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Nurse who beat breast cancer backs new appeal
A nurse from Barnsley Hospital’s Breast Unit is sharing her story of how fortunate she was to overcome breast cancer –inspiring fundraising for the hospital charity’s new cancer care appeal.
Lisa Sanderson, 54, used to be a Macmillan Head and Neck Cancer Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS) but now is the Lead Nurse in the Breast Unit. Married to Paul, she has three children and seven grandchildren and lives in Barnsley.
Back in 2015, she found a ‘sausage-shaped’ lump in her breast. She went to her GP, had a mammogram, ultrasound and biopsy, only to find that same week that she had neuroendocrine breast cancer – a particularly rare type of cancer for the breast. She said: “One of the
hardest things I had to do was tell my children.”
She initially had a wide local excision followed by chemotherapy. When she began to lose her hair, instead of sinking into depression, she and Paul decided to shave off all her locks and asked Barnsley Boots beauty counter to help. “Paul was armed with hair clippers and became a barber for the day,” said Lisa.
Humour was important to keep the couple going but there were very tough times too. “I hated my reflection and didn’t recognise the person staring back at me. I struggled to breathe just going to the toilet and was so bloated I could hardly walk.”
Lisa had worryingly high temperatures and spent a lot of time in hospital. “I endured a vast selection of intravenous cocktails, and I felt isolated from those I love and the things I like doing. I missed being me.”
Her friends rallied round, running races for her and even shaving their heads in support. After chemotherapy, she had three-and-a-half weeks of radiotherapy. She celebrated her last day of radiotherapy on November 11, 2015, and was
given the all-clear in November 2016 after a mammogram. Following her treatment, she committed her time to sharing her experiences to help others, via initiatives like the ‘Living with and Beyond Cancer Programme.’ She added: “I have seen both sides of the cancer journey. I know having cancer can be a lonely place, and as a previous cancer nurse, if I can’t
Welcome to the summer edition of Barnsley Hospital News. Since our last edition, lots has been happening in the NHS – both inside our hospital and out. One of the most exciting events is the launch of the first of nine trailblazer programmes to get Barnsley back to health and back to work. The Work and Pensions Secretary Liz Kendall recently visited our town to unveil £18million of South Yorkshire funding. This will be vital in preventing people falling out of work due to ill-health.
talk about it, who can?”
In 2017, Dr Hilary Jones surprised Lisa on national TV with her friends and family as part of ‘Inspirational Women Week.’
Lisa recently took part in a Lego Walk, to raise funds for the appeal.
Find out more about Barnsley Hospital’s Breast Cancer Appeal on Page 4.
Celebrating nurses and midwives…
Barnsley Hospital recently marked two big occasions –International Day of the Midwife, and International Nurses Day. This year’s theme for midwives was ‘Midwives: Critical in Every Crisis,’ highlighting the strength, resilience and vital role midwives play across our Trust. The hospital also celebrated its brilliant nursing teams for Nurses Day. They continue to work hard delivering care through ever-changing challenges. The Trust is so proud of their dedication, expertise and compassion and thanks them for all they do.
Sarah Moppett, Director of Nursing, Midwifery and AHPs, was out and about in the hospital with treats and surprises. In a message to colleagues, she said: “I have been a registered nurse for over 30 years and on International Nurses’ Day I reflected on my own career. Looking back, it has been a privilege to care for others and to work alongside incredible colleagues. If I had my time again, I would make the same career choice. Nursing is not always an easy choice though.
“I encourage each nurse to reflect on what your role means to you and what your acts of
care mean to so many patients.”
On the day, the hospital chaplaincy hosted a service for both Nurses and Midwives in the hospital chapel. The week of both events was also Mental Health Awareness week, and Sarah encouraged nurses and midwives to use the many wellbeing options the Trust offers through its Occupational Health Service.
Sarah added: “I know we have strong nursing teams across the Trust – and they often become closer because of the hurdles they overcome together. This makes me proud to work at Barnsley Hospital and of the values we all share.”
Hospital launches Young Carers Passport
Barnsley Hospital’s Safeguarding Team has worked with Barnardo’s to launch the ‘Young Carers Passport’ . This will allow children with caring responsibilities to be supported when their family members visit hospital or are an inpatient. The passport is designed to prompt staff to provide support and care for young carers. Young carers are children and young people under 18, who take on physical, practical or emotional responsibilities at home because someone in their family is ill, has a disability, experiences mental health problems or has a problem linked to alcohol or drugs. Lots of young people
want to help out and feel proud that they can offer support, but we know from talking to young carers that having extra responsibilities can be difficult and has an impact on their lives both at home and at school or college.
Young carer Phoebe Sumption, 18, was caring for her mum who has now sadly passed away from brain cancer. Phoebe said: “I started going to Barnardo’s when I was a young carer and the hospital team came in and asked what they could do to help. At the time when my mum was having her chemotherapy sessions, I wasn’t allowed to sit with her. That’s when we started to talk about
ways of helping young carers and it led to the Young Carers Passport, as well as many other ideas.
“The passport meant I had more opportunities when I was in hospital to be with my mum, and I had support as well. Obviously, it’s such a difficult thing being a young carer and even just being able to sit with mum during her chemo made things so much easier. The passport allows young carers to feel empowered and have their voices heard in a healthcare setting.”
If you identify as a Young Carer and would like support, please contact the safeguarding team on 01226 43 2092 or bhnft.safeguardingteam@nhs.net
Barnsley Hospital News readership survey
Much of the support focuses on young people, particularly with the launch of ‘The Great Childhoods Ambition.’ This is a partner commitment to improving the lives and futures of our children and young people. They already do amazing work. Just look at our Page 1 story about Phoebe Sumption, aged 18, whose own experience as a carer helped develop our ‘Young Carers Passport’ in the hospital. The breadth of excellent work across the whole Trust by clinical, non-clinical and volunteer teams was illustrated in our recent Heart Awards (see page 2). The evening was a real tonic!
This month sees the 77th anniversary of the NHS, and we continue to mark our colleagues’ achievements through events like Nurses’ Day and Midwives Day (page 1). Our charity has also launched a new Breast Care Appeal. Please read the moving story (page 1) of our Lead Breast Care Nurse Lisa Sanderson, who shares her personal journey through breast cancer.
Major changes continue throughout the NHS, nationally and locally. We remain confident that with your help, we have the resilience to continue improving and delivering crucial services. Thank you for all your support. Dr Richard Jenkins
We introduced our news readership survey in the last edition – as we’d really like to hear your feedback about Barnsley Hospital News. What kinds of stories are most relevant to you? Do you know we have an online version on the hospital website? What topics would you like us to cover in future? We welcome all your ideas. Please scan the QR code or visit barnsleyhospital.nhs.uk/ bhn and take a moment to answer our survey questions. Thank you!
Barnsley Hospital CEO Dr Richard Jenkins
Lisa Sanderson now in the hospital garden and, below left, Lisa celebrating the end of Radiotherapy
From the Chair
Some of you may have heard that I am stepping down as Chairperson of Barnsley Hospital NHS Trust. By the time you read this, I will be on my way to my new role in Greater Manchester. I want to express my gratitude for the privilege of serving this remarkable community since I joined the Trust in May 2022. Leading the Board of one of Yorkshire’s busiest acute Trusts has been both humbling and inspiring. Over recent years, our skilled and dedicated colleagues across
the Trust have made strides in delivering care that is accessible and innovative. Increasingly, that care is centred on prevention of illness. Our Health on the High Street initiative has brought vital health services closer to the community, making it easier for people to get the support they need without always coming into hospital. The launch of the Community Diagnostic Centre was another milestone, offering faster, more convenient testing that reduces pressure on our hospital services.
Alongside this, advances in technology and treatments at the Trust have continued to improve patient outcomes, helping us deliver care with greater precision and compassion. I am also proud of the many partnerships we have forged across Barnsley. Among them is our partnership with Barnsley Council, and a partnership with Barnsley College through the newly-launched Academy. The academy aims to train and inspire the next generation of healthcare professionals – ensuring our
ACADEMY MIMICS HOSPITAL WORKPLACE
Barnsley Hospital governors and colleagues went back to school on a visit to the new ‘academy’ launched at Barnsley College.
The Barnsley Hospital academy, in the Health, Science and Social Care Professions department in Old Mill Lane, is a result of the longstanding partnership between the two organisations. The academy adds to the growing range of employer-led partnerships that give students access to more high-quality education and training, with further opportunities to experience the world of work.
Visitors to the site included Sarah Moppett, the hospital’s Director of Nursing. Facilities for students include a branded classroom adjoined to an immersive learning space which closely resembles a hospital ward with five beds. The space has medical manikins and the same equipment students can expect to use in a healthcare setting.
The visit comprised presentations from Barnsley College Principal and Chief Executive David Akeroyd, and Head of the Department Maureen Bullock. The group discussed how to approach the talent pipeline which sees healthcare professionals progress from college, to university and into work.
Associate Director of Nursing, Diane Edwards, Trust Chair Sheena McDonnell, and Membership and
Engagement Officer Andrea Spencer, asked questions and were treated to some demonstrations of the equipment.
David Akeroyd, Barnsley College Principal and Chief Executive Officer, said: “It is important that our students have a clear line of sight into their chosen profession, and that is what this academy partnership gives them. “We know we have exceptional students and we have invested significantly in facilities that resemble, as closely as possible, what they can expect to find in the workplace.”
Director of Nursing Sarah Moppet said: “We look forward to strengthening our partnership with Barnsley College to find ways of working together. We hope it will ensure young people go on to the next stages of education or employment with all the skills and knowledge they need to have worthwhile and fulfilling careers.”
Deborah’s QUIT journey
Deborah, Alcohol Care Team Lead at Barnsley Hospital, finally feels free of smoking.
“I’d stopped before, relapsed, and felt embarrassed to ask for help again,” she admits.
But when she reached out to the Healthy Lives Tobacco Treatment Team, she was met with warmth, not judgment.
Armed with patches, an inhalator, and support, Deborah completed the 12week programme.
“It wasn’t easy – I feared mood swings, weight gain – but the team helped me every step.”
Now, with better breathing, more energy, and a fresh start at the gym, Deborah feels so much better.
Ready to quit?
Contact Yorkshire Smokefree
workforce remains strong and skilled for the future. Finally, the recent government spending review has allocated crucial funding to the NHS, providing us with some resources needed to continue these vital initiatives and meet rising demand.
As I hand over to my successor, I am confident that Barnsley Hospital is well-positioned to build on these achievements and continue delivering outstanding care to our community.
Thank you all for your dedication and support.
New technology improves life for knee patients
Visitors to a workshop at Barnsley Hospital heard how high-tech medical solutions are helping patients with knee injuries.
The ‘Knee Preservation Workshop’ heard how knee problems are growing across the country and placing enormous pressure on the NHS. The event was a chance for health professionals to hear about the latest medical developments. Patients also told the group about their own experiences of injuries and surgery.
They met industry members –many with a background in the NHS, particularly physiotherapy – who demonstrated surgical kits and the latest implants.
Patient John Land, 26, from Kendray, told the audience he had a meniscal repair after being injured while jiu-jitsu training. He was almost back to his sporty self after being on crutches for six weeks. Patient Stephen Rhodes told the audience about having a partial knee replacement.
The group was told about biomechanical solutions, and the hospital’s own ‘knee preservation service’ led by consultant orthopaedic knee surgeon Vivek Balachandar. Visitors heard there were now robots which could assist surgeons, giving them new perspectives as well as saving valuable time.
Globally-known equipment suppliers attending included Össur, Arthrex, DePuySynthes, bodycad, Hospital Innovations and Joint Operations. David Seymour, from Hospital Innovations, said: “Technical developments have moved on hugely and
now mean a much-improved quality of life for patients.
“Sometimes the need for surgery can even be prevented.
“We supply specialist products for use in orthopaedic and corrective surgery, helping with knee ligament injuries and cartilage defects.”
BARNSLEYHOSPITAL
Hospital Chair Sheena McDonnell
Patient John Land with his dad John
Governors visit the new academy
Knee surgical equipment
David Seymour, Hospital Innovations
Governor Phil Carr has his blood pressure checked
Heart Awards reflect great work
Barnsley Hospital’s annual Heart Awards was a fantastic chance for NHS colleagues to get together and share their successes.
The glitzy, black-tie evening, hosted at the Holiday Inn, Dodworth, by radio and TV presenter Stephanie Hirst, was attended by almost 200 guests who enjoyed a three-course
meal and award presentation, then danced the night away.
The hospital had an amazing number of over 200 nominations this year in 11 categories and as always, the judges struggled to choose the winners. Award categories covered dozens of hospital roles as well as awards for Partnerships and Patient Care.
Barnsley Hospital’s Chief Executive Dr Richard Jenkins said: “The Heart Awards is one of our biggest and most important occasions through the year. It shows and recognizes the outstanding work our colleagues do. A huge well done to everyone who won, was nominated and shortlisted. “It was our great pleasure to
HOSPITAL AT THE FORE IN SECURITY
Barnsley Hospital is one of the first UK acute trust hospitals to achieve two important milestones in healthcare security.
The Trust has been awarded both the prestigious ‘Secured Environments’ accreditation and the BS7958 certification for CCTV management.
The much sought-after ‘Secured Environments’ award has been developed by Police Crime Prevention Initiatives (PCPI) and administered in partnership with the University of Leicester. It recognises organisations that have adopted six key principles to embed a security-minded culture, protecting themselves against crime. The accreditation requires a rigorous, independent assessment that confirms an organisation has effective and sustainable security management strategies in place, aligned to risk and business need.
BS7958 is the British Standard for the
management and operation of CCTV systems used in public spaces. It is awarded only to organisations that can demonstrate high standards of governance, data protection compliance, system integrity, and operational effectiveness in the use of surveillance to deter crime and protect the public.
Barnsley Hospital’s Security Management Services, pioneering a modern ‘Hospital Protective Services’ model, achieved both awards in parallel. This dual accreditation reflects the Trust’s unwavering commitment to creating a safer, more secure environment for patients, visitors, and staff, using
proportionate, ethical, and professional methods.
“This is a proud moment for us,” said Mike Lees, Head of Security Management. “It is a testament to the dedication and professionalism of our security management and uniform officer teams. Their efforts help ensure Barnsley Hospital remains not just a place of clinical excellence and high-quality patient care, but a safe haven where our patients and staff members feel protected.”
The awards also place Barnsley at the forefront of security innovation in the NHS, aligning with national priorities for resilience, patient safety, and public protection services in healthcare.
read through all the nominations, and what a testament they are to all the great work our colleagues and volunteers do every day right across the hospital.”
The hospital thanked all the event sponsors. Dr Jenkins added: “Without our sponsor support, we wouldn’t be able to hold such a brilliant event.”
Hospital leading the way to greener NHS
Barnsley Hospital is making big strides in its mission to go green – cutting carbon, saving cash, and setting a strong example for hospitals across the country.
As part of its five-year Green Plan, the Trust has already converted over 95% of its lighting to energy-efficient LEDs, slashing emissions by 404 tonnes of CO2 every year. The project, funded by a £420,000 grant, puts Barnsley among the top 10 NHS Trusts nationwide for LED adoption. It’s just one of several major changes as the hospital pushes towards the NHS’s 2040 net-zero goal.
Greener Care
In theatres, staff have stopped using desflurane – a common anaesthetic with a high environmental impact –saving another 161 tonnes of carbon annually. Electric vehicle (EV) chargers on-site have delivered over 120,000 kWh of clean power, reducing emissions by a further 67 tonnes.
A new energy policy, investment in sub-metering
for better monitoring, and theatre scheduling tweaks have added to the impact, with one efficiency change alone saving £21,000 and 29 tonnes of CO2.
Waste Not, Want Not
The Trust is also tackling waste head-on. A digitalisation drive has reduced paper use by a massive 200,000 pages a month, while theatres now recycle metal waste and all general waste is diverted from landfill.
Meanwhile, staff in A&E have switched to more sustainable syringes – saving £9,600 and nearly 3 tonnes of carbon every year.
Staff garden
New capital projects meet high energy-efficiency standards, and green spaces are popping up too –including a wildflower meadow to boost biodiversity and a staff garden to support wellbeing.
Sustainable travel is a priority as well. With electric bikes available to staff, expanded secure cycle storage, and free
bike repair clinics, Barnsley is encouraging more people to leave their cars at home.
Looking Ahead
The hospital isn’t stopping there. Plans for 2025 include installing over 1,000 solar panels, upgrading the IT building with low-carbon tech, and expanding EV charging points.
A refreshed Green Plan is also due in October, reflecting the latest NHS and local guidance.
Challenges Remain
The Trust acknowledges there’s still work to do –including replacing power systems and securing long-term funding for decarbonisation projects.
But with strong momentum and staff support, Barnsley Hospital is showing that greener healthcare is both possible and practical.
“We’re committed to delivering high-quality care while protecting the environment for future generations,” a spokesperson said.
BARNSLEYHOSPITAL
The hospital’s team of volunteers, who won Team Outstanding Achievement Non-Clinical Award. Diners enjoy the black-tie award evening.
Meet the team: Ward 31 Gastroenterology
How many people are in the team?
Within the nursing team there are around 40 members of staff but we also have medical staff who work alongside us.
What is your role in the hospital?
We are a 15-bed Gastroenterology unit caring for patients with acute Gastroenterology conditions including: Upper Gastrointestinal Bleeds, Decompensated Liver Disease, Irritable Bowel Disease, patients requiring enteral/ parenteral feeding and eating disorders to name a few. We provide 24-hour care for our patients on the ward.
What kind of different jobs do you do?
The nursing team includes the following roles: Matron, Lead Nurse, Sister/Charge Nurses, Staff Nurses, Health Care Assistants, Environment Coordinators and Ward Clerk. We then work alongside the medical team which includes Consultants, Registrars and Junior Doctors. We provide nursing/ medical care for Gastroenterology patients, which includes basic care needs, medication administration, blood product transfusions, enteral/parenteral feeding, and support in attending for procedures such as Gastroscopy/ Colonoscopy and Ascitic Drains.
Are there any achievements you’re particularly proud of?
In the 2024 Staff Survey we were highlighted as the ‘most engaged’ within the trust. The Freedom to Speak Up Guardian spent time with staff in 2025 and we were noted for our collaborative working. We have been put forward for multiple Brilliant Awards throughout the years but one of our newly-qualified nurses was recently nominated for their practice. One of our Health Care Assistants has now started nurse training alongside their work in Gastroenterology and we continue to support our staff to progress. We carried out a Quality Improvement project last year which introduced
a snacks trolley for our patients – which is especially important for our Decompensated Liver Disease patients who require extra nutrition. This was well received by all patients! This year we have been one of the first areas to go forward with
PLEASE SUPPORT OUR BREAST CARE APPEAL!
Barnsley Hospital Charity has officially launched its latest fundraising drive – a major Breast Care Appeal aimed at transforming the hospital’s dedicated Breast Unit into a calming, patient-focused environment.
The £250k appeal was unveiled at a special event on 11 June 2025, where over 50 supporters gathered to hear first-hand about the ambitious vision for the unit. Guests were given the opportunity to tour the current facilities, meet members of the clinical team, and learn more about how the new design will make a real difference to both patients and staff.
Speaking at the event, Nicky Clarke, Non-Executive Director and Chair of the Charitable Trustees, said: “Our goal is to create a space that not only meets the needs of the patients who
come through our doors every day but also supports the incredible staff who care for them. This is more than just a refurbishment – it’s a chance to completely reimagine the experience of breast care in Barnsley.”
The unit sees around 7,381 patients each year – an average of 142 people per week – for consultations, imaging, and biopsies. Of those, approximately 250 patients are diagnosed and treated for breast cancer annually.
The unit also provides ongoing
care through appointments with breast care nurses, prosthetic specialists and medical consultants.
Plans for the new space focus on dignity, comfort, and healing.
Proposed features include serene waiting areas inspired by nature, comfortable clustered seating, and private consultation spaces.
Floor-to-ceiling prints, artistic ceiling tiles, and customdesigned window films will help create a calm, reassuring atmosphere for patients during
paperless handover, helping improve sustainability and cost within the trust.
Any plans for the future?
Future plans include a project in ‘Give it a Go’ week to improve safeguarding, a project to improve experience in end-of-life care, as well as work regarding patients self-medicating – giving patients the opportunity to be involved with their care and maintaining their independence.
what can be a distressing time.
Nicky Clarke added: “This appeal is also a powerful opportunity to raise awareness of breast care across our community. Anything you can do to help share our message – at work, in your neighbourhood, or online – will make a huge difference.”
Thanks to early donations and community support, the appeal is already off to a strong start.
I’m delighted to share that we’ve
raised more than £76,675 so far – a fantastic achievement and a testament to Barnsley’s generosity and spirit.”
To find out how you can support the Breast Care Appeal or to donate, visit www.barnsleyhospitalcharity.co.uk or scan the QR code above.
Together, we can help build a brighter, more compassionate future for breast care in Barnsley.
BARNSLEYHOSPITAL