Issue 24 August/September 11 North Tees and Hartlepool NHS Foundation Trust

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

Two magazines become one see page 2

Urgent and emergency care – one era ends another begins page 4

Trust passes Care Quality Commission inspection with flying colours page 12

Special achievement award for Val, more about the Hartlepool Mail Best of Health awards page 21 Two magazines now become one Our member magazine Keeping iNToucH has now been combined with the trust magazine Anthem so, from now on members, patients, staff and visitors will be able to keep up to date with all the news from North Tees and Hartlepool NHS Foundation Trust. This means Anthem will carry stories about member and governors events which were normally featured in the member magazine and members will be able to read about the people who make the trust the fantastic place it is. Head of communications Claire Young said: “Thanks to generosity of local businesses we’re able to keep the production costs down but still provide a great publication. We know Anthem is popular with staff because it’s a challenge to fit everything in and we hope members will enjoy having the James Gutridge, staff nurse Jodie Miller with Oliver, Adam Brooks, Neil Brooks, and staff nurse Irene Berry opportunity to read about what’s going on in the trust.” If you have any stories and anything you’d like to see in Anthem please email [email protected] or phone 150 mile bike ride 01642 624339. to say thanks to neonatal unit

Keen cyclists Adam Brooks and James James and everyone who has helped them Gutridge cycled 150 miles to raise funds for to raise money for the unit which will benefit the neonatal unit at the University Hospital other families.” of North Tees, which took care of Adam’s premature baby nephew. Tiny Oliver, who was only 3lb 3oz when he was born last October is now thriving, and Adam says it’s all thanks to the neonatal unit, where he was looked after for the first two months of his life. Adam said: “It was really against the odds when Oliver was born. But, thanks to the excellent care he received on the neonatal unit he is now getting stronger every day. We wanted to do the challenge to say thank you to the hospital and to raise funds which will benefit other babies on the ward.” Adam and James, who cycled from Whitehaven in Cumbria to Hartlepool in a single day, raised a total of more than £600. They also plan to take part in the Great North Run and Oliver’s parents have held a number of fundraising events. Service manager for family health Julie Lane added: “We’re extremely grateful to Adam, Staff nurse Jodie Miller with Oliver 002|003 Let’s get moving! A new website has been launched by NHS Stockton on Tees to promote the exercise activities available in the local area. www.letsgetmoving.org.uk is a one stop shop style website packed with information about exercise groups, clubs and information about parks, cycling and walking routes in the area. to set everyone on the right track Health trainer manager at the trust to a healthier lifestyle.” Sharon Bartram said: “There are There are lots of easy to use some fantastic ideas on how to guides and tips on how to get you get fit on site or simply to enjoy off the starting blocks. So, let’s get the outdoors. There is something moving today! Paul Rodgers, Anil Agarwal, Brenda Slater, Barbara Carr, Emily Rodgers, David Bruce, Gillian Rodgers and Bella the dog Nursery has a blooming A stroll in memory great tea party of Roger Staff, children and their families had a blooming great time at Friends and colleagues of The trust’s medical a tea party held at North Tees hospital consultant Roger Kirby photographer Paul Rodgers and Hartlepool NHS Foundation who died in November 2008 knew Roger well. He said: Trust’s day nursery in aid of organised the annual walk for “Roger loved to walk and take Marie Curie Cancer Care. the third year in and around in the beautiful scenery in our Parents enjoyed a chat over a Thorpe Thewles. area. A total of £50 collected cuppa while children served up Roger, a keen walker himself, at the walk will be some delicious cakes they’d was a consultant surgeon at donated to the British Lung helped to bake. More than £100 North Tees and Hartlepool Foundation. Thank you to was raised to help Marie Curie NHS Foundation Trust. those who contributed.”

Director of human resources and organisational development Clare Curran chats to Sophie Dacombe nurses to provide more free care to people with terminal cancer and other illnesses in their own homes. Nursery manager Andrea Hurt said: “Everyone had a lovely time at the tea party. It was a fantastic event to get children Nursery assistant Rachel Harris and and their families together and Olivia Roberts raise money for a good cause.” Colleagues, friends and family line up for the race for life When a team of health visitors the chemotherapy unit and decided to improve their fitness the haematology unit at the they agreed there was no better University Hospital of North way to get motivated than to do Tees. We’re really proud to it for charity. be able to hand over £265 to Five health visitors Jacklin Small, the unit. Jean Mudd, Jean Gardner, “Not only are we helping local Joanne Miles, Julie Gray lined up people who are being cared for with friends and family and our by the excellent team, but we’ve mascot Teddy the dog for this improved our own health and year’s 5K Alternative Race for fitness. I’d like to thank everyone Life at Castle Eden Walk Way. who sponsored us.” Health visitor Jacklin Small said: We plan to make this a “We really wanted to support regular event to benefit other people in the local area. We charities and raise awareness Sophie Dacombe places her order with nursery nurse Rebecca Walker agreed to raise money for for good causes.

August/September 11 Accident and emergency staff pose for a photograph

Hartlepool urgent and emergency care changes On 2 August the momentum • If an adult or child is seriously ill There will be no change to services work going on behind the scenes changes to urgent and emergency or injured you must phone 999 for seriously ill children. They will to ensure the transitions from care in Hartlepool were put into straightaway. It is safer to phone be taken to the University of North the current to the new service is place. The changes were also the 999 than put an adult or child in Tees as they are now. smooth for patients. I would like to subject of an independent review a car and risk taking them to the People with medical problems thank NHS Hartlepool, Dr Paul Pagni by the North East Strategic Health wrong place. whose GPs think they need to be in and Dr Boleslaw Posmyk and their Authority and the Hartlepool health • People living in Easington can ring hospital will continue to be brought colleagues, North Doctors who run scrutiny forum. 111 if they need advice on the best to the emergency assessment unit the out of hours medical service, The changes mean that, place to go if they have a minor as they are now. Assura who run the walk in centre, • the accident and emergency illness or injury. A new way of dealing with the North East Ambulance Service department at the University No change medical emergencies and our own staff who are working Hospital of Hartlepool is closed There is no change to services People who phone 999 themselves hard together to make sure patients and adults and children with for seriously injured adults and will be assessed by paramedics and have an excellent service at One minor illnesses and injuries can children. They will be taken to the be taken to the appropriate hospital Life Hartlepool, the emergency go to the urgent care centre at University Hospital of North Tees as for their needs. In the case of people assessment unit at the University One Life Hartlepool. they are now. with medical problems such as Hospital of Hartlepool and the breathing problems and chest pains accident and emergency unit at the this will still be, for most people, the University Hospital of North Tees. University Hospital of Hartlepool. “While the changes will mean In the past those patients would the accident and emergency have been taken to the accident department will close most and emergency department at the people will continue to have their University Hospital of Hartlepool, then either discharged or, in many urgent and emergency care needs cases, transferred to the emergency met in Hartlepool either in the assessment unit at the University urgent care centre at One Life Hospital of Hartlepool. The changes Hartlepool or in the emergency mean a step has been cut out of assessment unit at the University the process. Hospital of Hartlepool.” Director of clinical services and Matron for accident and emergency compliance from North Tees and Stuart Harper said: “While buildings Hartlepool NHS Foundation Trust are important it’s the people who Julie Gillon is leading the operational look after you that really make a group on the changes. She said: difference and we’ll still be there to “There is a massive amount of look after your urgent care needs.” 004|005 Staff in the emergency assessment unit at the University Hospital of Hartlepool

Ambulances arrive to take patients to the Chief executive Alan Foster checks how the changes emergency assessment unit at the University are going with the ambulatory care staff at the The first day of the changes in urgent and Hospital of Hartlepool University Hospital of Hartlepool emergency care in Hartlepool ran smoothly. Signs were removed from the hospital and all the road signs changed. It was important this was done straightaway to avoid any confusion. At 9am the accident and emergency department closed and the minor injuries part of the service at the urgent care centre at One Life Hartlepool opened. By 4pm the minor injuries service had seen 25 patients, all of whom were happy with the care and treatment they received. In the emergency assessment unit the new Matron Paul Caygill monitors heart patients at the Clinical director of accident and emergency Andy arrangements for dealing with people who University Hospital of Hartlepool. Simpson oversees the move. phone 999 themselves because they have been taken ill at home began. At 4pm seven people had been brought in by ambulance and were being cared for by staff in the unit. Chief executive Alan Foster visited staff as they finished their packing in the accident and emergency unit. He also visited staff in the emergency assessment unit and at One Life Hartlepool. He said: “I don’t underestimate how emotional today has been for many people. I would like to pay tribute to all the staff in accident and emergency and in the emergency assessment Staff nurse Dave Brereton with the welcome sign from Matron Karen Oram and her staff pose outside unit and wish them well as they get used to A&E at Hartlepool the door their new working arrangements. “From what I’ve seen today things have gone very well which speaks volumes for planning and the amazing staff we have here in the trust. At the end of the day this is about the people who need care being looked after safely by a team of people who have the right skills to care for them, whether it’s in One Life Hartlepool, the emergency assessment unit at the University Hospital of Hartlepool or at the University Hospital of North Tees. “I’m sure that people will get used to the new arrangements and will start to feel the benefits over the coming weeks and months.” The signs are taken down. The urgent care centre at One Life Hartlepool. August/September 11 Call for health visitors Over 25,000 nurses work across years. Claire started her career the region’s NHS caring for in the NHS at 16, working as a children and adults and domestic on the maternity ward specialising in areas such as at North Tees General Hospital midwifery, health visiting, mental while studying for her A levels. health and learning disability. She qualified as a registered The government has recently nurse in 1980 and worked on announced plans to improve a gynaecology ward before health services for children and studying children’s nursing before families, with a boost to the working at Freeman Road Hospital health visiting workforce in in Newcastle then jetted off to England of 4,200 extra health Australia to work. Paul Urwin with the Blood Run team visiting nurses by 2015. Claire returned to the UK in 1984 Claire Jones, clinical lead in central and studied for one year at New Stockton for health visiting at College Durham to become a North Tees and Hartlepool NHS health visitor and took up her Volunteers help Foundation Trust has been a first job as a health visitor vital out of hours health visitor for more than 25 in Birtley, Gateshead before hospital deliveries

North Tees and Hartlepool charity after finding out that NHS Foundation Trust has there wasn’t anything like that become the first to benefit in the North East and spent from a free emergency delivery the last 18 months doing some service in Teesside. serious fundraising to get the The voluntary service will see satellite branch for Teesside up blood and other vital medical and running.” samples transported free- Two Honda VFR motorcycles of-charge to hospitals and have been generously donated medical centres by voluntary by local people and have been motorcycle riders. modified with blue flashing Volunteers for the service, which lights which the riders can use relies entirely on donations to when a patient’s life hangs in Claire Jones, clinical lead in central Stockton for health visiting with mum Cynthia keep it on the road, will be on the balance. Basopo and nine month old Leo Ngorima call from 7pm-7am weekdays There are currently eight and 24 hours weekends to riders, who have all passed make essential deliveries. their advanced motorcycle test Jon Formstone, a police to volunteer. Friendly welcome for community support officer in Paul Urwin (centre) from the Hartlepool, who set the service pathology department at the up with colleague Mark Say and trust said: “This is an absolutely breastfeeding mums motorcycle enthusiast Steve fantastic service which will Breast feeding mums can be worry for mums. But, many local Basford, said: “I first came benefit local people.” sure to get a warm welcome businesses have been really across the charity, Whiteknights Anyone who wants to volunteer at Wilbers cafe at North positive about displaying the EVS (Emergency Voluntary or support Blood Run should Tees and Hartlepool NHS breastfeeding welcome poster. Service), which runs a similar visit www.bloodrun.co.uk or Foundation Trust. “All participating venues are service in West Yorkshire. contact Mark Say at mark@ The hospital-run cafe at the displaying the breastfeeding “We got in touch with the bloodrun.co.uk University Hospital of North Tees welcome sign, so feeding mums and the University Hospital of will know exactly where to go Hartlepool has signed up the when out and about in town.” breastfeeding welcome scheme. Lyndsey Brown 26, is breast Got a story Breast feeding co-ordinator feeding her daughter one Ros Nunn said: “It’s important year old Emily. She said: “It’s that mums feel relaxed about fantastic that venues like this are for Anthem? breastfeeding. Wilbers cafe showing their support. I know at the trust’s hospitals has lots of women who will really If you’ve got something to pledged to provide a welcoming appreciate it. Breastfeeding is share with other Anthem environment for women to feed completely natural. If you know readers please email their babies. a venue supports breastfeeding [email protected] “Finding somewhere to it takes the worry away from or phone 01642 624339. breastfeed your baby when going out. It makes you much you’re out in town can be a more relaxed.”

006|007 Call for health visitors “Having a child is Sometimes it’s just about giving a bit of much needed support wonderful, but it and reassurance. can be daunting. “It’s impossible to describe a typical day as a health visitor. We make sure that Every day is different. One parents know what day I’ll be working with a new help is available parent at their home or running Enid (centre) says farewell to colleagues a clinic in the local Sure Start to them.” Children Centres. “Anyone who is a qualified nurse working in Spennymoor. Happy retirement Enid or midwife can take the one year After starting a family Claire training to become a health visitor. Health visitor Enid Hazle said would like to say a big thank you returned to the profession part You need to be a people person farewell to colleagues as she to them all. time and joined the trust in 1996. with excellent communication retired from the NHS after more “I’m looking forward to Claire said: “It’s ‘a great job. We’re skills and be a good listener. It’s than 30 years service. spending more time with my lucky to be working with families Enid began her career as a family and friends and will at a very exciting time in their life. a challenge job, but it’s rewarding to know that people appreciate cadet nurse and worked in continue to run alternative We are here to give advice and various nursing and midwifery therapy workshops, which I support to new mums, dads or the help and support when they roles before training as a health absolutely love doing.” carers and support children up to need it. visitor in 1997. Integrated service manager the age of five. “It’s a family friendly job. I Enid said: “I’ve had a wonderful June Fawcett said: “On behalf “Having a child is wonderful, but hope that more fresh faces join career in nursing and in the of the team I’d like to wish it can be daunting. We make sure the profession so future NHS. I am blessed to have Enid all the best for a happy that parents know what help is families benefit.” worked with such supportive retirement. It has been a available to them. Any registered nurses in the north “We’re here to see that all east considering a career change and hardworking colleagues. I pleasure working with her.” children get a healthy start in life. and any former health visitors An important part of the role of considering returning to practice a health visitor is safeguarding are being urged to consider these children. Some families struggle current opportunities in health bringing up children. We work visiting across the region. closely with other local services If you are a registered nurse such as the police, social workers, considering a career in health women’s refuge, education, visiting or are a former health hospitals and the local Sure Start visitor considering returning Children Centres. to practice please visit www. “We’re here to answer questions northeast.nhs.uk/workforce to and deal with all sorts of problems. find out more.

Julie and daughter Lindsey say thank you Julie and Lindsey say thank you to colleagues after being treated on her own ward Kind-hearted Julie Delmer has say thank you. My daughter said thank you to her colleagues Lindsey, a hairdresser at Jigsaw after being treated by them Hair Spa in Ingleby Barwick for leukaemia. organised a charity night at the Julie, a trainee associate Jolly Farmers in Thornaby and practitioner handed over a also raised funds by shaving grand total of £1420 which her head. has been split between the “I’d like to say a big thank you chemotherapy unit where she to all of the local people and works and the haematology businesses who have donated Ros and Lyndsey relax in Wilbers café unit at the University Hospital and supported us, including the of North Tees. band Caliber, who played at the Ros continued: “Breast feeding and gastro-intestinal and After being diagnosed with the event for free. has so many health benefits. respiratory infections. blood cancer last year, Julie “Everyone has shown amazing Breast milk contains antibodies If you would like to find out more developed a greater appreciation support. I’m really proud of that help protect against about breast feeding and the of her colleagues’ work. my family and to be able to infections and breast fed support on offer, you can contact Julie said: “The dedication of hand over funds to the wards, babies have a lower risk breast feeding co-ordinator Ros all of the staff on the ward knowing that I’m helping of eczema, asthma, diabetes Nunn on 01642 524923. is just fantastic. I wanted to other patients.”

August/September 11 Maureen is a momentum marvel When Hartlepool resident (an irregular heart beat). I’m Maureen Lockwood was now going to a cardiac exercise diagnosed with Type II diabetes class with my brother who also she couldn’t help but think has heart problems. I’m feeling back to the experiences of her the benefit and it’s helping my late husband Wallace when diabetes too. he was diagnosed with the “When I think back to how same disease. Maureen said: things were for my husband “We had to go to hospital for Wallace I now consider myself everything and sit for what to be very fortunate. In the old seemed liked endless hours. days you would have had to ring We both hated it.” the hospital and try and get an Maureen’s story is a shining early appointment or go back to example of how care is now your GP and ask for a referral. built around the patient rather It’s so much better than it used than the other way round. to be.” “I have my diabetes care at Lead director for momentum: my GP surgery,” she said, “I pathways to healthcare see my GP Dr Nemith every Carole Langrick said: “It’s very three months for a blood and heartwarming to hear stories blood pressure test and have like Maureen’s. People always an annual check at One Life think about the big things Hartlepool to check my eyes when they think of momentum and feet. Because I cared for my like the new hospital and Ward hostess Amanda Savage with patient Phoebe and mum Catherine choose husband who also had diabetes building community facilities lunch from the trolley. I know what to look for and I but these changes, which know if I am anxious I can ring on the face of it seem quite up and get help straightaway. minor, are transforming the Hospital serves up new “I have other medical problems way people receive their care. as well. I kept getting nasty It’s care designed round the chest infections and was patient rather than the patient menu for children diagnosed with COPD (chronic having to fit in with the system. Young patients staying on the suits everyone. obstructive pulmonary disease) This is what momentum is children’s ward at the University “Children still receive a main meal and I also have atrial fibrillation all about.” Hospital of North Tees are enjoying at tea time. But now they can the new children’s menu. choose from the new colourful Maureen Lockwood A trolley covered with fresh menus placed at their bedside. sandwiches, salad, jacket The dietitians have been potatoes with a selection of instrumental in setting this new fillings, jelly, ice cream and fresh menu up too.” fruit is brought to the ward Paediatric dietitian Rebecca Dunn everyday by a ward hostess. added: “We know how important Head of catering Colin Chapman food and nutrition is for children, explained: “The children have especially when they are poorly. much more choice now. Sometimes it can be difficult to Previously at lunchtime, children get children to eat to we wanted would receive a snack box. Now to involve them at mealtimes and we invite the children out to the help them.” food trolley to choose what they Catherine Colledge, mum to one want to eat. year old Phoebe said: “It’s good for “We’re catering for young the children to be able to choose children and young adults. We what they like. The selection of need to serve a range of food that food is really good.” Cardiac team put their finger on the pulse A team of cardiac nurses at their pulse checked. the trust offered visitors free Cardiac specialist nurse Liz pulse checks during Arrhythmia Harbron said: “Pulse checks are Awareness Week (AAAW). one of the most effective ways Members of the public came of identifying heart abnormalities along to pick up information by monitoring regularity, strength about a wide range of heart and speed. problems from the stands in the “It was a great opportunity to foyer at the University Hospital raise awareness about heart Cardiac specialist nurse Melloney Threlkeld of North Tees and the University rhythm disorders and provide checks Paul Harbottle’s pulse watched by Hospital of Hartlepool and get support and advice.” cardiographer Michelle Keenan Cardiac specialist nurse Liz Harbron

008|009 New hospital guide supports patients with learning disabilities Patients with learning disabilities and their carers are benefiting from an easy read guide to coming into hospital which has been launched North Tees and Hartlepool NHS Foundation Trust.

The guide is designed to help health care explain the patient’s journey through hospital professionals explain to the patient and their and this easy read guide does just that. The carer what will happen in hospital in an easy healthcare staff can choose the cards which read format – using large print, simple language they need to use to explain to the patients. and images to illustrate. “Everyone is a little bit nervous when they The dedicated guide provides patients, come into hospital, but people with learning carers and staff with helpful information in an disabilities can often be frightened. The easy to read format illustrated by photos majority of people with a learning disability of different rooms and procedures including won’t actually read the card themselves, but it what happens when you get blood taken and helps to explain and describe. going for an x-ray. “We have worked closely with colleagues at Director of nursing and patient safety Sue NHS Hartlepool, NHS Stockton and Tees Esk Smith said: “It is important that people with and Wear Valleys NHS Foundation Trust and Associate practitioner Sue Holmes, Paul Kinnersley learning disabilities get the support they need we’re pleased to see it being introduced at the with support worker Phil Dale and understand about their care in hospital. start of learning disabilities awareness week. “We wanted to do something that would help “People with learning disabilities often have communication difficulties and need extra support. There is so much we can do to help by listening to them. That is why we have worked closely with learning disability groups to produce this guide. “We’re keen to encourage all staff to have a basic understanding about learning disabilities. We’ve developed an e-learning programme to make it easy for the staff to be trained. “It’s important on the wards that staff can see immediately on the patient’s notes what their needs are. We use an alert system to do this The team pictured with director of nursing and patient and record information here if a patient has a safety Sue Smith learning disability. about the patient that helps us look after them, “It’s all about improving their experience when put them at ease and make sure they get the they come into hospital for treatment and best possible care.” provide the right support they need. Anyone who wants to find out more about “We also use what we call a hospital passport. what the trust is doing to help patients with It gives us information about patients with learning disabilities, can take a look at the a learning disability such as their likes and information stands in the main concourse at dislikes. It’s important for them to have a the University Hospital of Hartlepool or the Quality assurance nurse Carly Ogden with acting department sister in outpatients, Susan Mullen doing routine and it can make a big difference if we University Hospital of North Tees next week the learning disabilities training. follow that routine. It gives us general facts during learning disabilities awareness week. Lisa’s logo (Wii) fits the bill Not many people can say that we were rebranding we decided didn’t think I would win for one having an artistic talent keeps to harvest that talent. moment, but I am delighted. them fit, but health care assistant “We wanted something which There is no excuse for me to not Lisa Askew can. was eyecatching, that would keep fit now.” Lisa recently won a Wii Fit in become instantly recognisable competition to design a health but would still sit alongside our and wellbeing logo for the existing NHS brand and Lisa’s occupational health department design fits the bill exactly. during a recent rebranding. “However, it was no easy task Associate director - workplace for the team of judges to pick a health and wellbeing Elaine winner as there were so many Wilson said: “We know that entries and they were all of a very Lisa Askew receives her prize from there are a lot of people in the high standard.” Elaine Wilson trust with hidden talents so when Lisa said: “I’m gobsmacked, I The logo August/September 11 New hospital room on show A lot of work continues behind be in real life. the scenes to plan for the “Having looked at a number of new hospital. hospitals both here and abroad Down in the basement of the we’re happy about the way we’re University Hospital of North Tees planning to design the rooms but a mock up room has been set the acid test will be when staff up to enable medical, nursing and are working in the rooms every support staff to see how the room day. Having this room means design in the new hospital will we can look at wall and floor work in practice. coverings, beds and beddings Steven Taylor from hospital design along with the other equipment team said: “It’s very helpful for found in standard room. It’s also staff who are going to be helpful for us to look at lighting, Steven Taylor shows ward matron Shirley Mealing, associate practitioner Janice looking after patients and those where sockets will be located and Standing and staff nurse Lindsay Godfrey round the mock up room responsible for keeping the room some of the engineering aspects clean and stocked up to be able of the room. the final design in the knowledge experience of working and caring to see how designs on paper will “It means we can go ahead with that colleagues have had practical for patients in the space.” Murray Street ladies do it again The Murray Street ladies as another hospital. they’re affectionately known Until now the only way to have been running a charity shop guarantee a warm environment in the town for more than 35 for the baby has been to use years. From humble beginnings a heavy, cumbersome and where the takings were in the physically large transport tens and hundreds of pounds incubator or for the baby to Some of the team meet MP for Stockton North Alex Cunningham the ladies now present the be transported in the mothers trust with several thousands arms. Now with the baby pod of pounds a year. Not only they are kept secure and warm the hospital but also the local and can be given oxygen during MP supports speech and hospice and the ambulance the journey if necessary. service benefit from their hard Specialist lead midwife language therapy service work and generosity. Dennise Butcher said: “We The ladies were at the University are extremely grateful to the Alex Cunningham, MP for Stockton Hospital of Hartlepool again Murray Street ladies. The North visited the trust’s speech and recently to see a piece of high baby pod is an excellent, but language therapy service at the tech equipment that had been expensive piece of equipment University Hospital of North Tees. bought using money that they and we are delighted to have Alex met staff to gain an insight into had donated. been able to buy one. the work of speech and language The baby pod is used to “It will prove invaluable and therapy experts and find out how transport newborn and very will enable us to transport they are helping patients manage young babies should they vulnerable babies in and overcome speech and language need to be transferred to complete safety.” and swallowing difficulties. Head of adult speech and language therapy Gill Siddons said: “We are are providing a fantastic service delighted that Mr Cunningham to people with speech difficulties visited our service. We have an and people who have suffered enthusiastic team of 67 providing a stroke.” the best possible therapy for Speech and language specialists people in Stockton, Hartlepool and provide expert advice and East Durham. therapy to help people regain “We all passionately believe in the or develop communication and importance of communication. swallowing skills. “It was a pleasure to meet with Their work includes patients Alex as it was an excellent experiencing problems with speech, opportunity to talk about the work language, social communication, we are doing to assess diagnose stammering, voice and swallowing. and treat children and adults with If you are from the Easington or speech, language, communication Peterlee area you can contact and feeding difficulties.” the team on 0191 5872880 , the Alex said: “I give my full support Hartlepool area 01429 522712 or to the Royal College of Speech 522717 and alternatively, if you are and Language Therapists Giving from the Stockton area you can call Dennise Butcher, student midwife Kathryn Liddle, midwives Lynn Jobson and Voice campaign. The staff here 01642 352285. Tricia Walker with the Murray Street ladies and the baby pod 010|011 Specialist therapy assistant Lorna Hornsey checks Falls co-ordinator Yvonne Cheung (centre) and members of the fall team at the Stockton event Florence Leck’s shoes for safety Watch your step

Special events across North Tees and the home are rugs and trailing wires.” • Have regular eye tests. Hartlepool to mark national falls awareness The falls team got together with local agencies • Look after your feet with regular visits to week encouraged older people to watch their in Stockton town centre, where the crowds a podiatrist and make sure slippers and step and give residents handy tips on how to were gathering just as the event began. Falls shoes fit well prevent falls and trips and keep active. co-ordinator Yvonne Cheung said: “National • Try to keep active. You can go for a walk or At Richard Court in Hartlepool physiotherapist falls awareness week is an excellent gardening and dancing Annette Durkin gave a talk to a group of opportunity for us to spread the word, • Eat a well balanced diet with enough calcium retired people and stressed the importance encourage older people to get their falls risk and vitamin D. of wearing sensible shoes and having regular assessed by a local falls service and help them She continued: “Falls aren’t an inevitable eye tests. maintain their independence.” part of getting older and it’s never too late Annette said: “People are living longer these To avoid falls and keep your bones healthy to take action to reduce your risk of falling days so we have a growing elderly population. 50% of elderly people who fall will be admitted you should; in the future.” to care homes and we want to make sure that • Clear clutter, loose rugs or trailing wires from ‘We want to make sure older people and their people remain in their own homes for as long your home carers know how they to prevent falls. as possible. • Make sure stairwells are clearly lit “Falls can have a major impact on a “As well as sensible footwear and eye tests • Safety is just as important outside of person’s quality of life, causing both it is important that people look after their feet your house as it is inside-uneven paths physically and psychologically damaging and make sure their homes are clutter free. and slippery surfaces can cause you to trip effects, so it is very import that we try to Some of the biggest causes of trips and falls in or slip prevent them happening.” Putting your mind at rest during breathe easy week Specialist respiratory nurses raised awareness of a common sleep condition during the British Lung Foundation’s Breathe Easy Week.

People were invited to find out more cause heaving snoring and extreme about obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA) at tiredness during the day. It doesn’t information stands in the main concourse sound serious but OSA can cause at the University Hospital of North Tees severe daytime sleepiness. and the University Hospital of Hartlepool. “The good news is, there are treatments Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease available for patients with OSA which can Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease nurse nurse co-ordinator Sandra Stych said: make a big difference to their lifestyle co-ordinator Sandra Stych Sandra Stych and “OSA is a common condition which and there are simple tests available to specialist respiratory physiologist Maxine Moss affects thousands of people. It can diagnose the condition.”

August/September 11 Trust passes Care Quality Commission inspection with flying colours The Care Quality Commission (CQC), the independent regulator of health and adult social care today published the third batch of reports from an inspection programme examining if elderly people receive essential standards of Governor Carol Ellis speaks to a patient care in 100 NHS hospitals throughout England. The programme focuses on whether people are treated with dignity and respect, and if they get food and drink that meets their needs. Governors look at quality The University Hospital of Hartlepool, which is run by North Tees and Hartlepool NHS Dot with her daughter Tracy Foundation Trust, was one of only four out of and patient experience the 15 hospitals included in this batch that has been found to be compliant in both of Governors Pat Upton, Carol in the community with clinical the standards, without any recommendations Ellis and Wendy Gill headed director for community services being made for improvement. out on the wards at the Linda Watson and her team. Director of nursing, patient safety and quality University Hospital when they Integrated services manager Sue Smith said: “We were delighted to be rated joined director of nursing and Sue Judge reviewed the quality as compliant in both of the essential standards. patient safety Sue Smith and of care at One Life Hartlepool It was particularly pleasing to see that we her senior nursing team on the with governor Tom Sant. They received one of the best reviews patient experience and quality “Treating people with respect, involving them standards panel. spoke to a number of patients in discussions about their care and treatment They asked patients a series who were waiting for their as well as enabling people to influence how of questions which looked appointments before checking the service is run is a fundamental part of at elements such as the nursing documentation and the patient care. The quality and availability of cleanliness, safety and patient cleanliness of the clinics. food is also very important to people who are documentation and the Sue said: “We’ve received some unwell and recovering from illnesses, injuries patient’s opinions about their really excellent feedback.” and operations. stay in hospital. Director of nursing and patient “It was good to hear our patients saying they Governor Carol Ellis said: “It is safety Sue Smith added: were happy with these aspects of care in our an excellent opportunity to get “Governors are starting to hospitals and that staff were respectful when out and speak to the patients regularly come along on the addressing them. myself. I visited a couple of “There were some minor points raised for areas and I was very impressed patient experience and quality example, staff offering to open wet wipes for with the patient’s comments.” standards panel now. It’s a hand cleaning for all patients before meals and Governors Tom Sant and chance for them to see for we are working with our nursing and catering Christopher Broadbent took a themselves the fantastic work teams to achieve this. look at some of the facilities our staff are doing.” “My senior nursing team make regular visits, both announced and unannounced, to our wards and I believe this makes our ward staff feel supported in their work to provide the highest standards of care. It is thanks to the hard work and dedication of our staff that we are able to achieve our high quality of service and we welcome reports like this because they let us all know that we are getting it right. “Myself and the director responsible for catering also regularly walk around together to ask patients about the quality of their meals and their overall experience of their care. “These actions also reassure patients because they can see for themselves that we take this matter very seriously. On the rare occasions where there is a problem we can put things right straightaway.” “The real thanks for this positive outcome goes Governor Tom Sant, integrated services manager Sue Judge and specialist to our patients and staff for ensuring that we health care assistant Deborah Rigby review nursing documentation at a clinic constantly understand how we are doing and in One Life Hartlepool. what we can do to further improve.” 012|013 Dot speaks out Speech and language therapists “The first word I Dot’s daughter Tracy Bushnall, 39 is a at North Tees and Hartlepool NHS care, support and welfare co-ordinator Foundation Trust raised awareness was able to say was for The Stroke Association. Having of speech difficulties during Aphasia yellow. If I take my previously worked in similar care Awareness Month. support roles, Tracy took up the role Speech and language therapist time, I can come out with the Stroke Association to bring Melissa Cairney explained: “Aphasia is her personal experience to the role. a devastating communication disability with the words.” She said: “Mums speech has come which is commonly caused by stroke. on leaps and bounds since completely It’s often caused by damage to the person’s ability to communicate. loosing the ability to speak. language centre in the brain. “Therapists use screening “Without the ability to communicate “Patients may have difficulty with assessments to identify problem reading, speaking, listening or writing. areas. We use photos and objects of it’s difficult to get on with day to day It affects people differently. Some things and people that my patients jobs. You don’t realise the impact it people can’t read or write; some can might remember. We may need to has on your life until it happens. just say a few words while others can work with people on their listening, Mum would know what she wanted speak but struggle with sentences. speaking and writing skills. to say, but couldn’t get the words Dot with her daughter Tracy “It’s a hidden disability – you can’t see “There is some basic advice out. You start to develop your own it until you start to talk. You have to which can really help if you’re private language. imagine getting up one morning and communicating with a person with Dot, a former landlady at The Zetland feeling unwell, you can’t phone for a aphasia. It’s important to give the in Church Street, Hartlepool recalled doctor and you can’t phone for a taxi. person plenty of time to respond and the day she had a stroke: “I first The person on the other end of the don’t rush them to speak. Use short, suffered a mini-stroke. I collapsed and phone can’t see the person struggling simple sentences which need a yes fell down the stairs at The Zetland. to speak. or no answer.” Dot Guttridge, 58 from the Dyke It was confirmed that I had an House area of Hartlepool suffered a aneurism. After an operation I “Dot has gained stroke eighteen years ago at the age recovered well. Then, a couple of some of her speech of 41. A grandmother of three and weeks later I had a stroke during the mum to Tracy, 39 and Stephen, 37, Dot night. It continued for a couple of back slowly. This can lost her verbal speech, but had strength days. I couldn’t speak. happen to a patient in her writing and gesture. With “The first word I was able to say was support from a speech and language yellow. If I take my time, I can come with aphasia.” therapist Dot worked on using this as out with the words. I still struggle with a way of communicating. getting my point across as quickly as “It is frustrating for people with Melissa continued: “Dot has gained I’d like. It is very frustrating not being aphasia. We don’t realise how vital some of her speech back slowly. This able to communicate like I used to. communication in our everyday lives can happen to a patient with aphasia. With the support of my family I know is, until it’s taken away. At the time when someone has a “Improvements can be observed stroke and loses their ability to speak that I can tackle anything head on.” in most cases with a therapeutic we have to think, how can someone For more information about aphasia person-centred approach to therapy. communicate? We have to work with and stroke you can call the community Therapists use a number of different the patients’ strength. Every patient stroke team in Hartlepool on 01429 techniques that can help improve a is different.” 284800 or www.speakability.org.uk

Top 10 tips for communicating with someone with aphasia Say one thing at a time Don’t pretend you understand Don’t rush, slow down, be patient Make sure you both understand Keep your own language simple Write down key words Reduce background noise Encourage all forms of communication including gesture, writing, pointing Draw diagrams and pictures Ask what helps ……… Melissa uses pictures to help Dot’s Speech and language skills August/September 11 Governors get a tour of One Life Hartlepool Governors Wendy Gill, Christopher Broadbent, Tom Sant and Mary King took a tour of the state of the art facilities at One Life Hartlepool. Musculoskeletal, podiatry, the community respiratory service, audiology clinic, contraceptive and sexual health teams and the Tees community dental service are just some of the services being provided in the £20m facility in Park Road, Hartlepool. Centre manager Andrew McMinn explained how services were previously Birthing centre staff celebrate with families provided at various locations in Hartlepool, such as Tees Street, Wynyard Road Primary Care Centre and Caroline Street Health Centre and are now together in Hartlepool birthing one modern facility. There was also the chance to take a look at the new minor injuries unit. centre celebrates its third birthday The birthing centre at the University Hospital of Hartlepool opened its doors to women and their families for a special event yesterday, to mark the centre’s third birthday. It was a great chance for mums-to-be to take a look round the centre and for mums who have delivered at the centre to celebrate with other families and birthing centre staff. Midwifery matron Judith Stout said: “We were delighted to see so many mums-to-be and parents and their children who were born at the centre, to mark yet another milestone with us. Specialist lead midwife Dennise Butcher, community “The last three years have been very successful. lead Karen Stevens, midwife Sandra Mason and There have been more than 1,100 babies born (front) healthcare assistant Sarah Cooper and and parents have been very complimentary. community midwife Maureen Jones People choose to come here from Hartlepool, Stockton, areas of Durham and further afield. I The midwife led centre provides a relaxed have no doubt that the success will continue” home from home environment and continues to receive glowing reviews from parents. Janette Weegram, 19 from Hartlepool give birth to daughter Suranne on 10 June at the birthing centre. She said: “I absolutely loved it here. I would recommend it to anyone.” Midwives, supported by midwifery assistants provide a wide range of choice of delivery for women with uncomplicated and low risk pregnancies who do not have a history of problems and are fit and healthy. The centre has four delivery rooms – one with a birthing pool and another with a range of special birthing equipment which allows women to stay upright and supported during labour. Judith continued: “The new birthing centre is like a home-from-home for soon-to-be -parents with a warm and welcoming atmosphere. We’re so pleased that it has been so well received. “Women can choose to come to the Community lead Karen Stevens with mum Janette birthing centre by speaking to their Weegram and daughter Suranne community midwife.” 014|015 Thank you! Local families whose children have type 1 diabetes have said thank you to the staff at the University Hospital of North Tees for taking good care of them.

Lindsay puts her Stuart gets on his running shoes on to bike to say thank you show support for Caris Lindsay Davidson put on her running shows to Keen mountain bike rider and dad to nine year Declan (right) and his brother Dillon present the say thank you to the team who have looked old Maddie has said thank you to the staff who after her niece. have taken good care of his daughter. cheque pictured with mum Sarah, diabetes specialist nurse Bev Day, Les Buxton and Arthur Rodham Lindsay’s 10 year old niece Caris was diagnosed Stuart Blackham, 40 from Norton, a design with type 1 diabetes when she was five and has manager for Komatsu UK Ltd. in Birtley joined since been looked after by staff in the community work colleagues and friends on a gruelling A big donation from a and the children’s outpatients department at the 185 mile round trip in the Scottish borders, to University Hospital of North Tees. raise funds for staff in the children’s outpatients grateful community Lindsay, a prison officer from Ingleby Barwick department who have taken good care of Donations from people put in a collection pot explained: “Caris was really poorly and was in Maddie since she was diagnosed with type 1 in a local shop will benefit children who have hospital for about a week. No-one else in the diabetes nearly two years ago. type 1 diabetes. family has diabetes so it was quite a shock for Stuart said: “We set off on the Friday and Mum of two Sarah Greenheld, 35 who works all of us. The staff did a fantastic job looking after went from Hawick to Jedburgh, on Saturday to at Jones General Stores in Hardwick, Stockton her. The children’s ward were just brilliant too. Kelso and Peebles and then on Sunday from was delighted to hand over £600 to the “I’d done the Great North Run once before, and Peebles back to Hawick. It absolutely poured paediatric diabetes fund. The money has been then last September I put my running shoes with rain! donated by caring customers at the shop, back on to give something back to the team who “We wanted to say thank you to the team on her sister’s fruit and veg stall and in the have been so supportive to Caris and my family. who have helped and supported us. It was a Hardwick Hotel. “I’m absolutely delighted to be handing over huge shock to everyone. when Maddie was Sarah’s son Declan, 7 was diagnosed with £1650.00 which has been raised partly from first diagnosed. It’s distressing when it’s your type 1 diabetes four years ago. She said: sponsorship and the rest was matched by my own child. “The care that Declan has received from the employers. Bev has been fantastic, educating University Hospital of North Tees has been and supporting the family so it’s lovely to be able “When Maddie was first diagnosed Bev came fantastic. We started the collection just at to give something back.” to the house. There was a lot to take in, but Christmas. It’s amazing how generous people Paediatrics diabetes specialist nurse Bev Day Bev’s nature and personality put us at ease have been. We know that donations like this added: “We’re so grateful to everyone who has straight away.” will really benefit other children like Declan raised money for us. The funds raised will go Maddie uses an insulin pump to inject insulin who have type 1 diabetes. towards new equipment and fund social trips into her body. The pump is about the same size “People come into the shop, even the kids and for the children. as a small mobile phone which delivers the put their change in the collection pot. “Often when a child has type 1 diabetes they right amount of insulin into the body around the “Declan is the first person in the family to don’t know anyone else who has it and they clock. The insulin goes into the body through a have diabetes so it is a shock. But he is just feel alone. It’s important to get children and very fine tube with runs from the pump to a great and he gets on with it. I remember their families together. It’s about supporting the thin flexible tube inserted under the skin. The when Declan was really poorly before he was children and their families. dose of insulin given is controlled by pre-set diagnosed. Like any parent I was worried, but “It’s not easy for the children or their family. buttons on the pump. now I just think how lucky we are. There is a lot for the family to think about. It is Maddie said there’s one good thing about it: “The team who look after Declan are just great lovely to see all children like Caris, Maddie and “At least I get to have biscuits!” and this is our way of saying thank you.” Declan just getting on with life.”

The facts about type 1 diabetes stays in the blood insulin treatment for the rest of their life • People with type 1 diabetes are usually • Having type 1 diabetes isn’t anyone’s fault Some of the symptoms to look out for … diagnosed when they are under 40 years old • If someone is diagnosed with type 1 diabetes • Excessive thirst • Type 1 diabetes happens when the body they will need insulin injections or insulin • Going to the toilet more / bed wetting does not produce any insulin. This means that using an insulin pump • Weight loss glucose produced in the breakdown of food • Children diagnosed with type 1 diabetes need • Tiredness

August/September 11 Thank you to our wonderful volunteers We said thank you to our army of volunteers at two very special events recently. At events at the University Hospital of Hartlepool and the University Hospital of North Tees chief executive Alan Foster paid tribute to the amazing work our volunteers do to make a real difference to patients, visitors and staff. Our volunteers include • the WRVS who run shops so people can pick up a card or present for someone they’re visiting • the League of Friends (pictured) who run coffee shops in outpatients to make the patient experience more pleasant for people coming to hospital • Radio Stitch (the hospital radio) who entertain us on their airwaves • library volunteers who provide a welcome distraction by taking books to patients • chaplaincy volunteers who bring patients to the chapel if they’d like to come to a service as well as providing wonderful flower arrangements for the chapels • the Tees Valley Spinal Support Group who support patients waiting for back or neck surgery • our welcomers who show patients to wards and departments

016|017 Thank you to our wonderful volunteers • the healthcare user group who help us improve services for patients • our governors who serve on our council of governors and various sub committees • the Murray Street ladies who raise thousands of pounds each year running a charity shop in Hartlepool • people who help us improve patient information • countless others working in areas like our patient advice and liaison department Alan Foster said: “Our annual event is a chance to say thank you to the amazing people who give freely of their time to enhance the life of the trust. Their time and generosity are very much appreciated. “At these events we also welcome members of the Retirement Fellowship. It is wonderful to welcome our retired employees back to the trust to join in the celebrations. “I also want to thank the catering department for delicious food wonderfully served, everyone who worked behind the scenes to make the events and success and to our senior staff who come along and serve the volunteers and retired members. We all look forward to and enjoy these evenings. They’re a great way of acknowledging some very special people and showing them just how much they are appreciated.”

August/September 11 The answer is 42 for Jayne Jayne Graham doesn’t just like her job, she loves it! Jayne is ward matron on ward 42 at the bring one in.” University Hospital of Hartlepool and under her Other measures include: leadership and guidance the ward runs like a • using storage cupboards near beds to store well oiled machine. cleaning and sanitary items so that staff can Jayne said: “I think the secret is delegation, close the curtains around the bed and don’t if you can trust your staff to do some of the have to go out to get things that could prove managerial tasks, not only does it give them a embarrassing for the patient. sense of responsibility but it frees you up to be • encouraging patients to wash their hands Rachel Willey samples the menu while son more hands on. before meals Thomas waits for his lamb casserole watched “That way you get to spend more time with • using different coloured cups for hot and cold by catering manager Colin Chapman and nursery the patients, listen to their comments and get drinks for patients with dementia manager Andrea Hurt. a feel for the way the ward is working.” • having regular meetings with staff Jayne has introduced several initiatives that • reintroducing back round nursing. have brought the ward to the attention of Jayne said: “These are all measures that not director of nursing and patient safety Sue only help to keep the ward running smoothly Parents sample Smith. Sue took a walk round the ward with but help preserve patient dignity. Jayne while she explained some of the “Back round nursing is an old method in which kids menu measures that she has brought in such as the staff circulate the ward with a trolley, keeping the doors to side rooms closed at all tending to the patient, cleaning the tables and Parents of children in the times and placing notices on them to advise decluttering as they go. nursery at the University visitors about the risks of infection. “It means that staff are always visible and Hospital of North Tees every patient gets the care they deserve, not got the chance to “I am extremely proud sample the food that is just those that shout the loudest. served to their children of my staff, they are a “Since we have reintroduced these measures every day. we have had no cases of pressure sores, no highly motivated team falls, greatly reduced cases of CDiff and staff The idea was the The menu brainchild of nursery and I know I can go off sickness rates have reduced to 3%. managers Andrea Hurt and Denise “I am extremely proud of my staff, they are Lakinski who decided to take the on holiday when I return a highly motivated team and I know I can go off on holiday when I return the ward will be opportunity while parents came in for a the ward will be exactly regular review of their child’s progress. exactly as I left it.” Denise explained: “When we had an as I left it.” Sue said: “What Jayne has achieved here is inspection by OFSTED recently we outstanding and I am incredibly proud of her noticed that they were very keen to push Jayne explained: “Keeping the doors closed and her staff. parent involvement so we decided that creates a quieter more settled environment for “It is the attention to detail that makes the one way of doing that was by letting them the patients and the notices let visitors know difference between good nursing and great sample the menu.” the reason behind it. It also encourages them nursing, to be always looking to improve on to wash their hands as they enter and leave, what you do and the way you do it, after all, “We try to cater for no-one wants to take an infection home, or success breeds success.” all tastes and diets, offering a range of Halal and vegetarian meals.” There were some very favourable comments to be heard as the parents sampled the food, and there wasn’t a single beefburger or chicken nugget in sight. Catering manager Colin Chapman said: “Our children’s menu is based very closely to the restaurant menu. We try to cater for all tastes and diets, offering a range of Halal and vegetarian meals.” One person who was very impressed was senior radiographer Rachel Willey who was there with her children five year old Thomas and four year old Sophia. She said: “The food here is fantastic, I would not complain if I was served this in a restaurant.” Her son Thomas was equally impressed and couldn’t be dragged away from the lamb casserole, that is until he was threatened with doing the washing up. Ward matron Jayne Graham (right) with associate practitioner Tammy Ann Saunders (left) and ward sister June Costello. 018|019 Speech and language therapists Lucy Talbot (children and adults with learning difficulties) and Kate Cummings Clinical lead for wheelchair service Judy Ruddle speaks to Karen with assistant (workforce planning) director for specialist services Julie Parkes Senior physiotherapist Kathryn Tarn Trust hosts prestigious visit

The trust hosted a prestigious visit by chief health professions officer for services and took Karen on a whistle-stop tour of some of the work the Department of Health Karen Middleton. being done to help patients. Karen, who is the government’s most senior allied health professions Staff were delighted to meet Karen and have the opportunity to tell her advisor came to the University Hospital of North Tees as part of a fact about the work they are doing. finding tour at NHS organisations in the North East. Assistant director for specialist services, Julie Parkes said: “It was a Staff from speech and language therapy, wheelchair therapy, dietetics, pleasure to host the visit and an absolutely fantastic opportunity for the physiotherapy, occupational therapy and colleagues from North Tees staff to meet Karen and to talk about some of the excellent work they and Hartlepool NHS Foundation Trust displayed information on the are doing to improve the care for their patients.” Advances in medicine highlighted at trust’s conference More than 100 health the event was opened by Dr professionals from the country Neil Dewhurst, president of had the chance to hear about the Royal College of Physicians the latest in medicine at the of Edinburgh. recent advances in medicine Health professionals heard symposium held at the University a wide range of lectures Hospital of North Tees. including the latest information The event which has been run about new interventions in by the trust for more than 30 cardiology, maternal medicine, years was led and chaired by anorexia and advances in consultant physician Deepak intensive care medicine. Dwarakanath and consultant Facilities and administration physician Richard Harrison. manager Bev Trees said: It was The trust was delighted that good to see a real mix of health

President of the Royal College of Physicians of Edinburgh Neil Dewhurst (second right) with the speakers. professionals from not only the the event. local NHS trusts but from as far “We’ve had some excellent as Liverpool and Stratford. feedback, including “It demonstrates the “Excellent programme, commitment of everyone in good variety our area to learn about the ‘This symposium was a sell out, latest developments in keep up the good work’ medicine to ensure we are providing the best possible care ‘Benefited so much! including our patients deserve. knowledge development, “The day ran very smoothly, meeting colleagues and hearing thanks to everyone who played what the college is doing Some of the attendees a part in the organisation of ‘Enthusiasm evident throughout

August/September 11 Research showcased at trust’s conference Research making a difference to improving research to give our patients access to leading patient care at North Tees and Hartlepool NHS edge treatment. I would like to encourage Foundation Trust was showcased at the trust’s all staff to take the opportunity to become annual research and development conference. involved in research studies. The conference celebrated the achievement “I’d like to pay tribute to clinicians, researchers of researchers in the trust and featured guest and everyone who has supported them. speakers who spoke about some of the Particularly, thank you to Jane and Volker for research taking place within the trust. setting us on that journey. I look forward to Delegates learned about studies taking place in continuing to work with them on that journey. orthopaedics, the trust’s stroke units and how They are doing a fantastic job.” a carer’s diary is being for end of life care. Welcoming delegates to the event, deputy chief executive Carole Langrick opened “It was a fantastic day. the conference. She said: “I am delighted Coming to the conference to welcome such a wide cross section of people including researchers, people who are and seeing research interested in research and people who are presented by health Deputy chief executive Carole Langrick with governor interested in finding out about research. Mary King and consultant physician David Bruce at “Thank you all for coming. I am flattered and care professionals is the poster displays delighted to be opening the research and development conference. It’s very nice to very rewarding.” illustrated some of the research at the trust. welcome members of our council of governors Volker continued: “It was a fantastic day. too. Without all of you, we wouldn’t be able Research and development director Professor Coming to the conference and seeing to do research in this trust. Volker Straub welcomed guest speaker research presented by health care “We have a responsibility to take part in Professor Sir John Burn to the conference professionals is very rewarding. There is a who spoke about the benefits of research and broad range of research is being done. The why it is so important to develop that new panel discussion was very encouraging. knowledge into more effective healthcare. “The smooth running of the event would Research and development manager Jane not have been possible without conference Greenaway said: “Research is valued at all co-ordinator Pauline Shepherd, who once levels in the trust. We have to put in support, again has done a fantastic job. I would also like training and funding for staff so they can to thank Isobel Lyle for all of her work she has undertake that research. We are ambitious. In done within the department. the first two months of this year we recruited “I’d like to thank the chairpersons, the poster more than 157 patients into portfolio research judges and Jane. It has been a fantastic studies which was the same as the total platform to promote research and I look recruited for 2009/10 as a whole! This gives forward to next year’s conference. an indication of the improvements we “The presentations were wonderful. We Research and development manager Jane continue to make.” have looked at originality, the way they were Greenaway, Professor Sir John Burn and Research Delegates got the chance to take a look at presented and most importantly the quality of and development director Professor Volker Straub some fantastic poster presentations which the research.” Research and development director Professor Volker Straub presents the awards for the best poster presentations

First prize Second prize Research registrar Prashant Mallya, current Clinical research scientist Liz Baker for research Third prize trends in respiratory care of very low birth about tissue and plasma markers in colorectal Nurse consultant in palliative care Mel weight infants cancer pathology recurrence and survival. McEvoy for the end of life carer’s diary

020|021 ICE is nice, says Valerie Regular admissions to hospital have become a thing of the past for Valerie Hill of Horden. The 62-year-old has breathing problems and had become resigned to stays in hospital as the way of dealing with her illness when her symptoms flared up. Valerie explained: “I’d been using my blue inhaler at home but things were just getting Theatre manager Kath Martin and theatre Rosie Livingston, third right receives the award worse and worse. co-ordinator Linda Manners accept Steve Blundell’s from Marie Dollin, head of school, health and care “I went to see my GP, Dr Mansoor in Shotton, award from Cleveland Fire Support Network chief hartlepool College of Further Education watched by and told her things were getting worse. She executive Heather Whyman, far right and charity fellow nurses Julie Saint, Pam Hauxwell, Pauline said things couldn’t go on this way and she put trustee Lynn Ford Wallace, Joanne Thomson and Karen Bird the ICE team in touch with me.” ICE - intermediate care east - run jointly by neighbouring trust County Durham and Darlington NHS Foundation Trust and Durham County Council is based in Grampian House at Peterlee. Valerie continued: “They came to see me three times a day for a whole week. They brought a nebuliser to help me with my breathing. I got a review visit from the matron after about four or five weeks. She dropped in to see if I was alright and that things had settled down. Val Wells receives her award from Steve Hall, non- Hartlepool mail editor Joy Yates, second right, with “I now have anti-biotics and steroids at home executive director of North Tees and Hartlepool Barbara Swan, Jennifer Hutchinson, Eleta Norris, and, if I feel things are getting worse, I can NHS Foundation Trust Christine Wilson, Marieanne McLaughlin and Lisa Naylor just phone the doctor to say I’m going to start taking them. It’s like having an extra insurance policy. It’s so much better to be looked after Chemotherapy day unit this way rather than things getting so bad that make it a double at the I need to go to hospital. “I can’t speak highly enough of the ICE team; Hartlepool Mail Best of they’re absolutely brilliant.” Lead director for the momentum: pathways to Health awards healthcare programme Carole Langrick said: “The little changes we are making to the way The Best of Health awards, run by the “It was an exceptional care is provided are making a huge difference Hartlepool Mail and sponsored by a number to patients. As people live longer but with of organisations including North Tees and evening and we felt medical problems teams like the ICE team, Hartlepool NHS Foundation Trust, is designed which intervene early and prevent admissions to celebrate the very best in health care like we had been to to hospital, will become the normal way of in the area served by the newspaper. In a the Oscars.” supporting patients. glittering ceremony at Sedgefield’s Hardwick “Valerie’s story is such a great example of Hall many trust staff were awarded for their what can be done to design a system round amazing contributions to patient care. more efficient and this is a massive benefit the needs of the patient. Valerie has been able The University Hospital of Hartlepool’s to patients.” to stay at home, which is where she wants to chemotherapy day unit made it a double There was a standing ovation for clinical site be, and the care she needs has been tailored when they were awarded team of the year manager Val Wells stepped up to receive her around her. for the second year running. special achievement award. Val has spent “This is what momentum is all about.” Rosie Livingston said: “We didn’t expect more than half a century in the health to win a second time and we feel very service having started as a nursing cadet. privileged. We always go the extra mile for Colleagues told how she fulfils her role as our patients and now feel they’ve done the a senior nurse in the hospital with dignity same for us by sending in nominations and and respect and her professionalism for taking the time to praise us.” excellent healthcare is a driving force. Val Though he couldn’t be there because he was said: “I have been in the NHS since I was away on a course colleagues Kath Martin and 17 and I love hospital nursing. I would like to Linda Manners were proud to collect the IT/ thank the people who thought I was worthy systems management of this award. To me, I’ve only been doing award for anaesthetic my job but I am delighted to receive this. systems manager The judges made a special award for the Steve Blundell. district nursing team in Hartlepool. They Theatre manager Kath had been nominated in many categories Martin said: “Steve and the judges decided they deserved a fully deserves this special mention. Eleta Norris said: “It was award and we are an exceptional evening and we felt like we delighted to accept had been to the Oscars. We want to thank it on his behalf. His everyone who took the trouble to put us work makes systems forward. This award means so much to us Steve Blundell in the department as a group.” August/September 11 Governors take a look round lung health Governors Janet Atkins, Richard rooms, a lung function testing “The consulting Sidney and Pat Upton took a laboratory and digital chest x-ray is rooms are look round the state of the art all in one place. People come here lung health department at the and see the same staff. lovely and light. University Hospital of North Tees. “Our ethos is about putting COPD nurse co-ordinator Sandra patients first. We want our patients The facilities Stych took the governors on a tour to get the best possible treatment of the department which uses the and continuity. are absolutely latest technology for diagnosing Governor Janet Atkins and assessing lung disease. commented: “The consulting fantastic Sandra explained: “We provide a rooms are lovely and light. The Governor Richard Sidney talks to one stop facility for patients with facilities are absolutely fantastic chronic obstructive pulmonary disease for patients.” respiratory disease. Examination for patients.” nurse co-ordinator Sandra Stych Super slimmers get in shape for summer

A group of super slimmers Lynne who is looking forward have got themselves in shape to going on a cruise later this for summer thanks to the first year said: “I’ve always counted weight management class for calories. Joining the group has staff run by the trust’s nutritionist taught me to look at portion Fiona Cutting. sizes. I’ve enjoyed coming The 10-week weight loss to the group, it’s a great idea group which began in January to encourage and keep staff this year successfully helped healthy. It’s been good to get to Governor Janet Atkins talks to chronic obstructive pulmonary disease nurse information analyst Lynne know other staff too.” co-ordinator Sandra Stych Sandra Stych and staff nurse Julie Lindberg in the lung health department at the University Hospital of North Tees Blohm, dermatology secretary The exciting programme Gloria Parvin, medical secretary featured a different topic each Susan Winship, medical week, looking at portion sizes, secretary Katherine Gray and understanding food labels and admin assistant Gill Meach takeaways, weekly weigh-ins Soothing massage offered lose more than five stone and how to stay motivated. between them. Community nutritionist Fiona at fertility support group Gloria Parvin, who has had to Cutting added: “The group get her uniform taken in said: have done brilliantly well. The regular meeting of the future meeting. “Being able to support each It’s about losing weight fertility support group was a The support group meets other has been fantastic. It gradually. The ladies come meeting with a difference last in the University Hospital has really helped. It certainly back to get weighed each month. The group which allows of Hartlepool’s assisted keeps you motivated. We week and its great to see parents who’ve been through reproduction unit on the first banned the biscuits in the they’re maintaining their new assisted reproduction to share Tuesday of every month. For office straightaway!” healthier lifestyle.” their experiences with people more information please contact who are about to begin treatment the unit on 01429 522866. is an invaluable addition to the assisted reproduction unit’s services. But at the last meeting something else was on offer; a qualified masseur from the George Hardwick Foundation. Principle embryologist and business manager for the unit Dave Gibbon said: “We know that fertility treatment is stressful for everyone concerned and we thought we’d offer a chance for people to have a soothing back massage. It was certainly Positive strokes – a member of popular and is something the patient support group enjoys a we hope to repeat at a soothing back massage

022|023 Welcome! North Tees and Hartlepool NHS after qualifying as a doctor. Foundation Trust has welcomed Medical director David Emerton more than 30 new junior said: “I am delighted to doctors, for a one year welcome the doctors to the trust programme across a variety of and wish them every success departments at its hospitals. in their career. Although this is After graduating, doctors join when the foundation doctors a foundation programme and begin to put their medical skills complete a two year programme into practice, there is much The foundation doctors

more to it. Being able to will be working with and work communicate with patients and shadow their outgoing colleague developing good people skills to learn the ropes and get to is all part of becoming a great know the department” doctor and I’ve no doubt that is Stephen Brennan has just what each and every one of you started his first placement on will become.” the emergency assessment Foundation programme manager unit at the University Hospital of Nicola Pierce said: “We’re a North Tees. popular choice for newly qualified He said: “I arrived on the doctors. We’ve got excellent emergency assessment unit teaching facilities and support to be greeted by my new from senior medical colleagues colleagues. I’ve received a really is second to none. warm welcome to the trust. “The doctors join a structured “I’m looking forward to the programme and start by challenges ahead and learning attending a shadowing week along the way, but I’ll be making First day – Stephen completes patient documentation on the emergency where they receive a tour of the sure the patients receive the assessment unit with staff nurse Leanne Clamp hospital; meet the team they care they deserve.” Raffle and tombola boosts stroke unit funds The University Hospital of Synthonia. Tickets are £3. North Tees’ stroke unit got Advertising pages for the a welcome boost to it programme are available at funds from the proceeds of £20. Please contact Michele Congratulations to a raffle and tombola held in Kennedy or Chris Lawson on the mall. (01642 62) 4653. our future leaders An appeal for prizes brought extra goodies for the stand Hard work has paid off for another unit, physiotherapy and orthopaedics, group of staff who were delighted just to name a few. and the day raised £714 and relieved to pass the leadership The staff are the 17th group to in total. development programme (LDP). pass the course. Improvement and Therapy assistant Chris Lawson The LDP is run in-house by the development facilitator Gary Wright said: “We were very grateful organisational development said: “The course is really hard work to everyone who supported team, led by improvement and but it continues to be extremely us, either by digging in their development facilitator Gary popular. I would like to congratulate cupboards for prizes or buying Wright and is accredited by the the students for their hard work a ticket. Institute of Leadership and and commitment. “Every penny raised will Management (ILM). “Not only does this course develop benefit patients on the stroke Students are asked to choose a and help those who aspire to be unit. People’s generosity really change management project – an in a leadership position, but it also area of work where they thought makes fantastic improvements does make a difference and we improvement could be made, and to the workplace and ultimately very much appreciated at the end of the course formally improves patient care.” the support we had for this present to their fellow students and Congratulations to Tracy Minns, fundraising event.” the senior management. Rosalie Arenga, Debbie Armstrong, There will be a further The latest group have made Nadine Porritt, Val Storey, Debbie fundraising race event Just the ticket - staff nurse Michelle excellent changes within recruitment Hall, Lucy Campbell, Gillian evening on 22 October at Hedley, supporter Ed Fields and and human resources, improving Stafford, Andrew Fisher, Helen the Fosters Suite, Billingham therapy assistant Chris Lawson patient care in the emergency Nixon, Diana Poles, Sarah Skelhorn assessment unit, chemotherapy day and Simon Chapman. August/September 11 Emergency plans put to the test

Plans have been put into action with some realistic emergency exercises in the trust this year. In May the exercise started with fire alarms sounding, and smoke filling the room in the theatres on the Leven Unit, fifth floor at the University Hospital of North Tees. The staff The group brave it in the rain at Wynyard Woodland Park responded by evacuating the unit quickly and safely, even negotiating the stairs. The following month involved Racing ahead another realistic training day, Staff nurse Lorraine Oliver, student to test the local emergency nurse Gemma Crooks, staff nurse services response to a major Tracy Bewick and sister Nicola in the NHS incident, involving a large Herraghty call the register number of fatalities. This took place at the hospital “It is vital that things run mortuary at University Hospital smoothly for both people 2012 challenge of Hartlepool. working in the emergency Emergency planning and services and for the patients. A group of staff at North Tees of the road because I’d raced full business continuity project It is important that our and Hartlepool NHS Foundation steam ahead. facilitator, Colin Slater said: emergency procedures are Trust are racing ahead in the NHS “I really enjoyed it from week one. “We hold regular emergency clear in everyone’s minds. 2012 challenge. It’s fun and achievable. When you exercises. Obviously we hope “The exercises went really The women have put on their run as a group you support each things like this will not happen, well. Everyone behaved running shoes and have been other. I’d recommend it to anyone. but we must ensure that we calmly and efficiently, and hitting the pavements and trails Speech and language assistant are prepared and can respond know what they had to do. on a 10-week beginners running practitioner Trish McManus as efficiently as possible in any It’s a real testament to the club led by leisure and sports added: “I might not be very fast circumstance, to ensure safety professionalism of the people development officer for Stockton but I’m doing it and I’m really for both patients and staff.” we have working in the trust.” Borough Council, Vicky Fawcett. giving this running a go. It was Vicky said: “The groups are completely out of character for fun, social and non-competitive me to join the group. I had no and cater for all levels of ability, experience of running but I’m glad genuinely supporting the I’ve done it. The group has been complete beginner. great fun. I feel so much better “The sessions are great for either physically and mentally. I’ll be weight loss or maintaining weight. running marathons next!” Sessions are made up of various Associate director for workplace activities from warm ups, stretching health and wellbeing Elaine Wilson exercises and gradually building added: “We want 2,012 staff in the up fitness levels to become trust to challenge themselves to confident runners.” become fitter and more physically “I might not be active by the time the London Olympics start in June next year. very fast but I’m “We’re offering support, incentives doing it and I’m and lots of great ideas to help staff of all levels of fitness and ability to Team work – staff nurse Tracy Bewick leads the way really giving this achieve this. So far staff have been offered access to a virtual gym, running a go.” onsite Zumba classes and healthy The trust’s health trainer manager eating groups. Sharon Bartram said: “Running is “Physical activity and sport are an excellent way to improve your great for relief of stress; working physical and mental well-being and together effectively and helping us the ladies are doing brilliantly.” all feel well. We want to support Improvement and development our staff to be healthy and join in facilitator Janet Varga who joined the NHS 2012 Challenge.” the running club explained: “I The challenge is encouraging staff personally joined the group as I to take up activities which will felt I needed to become fitter. improve their health and fitness in I’d always fancied running but the run up to the Olympic Games when I’d tried before I was out of in 2012 and beyond and inspire Local emergency services at the mortuary emergency exercise breath by the time I was at the end staff to be more active. 024|025 Trust commissions a very special design from local students

The trust is commissioning degree level students at Cleveland College of Art and Design to design a very special piece of work – a piece of art work to commemorate those have given and been given life through the gift of organ donation. Head of communications from North Tees and Hartlepool NHS Foundation Trust Claire Young said: “We have now worked with Eyv Hardwick and degree level students at the Hartlepool campus of Cleveland College of Art and Design on three very diverse projects. “Our first experience of working with the students was artwork for the dedicated midwife led birthing centre at the University Hospital of Hartlepool. The theme was the family in its widest sense and the students presented us with thoughtful, imaginative and beautiful jewellery, ceramics and textile designs which were then, because of infection control issues, photographed by photography students. Each piece is accompanied by the designer’s interpretation of the brief and we know that parents find these interesting Clare Fletcher pictured with the donor quilt when they’re walking around in the unit. Working with the students far exceeded the fulfil their ambition to become parents. We expectations of our colleagues in maternity commissioned images of local landmarks to line and they are, understandably, very proud of the walls on the way from the unit to theatres; the work and their involvement in the a stressful journey for our patients. Once production of the brief. again our staff, and in particular our principal embryologist and assisted reproduction unit Landmarks business manager Dave Gibbon, relished the “The second brief was the opposite end opportunity to be involved with the brief and of the natural birth process; our assisted with the students. We are delighted with the reproduction unit, again at the University work which provides a welcome distraction for Hospital of Hartlepool. Here we see couples our patients and their partners as they journey who need help with having a baby and many through this stressful experience. of whom, sadly, will - despite all of the leading “When our clinical lead for organ donation edge medical techniques and the support, skill Vijay Gupta said she wanted to celebrate and expertise of our wonderful team - still not the giving of life through organ donation I had no hesitation in recommending Eyv and Designer Nicole Shields beside her bangles design for the birthing centre Cleveland College of Art and Design. Eyv and the students now understand issues like health with Cleveland College of Art and Design. And and safety in hospitals as well as infection we look forward to further projects, especially control. These design briefs give students a in relation to the new hospital.” very real understanding of the environment where their work will be installed. We are very The trust’s organ donation committee will much looking forward to seeing the fruits of make the final decision about which of the this exercise. There will be two installations - students’ designs they will take forward and one at the University Hospital of Hartlepool, the work will be installed later this year. the others at its sister hospital, the University Donor quilt on display Hospital of North Tees in Stockton. When we The regional donor quilt has been on display move to the new hospital which will replace at the trust’s two hospitals. The quilt is made our existing hospital we want to take these up from individual squares created by each installations with us so the students have donor family. had to think about an unknown environment, National Blood and Transplant specialist which is an additional challenge. nurse organ donation Clare Fletcher said: Top class design “The regional quilt is a moving and poignant “In summary everyone benefits from this reminder of the generosity of the donor and relationship. We get top class design from very their family to give life. The squares are all talented people and the students get a real different; one has a piece of the donor’s design brief which stands them in very good beach towel because she loved to be by the Principle embryologist Dave Gibbon and Eyv Hardwick stead for the commercial environment they sea, another has been created in cross stitch. at the official handover over of art in the assisted will encounter. We are absolutely delighted to They’re as diverse and unique as the donors reproduction unit have this very positive and creative relationship were themselves.” August/September 11 LINk AGM hears about rapid response service

Michelle Wild Sister Deborah Rutland and team Deborah gave an excellent and with lots of individual comments leader for intermediate care Bob informative presentation. highlighting the rapid response Warnock gave a presentation “We collated the results of the and intermediate care team as about the work of the Stockton evaluation forms and the speakers one of the most useful sections Well done rapid response and intermediate scored consistently very highly of the day.” care team to the annual meeting of the Stockton local involvement Michelle! network (LINk). The rapid response and Nurse practitioner in the intermediate care team does homeward service at the as its name suggests; providing University Hospital of a nursing, physiotherapy and North Tees Michelle Ward occupational therapy service for has completed her nurse patients who need extra support practitioner degree with a 2:1 at home while recovering from pass (only missing a first by .2 an operation or a spell in hospital. of a percent) The team can also keep people at home avoiding the need for an “I hadn’t done admission to hospital and they can provide ongoing support for any academic up to six weeks. studying since Shirley Erskine from the Stockton LINk, who chaired the I did my nurse annual meeting, said: “Bob and Deborah and Bob pictured with Shirley Erskine from the LINk training so it was a bit daunting Out of town revision course hailed a success but I’m really The University Hospital of North courses held in London but none been arranged.” pleased to have Tees’ first out of town revision outside so we were pleased to Chief executive Alan Foster done it.” course for members of the host this event. welcomed everyone to the Royal College of Paediatrics and “The weekend consisted of revision course. Wishing the Child Health has been hailed a revision and then examination trainees well for the two days Joint replacement service success. The course came under exercises to help doctors training ahead he said: “This is the first manager Jackie Grosvenor: the umbrella of the Northern to be consultant paediatricians. time we have held a revision “Michelle is the first Deanery which is responsible for We had trainees from the north course in paediatrics and child practitioner in the department training tomorrow’s doctors. east but many from further health under the umbrella of the to have clinical skills and be Consultant paediatrician Venkata afield and they all appreciated Northern Deanery. a nurse prescriber, which Paturi said: “There a few revision the fact that this course had “I’d like to thank and pay will enable her to prepare a tribute to consultant patient for joint replacement paediatrician and course director surgery in a truly holistic way. Dr Venkata Paturi and his “In the middle of her colleagues for their efforts in degree programme she had organising this weekend. a challenging time juggling “I’d also like to welcome work and home life but she MRCPCH examiners from the soldiered on, completing other North East trusts and last but no means least the parents her degree without any and children who have given up deferments. She is an their time to come here today inspiration to us all.” to further your understanding, Michelle said: “I hadn’t done learning and training.” any academic studying since Venkata added: “We had I did my nurse training so excellent feedback from the it was a bit daunting but Pictured with chief executive Alan Foster (centre) are (left to right) Poothirikovil course and I’m sure we will I’m really pleased to have Venugolapan, Anil Tuladhar, Jagat Jani, Ian Verber, chief executive Alan Foster, repeat this at some time in done it.” Priyadarshini Tandle, Venkata Paturi, and Muhammad Arshid. the future.”

026|027 Pat shares her governor experience

When the Foundation Trust Network (FTN) got in touch with trust board secretary Lynn Hughes and asked her if one of the governors could attend their next event it was governor Pat Upton (pictured) who stepped up to do the job. Pat said: “The FTN holds events for people who will be governors when their trust is successful in becoming an NHS foundation trust so they can learn about what to expect. Misra Bano-Mahroo (right) pictured with Khalid Siddiqi, Praveen Sharda, Nazar Imam, Siva Kumar, Hafiz Ahmed, Rahda Venkatesan, Mercy Mshelbwala, “The FTN was interested in Krishnasamy Rajasekar, Raj Logishetty and Thida Oo the involvement governors have in this trust specifically Pat Upton around how they are involved in evaluating patient experience.” people (50+) but I was soon SAS conference a into the flow of it. I spoke about “I came out of the Mid-Staffs report and how we were going to prevent it great success the meeting on happening in our trust. I spoke a high, the sun about the PEQS, showing the tool sheets and a copy of a Around 55 staff grade and e-portfolio and revalidation. summary sheet used during associate specialists from “Umesh Prabhu brought the day was shining and across the region gathered at to a close and spoke about SAS I decided to walk the visits, the improvements the University Hospital of North doctors’ contribution to the NHS in tackling the spread of Tees recently to attend a regional and how to make use of their back towards infection and the significant conference designed to enhance excellent talent. The lecture was Trafalgar Square decrease in mortality which their education and skills. an eye opener and recognised were all linked to an Associate specialist from the the talent, expertise, dedication pausing to improvement in standards. trust’s assisted reproduction unit and the impact of this group of “Talking to patients about their Misra Bano-Mahroo said: “We doctors on patient care. ring Lynn to experiences was a topic they were delighted with the response “The feedback for the event was tell her of my showed a great interest in, and were grateful to the North excellent. The attendees thought some of the shadow governors East Strategic Health Authority that the event was very useful success. It had were not sure it was something and the British Medical and that the programme and been a very that they should be doing . I Association for helping us organisation was exceptional. also included the fact that in publicise the conference. They thought the sessions were enjoyable day!” some departments they were “The speakers included the excellent, interactive and versatile using videos to capture patient renowned authorities like head with a good range of speakers stories. My presentation lasted The event began wit round of the Joint Royal College of who provided diverse useful about 25 minutes. At the end table discussions and gave Pat Physicians’ Training Board Nicholas information and ideas. several delegates thanked me an opportunity to meet shadow Grant, head of certification at “Of course conferences like this for a very interesting talk. the GMC Tara Wilmot, chair of don’t just happen on their own. I governors from Kent, Suffolk, Shropshire and Leicester. The “There was only one question certificate of eligibility for specialist would like to thank medical director and that was ‘how the governors registration (CESR) for the Royal David Emerton and associate remainder of the sessions were managed to take part in this College of Paediatrics and Child medical director Chris Tulloch presentations from Leeds, York, procedure’. I explained that at Health David Beverley and medical for their support and the help Sheffield, the trust and Taunton. one of the committee meetings director of for Wrightington, Wigan and support of Bob Singh, Hafiz Pat continued: “My presentation some of the governors asked and Leigh Trust Umesh Prabu. Ahmad, Ravi Thakur and Nazar based on quality review panels if it was possible to take part “The programme for the morning Imam and the SAS educational now called patient experience, session was varied and included leads- Praveen Sharda, Tariq quality and standards (PEQS) in the reviews and it was up previous SAS doctors who had Azad, Kameshwar Singh, Mercy visits. Director of nursing and and running within a couple of successfully completed the CESR Mshelbwala, Kyaw Toe and SAS patient safety Sue Smith put weeks; all part of the trust’s application and gave an account tutor Siva Kumar. together some slides which ward to board approach. of difficulties for processing the “The committee is especially had been used in some of her “I came out of the meeting on application and how to overcome thankful to unparalleled support presentations to the governors a high, the sun was shining and them. The afternoon session was of Vicky Naunton from the and Lynn was very helpful in I decided to walk back towards facilitated by Developmedica, an education and learning explaining anything I wasn’t Trafalgar Square pausing to external consultancy company directorate. Her immense hard quite sure of. ring Lynn to tell her of my who spoke about negotiating work and dedication made the “I was a little apprehensive success. It had been a very skills, maintenance of personal event highly successful.” about speaking to so many enjoyable day!” August/September 11 Taking steps to streamline service The orthotic service is a specialised service “I am very enthused and Hayley based at both hospital sites that provides Burnham devices such as splints, braces and footwear impressed by the findings to aid mobility and help pain relief. A high percentage of the devices are currently of the group and the assessed for and provided by a visiting proposed changes.” Hayley is orthotist and all devices are purchased using an external contractor. It was felt that putting on her the system could be improved by bringing can have much more control and it will the process in-house so a rapid process mean that 95% of referrals will be seen by running shoes to improvement working group (RPIW) was trust clinicians. This will reduce the number set up. of sessions needed by the orthotist leading to The group, headed by specialist services substantial cost savings. support Arthritis manager Andy Hardy looked at the entire “In addition to this, by using the existing system with a view to reducing expenditure, Cardea ordering system the group have Research UK reducing the time it took to issue devices and established that not only can savings be made, but time from initial referral to delivery Rheumatology clinical nurse specialist at making it easier for patients. of the device will be greatly reduced.” the University Hospital of Hartlepool will Andy said: “One of the main things we found The new system is planned to go live on 3 run this year’s Bupa Great North Run in was that we had little or no control over aid of Arthritis Research UK. expenditure and devices were being issued October after several new processes have Hayley’s job specialises in joints, muscles as a matter of course whether the patients been put in place. and bones so she did not have to think really needed them or not. Director of finance John Maddison said: twice about choosing the cause for which “In addition to this the contractor was “I am very enthused and impressed she is running. buying from a third party supplier who was by the findings of the group and the using bespoke footwear when in many proposed changes. “Rheumatologists rely cases off the shelf items would serve “The plans will utilise the systems we the purpose.” already have in place such as Cardea and heavily upon research “By establishing an orthotic clinical maximise the skills of current staff instead into treatments and assessment service to triage referrals we of relying on outside agencies.” patient comfort and have a lot to thank Arthritis Research UK for.” This will be the first time Hayley has taken part in the half-marathon, which takes place on September 18 from Newcastle to South Shields. Hayley said: “I have chosen to run for Arthritis Research UK because my role as a rheumatology clinical nurse specialist has given me first-hand experience of arthritis and it is a cause very close to my heart because of my work. “I’m very aware how disruptive and painful this condition is. “Rheumatologists rely heavily upon research into treatments and patient comfort and have a lot to thank Arthritis Research UK for.” If you would like to sponsor Hayley visit www.justgiving.com/Hayley-Burnham For more information on Arthritis Research UK visit www.arthritisresearchuk.org. Andy Hardy (front) with the team 028|029 A great step towards a healthier lifestyle for Pam Pam Atringham is well on the way to a healthier said: “I wanted to lose weight for myself. I’m lifestyle thanks to the help from senior health on my feet all day and now it is much easier to trainer Denise Murphy. get on with my day job. Mum of one, Pam, 54 from Hartlepool got “I’ve found it really good being in a group. It got in touch with the health trainer service in competitive at times! March, is more than two stone lighter and she “Weight loss has to be gradual. I’ve learnt a is feeling great. lot about food labels. I’ve found healthy food Pam joined the 10-week group weight I enjoy. It’s all about eating the right food and management course run by Denise at the right portion sizes. I still enjoy a treat every Hartfields Retirement Village and she hasn’t now and again. looked back since. “I’m now looking forward to a Pam, who works as a care worker in Greatham healthier future.” Senior health trainer Denise Murphy said: “Pam has proved just what can be achieved Harrison Siddall and Lola Moon-Halliday try out with a little bit of extra support and help, which the new toys is what we are here for. “During the 10 week weight management group we looked at portion sizes, food labels and weekly weigh-ins to keep everyone on the right track. “Most people want to enjoy a better, healthier Its lifestyle. No-one finds it easy on their own and often people need a little bit of extra help or encouragement to keep going, that’s why working as a group works so well. wheelie “We work together to set some small, achievable goals and with Pam’s hard work and determination she’s leading a happier and healthier life.” good fun! Anyone wanting more details about the health Denise and Pam trainer service for the Hartlepool and Stockton areas should contact (01642) 853998. A set of four outdoor wheelie painters to trundle through paint or puddles is the latest creative activity in the nursery at the Generous University Hospital of North Tees. “Children have been patient says having a great time. It’s a great way for the thank you children to keep active and creative at the A generous patient has said thank you to the same time.” chemotherapy unit at the University Hospital of North Tees. Lynn Hornsby’s sister Bev Bradley and More than 2000 Tesco schools vouchers cousin Catherine Reed were delighted to sent into the nursery by staff meant present the staff on the ward with a cheque that the children were in for a treat. for £1720 on Lynn’s behalf, as she was Bev and Catherine Each one has a different pattern including celebrating the birth of her grand-daughter with staff on the stars, animal paws, bubbles and waves to create designs on the outdoor play area on the hospital’s delivery suite! chemotherapy unit or paper. Lynn, 54 from Peterlee (pictured inset Childcare co-ordinator Margaret Hayden right) wanted to thank the staff who looked Ward manager Val said: “Children have been having a great after her after she was diagnosed with Storey went along time. It’s a great way for the children to breast cancer. Local people showed their to the event with colleagues, she said: keep active and creative at the same time. support at a charity night held at Easington I’d like to say a big thank you to Lynn, The vouchers are really valuable to the Colliery Club. her family and everyone who has nursery and I’d like to thank all of the staff Bev said: “The event sold out. It was a contributed. The event was lovely. We’re for their contribution.” fantastic night with guest singers and a extremely grateful for this donation If you would like your child to attend raffle. It was a really fun night. The support which will help provide extra comforts for the nursery, contact childcare co-ordinator was just fantastic.” our patients.” Margaret Hayden on 01642 383270. Andy Hardy (front) with the team August/September 11 Member and governor round up Members and governors play a unique role in the life of an NHS Foundation Trust. At a recent council of governor seminars Chief executive Alan Foster said: “There’s no governors have had the chance to find out doubt that having governors and members about services the trust is developing for enriches the life of the trust. Our governors patients. Governors have also been involved in sit on many committees looking at various helping the trust plan for the future, including aspects of the trust’s work. Our member discussing what patient bedrooms might be events are popular and I know members like in the new hospital. appreciate the chance to meet our doctors Regular Saturday morning events also and other health professionals face to face gave members a chance to find out more to find out what services are being about their areas of interest. At the most developed for patients.” recent event they heard about Parkinson’s For more information about member events disease and how the trust is developing please look at the members’ notice board or Clinical director for surgery Pud Bhaskar updates the community services. email [email protected] governors on advances in breast surgery

Clinical director for community services Linda Deputy director of human resources Barbara Director of operations and performance Julie Watson talks to the members about developments in Bright discusses the results of the NHS staff Gillon discusses the trust’s plans for 2011 and 2012 community services survey with governors with the governors

Staff governor and surgeon Hasan Bandi pictured at Governor Kate Smith feeds back on her table’s ideas Consultant physician Balakrishna Kumar at a recent his last governors’ meeting before his retirement about patient rooms in the new hospital member event on Parkinson’s disease

Tracy Minns and Michelle Taylor from human Clinical director of orthopaedics and trauma Chris resources and director of human resources and Tulloch and commercial director Kevin Oxley organisation development Clare Curran discuss discuss patient rooms in the new hospital at a equality and diversity with the governors recent governor seminar A typical council of governor meeting 030|031 Member’s noticeboard

Council of Annual general governors meeting meeting The governors are the voice of our members who help shape the future of the hospitals. Members and the general public We’re holding our annual general are welcome to observe the meetings which are held around meeting on Thursday 15 September four times a year. Please contact the membership office for at 11am in the teaching centre at the more information. University Hospital of North Tees. This meeting is held in public and all trust members are welcome to attend. Please contact the membership office for more information. Board of Member events directors The chairman will be hosting four events this year for members and people who are interested meetings in becoming a member. Hear about catering The board of directors meet around and pain management at the event on Saturday six times a year. Members of the 3 September at 9.30am, in the education and public and staff are welcome to observe learning centre, at the University Hospital of the meetings. This is your chance to Hartlepool. The events are free, but you need to see how the board operates and book a place. People can do this by contacting the gain first hand knowledge on the trust’s membership office. latest developments.

Spaces to attend the meetings are limited so please contact the membership office in advance to ensure your place. The next Your trust needs you! board of directors meeting is on Thursday 27 October at 1.30pm in the boardroom, We want to increase our membership so that we are University Hospital of North Tees. truly representative of the community we serve and that more people can become involved with their local hospital. Please encourage your family and friends to join the trust as a member. We would especially like to hear from anyone aged 16-25 years old as we have a number of potential opportunities they could be involved with. You can join by contacting us on [email protected] , calling 01642 383765 or applying at www.nth.nhs.uk

Contacting your membership office You can get in touch with your membership office at 01642 383765 or [email protected]

August/September 11 “Learn through play the Montessori way” Montessori Pre-School Working together to make Britain a great place to grow old Caring for children from 6 weeks to 5 years. Contact us: Our early years programme enhances self Blue Peter House, WRVS delivers practical services to help older people get more out of life, confidence, individuality, creativity & 127-129 Green Lane, Acklam, maintain their independence and play a part in their local community. Middlesbrough TS5 7AD Due to the changing needs of older people WRVS is developing a fully self expression. Tel: 01642 270511 managed, hospital support service to help people attend appointments • Early reading, writing & numeracy Montessori Pre-School Central, or get organised for a stay in hospital. While in hospital, our volunteers activities are provided including French. 46 Southfield Road, Middlesbrough TS1 3EU will visit to make sure they have what they need and to provide • Excellent OFSTED reports. Tel: 01642 252723 company when family and friends can’t visit. Then on returning home • Government grants for 3 & 4 year olds. Also incorporating: we will provide ongoing support to ensure they settle back in as quickly • High staff ratio for quality care. Thornaby Childrens Nursery as possible. • School holiday club for 4 - 8 year olds. 462 Thornaby Road, Thornaby, Stockton on Tees TS17 8QH www.montessoripreschoolnursery.co.uk Tel: 01642 750113 Last year through our Home from Hospital service, our team of amazing volunteers helped over 1,000 people feel confident about returning home from hospital, often earlier than might otherwise have been possible, knowing they would be ALAN CARR supported by regular visits from people in their local community. JAGUAR SERVICES For further Information please call Independently specialising 0845 601 4670 or visit wrvs.org.uk in Jaguars & prestige cars North Tees and Hartlepool NHS Foundation Trust has not vetted the All aspects of this marque covered advertisers in this publication and accepts no liability for work done or goods supplied by any advertiser. Nor does North Tees & Hartlepool NHS Foundation Trust endorse any of the products or services.

Every possible care has been taken to ensure that the information given in this Unit 8, 68 Hudson Street, North Shields publication is accurate. Whilst the publisher would be grateful to learn of any errors, it Tyne & Wear NE30 1DL cannot accept any liability over and above the cost of the advertisement for loss there T: 0191 2708110 M: 07939 227398 by caused. No reproduction by any method whatsoever of any part of this publication E: [email protected] is permitted without prior written consent of the copyright owners. Octagon Design & Marketing Ltd. ©2011. www.alancarrjaguarservices.co.uk Britannic Chambers, 8a Carlton Road, Worksop, Notts. S80 1PH. Tel: 01909 478822

032|033 August/September 11 ictoria House Care Home

Victoria House is a modern and specially designed Care Centre set close to the centre of Stockton-on-Tees providing nursing and residential care for elderly people with physical frailty, dementia and confusion, mental health needs and physical disability.

The Centre also provides the following amenities: Wheelchair access to all indoor and outdoor areas Wide corridors and handrails Bath hoists and wheel-in showers Stand aid, moving and handling equipment

Bath Lane, Stockton-on-Tees, Cleveland, TS18 2DX Tel: 01642 677282

034|035 August/September 11 £350

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