Issue 16 October/November 09 North Tees and Hartlepool NHS Foundation Trust

The magazine for North Tees and Hartlepool NHS Foundation Trust Haematology day unit officially opened

page 7 New look for hospital reception

Patients and visitors coming to the University Hospital of Hartlepool will be greeted at the new reception area. The new reception located at the front of the main entrance complements the wider refurbishment; including the recently completed cafe and WRVS shop. Director of operations Kevin Oxley said: “The reception has added a more welcoming and modern look to the hospital. “The front of-house staff provide invaluable support and assistance to hospital visitors. We are delighted at the improvement this refurbish- ment makes for patients, visitors and staff.” Receptionist Maureen Pounder

Dave goes the extra mile When porter Dave Harker went in carrying out their work. the extra mile, his efforts didn’t Whether involved directly in go un-noticed. caring for patients or one of our Dave, who works on the many support staff. emergency assessment “The porters at the hospital unit, joined North Tees and provide a vital service to making Hartlepool NHS Foundation sure the patients get the best Trust nine months ago received possible care and their hard a thank you letter for working work doesn’t go un-noticed. beyond his normal duty. Dave is an asset to the team.” Portering, security and transport Dave added: “I was surprised manager Brian Christelow said: to receive the thank you letter “Right across our hospitals – I really enjoy working here there are many people who and feel part of a very hard- routinely go that extra mile working team.”

The old trust headquarters is knocked down Going going gone Demolition work on the site of the Oxley said: “All of these services University Hospital of Hartlepool and departments are now is well underway. located in newly refurbished The demolition work sees old accommodation in the main buildings being removed, includ- hospital and this demolition ing the old trust headquarters, work will enable us to clear the old physiotherapy block and the site and prevent further Brian says thank you to Dave the post graduate centre. break-ins and vandalism to the Director of operations Kevin empty buildings.” 002|003 Current acting chairman appointed to chair the Trust

Paul Garvin, the acting chairman of North Tees and Hartlepool NHS Foundation Trust, has been appointed chairman from 1 November. His term of office will be for three years. The recruitment, selection and interview process for the post is the first time the trust’s nomination committee – comprising staff, public and appointed governors – has exercised its powers as a Garvin Paul Chairman subcommittee of North Tees and Hartlepool NHS Foundation Trust’s council of governors for the appointment of chair. Paul became acting chairman a year ago having been vice chairman since 2006. He has chaired the trust’s audit committee from 2006 to 2008 and the clinical governance committee in 2008. He was the former chief constable of Durham Constabulary from 2002 until he retired in 2005. He has also chaired two charities; Victim Support County Durham and the Durham Association of Clubs for Young People. On learning of his successful appointment he said: “I am really delighted to have been appointed. I took on the role of acting chairman following Russell Hart’s illness last year and I knew I had a tough act to follow. “However, throughout the year I have increased my passion for the trust even more and I am extremely honoured to both lead and serve this organisation in the interests of everyone living in our area. “I have an enormous sense of pride in the trust and the greatest of respect for everyone who contributes to its success. We have a very exciting future and I am very pleased that I will be playing a major part in it.” Chief executive of North Tees and Hartlepool NHS Foundation Trust Alan Foster added: “The process of recruiting, selecting and appointing the chairman has been the most thorough I have ever known. This process has demonstrated very clearly the major difference that being an NHS Foundation Trust can make. “I want to thank, especially Paul, but all the candidates because it was an intensive process. In the end though we have in Paul an excellent chairman. Not only do I have every confidence in him but so do the governors who appointed him. “It is a tribute to Paul that he had the unanimous support of the governors on the nomination committee and a validation of the commitment and enthusiasm he has shown as acting chairman. “We look forward to exciting and possibly challenging times but with Paul’s exemplary leadership, passion and vision we will continue not only to maintain our high levels of patient experience, safety and performance but we will strive to be the best trust in the country.” October/November 09 Golf day raises funds for palliative care A charity event has raised valuable funds for the Macmillan nurses palliative care fund at North Tees and Hartlepool NHS Foundation Trust. A special charity golf day organised by Seaton Carew Golf Club has raised £3,265 to help patients in need of palliative care. The event, organised by committee member Ian Philips, is now in its thirteenth year. It has seen up to 180 golfers pay each year to take part and demonstrate even greater generosity at a fundraising raffle held after their efforts on the golf course. Ian said: “I would like to thank Seaton Carew Golf Club, its members and local businesses for their generosity.” Locality manager Sue Judge added: “The money raised by Seaton Carew Golf Club is always gratefully received. It means that we are able to provide more comforts and specialist equipment that benefits the patients. ”Demands for palliative care increases as more people want the choice of care in their own home and generous donations like this allow us to go that extra Locality manager Sue Judge thanks Ian Philips bit further.” Car parks make the grade again North Tees and Hartlepool NHS to ensuring that we provide a Foundation Trust has been safe and secure car park facility presented with the Park Mark for our visitors and staff. award for the sixth year running “We are constantly improving for the safety and the quality of lighting and security so staff and the car parking facilities. visitors can be assured that we Head of car park and security are doing everything we can Brian Christelow said: “We are to keep themselves and their very proud to achieve this award. property safe while they are at It demonstrates our commitment our hospitals.”

Head of operations, quality and standards Sue Shannon with sister Rosemary Doyle Day case unit gets a makeover Patients and visitor who come the waiting room more pleasant into the day case unit at the and welcoming. University Hospital of North Tees Sister Rosemary Doyle said: “Before can now benefit from a refurbished the refurbishment the room was waiting area. a bit unwelcoming and the chairs The unit now boasts a light and were totally unsuitable. Now we Crime reduction and architectural liaison officer from Cleveland Police hands modern feel with new easy- have an excellent waiting area over the award to porter, security and transport manager Brian Christelow. clean laminate flooring, making where people can wait in comfort.”

004|005 North Tees and Hartlepool first in line for H1N1 vaccine In the national campaign to protect the population from H1N1 (swine) flu North Tees and Hartlepool NHS Foundation Trust was the first trust in the region to receive a consignment of the vaccine. The trust was preparing for its arrival by running a training session for ward vaccinators to support the occupational health team in making sure the vaccine is available for front line health workers and at risk groups. Consultant in occupational health Christine English and occupational health lead nurse Jude Cooper took the group through the details of the vaccine and how to administer it. The vaccine comes in two phials which have to be mixed, drawn up into a syringe and given in the deltoid muscle at the top of the arm to be effective. First to receive the vaccine was matron Shirley Kilburn from Lead nurse for occupational health Jude Cooper receives her swine flu vaccine from orthopaedic ward matron Christina Kemp women’s health. She received the vaccine from orthopaedic matron went ahead with the training so Consultant physician Katie Elmer, Katie, who is expecting her second Christina Kemp. we’d be ready when it did arrive. also pictured having her vaccine, child, added: “As a mother and an Jude, pictured also receiving her “As it turned out it came early in emphasised how important it is expectant mother I’m also keen vaccination from Christina Kemp, the morning so our vaccinators for front line health workers and to protect my young daughter, said: “We knew the vaccines gave each other the seasonal flu people in vulnerable groups to my unborn baby and myself from were arriving on 21 October but jab first followed by the swine take up the offer of the vaccine. the illness. We saw in the surge we weren’t sure what time so we flu vaccine.” “We’re encouraging staff to have during the summer that the virus the vaccine because they have a hit younger people and pregnant right not to catch flu from patients. women. I’m personally not They also have a duty of care not prepared to take the risk of being to pass flu on to patients and a affected myself or risking my baby responsibility to their colleagues which is why I’ve decided to have not to be off with an illness that the vaccine and I’m encouraging could have been prevented. others to do the same. As it looks at the moment the “As with all vaccines there are second surge is not as sharp as risks and of course people have to we expected but surges aren’t weigh them up. However a slightly necessarily predictable so we sore arm and the possibility of should do everything in our feeling a bit unwell for a day or so power to keep the effects of flu to far outweigh the risk of contracting a minimum.” either seasonal flu or swine flu.”

You can find out more about what the trust is doing to vaccinate staff on youtube by searching for ‘Swine flu Consultant physician Katie Elmer has her vaccination from lead nurse in vaccination begins for occupational health Jude Cooper NHS staff’. October/November 09 Hospital shortlisted for national award North Tees and Hartlepool NHS can improve. Foundation Trust is celebrating Sue said: “We are delighted after being shortlisted for a to be one of only six trusts national health award. selected nationally for the The trust has been shortlisted for final of the patient safety HSJ a Health Service Journal Award award. We believe there were (HSJ) under the category of over 1,000 entries this year and patient safety in recognition of its being shortlisted for the finals project to continuously improve reinforces the great work our patient safety and experience. staff are doing to make a real The trust board and clinical difference to the quality of care teams are demonstrating their we provide to our patients. commitment to putting patients “Improving patient care involves Julie Lane first by making patient safety all staff across the trust. We also and patient experience its involve trainee doctors and nurses New service manager for family health number one priority. A number in our quality improvement work North Tees and Hartlepool NHS from City Hospitals Sunderland of improvements have been to show them the standards Foundation Trust has appointed NHS Foundation Trust, where put into action over the last 12 of clinical care expected in Julie Lane as service manager she has worked for the last 19 months through listening to what the trust.” for family health. years as both a midwife and in a our patients tell us. Every month Sue and members of the patient Julie joined the trust in September number of senior nursing posts director of nursing and patient safety team travelled to London and brings 27 years experience with her last post being head of safety Sue Smith and her senior for the next stage of the awards of working in the NHS to the nursing policy. nursing team go out to wards to at the end of September. The trust. She started her career Julie said: “I am delighted to join speak to patients and find out awards ceremony will take place as a nurse before training as the trust and look forward to the what we do well and what we in London in November. a midwife. She joins the trust challenge ahead.” Hair-raising experience raises cash for cancer charity Fearless fundraiser Macmillan plunge from the Transporter clinical specialist nurse Hilary Bridge in Middlesbrough, Sadler took a terrifying challenge raising a total of £2400, but the to raise money for Macmillan donations are still coming in. Cancer Support. Hilary said: “It was definitely Dare devil Hilary joined 13 the scariest thing I have members of her family and ever done – I’m glad I did it enjoyed a bird’s eye view of and most of all it was for a Teesside on - a 1,000ft zip wire worthwhile cause.”

One grateful patient says thanks to the staff with flowers Grateful patient says thanks with flowers A grateful patient has said thank patients want. The whole team is you to the staff in the maternity committed to providing safe, high unit at the University Hospital of quality care for women. North Tees, with more than one “I’m proud to work with such a bouquet of flowers. dedicated team, helping women Clinical director for obstetrics through their pregnancy and birth and gynaecology Steve Wild and providing the best care to Hilary with brother in law before the big event said: “We listen to what our suit each individual need.”

006|007 Consultant haematologist Philip Mounter, ward manager Sheila Mounter and Roger Finney. Haematology day unit officially opened North Tees and Hartlepool NHS Foundation Trust has officially opened the new haematology day unit at the University Hospital of North Tees.

On Monday 14 September former It also supports projects that have benefiting from the secluded “We are extremely grateful to patients, relatives and others a direct benefit to patients with courtyard garden. have been awarded this funding. who have generously donated leukaemia and their families. Ward manager Sheila Mounter It will make a significant difference in the past gathered, as retired The funding has been used to said: “The additional space and to the environment for patients consultant haematologist Roger extend the day care facilities support area means that patients and their visitors.” Finney officially opened the Roger Finney continued: “This is new unit. “This is an excellent facility and it an excellent facility and it gives me The trust was awarded over great pleasure to officially open £100,000 to extend the gives me great pleasure to officially the unit. Due to the nature of the haematology unit from The Kay open the unit.” treatment, patients who attend Kendall Leukaemia Fund. The on a daily basis have to spend fund, which was established in the haematology unit to will see an enhanced service a lot of time sitting around, and under the will of the late James provide a treatment area and and will ensure we create a first this new unit will make it a much Sainsbury, awards grants for a private counselling area with class facility for treating patients more comfortable experience. research into leukaemia and direct access from the car park with blood cancers and other It has definitely been designed related haematological disorders. to maintain privacy while also blood disorders. with the patients in mind.”

October/November 09 Deputy chief executive Carol Langrick with senior health trainer Gillian Oliver, senior health trainer Adam Johnson, team leader Sally Sayers, senior health trainer Emma Jackson, senior health trainer Jo Walkington, senior health trainer Fran Hall, senior health trainer Elaine Russon, health trainer manager Sharon Bartram. Health trainers get out to spread the message

A team of health trainers at of important health and lifestyle “It’s great to be a part of some changes and we can offer the North Tees and Hartlepool NHS issues including: fantastic success stories – we’ve motivation and support to help Foundation Trust have been out • eating more healthily helped someone lose more them achieve their goals. Being spreading the healthy living • weight management than five stone and supported a a health trainer is a fantastic message to local people. • becoming more active massive smoker to give up the rewarding role and I look forward The dedicated health trainers • helping people to become cigarettes. We often find that to going to work each day.” from a team of 22 provide free non smokers the advice we give filters down guidance and support for adults • drinking sensibly through the family too. Carol gets involved over 18 who want to lead a Senior health trainer Denise “Many people believe that Deputy chief executive Carole healthy lifestyle. Murphy said: “It’s all about getting fit or eating a healthy, Langrick joined health trainer Along with a giant Wii Fit, making small sustainable balanced diet requires money manager Sharon Bartram to the team have been getting changes that will help people in – but people can increase their find out more about how the out to working men’s clubs the future. We are not medically fitness levels simply by walking health trainers are helping the and shopping centres to talk trained; we are all people from more and we have even met local community. to the public about making within the community who can people at the supermarket and The first stop was Elmwood those healthy lifestyle changes empathise with the problems pointed out the healthier options. Community Centre in Stockton and promoting their service at faced by the community. I think We never tell people they are where they arrived just in time community fun days and events that is why we are successful as going on a diet – it’s just healthy to join in a game with people to spread the message. we are seen more as giving help eating and making changes that with learning disabilities. The team provide an easy from next door rather than advice they can easily maintain. Sharon explained: “We support access support service and from above. We will signpost “We understand how hard it people with learning disabilities advice for tackling a wide range people to other services too. is for people to start making to manage their own health by

008|009 Health trainer Roz Charlton, health trainer manager Sharon Bartram and senior health trainer Denise Murphy have a go on the Wii Fit. Health trainers get out to spread the message Senior health trainers Denise Murphy, Steve Gaffney, Ann Banks, Roz Charlton and Pam Cairns and health trainer team leader Fiona Cutting. helping them work through their personal health plans – teaching them about healthy eating and exercise.” The team of health trainers in Newtown Resource centre were on hand to tell Carole all about their work. The team, all have different backgrounds – from having a masters degree in psychology to having made this a career change. Carole said: “It’s been a fantastic opportunity for me to find out more about the health trainers and get involved with one of their groups. The team are so dedicated and passionate about their work – they clearly love their jobs and show they are genuinely there to help people.” Carole joins in the team games

October/November 09 The breast unit at the University Hospital of Hartlepool received two donations recently. In this issue Anthem gives the stories behind them. Janet holds charity night to say thanks for her care A woman from Peterlee, Along with friends Margaret supported by friends and family, Judd and Bev Woodburn she has made a generous donation organised a charity night at to the breast reconstruction Peterlee Football Club. As well fund at the University Hospital as entertainment from country of Hartlepool. singer Dave Cash, supporters Janet Bilton, 62, found a lump also donated to a raffle to help in 2005 and, after coming to the boost funds. In the end an breast clinic for a mammogram impressive £620 was raised and ultrasound, was told she which Janet was delighted had breast cancer. to present to surgeon Pud Shortly afterwards she had Bhaskar and Macmillan nurse the lump removed and had Karen Milburn. reconstructive surgery at the Mr Bhaskar said: “It was very time. Unfortunately a course generous of Janet and her friends of radiotherapy affected the and family to get together and reconstruction and she had raise this sum. Reconstruction is another operation to restore the a very important part of the care affected breast. for women with breast cancer Janet said: “It was a shock now and makes a difference to find out I had cancer but I to how people deal with the am so grateful for the care I illness itself and their recovery. have received. I’ve got to know We’re very grateful to everyone the staff very well and feel as involved in the fundraising. if I’m among friends when I “It’s humbling to think that people come here.” who’ve been through something Janet was eager to find a practical as devastating as cancer are way to say thank you and boost selfless and generous enough Janet Bilton with husband Eric hands over the cash to surgeon Pud Bhaskar the breast reconstruction fund. to think of future patients.” and Macmillan nurse Karen Milburn

Anne’s memory lives on with a final donation A woman who died from breast another £1,000 to enhance the cancer has left a lasting legacy to environment for patients with the breast unit at the University breast cancer. Hospital of Hartlepool. In paying tribute to Anne Eve Anne Cook, 61, died in December said: “She was such a fantastic 2008 after a long battle with the lady and people donated gifts disease. She began fundraising left, right and centre to help with for the unit after her friend her fundraising. She would do Hazel Henson died from breast anything for anybody. cancer in 1998 and ironically was Consultant surgeon Pud Bhaskar diagnosed with the same disease and breast care nurse Karen herself just two years later. Milburn accepted the donation Helped by her sister-in-law Eve on behalf of the unit. Karen said: Timlin and friends Joan Hall, Beryl “Anne was a dedicated supporter Dickson and Margaret Armstrong and fundraiser for breast cancer she continued fundraising. Their services at the University Hospital efforts raised thousands for of Hartlepool. the unit. “She had tremendous energy and Anne’s friend Joan and sister-in- personality and inspired all those Pud Bhaskar with Eve Timlin, Joan Hall and Karen Milburn. Inset: Anne Cook, law Eve came to the breast unit to around her. She is deeply missed who died in December 2008. make the final donation recently; by all who knew and loved her.”

010|011 Future leaders celebrate success More staff were delighted and relieved to be the latest groups to pass the leadership development programme (LDP).

The LDP, run in-house by Director of human resources organisation development and organisational development facilitator June Heward, is Clare Curran added: “I would accredited by the Institute of like to congratulate the successful Leadership and Management students for their hard work and (ILM). Students had to choose a commitment. We are committed change management project – an to developing the workforce and area of work where they thought this is helping those who aspire improvement could be made, and to be in a leadership position and at the end of the course formally take the organisation forward.” present to their fellow students Congratulations to Tracy Noble, and the senior management. Tony Skedd, Jennifer Feasby, June said: “The LDP started in Lynda Brooker, Viv Jacobs, 2002, with one group per year, Barbara Harland, Debra Jenkins, this has now increased to six and Paul Harris, Alex Thomas, Sue that number keeps increasing. Stevens, Alison McCullagh, Sandra Despite the hard work required the Wilkinson, Emma Elliott, Christina popularity of the course continues Kemp, Kath Duncan, Katie Elmer, to rise. By the end of the year John Smith, Sharron Williams, more than 200 members of staff Mark McDonald, Julie Olsen, Andy will have completed the course.” Greason and Philip Dean.

October/November 09 Chaplains join the palliative care team to help improve end of life care In what’s believed to be the first of its type in “We’re also there to support staff because the country chaplains are now part of the team it’s often not possible for them to spend who support patients, relatives and staff on end the time they would like to with someone of life care. who is dying. The family may also need In 2008 the national end of life strategy published support and we can help to do that too.” by the Department of Health said patients who are dying should have their physical, emotional, Difference psychological and spiritual needs assessed. An Consultant in palliative medicine Edwin audit in the trust showed that only four per cent Pugh, who chairs the regional end of of patients had their spiritual needs assessed. life group, added: “Having the chaplaincy The palliative care team took these findings to team involved at such an early stage is the top and the trust supported the move to making a significant difference to the way address this vital aspect in the care of people we care for people who are dying and who are dying. their families. In practice this now means that the chaplaincy “About 50 per cent of everyone who dies in team is involved at an early stage and is informed the area served by the trust dies in one of as soon as staff are aware someone is in the last our hospitals. two or three days of their life. “The work we’re doing on end of life Paul Salter (pictured) heads up the chaplaincy care suggests that more people would team at North Tees and Hartlepool NHS Chaplain Paul Salter choose to die at home and the work we’re Foundation Trust. He said: “Our role is not to doing aims to improve services to support force religion on patients and their families if address them. that choice. they don’t want it. It’s much more about spiritual “We can give a person who is dying an opportunity “The chaplains are a very welcome addition care in its widest sense. We do know that to talk to someone who isn’t family, the chance to to the team. They are making a difference to people’s views on spirituality can change radically forgive themselves or others, prayer or religious the quality of care for people who are dying when they reach the end of their lives. Our role rites if they would like them and simply a chance to and supporting families and staff at this most is to identify the patient’s needs and try and find peace. crucial time.” Pain service enters new phase

Consultant anaesthetist John by the trust and everything is Francis has joined the pain team being done locally, providing at North Tees and Hartlepool an improved service for NHS Foundation Trust. the patients. John, who trained in Sheffield John said: “It’s an exciting time where he worked for more to join the growing team – I was than five years, joined the trust attracted to the enthusiasm of in August. the staff here and look forward The appointment means that a to being part of such a motivated new clinic is now being provided pain management team.” Ready to race retinal screener Sue Westwood, retinal screening service manager Amanda Grange, retinal screener Laura Kirkby and retinal screening Sue Pott Retinal runners take on the Tees Pride 10K On Sunday 6 September the out in January and it seemed like staff from the retinal screening a good idea at the time, but as the team at North Tees and Hartlepool date loomed we all had moments NHS Foundation Trust put on of doubt that we would manage their running shoes and joined the full 10k. But we managed thousands in the Tees Pride 10K to complete the race in times road race. between 1hr 6 minutes to 1hr 23 The team, named the retinal minutes – which is pretty good for runners have raised more than non-runners. £300 for Diabetes UK and the “We are all absolutely thrilled donations are still rolling in. that we managed to complete Retinal screening service manager the race, although we had a few Amanda Grange said: “We agreed aches and pains - we have started Consultant anaesthetist John Francis to run the race on a team night planning for next year already!”

012|013 Let’s talk about death North easterners are being asked to tackle a taboo and talk about death as the region launches the UK’s first ever charter on end of life care. The pioneering charter sets out end of life group said: “Death and will centre around a questionnaire and help NHS North East and proposals for the kind of care and dying is taboo, its reality is put available at www.agooddeath. other partners plan work around support which people who are off until the last minute. We live co.uk and research will also end of life care. The findings are dying, their families and carers, in an increasingly death-denying be carried out by an on street expected to be available in late can expect. Once agreed, it will society, despite the fact that all team in towns and cities across January 2010. guide those who plan and provide of us will die. Death and dying the region. Recent national research has end of life care or support. is seen as a medical problem. The charter has been developed revealed that those who are NHS North East has worked Almost six in 10 people die in as part of the regional better dying, their families or carers, with a range of partners across our hospitals, even though most health, fairer health strategy may not be receiving the end of health, social care and voluntary people wish to die in the comfort which aims to make the north life care and support they want, sectors, plus patients and carers, of their own homes. The launch east the healthiest region in because they are not discussing to produce A Good Death charter. of this charter is the start of a England within a generation. their situation. The research A public consultation on the process to make sure our society, Professor Stephen Singleton, reveals that the north east is the charter will run until December. It and the support services people regional director of public health least comfortable region in the aims to gather the region’s views rely on during these difficult says: “Everyone should have UK when it comes to discussing and start a discussion about times, respond with compassion the right to experience a good death. It also highlights that north death and dying, an issue which to the needs of those people who death and family members, easterners are the least likely to is often avoided and ignored, are dying and their loved ones. partners or other carers deserve want to know if they are dying and despite being the one common This is not principally about dying support and compassion at this almost two-thirds of us haven’t inevitability we all share. – it’s about ensuring we live life to time. North easterners can help discussed end of life care plans. Consultant in palliative medicine the fullest of our potential, with make this happen by filling in this For more information on the at North Tees and Hartlepool meaning and value, in whatever questionnaire and telling us what charter and how to respond NHS Foundation Trust Edwin time we have.” they think.” to the consultation visit Pugh, who chairs the regional The consultation on A Good Death Feedback will inform the charter http://www.agooddeath.co.uk/

October/November 09 NHS launches new campaign to help people to Choose Well A new campaign to help patients choose the best place to get treatment if they fall ill has been launched.

NHS North of Tyne has teamed up with primary care trusts across the North East to launch the Choose Well campaign to boost public awareness about the NHS services available to them. Research has shown that a significant number of people still go to hospital accident and emergency departments when there are other services more convenient and suitable for their needs. The campaign uses a colour coded thermometer to help people to link their symptoms with a particular NHS service which is right for their need. Staff from across the NHS including GPs, nurses, pharmacists, paramedics and consultants are all involved in promoting the Choose Well campaign. Look out for regional TV, radio and internet advertising and billboards. Chief executive Alan Foster said: “This is a clear way of letting people know what services are there and when to use them. It’s all about getting the right care in the right place at the right time.” Using a colour coded thermometer, the campaign will highlight six areas of healthcare: Self care – for the treatment of minor illnesses, by combining a well stocked medicine cabinet with plenty of rest. NHS Direct – for absolutely any health questions, around the clock, and to find local services. Pharmacists - for advice on common illnesses and the best medicines to treat them. GPs – for medical advice, examinations and prescriptions for illnesses you just can’t shake off. Urgent care / walk-in centres – for treatment of minor illnesses or injuries without an appointment. Accident and emergency (A&E) – for critical or life-threatening situation. More information about the campaign is available on http:// www.northoftyne.nhs.uk/ A poster from the campaign 014|015 Staff get healthy for regional award

October/November 09 Staff get healthy for regional award North Tees and Hartlepool NHS Foundation Trust has signed up to a regional health award to promote health and well-being to its staff. The trust is working towards the bronze level of the North East Better Health at Work – an award which has been developed by work place health specialists in the north east to stand as the regional mark of quality for improving health and well-being in the workplace. Director of human resources and organisational development Clare Curran (pictured below) said: “The health and well-being of our employees is a priority and this award demonstrates our commitment. It is important that we make sure advice and help is available to our staff about maintaining a healthy lifestyle.” Events were held for staff to give them the opportunity to find out more about staying healthy. There was competitions, prizes and even the chance for staff to have their hair done. Occupational health manager Elaine Wilson (below right) added: “It is fantastic that the trust has signed up to the award. We have been involving

016|017 Staff get healthy for regional award the staff and asking them what is important to them. We are planning to run a series of events as we work towards the bronze and silver levels of the award. We expect this will bring a considerable number of health benefits to our staff. “The workplace has enormous potential for improving the health of the staff and this award makes a contribution to improving the health and wellbeing.”

Safer drinking The occupational health team joined the community safety team from Stockton Borough Council to promote and urge staff to think about how much alcohol they drink and send out the hard-hitting message behind the advertising campaign. Staff tried out the beer goggles and the electronic driving game. Elaine continued: “People are becoming more and more aware of the dangers of drinking too much, too often. However we need to make sure we get the message out there to prevent people putting their health at serious risk. If more people think before they drink, we could make a real difference.”

October/November 09 018|019 Linda Oliver We’re helping patients with sight loss

North Tees and HartlepoolNHS Foundation Trust Sight loss is a traumatic experience which can have an effect on every I s s u e 16 October/November 09

part of a person’s life, including their independence and confidence. The magazine for North Tees and Hartlepool NHS Foundation Trust Haematologyday unit officiallyopened Linda Oliver, 53, has first-hand could take my time and take in visit to our hospital easier, so experience of many issues faced the information instead of just whatever a patient asks for we by having little or no sight when listening to someone else.” respond and help in any way coming into hospital. She was a On another occasion Linda came we can. patient at the University Hospital into hospital for a minor operation, “We make sure that the of North Tees. she requested for her consent patients have a choice and we p a g e 7 She said: “I have had a couple form to be provided in Braille. will provide information in larger of appointments at the hospital Linda added: “It made it much print, Braille, audio and we can and probably like most people; I easier for me and for the staff; provide interpreters for a number was quite worried and concerned I felt more in control. As a blind of languages.” Got a story about coming into hospital. I was patient, it made me think that Linda, who has worked at sent a leaflet and of course, I was someone has really thought about BlindVoice UK in Stockton on Tees for Anthem? unable to read it myself, so I asked my needs. I was able to maintain for several years as a learning If you’ve got something to for my information to be provided some independence and privacy. and access officer, teaches Braille, share with other Anthem in Braille. Director of clinical services and provides visual awareness training readers please email “It was really helpful to be able compliance Julie Giilon explained: and emotional help and support to [email protected] or to read the document myself; I “We want to make every patient’s people who have lost their sight. phone 01642 624339.

October/November 09 World class hospital gets one step nearer Hartlepool Borough Council by Hartlepool Borough Council. has approved outline planning We are totally committed to permission for the new hospital improving healthcare in our area at Wynyard. under the momentum: pathways The world class hospital is part to healthcare programme and the of momentum: pathways to hospital will be the final piece of healthcare programme which the jigsaw. will mean that - for people in “We’d like to thank the council, Hartlepool, Stockton and parts of its members and officers and Easington and Sedgefield in future all our partners for the thorough - much more care will be provided process. We all want to bring the in or closer to people’s homes, healthcare that local people both three integrated care centres and need and deserve to our area. an enhanced GP practice will be With services moving into or created to support the moves closer to people’s homes backed and a smaller new world class up by a new hospital to care hospital will replace the University for people only when they really Hospital of Hartlepool and the need to be there we will have a University Hospital of North Tees healthcare system that will not in Stockton. only be the envy of the country Chief executive of North Tees but even the world. and Hartlepool NHS Foundation “This is another important Trust Alan Foster said: “We milestone to getting the hospital are absolutely delighted the and we now look forward to the application for outline planning case for the hospital being heard permission has been approved by the Department of Health.”

Chief executive Alan Foster Artists impression of the new hospital

Student nurses from the which is in addition to normal District nurses praised for University of Teesside have school activities, gives the praised the district nursing teams students extra qualifications and excellent student placements at North Tees and Hartlepool NHS real life experience of working in Foundation Trust in recognition of health care. the excellent practice experience Locality manager Sue Judge said: they received during their “I would like to congratulate the community placements. nursing staff on the excellent The feedback received, work they are doing in caring demonstrates the high quality for patients and supporting learning environment provided student nurses. This excellence is by community teams, which reflected by students’ comments facilitates the pre-registration and demonstrates overwhelming nursing students through their support from the trust and our nursing education programme. nursing staff. Mentors have also been praised “All the staff help to make the for going the extra mile with student nurses role a wonderful the STEPS into health and social experience. This includes the care - a programme for young many staff members who have apprentices aged 14 to 16 in the undertaken mentor training. The North East who are interested feedback is testimony to our in a career in health and social staff’s commitment to working District nurses care. The vocational programme, together as a team.”

020|021 Pictured left to right: angiography unit manager Louise Tindall, sister Isobel Adams, Vera Sadler, physiologist Vivienne Hansell, consultant cardiologist Justin Carter. Hospital’s first pacemaker patient A new service at North Tees and Hartlepool NHS Foundation Trust is set to make a huge difference to heart patients.

With the procedure now being problem couldn’t be fixed with heart disease has improved and and friendly unit. carried out at the University tablets. Using the latest type more people can benefit from “The staff were fantastic – every Hospital of Hartlepool it means of pacemaker, weighing just a having a pacemaker. Patients one of them. I was even at home local patients can have the few ounces, the small electronic who are already in the hospital, the next day. It didn’t feel like procedure carried out closer I was coming into hospital, the to home. “the staff are like friends, they really made staff are like friends, they really The first patient to receive a made me feel at ease and went pacemaker was 80 year-old me feel at ease and went out of their way out of their way to make sure Vera Sadler from Billingham. to make sure I had the best possible care” I had the best possible care. I Vera needed a pacemaker feel much better now. I’d say to because her heart was going device was implanted under the no longer need to be transferred anyone getting a pacemaker – too slowly, leaving her at risk of skin. When Vera’s heart goes elsewhere to have their they needn’t worry.” blackouts, causing her to fall and too slow or pauses, then the pacemaker implanted.” Around 100 pacemaker implants injure herself. pacemaker sends an impulse to Vera added: “Having treatment are planned to take place at the Consultant cardiologist the heart to remind it to beat. nearer to home made such University Hospital of Hartlepool Justin Carter explained: “The “What we can do for people with a difference. This is a small in the next year.

October/November 09 Members of the hospital user group (left to right) Peter Wilkinson, Ray Stephenson, Linda Shields, Jean Hills, Stan Slater and Norman Mackay Volunteers wanted to help improve patient care The chair of group set up to “We didn’t want to lose either to understand issues from the help North Tees and Hartlepool the knowledge of the group patient’s perspective. NHS Foundation Trust improve or the relationships we’d built “We’re looking for volunteers its hospital services is asking up around the trust, and this because we need to keep this for new members. was an excellent way of taking important work going.” Linda Shields has been active in things forward. Jan Atkinson added: “It’s the North Tees and Hartlepool important we gather views from patient forum and community Hospital focus many different areas about our health council before that. She “Although the LINks (local services. It also helps us decide now chairs the trust’s hospital involvement networks) have on priorities from improvement user group which carries out now being set up across local so everyone benefits in visits to departments across the authorities we still intend to the end. two hospitals, gains views from carry on with this group “We’re very grateful to the staff and patients and makes because it focuses on the members of the hospital user suggestions for improvement. trust and the two hospitals group for giving their time so She said: “We were very pleased in particular. generously to help other people. when the trust asked us to “The group meets once a month An influx of new members set up a group because patient and, with assistant director of would certainly help to lighten forums were coming to an end patient and public involvement their load.” and we were waiting to find out Jan Atkinson, sets down a list If you’re interested in joining what the new arrangements for of visits group members would the group please email jan. involving patients and the public like to do throughout the year. [email protected] or phone Hospital user group chair Linda Shields were going to be. It’s another way for the trust 01642 383803. 022|023 Karen is the face of a national campaign

Parkinson’s disease specialist nurse Karen Lister is the face of a national appeal to raise funds for more Parkinson’s disease nurses. Karen provides support to more than 300 patients with Parkinson’s disease to improve their quality of life and she is one of 275 specialist nurses across the UK. Karen said: “I am honoured to get behind this national appeal. Before I was appointed, some of my patients had Parkinson’s for seven years without seeing a Parkinson’s nurse. “Since I’ve worked with them, they’ve noticed a big difference - they can just pick up the phone and call me. The care and support we can give is extremely important to people with Parkinson’s and their carers.” The Parkinson’s disease society is aiming to make sure everyone with Parkinson’s disease has access to a specialist nurse. More information and ways to make a donation can Parkinson’s disease specialist nurse Karen Lister be found at www.parkinsons.org.uk/

Karen in the spotlight October/November 09 More weapons in the infection control battle North Tees and Hartlepool NHS Foundation Trust is relentless in its battle against the spread of infection. Anthem features just two of the latest developments.

A new role The machine supports other deep Becky Keenan has started her new cleaning methods on the wards role as antimicrobial pharmacist to uses hydrogen peroxide vapour support infection control. Becky to kill infection like CDif bacteria, ensures antibiotics are correctly providing a real deep clean for prescribed on the wards and works the wards. closely with microbiologists and Director of nursing and patient safe- pharmacy, educating colleagues ty Sue Smith said: “We are always and clinical staff in appropriate anti- keen to look at new technologies biotic prescribing. that can help us in the fight to pre- Becky said: “Antibiotics do not vent infections and provide a safer work on most coughs, colds environment for patients. Patient and sore throats. Unnecessary safety is always our first priority and use of antibiotics can leave the we are confident the new cleaning body susceptible to infections like system will help us to continue our Clostridium difficile.” good work in infection control. “Hand washing is the most effec- Bug busting machine for tive way of preventing infections hospital wards spreading. Our staff wash or clean The trust is using state-of-the art their hands before any contact with chemical fogging in the fight against their patients and we ask that visi- avoidable infections such as MRSA tors clean their hands when enter- Antimicrobial pharmacist Becky Keenan and Clostridium difficile (CDif). ing or leaving wards.”

New technology - ward hygienists Karen Brown and Angela Alderson get ready with the fogging machine 024|025 The visitors stop for a picture with the team Fertility specialist out of town meeting attracts major interest

It’s often the case that health improve the chances of pregnancy professionals in the field of for couples with fertility problems. assisted reproduction have to “Much of the research is about travel to London if they want to which drugs to give and how to hear the latest news about their give them. We are now looking service. However a recent meeting at Rob’s work to see how it can bucked that trend because it was benefit patients in our unit. held in the University Hospital “Nurse manager Paula Lynch of Hartlepool. shared her experiences of Consultant gynaecologist and supporting and educating patients lead clinician at the assisted and their partners through the long reproduction unit Hany Mostafa and often highly emotional journey said: “We were honoured and of fertility treatment. Our nursing delighted to welcome CRM team enjoyed sharing ideas medical director Rob Forman with Paula. and his colleague nurse manager “We’re grateful to Nordic Pharma Paula Lynch from London to who supported the meeting which the meeting. attracted fertility specialists from “The issue under discussion across the region and Yorkshire. was factors affecting IVF (in vitro It was an excellent event and our fertilisation) outcomes and it visitors were extremely impressed was enlightening to hear about with the service and facilities we the latest ideas and research to offer here in Hartlepool.” Rob Forman (right) with consultant gynaecologists Iona Macleod and Hany Mostafa October/November 09 Generous donation to the critical care unit

The critical care unit at the the total donated to the unit to University Hospital of Hartlepool over £3000. has received an extremely Clinical matron for critical care “The money will be used to help to generous donation from the family said: “We can’t thank the family of Joel Skinner, who died aged just enough for their generosity pay for comforts for families who 19 with friend Kelsey Anderson, following such a sad loss. The have to spend hours on end in the 18 in September 2006. money will be used to help to More than £2000 was raised pay for comforts for families who hospital’s critical care unit while at a charity night as a way of have to spend hours on end in the they wait for news on relatives who saying thank you for the hospital’s hospital’s critical care unit while fantastic support and caring they wait for news on relatives are fighting for life.” attitude. This donation brings who are fighting for life.”

Pictured following the cheque presentation at the University Hospital of Hartlepool are (left to right) Mia Buck, Ben Reynolds, Sonya Wilkinson of the critical care unit, Fern Skinner, Rhys Denton, Mykie Stephenson, Julie Bushnall, Lauren Buck and Lewis Skinner. 026|027 The team in uniform Community services go back to the floor Senior community nursing staff put on their uniforms and went out to the clinics in the first quality review. After joining director of nursing said: “The quality reviews are an and patient safety Sue Smith and excellent way to see for ourselves the matrons in the hospital, acting what we are doing well and what clinical director of community we can improve. services Linda Watson and her “The first quality review went team were keen to get out into well – it was a good opportunity the clinics in the community to learn from this pilot how we to see for themselves what is can make improvements in the being done well and what can be future. These visits are designed improved to provide the best care to support the staff and take away for the patients. examples of good practice to The team of senior nursing staff share with our colleagues. put on their uniforms and headed Specialist services manger Val Hall out to the clinics across various added: “This benefits staff as well health centres, including Caroline as patients. Positive comments Street Health Centre, Wynyard have been fed back to the staff – Road Primary Care Centre, Tees it’s important that they know they Street Health Centre and Gretham are doing a good job.” in Hartlepool to talk to the patients The team will continue their and staff. visits each month to various Acting clinical director of health centres in Stockton community services Linda Watson and Hartlepool.

October/November 09 Model railway enthusiasts raise money for cancer charities

Model railway enthusiasts he was the driving force behind have kindly handed over £1000 putting the event on the map. to the chemotherapy day “Malcolm had made sure the unit at the University Hospital event was in place for this year of North Tees in memory of and we just put the final touches Malcolm Priestman. to it to make sure it was an Malcolm, 66, who sadly lost exhibition that Malcolm would his life after being diagnosed have been proud of. with having non-Hodgkin’s “This is an event which we lymphoma in September last really enjoy organising and we year, was known for his efforts in are already planning next years organising the Hartlepool Model exhibition. We are just a group of Railway Exhibition. friends with a common interest – The event, in its fourth year, held using our hobbies to raise money at the Wynyard Rooms raised for local charities.” £2,000 which was shared equally Chemotherapy unit manager between the chemotherapy day Wendy Anderson said: “This is unit and the Macmillan Cancer an extremely generous donation. Support Charity. The money will be used to provide Friend and fellow organiser of extra comforts and equipment the exhibition Bob Skipsey said: for the patients. I am sure that Bob Skipsey, Bryan Langston, Derek Redman and Paul Bolton hand over the “Malcolm always had great patients who will benefit will be cheque to the chemotherapy day unit. enthusiasm for the event and extremely grateful.”

Starlight brightens up hospital stay Staff on the children’s ward at young children, but we try and University Hospital of North make it as pleasant as possible Tees were determined not to let for them. a hospital stay get in the way of “Myself and other specialist play their young patients having fun. staff are always on hand to play The children enjoyed a special games with the children which pantomime courtesy of children’s helps their recovery and also charity Starlight. National charity, take their minds off what is to Starlight Children’s Foundation, come - if they are worried about organises parties, pantomimes their treatment or operations. and outings for hospitalised Often, parents are also worried Pictured left to right are Linda Wilmore, Lisa Scott, Wendy Martindale, Gillian children, helping distract children about their poorly children and Merron, Ian Wright and Gillian Wright from the pain, fear and isolation we reassure mums and dads of their illness. that their children are not only Hospital play specialist Jennie well looked after in hospital. In Stop smoking service Hobbs said: “Nobody wants fact, we have just as much fun to be in hospital, especially as the children!” celebrates 10 years Stop smoking specialist advisors four-week quitters in Stockton. celebrated 10 years of the stop Stop smoking advisor Wendy smoking services in style – with an Martindale - the face of service can invite to the House of Commons. be spotted on posters in the north Two specialist stop smoking east. Wendy has been an adviser advisors Gillian Wright and Linda for the stop smoking service for Willmore were honoured to receive 10 years. She said: “It was an outstanding service awards from honour to get the opportunity to the Government’s Minister of State go to the House of Commons and for Public Health Gillian Merron. celebrate the 10 year anniversary, To add to the celebrations - the having worked for the service for dedication and hard work of the 10 years”. team has meant that Hartlepool “I am very proud to work with a came second highest in the country successful and dedicated team of for the number of four-week people. The great thing about the quitters per 100,000 population stop smoking service is that we’re and approximately double the local and we’re there to help local England national average for four- people - not to preach. We treat Jennie Hobbs, Carolyn Campbell, Christine Goodwin and Sheryl Worton week quitters in Hartlepool and everyone as an individual and use with the cast of Starlight Children’s Foundation. well above the England average for whatever works for them.”

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