physical’; Moving forward, an external re- and ‘I really loved seeing how GPs view has been commissioned by form good professional relation- Scottish Government and we are David Alston ships with their patients’. lucky that the review will be car- Chair

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CHRISTMAS MESSAGE Personal message from Joanna Macdonald, Chief officer, Argyll & Bute Health & Social Care Partnership

As we come to the end of 2018 and look I hope you will have a chance to spend forward to the festive period, I would like some well deserved time with family and to thank you personally for your commit- friends. For those of us who are working ment and hard work over the last year. thank you for the festive cheer, good This year has been challenging and has spirit, care and attention you will be giv- meant change for many of us. I am so im- ing to young and old across Argyll and pressed that our teams and partners are Bute. tackling these changes in such a positive We can look So at this special time of the year, I manner. forward to would like to wish you good health and This is a very special place and across best wishes for a wonderful Christmas and I have seen how much our ‘s t a r t i n g New Year. We will be remembering family patients, clients and our local communi- and friends who are no longer with us and ties value the care and support they get 2019 with sharing fond memories with those who we from our committed health and social are fortunate to still have in our lives. care staff, our caring third sector col- hope, joy For many of us, our best friends and leagues and our close partner organisa- and the closest relationships are with colleagues tions who provide valuable support to that we work with every day. We can look people living in Argyll and Bute. knowledge forward to starting 2019 with hope, joy Thanks to you and your colleagues for and the knowledge that together we are your work to improve people’s lives. Al- that to- making Argyll and Bute the best place to though I have only been in post for a cou- gether we live and work. ple of months, I have been fortunate to You have made me feel very welcome meet many of our colleagues already and are making here and I am proud to be part of an I am committed to being visible and ac- amazing team. Thank you. cessible as a leader. Argyll and Best wishes for a Merry Christmas and It is very clear that one of our Bute the a Happy New Year. strengths is our compassion for each other and the Argyll and Bute residents we care best place for. Bringing our hearts to our work will Joanna be even more important over the festive to live and period and into the New Year. Our shared commitment to continually work. improving health and social care services in Argyll and Bute means we can all have hope and be confident about care in the future.

- 5 - ’ CAITHNESS CONSULTATION SKYE Board appoints Board meetings the Ritchie Report ‘most extensive ever’ co-ordinator NHS HIGHLAND claims that the relevant guidance has been met. THE BOARD has confirmed that it will commit an additional resource recent three-month public consul- Michelle added: “In the meantime, to implement the recommenda- tation in Caithness was one of the the Project Team will continue to an- tions made in the Sir Lewis Ritchie most extensive they have ever car- swer any queries; meet with anyone report into Out-of-Hours Urgent ried out - and arguably the most who feels they have further questions or Care Services in Skye, Lochalsh and comprehensive conducted by a information to share; and maintain posi- South West Ross. public sector organisation in Scot- tive two-way communications with the Speaking at a public informa- land. public, partners and staff in Caithness. tion session in Portree, Hugo van Between 20th August and 23rd No- “Should the board make a decision Woerden, director of public health, vember the project team attended some on a preferred way forward then it confirmed plans to appoint a dedi- cated NHS co-ordinator to work 100 meetings and events across the would then go to the Cabinet Secretary with local communities to help in- county. With over 2,000 surveys forms for a final decision as to whether NHS crease the pace of implementation returned the board say they are pleased Highland can formally move into devel- over the next six months. with the level of response and are in a oping the Business Case. Hugo was speaking at a Q&A position to set out the next steps. “The first step would be to prepare, session at the Tigh-na-Sgire council Michelle Johnstone, area manager for what they term, as an Initial Agreement. chamber on Tuesday 4th December Caithness and , and project This is a document which sets out the 2018 that included the report au- director for the redesign, said: “I would strategic case for change, an outline of thor Sir Lewis Ritchie, NHS High- like to thank everyone for participating the proposals, more detailed site assess- land chair David Alston, and Coun- cillor Ronald MacDonald. in the consultation and making their ments and indicative costs. Based on The session followed a day of views known. We have had excellent what we know so far we could be in a meetings between Sir Lewis and feed-back and are now at the stage of position to submit this in May/June 2019. representatives of the local commu- preparing a report. “The second step is the preparation nities, health care groups, NHS “Once the survey responses and all of an Outline Business Case. This de- Highland management and partner other feed-back is analysed a formal scribes in more detail each of the ser- organisations on the progress made consultation report will be produced. It vices, the workforce plan, costs and since his report was published last will include a recommendation on a pre- management arrangements. At this stage May. ferred way forward. The board will be sites will be agreed and work will be After the session, Hugo said: “There was agreement that the asked to make a decision on Tuesday well underway on designing any new pace of implementations needs to 29th January 2019 when the board next buildings. increase in the next six months. So meets.” “The third and final step is the Full I am pleased to confirm that NHS The report will include findings from Business Case. This will set out the ex- Highland is to identify a dedicated the Scottish Health Council Independent act specification of what is being pro- NHS co-ordinator to work along- Report on how NHS Highland con- vided where, and by whom, with final side the co-ordinator who has been ducted the consultation and whether the costs.” appointed through funding obtained by four communities in the north of Skye. This will help to improve co- ordination, communication and Council supports redesign plans progress on the fifteen recommen- dations in the report. THE HIGHLAND Council voted to support NHS Highland’s plans for Meanwhile, David Alston, NHS Caithness General Hospital and the creation of healthcare hubs in Highland’s chair, said: “Tuesday's Thurso and Wick. meetings were a useful opportunity Maimie Thompson, NHS Highland’s head of PR and Engagement said: “We are to take stock of progress in imple- delighted the Highland Council have voiced their support for the hubs. NHS menting the recommendations of Sir Lewis Ritchie's report.” Highland has been working closely with all the councillors since August 2017 and He added that over the course we look forward to continuing this work alongside other partners to improve of the day he became conscious of future health and social care provision in Caithness. the considerable collaborative ef- “We are grateful for their input and that of all others across the county. It’s forts already made between all the been a comprehensive process and we look forward to presenting the results and partners since Sir Lewis’s report recommendations in January 2019.” was published.

- 6 - CHRISTMAS JUMPER DAY Staff enjoy Festive Friday

HRISTMAS JUMPER day (Friday 14th December) proved to be C a great hit this year across NHS Highland – Pictured here clockwise from top left on the ‘Festive Friday’ are: Raigmore’s Microbiology department who helped raise cash for Save the Children (while it was a close call, if you look closely there are no prizes for guessing who won!) ; Despite work pressures, staff at the Belford, Fort William, joined in the festive spirit in aid of a good cause, again for Save the Children, with Catriona MacLean (centre wearing Santa hat) the winner of this year’s best Xmas jumper; The West Caithness team charged folk double for not wearing a Christmas Jumper for MFR’s Cash for Kids Mission; The Vascular Unit and Aneurysm Screening Department, Raigmore’s ‘A Christmas Jumper Soiree’ raised an amazing £781 for MFR as well; And finally (below) staff at the Lorn & Islands Hospital in Oban who also raised money for Save the Children. A great effort and many thanks to all who took part!

- 7 - CAREPORTAL The first phase of the North of Scotland’s CarePortal has now gone ’live’. At a ceremony in Scotia Court, Raigmore, to mark the occasion on 18th December 2018, Elaine Mead, NHS Highland’s chief executive (pictured right cutting the ribbon) thanked the CarePortal team for their efforts and wished the project every success in the future.

Q. What is CarePortal? Care Summary and the NHS Greater Glasgow and A. It is software which will take information from Clyde Clinical Portal. multiple health and social care systems across the Social care data will be added in future phases, North of Scotland and display it in one place. plus information from other Scottish health boards and national systems such as SCI Diabetes. Q. What are the anticipated benefits of Care- Portal? Q. Is CarePortal just a viewer? A. It will improve the lives of people whose health A. In its first phase it will simply be a place to view and social care straddles organisational boundaries; In phase one, information. However, in time, it will also become a reducing the unnecessary questioning and investiga- CarePortal will place to add new information. This will be particu- tions that add to the burden of care. It should im- larly beneficial for sick patients whose care needs to prove health and social care outcomes by providing only cover be carefully co-ordinated between multiple locations staff with better information. health. The sys- and organisations. Examples include people with Reducing the need to travel and repeat investiga-‘tem will display complex cancers and those who have experienced tions should save money for citizens, the NHS and major trauma. local authorities. Staff frustration should reduce as it information will be easier to gain sufficient information to provide from SCI Store Q. When will CarePortal become usable? good quality care. and TrakCare A. The first phase went “live” in late December 2018 CarePortal will improve information governance after it was launched by Elaine Mead, NHS Highland’s as data can be protected when people do not need for the four chief executive. to see it but made available when they do. health boards, the Emergency Q. How can I access CarePortal? Q. Which health boards are involved in Care- A. In the first phase of the project, access is aimed at Portal? Care Summary clinicians whose work spans the north of Scotland. If A. NHS Highland, NHS Grampian, NHS Shetland and and the NHS this is you and you would like to be set up with an NHS Orkney. Information will also be available from Greater Glas- account, please contact your Board’s Access Manage- an increasing number of other health boards as Care- ment Team. From 2019 a much wider range of peo- Portal develops. gow and Clyde ple including clinicians and social care staff will be Clinical Portal. able to apply for access. Q. Which clinical systems will be linked to CarePortal? Q. How can I find out more information about In phase one, CarePortal will only cover health. The Digital Health & Care in the region? system will display information from SCI Store and A. Follow @DigiCare4north on Twitter. TrakCare for the four health boards, the Emergency

- 8 - ’ AWARD WINNING PROJECT ANNOUNCEMENTS Innovative degrees

Pharmacists boost THE FIRST class of NHS Highland’s innovative trainee social work de- gree have graduated with honours. The scheme was established in mental health care 2015 and supported four NHS High- land staff through their social work degree – the first of its kind by any NHS board. The trainees have now com- pleted their BA (Honours) in social work and will be in employed in the same teams they been working with over the last three years. Joanna Macdonald, who was NHS Highland’s director of adult social care at the time of the pro- gramme starting, said: “This is an innovative solution which enables us to grow our own talent in social Pictured receiv- work across Highland. We now of- ing the College fer social work teams the opportu- of Mental Health nity to turn vacancies into a training Pharmacy are post and candidates study while (left to right) : working full-time. Rebecca McLelland, Karen Macaskill Board agreement and Liz Buist ARGYLL AND BUTE Integration Joint Board (IJB) agreed on SPECIALIST PHARMACISTS based and Rebecca McLelland – were both inde- Wednesday 28th November 2018 in rural GP practices could dramati- pendent prescribers, which meant patients that the mental health in-patient cally help improve the wellbeing of did not need to be referred to a GP for facility in Mid Argyll Community patients with mental health issues, their recommended prescription(s). Hospital and Integrated Care Cen- tre (MACHICC) should be perma- according to the results of a year- The results of the pilot have been well nently located in . long Highland pilot scheme. received. A poster presentation about the The Mental health inpatient ser- The aim of the award-winning pilot pilot won the Service Development Cate- vices were relocated, on an interim was to improve the pharmaceutical care gory at the College of Mental Health Phar- basis, to MACHICC in July 2017 delivered to patients with depression and/ macy International Conference last month from Argyll and Bute Hospital in or anxiety. and also took third place at the recent Lochgilphead. The move allowed The 12-month pilot service during NHS Highland Research, Development & the Health and Social Care Partner- 2017 took place at two NHS Highland GP Innovation Annual Conference. ship to provide these services in an practices, Glen Mor Practice in Fort Wil- On winning the service development environment that had been spe- cially adapted to meet the needs of liam and the Alness/Invergordon Practice, award, Liz Buist said: “It was great to be patients and staff. both providing healthcare services in re- able to share this example of innovative Lorraine Patterson, Head of mote and rural areas. use of staff in NHS Highland, providing Adult Services West for the HSCP, A quarter of the 75 patients involved evidence that pharmacist independent said: “I am really pleased that the exhibited signs of severe depression, and prescribers make a difference to the men- Integration Joint Board has agreed just under half exhibited severe anxiety. tal healthcare of patients with depression that Mid Argyll Community Hospi- By the end of the pilot almost half of and anxiety.” tal and Integrated Care Centre is to the patients showed significant improve- It also met the aims of the Scottish be the permanent location for our ments, with levels of depression and/or Government’s ‘Achieving Excellence in inpatient mental health services. “This is good news for patients anxiety reduced by 50 per cent or more Pharmaceutical Care – A strategy for and staff and will allow us to con- since their initial consultation. Scotland (2017)’ programme to integrate tinue to deliver inpatient mental Two specialist mental health clinical pharmacists with advanced clinical skills in health services from a facility that pharmacists were embedded in the prac- GP practices to improve pharmaceutical has been specially adapted to meet tices as part of the multidisciplinary team. care and contribute to the multi- the needs of the service.” The NHS Highland pharmacists - Liz Buist disciplinary team.

- 9 - HQA AWARDS NEWS IN BRIEF ‘Motivated’ team... Honorary citation

THE TEAM behind the drug and al- cohol recovery service at Osprey House, Inverness, have been awarded a Highland Quality Ap- proach (HQA) for improving the quality of service provided to those accessing drug and alcohol support. The team have been praised in their Picture left to right are: George Dunn, chair- nomination for significantly improving ‘the man; Mr James Beastall; and Lord Roy Ken- quality of service provided to the clients have been made and what hard work has nedy, president of the College of Podiatry accessing the Drug and Alcohol Service been involved in this. whilst maintaining an excellent standard of “I know how important the work they AN NHS Highland consultant has care’. do is and it maybe doesn’t get the appre- been recognised by the College of They are commended for the way ciation that it deserves but the human Podiatry for his work and his contin- ‘they have embraced the many changes side, for those who are accessing these ued support. from the RPIW’ (Rapid Process Improve- services, is so important.” Mr James Beastall, Trauma and ment Workshops – which takes place Accepting the award on behalf of the Orthopaedic consultant with NHS over five days with staff coming together team Carrie Christie, senior nurse practi- Highland, received the honorary citation for his work and his contin- to review and improve a particular part of tioner, said: “This award reflects the hard ued support of the profession of a process in real time) and have worked work and effort that every single person Podiatry. ‘as a team demonstrating a caring, enthusi- in this team has put in. Steve Jamieson, chief executive astic and motivated attitude towards sup- “It has been so worthwhile. We’ve all of the College of Podiatry, com- porting people in recovery’. really enjoyed the process and we’ve seen mented: “The college is delighted Presenting the team with their award our waiting times come down. As a group to be able to recognise Mr Beastall NHS Highland chair David Alston said: we do feel really positive and energised by and highlight his contribution to “I’m very aware of the improvements that it all.” podiatry and the importance of col- laborative working and patient- focussed care.” Mr Beastall said: “It was a real …‘above and beyond’ honour to be presented with this award by Lord Kennedy of South- wark, patron of the College of Po- RAIGMORE HOSPITAL’S domestic diatry and I was very happy to ac- services team was presented with a cept it at the annual awards cere- Highland Quality Approach (HQA) mony in September.” award after demonstrating their willingness to go ‘above and beyond’ Are you protected? to support patients. STAFF BORN after 1970, who have At the presentation in August, the not received two doses of MMR vac- team was said to be a ‘credit to our or- cination and have direct patient ganisation’ and widely praised for their Presenting the team with their award contact are strongly advised to con- hard work and dedication in ensuring that David Alston, chair of NHS Highland, said: tact NHS Highland Occupational patient flow was maintained during the “They provide safe clinical care to the Health Service to discuss measles winter period earlier this year. highest possible standard and well beyond immunity . Starting with a clostridium difficile out- the call of duty. Winter was difficult but It is also recommended health- break, followed by a significant flu out- the team worked hard, and out of hours, care workers are protected against varicella. Most staff will have natu- break which lasted well into the New to keep services running. They saved lives ral immunity through having had Year as well as significant issues in thea- and they should be proud.” childhood infection. However, if you tres, the team ‘in its entirety from the Accepting the award on behalf of the do not remember having had managers, supervisors and staff on the team, David Mackay, domestic services chicken pox, you may not be pro- ground gave up their festive period leave manager, said: “The work that goes in tected and immunisation is recom- to work extra hours to keep the show on every day from the team is fantastic. They mended. Email: H i g h - the road’. are a credit to the organisation.” [email protected] - 10 - - 11 - SCOTTISH HEALTH AWARDS NEWS IN BRIEF Positive inspection Double winners Argyll and Bute HSCP welcomed the Care Inspectorate report, pub- lished in November, on the latter’s NHS Highland staff were recognised unannounced inspection to the Hel- at the Scottish Health Awards in Ed- ensburgh Childrens House on 14th inburgh last month. September 2018. The health board’s director of re- The inspection had no recom- search, development and innovation, Pro- mendations and graded the service fessor Angus Watson, won the Innovation as follows: Quality of care and sup- Award and cystic fibrosis nurse at Raig- port 5 - Very good; Quality of man- more Hospital, Lesley Blaikie, won the Lesley agement and leadership 5 - Very Nurse Award. Blaikie good The report outlined that the NHS Highland’s interim director of inspectors spoke to young people, human resources, Dawne Bloodworth, their families and others involved in said: “I want to congratulate Angus and their care and support. Lesley on receiving their awards. They are Some of the young people they a wonderful example of the hard-working, spoke to highlighted that they felt a dedicated healthcare professionals we strong sense of belonging and posi- have across NHS Highland. Professor tive regard for their individual ex- “NHS Highland has a fantastic reputa- Angus perience of living at the service. tion for research, development and inno- Watson There was also evidence of young people beginning to develop vation and Professor Watson is at the positive routines, within college forefront of this work. We also take pride support they demonstrate on a daily basis. placements and through evolving in our innovative work to support people “I want to pass on congratulations relationships, with adults involved in living with cystic fibrosis, and Lesley and from everyone at NHS Highland to Angus providing for their daily support her colleagues at Raigmore Hospital de- and Lesley for this wonderful recognition needs. serve enormous praise for the care and of their work.” Discount card offer

MENTAL HEALTH NURSING AWARDS NHS, EMERGENCY Services and Armed Forces are being offered a large number of retail discounts National recognition both online and in store. Hundreds of online discounts are on offer. Many being official dis- TWO NHS Highland senior nurse have been recognised nationally for the counts from large national retailers practitioners have been recognised fantastic work they have carried out. with a wide range of offers from at the Mental Health Nursing Forum “This is part of the overall strategy to categories such as holidays, cars, Awards last month. ensure that understanding of the needs of days-out, fashion, gifts, insurance, phones and many other items. Lorraine Watson and Anne Campbell, patients with dementia is seen as core to The website is free to sign up to both based in the East/Mid Ross older not just mental health services, but all and to use the online discounts and adult community mental health team, won agencies providing help, such as care at there is a free app including a the ‘Dementia Care’ category as well as home and the police. ‘virtual card’ that can be the ‘Practice of the Year Award’ at the “The older adult community mental downloaded to your smartphone. annual event in Glasgow in November. health team were praised for their out- Blue Light members can order The judges were impressed by the reach work with care at home in the area. an optional physical Blue Light Reach Out work undertaken by Lorraine They are a credit to their profession and Card, costing £4.99, that can be and Anne, in particular the work with we are proud to have such dedicated used on the High Street in order to obtain a discount. Each Blue Light care at home staff around education on mental health professionals working in Card is personalised for the mem- aspects of caring for patients experiencing NHS Highland. ber and has their name, card num- dementia and their carers. “I want to pass on my congratulations ber and expiry date on it. Richard Pearson, manager for older to Lorraine, Anne and the wider East/Mid To register go online to https:// adult mental health services, NHS High- Ross older adult community mental health www.bluelightcard.co.uk. Work land’s South and Mid Division, said: “We team for the recognition of their hard information is required to validate are delighted for Lorraine and Anne to work, dedication and care.” your account.

- 12 - UK AWARD ANNOUNCEMENTS RNIB’s need to talk

Mandi’s marvellous EVERY DAY ten people across the A HIGHLAND nurse is one of five United Kingdom begin to lose their UK heart failure healthcare profes- vision. sionals recognised and honoured by Research by the charity The patients this year for their excep- Royal National Institute of Blind tional quality of care and treatment. People (RNIB) has found that peo- ple with sight loss are nearly three Mandi Smith, lead specialist heart fail- times more likely to report feeling ure nurse, who works at Raigmore Hospi- depressed, feeling constantly under tal in Inverness, was nominated by the strain, losing confidence and believ- patient community to receive a ‘You’re ing they are useless. Simply Marvellous’ award. RNIB’s ‘Need to Talk’ service On accepting her award Mandi said: offers free and confidential emo- “I’m honoured to receive the award, it tional support for anyone over the was a huge surprise. Without our patients age of 11 diagnosed with sight- we wouldn’t have a service but I would threatening conditions. It is also open to family and carers of those also like to pay tribute to my colleague affected. Lynda Blue who we sadly lost a few weeks If you, or someone you know, is ago. She was inspirational in setting this losing their sight and would like to service up in Highland.” Mandi Smith—winner of one of this talk about their feelings, the free Sponsored by The Pumping Marvellous year’s ‘You’re Simply Marvellous’ Need to Talk service is available. To Foundation, this award acknowledges the Awards find out more about 'Need to Talk', value that the five healthcare professionals phone 0303 123 9999, email needto- bring to the treatment of heart failure, commended Mandi for her outstanding [email protected] . Or visit improving patient outcomes throughout patient care in always going the extra mile www.rnib.org.uk/needtotalk. the UK. to support her patients. Measured by the individual patients’ John said: “Like all Heart Failure One day course experience, this award reflects the direct Nurses, Mandi is outstanding, wonderful NHS HIGHLAND’S Research, De- impact these five outstanding healthcare and amazing! But above all, she consis- velopment and Innovation depart- professionals have in the local community, tently goes ‘above and beyond’ on behalf ment is to hold a one day course on producing the highest standards of care of her heart failure patients. Don’t just Questionnaire Design next month. for their patient. take my word for it, ask any heart failure The course lead by Leila Eadie, Heart failure patient, John Braynion, patient in NHS Highland!” research fellow at the Centre for Rural Health, University of Aber- deen, will be held on Tuesday 22nd January 2018 in the NES Training Room, Phase 2, Centre for Health TECHNOLOGY ENABLED CARE Science, Raigmore Campus, Inver- ongratulations ness from 10am – 4pm. C to Heather The course is designed to help Tierney and Eileen provide medical staff, nurses, phar- MacLean, Technol- macists, allied health professionals, ogy Enabled Care and health service researchers with Outreach Workers the tools to identify where the use in Argyll and Bute, of questionnaires is appropriate in for completing the research and other factors, and to Professional Devel- consider how the data generated by opment Award in the questionnaires may be most Telehealthcare. effectively processed and analysed. The SQA qualifi- To book, complete and return cation covers a the application form found on the range of devices and NHS Highland Intranet under the services to enable heading Staff > Research and Devel- people to live with opment. greater independ- If you do not have access to the ence and safety Intranet then email mailto:high- within their homes. [email protected] for the form.

- 13 - QUEEN’S NURSE AWARDS Prestigious awards for nurses TWO HIGHLAND nurses helping people and trying to make a dif- were awarded the prestigious ference. title of Queen’s Nurse last “I am absolutely delighted to become a Queen’s Nurse as the programme has month. had a life-changing impact on me. It’s Cathanna Smith and Julie given me even more confidence and I Lennon were both presented feel invigorated to continue in my role with a certificate and badge by caring for the community.” Scotland’s chief nursing officer Liz Higgins, lead nurse for Argyll and Professor Fiona McQueen dur- Bute Health and Social Care Partnership, ing the awards ceremony at said: “I am delighted that Cathanna has Julie Lennon The Principal Edinburgh on been awarded the Queen’s Nurse George Street hotel (Thursday Award. ate about education, the Queen’s Nurse 29th November 2018). “This is well-deserved and is fitting award is the pinnacle of everything I have recognition of all her hard work and her ever done. duty to her patients. “Nothing could match this – it is be- Meanwhile Julie Lennon, an advanced ing recognised by others for your moral nurse practitioner (ANP) at Aultbea and compass, the values you give to nursing, Gairloch Medical Practice was selected the standards you maintain and the advo- for providing high quality, compassionate cacy work for nursing and quality.” care to people in her community. Queen’s Nursing in Scotland was After completing the programme established in 1889 thanks to a dona- successfully, Julie was awarded the his- tion from Queen Victoria on the oc- toric Queen’s Nurse title along with 20 casion of her Golden Jubilee. other community nurses at a ceremony At that time in the late 19th cen- in Edinburgh on Thursday (29th Novem- tury, QNIS provided nurse with spe- Cathanna Smith ber 2018). cific training which allowed them to It marks only the second time the work as district nurses. Cathanna Smith, a Tarbert nurse in honour has been made in Scotland in District nurses provided health- Argyll and Bute, was selected earlier this almost 50 years following the reintro- care and health promotion to people in their own homes and became well year to take part in a nine-month devel- duction of the title in 2017. respected figures within their com- opment programme run by the Queen’s Julie was selected for her commit- munity. Nursing Institute Scotland (QNIS). ment to empowering her patients, and Following the introduction of a The Advanced Nurse Practitioner her dedication to lifelong learning. national certificate for district nurs- (ANP) at Tarbert Medical Practice was She said: “The Queen’s Nurse jour- ing, QNIS ceased training, awarding nominated for providing high quality, ney has been completely life-changing. the Queen’s Nurse title for the final compassionate care to people in her Having been a lifelong student, passion- time in 1969. community. However, the decision was made After completing the programme to reintroduce Queen’s Nurses to Scotland in 2017, with 20 community successfully, Cathanna was awarded the nurses chosen to take part in a devel- historic Queen’s Nurse title along with opment programme which would see 20 other community nurses at a cere- It marks only the them become the first modern mony in Edinburgh. second time the Queen’s Nurses. Cathanna, who has previously been The process involves employers named Citizen of the Year in Tarbert, was honour has been nominating a community-based selected for her ongoing commitment to made in Scotland in nurse who will go forward for inter- her patients and dedication to showcas- view following a successful written ‘ application. ing the important role of the ANP. almost 50 years This year, 21 community nurses She said: “As an ANP I have the privi- were selected to complete the nine- lege of dealing with everybody – you get month programme which consists of to know the whole community and they a week-long residential workshop get to know you followed by two further workshops “I love my job, I love coming to work, and coaching sessions in between. - 14 - ’ AWARD WINNERS HVPP Volunteer tribute

Hospital pharmacy THE HIGHLAND Volunteer Pa- tient Programme (HVPP) cele- brated its ten year anniversary this year with tribute made to all the team collect award volunteers who helped to make it such a success. THE NHS Highland oncology phar- Volunteer patients are a valu- macist team at Raigmore Hospital able part of the training in both medical, nurse and AHP (Allied were recognised at this year’s Scot- Health Professional) education tish Pharmacy Awards 2018. within Highland. The programme is The team of five pharmacists provide run from the state-of-the-art train- care for cancer patients across NHS High- ing facility at the Clinical Skills Cen- land by supporting the medical and nurs- tre, Raigmore Campus, Inverness. ing teams to provide optimal care to their And relies on members of the pub- patients. lic from all walks of life and all ages They won the Hospital Pharmacy to volunteer for a few sessions Team of the Year award for their innova- throughout the year. Ailsa Armstrong, clinical skills tive work, including audit work looking at educator for NHS Highland, ex- the impact of immunotherapy in patients pharmaceutical care to their patients in plained that when the programme with metastatic melanoma and chemo- the absence of specialist oncology phar- started in 2008 it was advertised via therapy-induced nausea and vomiting in macists in these areas. Volunteering Highland and now breast cancer patients. “We work with a large technical team ‘word of mouth’ from existing vol- NHS Highland’s lead cancer care phar- in pharmacy who support us in the pro- unteers helps keep the numbers up. macist for Oncology Outpatients, Leanne duction and management of chemother- She said: “The programme was Miller, said: “We were delighted to be apy for patients across the Highlands and initially set up to allow us to deliver nationally recognised for the innovative this award is also a credit to this team. Year Four Objective Structured Clinical Examination (OSCE), approach we have adopted in the north of “The team have a close working rela- where students examine or take a Scotland. tionship with pharmacy colleagues across history from a patient, in Inverness “We are based at Raigmore Hospital the North of Scotland Cancer Network for medical students from the Uni- but we work closely with Macmillan through development of joint guidelines, versity of Aberdeen. nurses in hospitals in Wick, Skye, the clinical management guidelines and sharing “It has evolved considerably Western Isles and Fort William to provide of project work. over the past ten years and is now used very successfully both for un- der and post-graduate medical training, nursing training and other arbara Milne, allied health workers. B hospital social “Our volunteers vary from worker and col- simulated patients who will role- leagues at the Lorn play scenarios, volunteer patients and Island Hospital who prefer to be examined without filled 22 Christmas significant role-playing and real pa- Shoeboxes for the tients.” Blythswood Christ- There is no prior training or mas Shoebox Ap- experience necessary for volunteers peal – these go to to be selected as training is pro- Albania, Bulgaria, vided by the Clinical Skills Team for Hungary, Kosovo, each volunteer and tailored to their Moldavia, Romania, specific needs. Serbia and Ukraine She said; “No previous experi- and are filled with ence is necessary; all we ask is that toiletries, station- the volunteer patient will be reli- ary, clothing, toys able and consistent.” etc and are made If you would like to volunteer for up to suit men, the programme or learn more women, children about it, contact the team on 01463 and babies. 255810.

- 15 - TECHNOLOGY HIGHLAND LEAGUE Partnership launches Team promotion prevent suicide app

THE HIGHLAND Community Plan- ning Partnership has launched an app to help prevent suicide in the north of Scotland. The ‘Prevent Suicide’ app - developed A TEAM from NHS Highland will in Tayside and adapted for use in Aber- be represented in the Inverness deen and Aberdeenshire - is being rolled- District amateur football league out in Highland as part of the Community ( h ttp s :/ / e n - gb.facebook.com/ invernessanddistrictfa/) from April Planning Partnership’s (CPP) plan to ad- 2019. dress levels of suicide. Sam MacKenzie and Michael NHS Highland’s head of health im- Laidlaw are co-managing the team provement Cathy Steer said: “The CPP which will see the NHS Highland FC agreed to have a breakthrough achieve- enter into the league’s Division Two ment this year around addressing levels of as of the new season. suicide in Highland. It’s been over five years since “We looked at the positive response the team last participated in the to a suicide prevention app developed in local league. The squad has received fantastic Tayside which can play a vital role in support from NHS Highland, the keeping someone safe when feeling dis- club was privileged to host the launch of Highland Health Sports and Social tressed or suicidal and decided to develop the new ‘Prevent Suicide’ app. Suicide is Club and the club’s main sponsor it here in Highland. an issue that affects people from all walks the Highland Hospice. “Today’s launch event was attended by of life. The club’s main aims for the a host of colleagues from across the CPP “The new app is an important addi- season are: to help promote health as well as other organisations in Highland tional tool to prevent suicide and comple- and fitness throughout the High- who are committed to support our work ments awareness training we promote at lands; help to raise awareness and and the roll-out of the app. the club. If the app can help to save lives donations for the Highland Hospice; while also push for promotion in a “We are confident the app will play a and support people who may be trying to very competitive league. key role in helping the CPP to build on help a loved one, we all have to help raise NHS Highland FC provides the range of community resilience and awareness of it.” weekly football sessions for people community network activity which exists Ross County Football Club general to come along and train with the across Highland to increase awareness of manager Emily Wilson said: “Our club is squad (limited spaces available). what support is available for people.” committed to promoting the health and For further details about these ses- The ‘Prevent Suicide’ safety plan on wellbeing of people in Highland. We are sions email: n h s h i g h - the app can be completed with the help of keen to support the launch of the suicide [email protected] a trained listener on a helpline such as app and promote it as a tool that will help The Highland Health Sports and Social Club also aims to encourage Breathing Space, a health professional or raise awareness of what help is available all staff to make use of the fitness with a friend or family member. and encourage people to make a plan on facilities provided. For further de- The app also includes telephone num- how to get help should they need to.” tails email: H i g h - bers for local and national helplines which Ross County’s co-manager Steven [email protected] can offer support in some situations Ferguson gave a presentation at the Anyone interested in following where people are feeling distressed or launch event along with Inverness Caledo- the team as they begin their jour- suicidal. There is also guidance on what nian Thistle’s stadium manager, Andy ney from Division Two to the Pre- members of the public can do to help Johnstone, Chief Superintendent George mier Division can do so via Face- someone they suspect is feeling suicidal. MacDonald from Police Scotland and book: https://www.facebook.com/ nhshighlandfc/ or Twitter: https:// The CPP have joined forces with High- Keith Walker from Samaritans. twitter.com/NHSHighlandFC land’s two professional football clubs to Anyone who would like support in Pictured above are co-manager help launch the app. relation to suicide can call Samaritans on Sam MacKenzie and Lisa Long, cor- Inverness Caledonian Thistle Football 116 123 or Breathing Space on 0800 83 porate fundraiser for the Highland Club chairman Graham Rae said: “The 85 87. Hospice

- 16 - COMINGS & GOINGS New Caithness district RETIREMENTS manager appointed international business with a focus on learning and technology before returning to university to pursue an MSc in her initial area of interest: health. She said: “I would describe the deci- sion to complete my MSc as positive and rewarding as it challenged me in ways I had not anticipated. I qualified as an AHP and started working in older adult men- tal health in areas with a broad range of challenges. “I then managed a range of commu- nity services before taking up my most recent operational management role HE DIABETES team said a within the children, families and young T fond farewell and a happy and people’s sector. I aim to draw on the healthy retirement to Lorna Grant, skills and experience I have gained over diabetes specialist nurse recently. the years to develop my role as district Lorna qualified in 1978 and has manager in Caithness. spent the last 18yrs of her career in her current diabetes role. Lorna will “I arrived in post at an exciting time be greatly missed and has been in- for the county, with a month remaining strumental in shaping the diabetes of the consultation on some proposed service within NHS Highland (and changes for health and social care in indeed beyond). Lesley Kinloch Caithness. I have spoken to colleagues and the response so far from local peo- ple has been exceptional. NHS HIGHLAND has appointed a “I look forward to working closely new district manager for Caithness with colleagues and local communities with a proven track record of suc- during the remainder of the consultation cess in business and healthcare. and implementing the outcomes of the Lesley Kinloch has joined the health consultation in the future. I am excited board following a varied career in inter- and energised at the opportunities of- national learning and technology before fered by this new and demanding role qualifying as an allied health professional and can’t wait to get started.” (AHP). NHS Highland’s north area manager And Lesley is looking forward to the Michelle Johnstone said: “We are de- new challenges awaiting her in the far lighted to welcome Lesley to NHS High- north of Scotland. land. She said: “I feel my career has pro- “She has a track record of success in vided me with the tools and experience her career and will bring a breadth of EST WISHES to Delia Law on to manage the wide spectrum of respon- experience to her role. Her recent B her recent retirement. sibilities that lie ahead in Caithness work in service redesign and broad Delia came to NHS Highland as working for NHS Highland. knowledge across a range of service a student nurse 36 years ago and “I believe we must develop relation- areas will be a fantastic addition to our has been here ever since. She ships through a willingness to listen and management team in Caithness. started work as a staff nurse in 1985 improved partnership working to find “It is an exciting time to be in Caith- and since 1999 was a vascular clini- cal nurse specialist. sustainable, long-term health and social ness and I’m looking forward to working Delia, who is a keen gardener, care solutions for the people of Caith- closely with Lesley and local communi- will be very much missed by all. ness.” ties to improve health and social care Lesley enjoyed a successful career in services in the county.” - 17 - HIGHLAND HEALTH SCIENCES LIBRARY Intergenerational mix has housing benefits

The Librarian’s idea of Citrix Image courtesy: Lloyd K. Barnes Photography.

REGULAR readers will know a bit about the number of other countries worldwide. As the Librarian. He spent his formative years in a name suggests intergenerational housing in- small town on the Moray Firth. volves people of different age groups occupy- Here everyone knew everyone else and all ing the same housing areas. Thus young and their business. This societal largesse included old share the same living spaces. This has large extended families where numerous gen- benefits for all groups. Older people tend to erations occupied the same living space. have a larger share of the housing stock, but Being a bit introverted this parochial envi- are prone to being socially isolated, whilst ronment suited our esteemed head of ser- younger people find it hard to acquire some- vice, however for the bulk of the population Pictures above and be- where to stay. these sorts of arrangements seem to mean low of old and young Our Continental cousins have embraced invasions of privacy and such like. The librar- living and playing to- the concept for some time with, for example, ian takes a dour view of such sentiments. gether in the Nether- students in the Netherlands moving into re- As noted in an earlier issue of Highlights lands tirement homes. In exchange for free rent our leader recently participated in a Scotland they spend at least 30 hours per month social- wide research project (available on request). ising with the older residents. In Spain stu- This work was done for Social Services Scot- dents live with older people and a test site land and went on to inform Scottish Govern- which opened in Barcelona in 1996 has now ment policy on the subject. This work sug- expanded to cover the whole country. gested that the idea of intergenerational All sorts of other aspects of housing are housing may be one way to solve some of the opened up by utilising these alternative view- problems currently facing British (and indeed points. Examples include mixing childcare developed world) communities. nurseries with elderly day care, and looking at The roots of the concept of intergenera- redesigning buildings so that they can be flexi- tional housing can be traced to Spain, and the bility reused as people age and their circum- system has been adopted in a considerable stances and mobility change.

Remember, whatever your needs the Highland Health Sciences Library exists to help you. Save time and money. Don’t spend more than 10 minutes on a problem you may be having – contact the library instead. To find out more about the library call 01463 255600 (xtn 7600). Rob Polson ([email protected]) Subject Librarian. - 18 - SMOKE-FREE CHARTER ANNOUNCEMENTS Project update

IJB pledges support THE ISLE OF BUTE Dialysis Pro- ject Group held an update meeting on Tuesday 20th November. The Group reviewed the plans for the Dialysis Unit and is continu- ing to work with the Architect to ensure the best use of the space within the hospital to ensure a safe patient care both for dialysis pa- tients and patients on the ward. The team are also trying to re- duce the impact of building works and patient flow on the ward and other departments and it is hoped that the plans will be finalised soon with agreement on where the Dialy- sis Unit will be situated. Argyll and Bute HSCP managers have also met with representatives Pictured left to right are: Laura Stephenson (senior health improvement offi- from NHS Greater Glasgow and cer), Councillor Kieron Green (IJB vice-chair), Joanna Macdonald (HSCP chief Clyde to plan how the service will officer), Robin Creelman (IJB chair), and Sandra Cairney (HSCP associate direc- be managed and patients looked tor of Public Health) after when the Unit is operational. This meeting was very successful Argyll and Bute Integration Joint from the harmful effects of tobacco and the HSCP continues to work Board (IJB) signed up to Scotland’s b) Children have a particular need very closely with colleagues in Glas- Charter for a Smoke Free Genera- for a smoke-free environment gow to ensure delivery of this much tion at its meeting on 28th Novem- c) All children should play, learn and wanted local service. ber 2018. socialise in places that are free from Laura Stephenson, senior health im- tobacco; New role for club provement officer, said: “Smoking is the d) Every child has the right to effec- biggest avoidable cause of death in Scot- tive education that equips them to CAMPBELTOWN LINK CLUB has land and contributes to ill health, disabil- make informed positive choices on recently taken on the role of co- ordinating the Health and Wellbe- ity and impoverishment of thousands of tobacco and health; ing Network for the Kintyre area. people every year. e) All young people should be pro- There are eight health and well- “Children exposed to second hand tected from commercial interests being networks throughout Argyll smoke can have ill-health and reduced who profit from recruiting new and Bute and they are set up to educational attainment. smokers; and bring people together to build “Committing to the Charter is there- f) Any young person who smokes stronger, healthier and safer com- fore a significant step in working towards should be offered accessible support munities. Argyll and Bute Health the national target of reducing the pro- to help them to become tobacco- and Social Care Partnership invests portion of children exposed to second- free. in these Health and Wellbeing Net- works to help improve the health of hand smoke in their home from 12 per Organisations signing up to the Charter local people. The networks are re- cent in 2012 to 6 per cent by 2020.” are pledging to deliver at least three ac- sponsible for organising meetings, The Aim of the Charter is to: tions within the above. Argyll & Bute IJB’s keeping members up to date with Inspire organisations to take ac- intended actions are to: health news, and awarding the tion to reduce the harm caused by Recognise the harmful effect health and wellbeing small grant tobacco smoking has on the health of our fund. Raise awareness of the goal of population Tracy Chambers who runs the creating a tobacco-free generation Be personal advocates for a club said: “The Link Club is excited of Scots by 2034 smoke-free generation to take on this new venture. It will bring valuable funds to our club and Support organisations whose Recognise the importance of front will help us to run interesting activi- work impacts on children, young line service delivery shifting toward ties for our members. Our mem- people and families to address to- preventing problems from arising bers come from a wide range of bacco issues. and the contribution stopping smok- backgrounds and have lots of skills The Charter’s principles include: ing has on improving health and to help make the network a suc- a) Every baby should be born free wellbeing cess.”

- 19 - DRUG & ALCOHOL RECOVERY SERVICE ANNOUNCEMENTS Emergency packs Bienvenue à vous provided for Xmas WITH WINTER well and truly here, thoughts turn to Christmas, meeting up with friends and family and, of course, wrapping up to protect you from the winter weather. However, NHS Highland’s drug and THE OCCUPATIONAL therapy alcohol recovery service are mindful that department in Raigmore have given not everyone has access to a safe place to a warm Scottish welcome to stay or access to basic supplies to keep Mylène Pistre and Juline Stagnaro themselves warm and fed. (pictured above with staff) both So Cheryl Light, senior nurse practi- from Montpellier University in the tioner for the homeless service, along South of France. The students are on an interna- with her colleague Jean Macleod health tional exchange scheme, spending improvement nurse, pulled together a ten weeks in NHS Highland and will number of ‘emergency packs’ which they gain experience in Raigmore, the will be giving out to those most in need. RNI, New Craig's and the Hospice Shona Urquhart, team lead with the during their placement. drug & alcohol recovery service, said: The students have also been “We are very much aware that there is a welcomed by the patients they have population of people who don’t have a seen, who have demonstrated a keen interest in their placement in safe place to stay or access to what many The pack contains basic provisions Scotland. of us would say are basic provisions and we wanted to do something. We had ries, sanitary products, hats, gloves and some endowment money available and it basic food supplies such as biscuits and EU nationals’ survey was suggested that we make up packs that dried noodles, amongst other supplies. AS YOU will be aware, it is pro- we would hand out to those most in The rucksacks can be kept by the indi- jected the UK will withdraw from need.” viduals and reused for whatever they the European Union at 11pm on The emergency packs contain toilet- need. They are also waterproof which is Friday, 29th March 2019. extremely helpful given the weather at Our EU national employees are this time of year. highly valued and appreciated members of our 10,000-strong Cheryl Light added: “The packs have workforce. been really well received and I’m de- We want to reassure you that lighted that we’ve been able to help with we are wholeheartedly committed this small gesture. to providing support to each and “We will review the situation after every one of you as the situation Christmas and New Year and we are develops. keen to try and hold a small stock of To allow us to provide compre- items that we can support individuals with hensive support and advice to you, throughout the year.” we are inviting all EU/EEA staff to complete a short online survey. “Feedback has been excellent not only The board has also developed a from those receiving the packs but also section of the NHS Highland web- those who have heard about them and we site with information for employees have already been asked by members of and managers relating to Brexit. the public how they can support this. Survey - https:// “If you would like to support the work www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/ that has been done with these packs we WithdrawalEU would ask that you make a donation to Website - http:// your local food bank rather than drop any www.nhshighland.scot.nhs.uk/ HRConnect/Pages/Brexit.aspx The emergency bags are waterproof items at Osprey House.” - 20 -

Q & What does your job in- A And your favourite book?: volve?: Any books by Paulo Coelho, As Argyll and Bute HSCP’s he is one of the bestselling Estates Manager I am responsi- THIS MONTH: and most influential authors ble for managing and maintain- in the world. ing properties to make sure Argyll and Bute HSCP’s they are legal, watertight and If you won £10 million in safe for patients, staff and visi- the lottery, what would tors. Estates manager you spend it on?: Firstly, I would ensure friends Describe yourself?: David Ross and family are looked after. I I am generally easy going and a would then buy a house wee bit of a comedian. I do abroad, travel the world, and live a healthy and active lifestyle then buy a new yacht. and enjoy keeping myself physi- cally fit and enjoy many of my What about a smaller outdoor interests and activities. sum, say £1,000?: I would just book a flight Do you have any hobbies abroad to somewhere nice. and interests?: Cycling, hillwalking, kayaking What are you pet hates?: and sailing. Most definitely rudeness and disrespectful behaviour. What was the first single you ever bought?: If you could have dinner ‘Cum On Feel the Noize’, it was with three people, dead Slade's fourth number one sin- or alive, who would they gle in the UK and their first to be and what would you enter straight at number one cook them?: and it stayed there for weeks. I would have a meal with my late dad and make him his What is your favourite food?: favourite traditional Scottish dish of mince and tatties. My Definitely Indian Curry second choice would be my son and I would cook him a fillet steak. My third choice would be Leonardo da Vinci and Do you have a favourite film?: I would cook him spaghetti bolognaise. My favourite film is the Matrix. What are the best and worst parts of your job?: What is your favourite TV programme?: The worst bit of my job is travelling on really busy rural Fast N' Loud is a reality show on the Discovery Channel. It roads. It can be challenging at all times of the year. features Richard Rawlings and his crew from Dallas, USA The best bit about my job is having the pleasure to work who find run-down cars, and restore them for profit. alongside my network of colleagues.

- 21 -