Revolutionising care
5 New colleagues welcomed to pathology
4 Long Service Awards celebrated 6-7
7 Commitments in focus 10,000 tests milestone at Armley CDC
25 years of paediatric liver transplants
World Photography Day marked 12 20
A blooming brilliant opening for the White Rose Wellbeing Garden
At the beginning of October, we welcomed guests from across the Trust and RHS, as well as funders, supporters and community representatives for the official opening of the RHS White Rose Wellbeing Garden at St James’s Hospital.
Located outside Trust HQ behind Gledhow Wing, the space was transformed over a three-month project to create a stunning and versatile garden, where staff can rest, reflect and recharge away from the bustle of the main hospital buildings. Patients and visitors are also welcome to enjoy the garden, and the benefits of nature on physical and mental health and wellbeing.
Brought to life over the summer by the RHS, our own talented External Environment Team and many green-
fingered staff volunteers, the garden was in full bloom come the official opening. The sun shone as almost 80 guests admired the garden, enjoyed some delicious cake and good conversation. We welcomed RHS Director General Clare Matterson and welcomed back our former Chair Dame Linda Pollard who had been instrumental in developing the relationship with the RHS. They, alongside Chief Executive Brendan Brown and some of our gardening club volunteers, were delighted to declare the garden officially open for all to enjoy for years to come.
Thank you to everyone who has helped make this garden a reality, including Leeds Hospitals Charity for your generous support.
Welcome to the Winter issue of Bulletin
I wanted to thank you all for your very warm welcome to me as your new Chief Executive. Over the past few months, it’s been a privilege to get to know you and hear about what matters to you in your work. It’s my role to help steer the organisation through our challenges and part of that is listening to you so I know what you need to deliver in whatever role you are in – in the best way you can.
The most important aspect of any organisation and its culture is the people at its heart. One of my first events since starting in September was the long service awards, and having attended two of these ceremonies now, I feel I’ve got to know many of our long-serving colleagues and their commitment over the years. Many of you have received your 20, 30, 40 and even 50-year awards, and spoke with pride and passion about the roles you have undertaken, the friendships you have made and the difference you have made to our patients, and to one another. Read more about these awards on p. 4.
It’s not just about the work we do but how we do it. The way we talk to each other and the way we approach working with one another is essential to ensuring we can all thrive at work, and support each other to do the best we can. You can read about the ways our teams have been looking at civility on p. 6.
I want to thank everyone I’ve met so far in making me feel so welcome, and I look forward to meeting many more of you very soon. In the meantime, learn a bit more about me in my 60 Seconds on p. 25.
Kind regards,
Brendan Brown Chief Executive
Celebrating remarkable dedication: Long Service Awards
September and October marked two very special occasions for Leeds Teaching Hospitals as we proudly hosted the return of the Long Service Awards – an annual highlight that recognises the incredible dedication and commitment of our colleagues across the Trust.
This year’s celebrations were particularly memorable as, for the first time, the ceremonies took place at the magnificent Civic Hall in Leeds, providing a fittingly grand setting to honour decades of service to our patients, our teams and the NHS.
Another exciting first for this year’s events was the expansion of the awards to recognise continuous NHS service, not just service within Leeds Teaching Hospitals. This important change meant that many more of our colleagues could be recognised for their full contribution to healthcare, regardless of where their NHS journey began.
In total, this year’s award recipients have given more than an astounding 6,830 years of combined NHS service – a truly remarkable figure that speaks volumes about the passion, compassion and perseverance at the heart of our Trust.
The ceremonies were held over two afternoons and were supported by Councillor Salma Arif, Executive Member for Adult Social Care, Public Health and Active Lifestyles, and Councillor Fiona Venner, Executive Member for Children’s Social Care and Health Partnerships.
Councillor Arif expressed her admiration for the dedication shown by Leeds Teaching Hospitals staff and emphasised the vital role NHS workers play in supporting the health and wellbeing of communities across the city.
Councillor Arif congratulated the recipients, saying: “These awards are a wonderful way to celebrate the people who are the heartbeat of our NHS. Their dedication and compassion over so many years is truly inspiring and makes a real difference to the lives of thousands across Leeds. Like many families in our city, members of my own family have been treated at Leeds Teaching Hospitals, so I’ve seen first-hand the outstanding care and professionalism of our NHS staff. I’m incredibly proud of the contribution you all make to our community.”
Among the hundreds of colleagues honoured, six staff members reached the incredible milestone of 50 years of NHS service – a rare and extraordinary achievement. Their half-century of care and commitment reflects a lifetime spent supporting others and helping to shape the NHS as we know it today.
Chief Executive Brendan Brown also expressed his gratitude and admiration during the ceremonies: “It’s a privilege to celebrate our colleagues who have devoted so much of their working lives to caring for others. The longevity of service we’ve seen this year – from 20 to
an amazing 50 years – is a testament to the sense of purpose and pride our staff bring to their roles. We are incredibly thankful for all that they do, and for the example they set to others.”
The afternoons were filled with smiles, memories and plenty of proud moments. As colleagues reflected on their careers, many spoke of the friendships formed, the innovations witnessed, and the shared commitment that keeps the NHS strong even in challenging times.
As the applause faded and the photographs were taken, one message rang clear: the strength of Leeds Teaching Hospitals lies in its people. Each award celebrated not only years of service, but also the compassion, professionalism and humanity that define our Trust.
We extend our heartfelt congratulations and thanks to every colleague recognised in this year’s Long Service Awards. Your dedication continues to inspire us all and to uphold the proud tradition of care that makes the NHS and Leeds Teaching Hospitals truly exceptional.
Warm welcome at pathology centre as new colleagues move in
In September, Leeds Teaching Hospitals pathology colleagues welcomed former Mid Yorkshire Teaching NHS Trust (MYTT) microbiology colleagues into their team at the new Centre for Laboratory Medicine (CfLM) at St James’s.
22 staff have made the permanent move as part of work across the West Yorkshire Association of Acute Trusts to develop pathology services to be more sustainable and resilient to the future needs of the local population.
Director of Finance Jenny Ehrhardt joined Pathology quad team members and Director of WYAAT, Lucy Cole, to greet new colleagues at a welcome breakfast at the centre. It was an opportunity to say thank you to everyone involved in making this move happen.
Moving microbiology services into the CfLM will enable more consistent, clinically appropriate turnaround times, ensuring the right test is available at the right time for patients across the region.
The microbiology move forms part of a larger plan for a pathology partnership, centralising some services to fewer sites where previously they were hosted in all three trusts across West Yorkshire - LTHT, MYTT and Calderdale and Huddersfield NHS Foundation Trust (CHFT). Consolidating testing to fewer sites allows for a more consistent and streamlined service, providing the same high-quality service to patients across the region, regardless of where they live.
Former MYTT staff now settled into the CfLM have commented positively about the move, noting that the tours offered around the CfLM and St. James’s hospital site prior to the move helped to familiarise them with their new working environment, and that LTHT staff were “welcoming, helpful and kind” throughout the transition.
Planning is underway to move CHFT’s microbiology service across to the
CfLM in summer 2026, following a vital digital hardware and software upgrade to the regional Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS). Colleagues responsible for managing the CHFT move are also embedding the learning and feedback from former MYTT colleagues into the planning of this move.
The CfLM laboratory was constructed in 2023 and there has been a phased approach to staff moving into the laboratory over the last year. The new laboratory provides a bespoke environment supported by the latest technologies, state-of-the art equipment and greater integration of automated processes, providing a modern pathology environment.
7 Commitments in Focus
Our 7 Commitments are about focusing our collective efforts across the Trust to make progress in what matters most.
We know there are big challenges facing all of our services with many competing priorities – our annual 7 Commitments gives us clarity over which are the most important priorities for the year.
During 2025-26, we’re dedicating each month from June through to January to exploring more about these 7 Commitments, why they matter, and how colleagues are making a difference. Here are a few of the stories in the spotlight. Search: 7 Commitments on the Intranet for more.
Innovations in Oncology Outpatients
Oncology CSU has been working on improving efficiency and enhancing the patient experience in Outpatients for a while, and this year’s Trustwide commitment to Quality in Outpatients provided an opportunity to focus that work into tangible improvements.
The team started by identifying the
areas where they wanted to prioritise improvements, including: improving clinic capacity and capacity on the chemotherapy day case unit, making better use of staff time, reducing hospital admissions for symptom management, reducing drug errors, and others.
Patients attending for nurse-led injections had previously been seen on different wards, with multiple areas administering the same medications to the same group of patients. The team decided to set up a dedicated nurse-led injection clinic in Outpatients. This new clinic has meant patients now come to a consistent location and get to see their specialist team, having both their injections and blood tests alongside their clinic appointment. This has led to reduced waiting times and a better patient experience overall, as well as a reduced chance of drug errors. The team are now looking to expand this further so more patients can benefit.
The team has also been expanding the use of photobiomodulation (PBM) light treatment for oral mucositis – trialled in radiotherapy review clinic for Head and Neck cancer patients. This is used for patients undergoing radiotherapy and can reduce negative side effects that can lead to hospital admission. The results of this treatment have been impressive, with hospital admissions reduced by 50%. Of those who are admitted, the length of stay has also reduced on average from 22 days to just four days
– a huge improvement. The new light treatment also reduces the need for further medical intervention and invasive enteral feeding.
At the beginning of the year, the team created eight additional examination and consultation rooms in the Outpatients department, which has had a huge impact in increasing the number of patients who can be seen in clinic. They can be used for every clinic provided in Outpatients and has meant clinic planning and preparation is smoother, with less last-minute rebookings due to capacity.
Civility for better patient care – Cardiac Critical Care
The Cardiac Critical Care unit is a highstress environment, which unfortunately has often led to incidents of incivility amongst staff. To tackle this, the team decided to work together as a whole multi-disciplinary team to look at ways to improve civility and create a place to work where everyone can thrive.
A ‘Culture Club’ was set up where representatives of every staff group got together frequently to look at incidents of incivility. This was a chance to examine the root causes and see what lessons could be learned to reduce future incidents. They also looked at incidents of patient harm to see if incivility had contributed in any way. Encompassing all staff groups meant no perspective was left out, and the problems could be approached from different angles.
The team wanted a shared set of principles that everyone could agree on and take accountability for upholding. Speaking to other areas who had set up similar initiatives prompted some good ideas of what this could look like, and after feedback from everyone in the team, the ‘Expectations of Behaviours’ was launched. Through these shared principles, colleagues are empowered to report incivility and hold themselves and each other to account.
In October the team hosted their own ‘Civility Week’ which looked back at the work the team had done so far to embed a positive working culture on the unit. This was also an opportunity to bring colleagues together as a team, take part in activities, and help foster a sense of belonging. During the week a ‘civili-tree’ was set up where colleagues could add a leaf of positivity – talking up the positive traits about one another other and good examples about working as a team.
In the future, the Culture Club will be tracking incivility incidents and looking at emerging trends, to see where further interventions and improvements can be made.
Ruth Tullock, Matron, said: “This is a journey, and we know we have a way to go, but the important thing is that everyone is on board and contributing. This is something you really have to embrace as a team and I’m proud how everyone has come together. We’ve already seen improvements and staff know that they will be listened to if they raise concerns.”
Keeping momentum – Adult Safeguarding and MCA/ MHA teams
The Adult Safeguarding team and Mental Capacity Act/Mental Health Act team, based opposite each other on a shared corridor, decided they wanted to do more to embed the principles of civility into their working practice and improve cross-team relations.
Barbara Ball, Adult Safeguarding Advisor, said: “From the beginning, we wanted this to be a collaborative effort, where every team member feels responsible and committed to making civility a shared value. We began by holding group sessions to explore our collective understanding of civility. Team members were invited to reflect on what civility means to them personally and what they hoped to gain from this initiative. These sessions set the foundation for open dialogue
and team ownership of the process.”
The result of this work was the ‘Civility and Kindness Ground Rules’ – a set of shared principles that governed both teams’ interactions. Because everyone worked on it, it meant everyone had shared ownership and accountability for upholding them. A civility noticeboard was put up on the shared corridor which made sure the ground rules were clear for all to see, as well as containing useful resources, and updates.
Keen to ensure the work wouldn’t lose momentum, the teams decided to hold monthly lunchtime gatherings— Wellbeing Wednesday and Thoughtful Thursday—where team members put forward and led on activities relating to civility and team connection. The activities have been wide ranging, with open conversations on civility and wellbeing, as well as bird watching on site, board games, and a treasure hunt!
Leeds Children’s Hospital celebrates colleagues at The Kite Awards
On 12 September, Leeds Children’s Hospital celebrated The Kite Awardsthe annual staff recognition event that shines a light on excellence, innovation, teamwork and compassion across our children and young people’s services.
This year’s Kite Awards event was supported by Leeds Hospitals Charity as well as local charities: Children’s Heart Surgery Fund, Candlelighters and The Millie Wright Children’s Charity.
The black tie event was held at Headingly Stadium with 260 guests representing services from across Leeds Children’s Hospital along with senior colleagues from across Leeds Teaching Hospitals and supporting charities.
Awards were presented by Leeds Children’s Hospital triumvirate team, with Clare Smith, Chief Operating Officer, and Yvette Oade, Chair of Trustees for Leeds Hospitals Charity, opened the event with reflections on the past year and messages of thanks for colleagues.
Among those recognised were nurses, consultants, resident doctors, allied health professionals, housekeepers, surgeons, ward teams as well as specific projects. 160 Kite Award nominations were received in 2025, all submitted by colleagues for teams and individuals. An multi-disciplinary panel of judges had the task of whittling down nominations to a shortlist of just three nominations for each of the nine award categories.
Award winners
• Team of the Year Award: Ward L40 and Paediatric Gastro teams
• Delivering the Best Award: Laura Knight, Discharge Facilitator
• Flying High Award: Elaine Edwards, Specialist Physiotherapist
• Keeping Patients Safe Award: Paediatric Pre-assessment team
• Innovation Champion: Paediatric Critical Care ECMO
• Team Rising Star Award: Connie Lewty, Staff Nurse
• Leeds Hospitals Charity Funded Project of the Year Award: ‘7 Days of Play’ project
• Special Moment in Care Award: Dr Bob Philips and Gabi Reynolds, Palliative Care Nurse Specialist
• Most Inspiring Colleague: Ms Carin van Doorn, Consultant Cardiothoracic Surgeon
General Manager and Kite awards cohost Jo Haigh said: “The Kite Awards has shone a light on roles, projects and achievements at all levels. We’ve heard about teams, individuals and projects that have excelled in their areas but what really stands out is the genuine care and compassion that our colleagues bring to their roles every single day.
“We all feel exceptionally proud of the colleagues whose achievements were recognised. The winners, highly commended colleagues and everyone who received a nomination. We particularly noted the diversity in the nominations this year, it feels like The Kite Awards has shone a light on roles, projects and achievements at all levels.”
After the awards presentations the team handed over to a live Rockaoke band who provided the entertainment along with some impressive vocal performances from children’s hospital colleagues!
Celebrating our first East and South East Asian Heritage Month
In September, the Trust proudly hosted its first-ever East and South East Asian Heritage Month event, organised by our Black and Minority Ethnic (BME) Staff Network.
The celebration was created in response to requests from Network members who wanted to see the heritage and culture of East and South East Asian colleagues formally recognised. Once the idea was agreed, the organising team immediately set to work planning the event.
The event provided colleagues across Leeds Teaching Hospitals with an
opportunity to come together to learn, share and celebrate, highlighting the rich diversity, traditions and contributions of East and South East Asian communities. The day featured engaging speakers, cultural activities, and food that reflected the region’s vibrant heritage.
One staff member reflected: “I thoroughly enjoyed the event and was made to feel incredibly welcome. I really enjoyed listening to the speakers talk about their home countries – I learnt a lot from their stories and experiences. Overall, it was a very well-organised
event. The food was amazing, the activities were varied and entertaining, and it really showcased how talented staff within LTHT are.”
The celebration strengthened understanding across the organisation and demonstrated the value of working together to create an inclusive environment where everyone feels recognised and celebrated.
A huge thank you to the BME Staff Network and everyone involved in making this milestone event such a success.
Nathan Newby recognised for courage
The Trust is incredibly grateful to Nathan Newby, who has been awarded the George Medal for intervening to prevent a bombing at St James’s.
Nathan showed incredible courage and initiative that night in January 2023 and we will always be exceptionally grateful. Thank you and congratulations, Nathan.
In the early hours of 23 January 2023, Nathan was receiving treatment when he met a man who he thought may have been struggling with his mental health. After engaging in conversation with him, Nathan quickly
discovered that the man was in possession of a pressure cooker bomb and posed a grave and dangerous threat to the hospital.
Despite the threat to his life, Nathan proceeded to engage the suspect for two hours, with the aim of persuading him to abort his plan and hand himself into the police. He convinced the suspect to use his own phone to contact the police after Nathan’s own phone had run out of battery. While on the phone to police, the suspected bomber pulled out a
firearm, and still Nathan persevered to neutralise the situation.
Trust Chief Executive Brendan Brown said: “Although I wasn’t in post at the time of the incident, I have come to learn – with both awe and gratitude – of the bravery Nathan showed that night. His courage, presence of mind, and extraordinary calm in the face of a life-threatening situation undoubtedly prevented a tragedy and protected many lives.”
Thank you, Nathan, for the actions you took that evening.
Team Spotlight Glaucoma Monitoring Unit
CSU: Head and Neck
Number of colleagues: Six
Site(s) worked at: Seacroft & Wharfedale Hospitals
How does your team make a difference at LTHT?
Since its inception in October 2015, the Glaucoma Monitoring Unit (GMU) has revolutionised glaucoma care within LTHT. Operating as a virtual service, it enables patients to attend appointments with highly skilled ophthalmic technicians for comprehensive diagnostic testing and in-depth consultations. The results are expertly reviewed by the clinical team, who then provide timely follow-up.
Over the past decade, the GMU has been a genuine game changer—managing a substantial share of the Trust’s glaucoma patient numbers while maintaining the highest standards of care. Its streamlined pathway not only improves patient outcomes but also ensures the service remains efficient, effective, and sustainable for the future.
What are the different roles within the team?
The service consists of six ophthalmic technicians, whose backgrounds vary but are all deeply rooted in ophthalmic knowledge. Some staff come from a nursing or general healthcare background, while others have expertise in ophthalmic imaging. Having both skill sets integrated into the service has provided a vast amount of experience in ophthalmology.
What happens on an average day?
On an average day, our team delivers essential care that keeps the glaucoma pathway running smoothly. We carry out high-quality eye imaging, perform visual field tests, and hold detailed consultations with patients. We also play a vital role in supporting the clinic by seeing new patients for their diagnostic tests—ensuring clinicians have everything they need to make timely, informed decisions and patients receive the best possible care from the very start.
What is the most surprising thing about your team?
The most surprising thing about our team is our exceptional staff retention. Over the past 10 years, we have maintained a solid core team, with the same dedicated ophthalmic technicians continuing to deliver high-quality care year after year. This level of stability speaks volumes about the strength of our team, the
supportive working environment, and the pride we take in our work. Are there any recent achievements?
The GMU has had its fair share of achievements. In August 2022, a member of the team was awarded the Iris Award. The team has also been featured in other publications praising the service and has received certificates from the safeguarding service for the high level of care they provide.
What do you enjoy the most about working in the team?
What I enjoy most about working in the GMU is the mix of brains, banter, and brilliance! We have a team that’s not only highly skilled in ophthalmology but also genuinely supportive and fun to be around. Every day brings something different—whether it’s sharing a laugh over a tricky scan or just working together. It’s the perfect balance of professional pride and team camaraderie.
Two new Non-Executive Directors strengthen the Trust’s Board
Two new Non-Executive Directors (NEDs), Prof Angela Graves and Andrew Greenwood, joined the Trust in September and October, bringing more than 20 years of senior leadership experience with them.
Prof Angela Graves joined in September and is Professor in Maternal Health & Professional Education and Head of the School of Healthcare at the University of Leeds. Her research and education experiences, which have included a focus on obstetric emergencies, critical events, and enhanced maternal care, match the Trust’s focus to review its maternity and neonatal care. Angela also represents the Council of Deans of Health on the Nursing Midwifery Council Midwifery Strategic Advisory Group.
Angela has been Deputy Principal Investigator for the My First 1000 days project – a landmark early years research
project in Leeds, aimed at improving health and social outcomes for families and children in the crucial first two years of life. This focus continues as a member of CHORAL (Child Health Outcomes
Research at Leeds) fundraising project team, working towards improving lives and life chances for children growing up in the UK.
Andrew Greenwood, who joined in October, is a highly accomplished executive director with extensive experience in leading transformational change, holding roles where he has delivered strategic, commercially-focused leadership. He has significant legal expertise and is currently Deputy Chief Executive at Leeds Building Society, overseeing all customer operations. He has championed diversity and inclusion initiatives, reflecting the variety of communities served by the organisation.
Alongside his executive career, Andrew contributes to industry and education through roles with UK Finance and Leeds Beckett University. He also has extensive experience of affordable housing, particularly shared ownership. He is recognised as a collaborative, pragmatic leader who builds inclusive, highperforming cultures founded on trust and integrity.
10,000 tests carried out at Armley Community Diagnostic Centre since opening
More than 10,000 tests have been carried out for patients at Armley Community Diagnostic Centre (CDC) since it opened at the end of September 2024.
The CDC, at Armley Moor Health Centre, operated by the Trust, offers tests including ultrasounds, electrocardiograms (ECGs), blood tests, blood pressure checks, sleep studies and spirometry testing.
This new centre means local people don’t have to travel into the city’s larger hospitals for these tests and can book these closer to where they live.
In the year since opening on 23 September 2024, over 3,800 blood tests have been taken, along with more than 3,700 cardio-respiratory tests, and 3,300 ultrasounds.
Andrew Fitzpatrick, Head of Clinical Physiology, said: “It’s fantastic that we’ve managed to carry out so many tests at this new Community Diagnostic Centre – this means patients don’t have to travel to one of the larger hospitals
and can be seen in their local neighbourhoods.”
The centre in Armley is one of three CDCs in Leeds, joining Seacroft and Beeston in bringing care closer to patients’ homes.
When GPs or hospital care teams refer people for diagnostic tests, they can select the most convenient location for the patient – which may be their local CDC. This offers an additional choice for patients – they still have the option of visiting a GP practice or major hospital.
Supporting the Health and Wellbeing of our LTHT Colleagues
Here at Leeds Teaching Hospitals, the health and wellbeing of our colleagues is a top priority. Our Health and Wellbeing team provides a wide range of support, recognising that looking after ourselves helps us deliver the best possible care to our patients.
Support covers mental, physical, and financial wellbeing, ensuring help is available whenever it’s needed.
For mental health, colleagues can access a variety of services, including Mental Health First Aiders, the Vivup Employee Assistance Programme, and the Staff Psychological Support Service, which offers in-house counselling and psychological support. The West Yorkshire
Staff Mental Health and Wellbeing Hub is also available to anyone working in health and care across the region.
Mental Health First Aiders are embedded in each CSU across the Trust. They provide peer-to-peer support, listen non-judgementally, and signpost colleagues to appropriate help when needed, offering an approachable first point of contact for anyone experiencing difficulties.
For physical wellbeing, staff can access the Staff Physiotherapy Service, support for musculoskeletal issues, discounted gym memberships, and Active Travel schemes such as the Cycle to Work programme.
Financial wellbeing support includes the Employee Support Fund, which provides emergency financial help and Money Buddies, offering confidential one-to-one financial advice and help managing debt or benefits.
Pastoral and spiritual support is also available through the Chaplaincy and Pastoral Care Team, who provide a listening ear for staff of all faiths and none.
For full details, visit the Health and Wellbeing pages on the Intranet or contact the team at leedsth-tr. HealthandWellbeing@nhs.net.
Leeds Children’s Hospital celebrates 25 years of life-saving liver transplants in Leeds
In October, staff and patients from Leeds Children’s Hospital celebrated 25 years of paediatric liver transplantation in Leeds at a special event at the Royal Armouries. In the 25 years since the service in Leeds was established, nearly 450 children have received liver transplants - each one giving new hope to patients and families.
The Leeds Children’s Hospital Paediatric Liver team fundraised and organised the event inviting guests from across the country to celebrate the anniversary and raise awareness of organ donation. Guests included patients, specialist colleagues and supporting charities.
Leeds Paediatric Liver Unit was first commissioned by the Department of Health in June 2000 with the first
transplant taking place in November that year. Dr Paddy McClean, Paediatric Hepatology Consultant, and Mr Mark Stringer, Paediatric Hepatobiliary Surgeon, spearheaded the case for Leeds to have a liver unit. Today Leeds is a supra-regional service, one of only three in the UK, taking referrals from across the north of England and Scotland. The team undertake 25 liver transplants per year as well as providing chronic liver disease care for over 1000 children and young people.
One guest at the event was two-year-
old Myla from Denny near Falkirk. Myla was only five weeks old when she was referred from Glasgow Royal Infirmary to the Liver Team at Leeds Children’s Hospital in need of a transplant.
Dr Sanjay Rajwal, Hepatologist and Clinical Lead for the Liver Unit, said: “This milestone celebration brings together patients, families, and the dedicated staff whose tireless efforts and compassion have made these lifesaving procedures possible. These young patients continue to inspire us with their strength and spirit.”
Estates and Facilities Awards evening!
On Friday 10 October our Estates & Facilities colleagues held an awards evening for the first time since before the Covid-19 pandemic. Four hundred E&F colleagues attended the event, to celebrate the hard work that goes on behind the scenes at Leeds Teaching Hospitals. The event, which was entirely funded by donations from Estates & Facilities suppliers, celebrated 30 finalists, across 10 awards categories. A panel of judges from clinical, union and HR backgrounds sifted through the 30 shortlisted teams and individuals, to find the winners for each category.
Congratulations to all our winners and nominees:
Accountability Award: sponsored by Synergy LMS
Winner: Nicola Watson - Ward Housekeeper: “For taking accountability for waste in your area. Which has led to new recycling bins across the Trust, saving Leeds thousands of pounds”
• Rashad Ali - Decontamination Supervisor
• Hilary O’Callaghan - Ward Housekeeper
Fairness Award: sponsored by Arcadis
Winner: Kay Braddock - Facilities Hub Manager: “For working tirelessly to create events to bring the teams together. She personally comes in to work day and night to ensure her teams have a voice and have a chance to speak to her directly.”
• Jemma Robinson - Facilities Operational Manager
• Maggie Sharp - Facilities Supervisor
Empowering Others Award: sponsored by Invesis
Winner: Louise Cuthbert - Facilities Manager: “By being both supportive and fair, she doesn’t just offer a friendly ear—she lays a foundation where every individual feels trusted and valued.”
• Cindy Hilton - Ward Housekeeper
• Stephen Lewis - Patient Catering Operations Manager
Patient Centred Award: sponsored by EMED
Winner: Kayla Robinson - Ward Housekeeper: “For being amazing with
a recent patient on J26. She sat with him, got his favourite yoghurt for his medications, calmed him and engaged him with kindness. She is an absolute asset to our ward.”
• Nash Connolly and Josh Swift - electrical estates technicians
• Mercy Oduro - Ward Housekeeper Team Award: sponsored by Karcher
Winners: Technical Development team: “This team are a fantastic group of individuals, who work tirelessly, mostly unnoticed behind the scenes, to provide support to every single team across Estates and Facilities.”
• PEAT team St James’s
• Clarendon Nurseries team
Collaboration Award: sponsored by Elior
Winners: Dawn Holmes and Karen Hareward housekeepers: “For their attention to detail and unwavering commitment to safety and hygiene, which makes a real difference to our staff and patients. They work seamlessly together, approaching every task with a collaborative spirit.”
• Bill Johnson - Project Manager
• Helideck, Transport, Facilities & Waste teams - walking aids recycling
Leadership Award: sponsored by OpenView
Winners: Tracy Hawksworth & Damon Jenkinson - Facilities Management: “For cultivating a culture rooted in trust, accountability, and innovation. They don’t just guide from the front, they empower, listen and uplift their teams.”
• Anita Varga - Facilities Supervisor
• Ben Mcguigan - Estates Manager
Unsung Hero Award: sponsored by B Braun
Winner: Sean Quigley - Data Analyst: “For going above and beyond to make his colleagues working days a little lighter. He often works in his own time to deliver requests he receives. He has lots of ideas for streamlining processes and tasks but always with an element of fun thrown in.”
• Daniel Metcalfe - External Site Cleaning Operative
• Patricia Murgatroyd - Ward Housekeeper
Learner of the Year Award: sponsored by GenNorth
Winner: Sally Cumbers - Performance, Quality Assurance & Governance Manager: “For utilising the skills she learned in her Level 7 Apprenticeship to guide and mentor her team and, from there, implementing a project which will save the Trust significant amounts of money over the next 5 years.”
• Adam Collins - Technical Business Intelligence Manager
• Lee Cavanagh - Estates Maintenance Craftsperson
Lifetime Achievement Award: sponsored by Kimberley Clark
Janet Moody - Facilities Operational Manager: “For being a role model to so many. She is so well respected by so many due to her pride, integrity and caring management approach.”
• Shelagh Yates - Project Manager
• Sue Chew - Facilities Supervisor
Future healthcare
Leeds Digital Festival returns to celebrate ten years of tech
It’s been a busy and inspiring time for the Innovation Pop Up and the Trust’s Research and Innovation teams.
Leeds Digital Festival returned in September, for its tenth year of celebrating tech across the city. We were proud to take part in events celebrating the city’s growing reputation as a global hub for health and medtech.
At ‘Back to the Future: A Decade of Health Innovation’, we joined partners from across the region to reflect on a decade of progress and shared exciting plans for the future.
Our Innovation Pop Up, in partnership with the NHS Innovation Accelerator programme, also welcomed delegates and Fellows to the Thackray Museum of Medicine for a joint event, supporting innovation to scale across Leeds and the NHS.
From collaboration with partners across the region, to innovations already improving patient care, it’s clear that Leeds is making an impact.
LTHT announced as key partner in £2m Health Innovation Leeds Incubator
The Trust has been announced as a key partner in the launch of a new £2m Health Innovation Leeds Incubator, a collaborative initiative designed to accelerate growth of healthtech businesses in the region and beyond and drive more innovation in the city.
Funded by the West Yorkshire Healthtech Investment Zone, the new Incubator is led by Nexus at the University of Leeds together with Leeds Beckett University and the Trust, working closely with Leeds City Council.
Businesses joining the Incubator will gain tailored support from partners to address barriers to growth, access expertise covering the entire innovation journey from prototype to market and tap into one of the UK’s strongest industry networks.
The new Health Innovation Leeds Incubator enables the Trust to expand the Innovation Pop-Up to help connect even more businesses with clinicians.
Dr Magnus Harrison, Chief Medical Officer, said: “We’re proud to be part of this exciting, col-laborative initiative with our partners in Leeds. As one of the country’s largest teaching hospitals
and a centre for excellence for research and innovation, it’s fantastic that the innovation happening in Leeds not only makes a difference locally, but has a real impact across the world. This is thanks to the amazing expertise and passion of our teams, working in partnership with businesses, academia and our communities.”
Duchenne GUARDIAN Trial
Families affected by Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD), a rare childhood muscle-wasting condition, may soon benefit from a new treatment with fewer side effects, thanks to a trial led by LTHT.
The GUARDIAN trial, run through the NIHR Leeds Clinical Research Facility at Leeds Children’s Hospital, is investigating long-term use of vamorolone, a new medication for DMD. DMD causes progressive muscle weakness, restricted mobility and shorter life expectancy. Vamorolone aims to help children with the condition maintain muscle strength, whilst reducing some of the side effects associated with existing medications, such as stunted growth, as well as emotional and behavioural challenges that can be difficult to manage.
Dr Anne-Marie Childs, Consultant Paediatric Neurologist and Chief Investigator for GUARDIAN, said: “Having been one of the UK sites to take part in the original clinical trial of vamorolone (the Vision DMD study) we are pleased to see that vamorolone will be available for use in NHS care from April 2025. We are delighted to be at the forefront of this work, as chief investigating UK site and the first to recruit to the study.”
David Taylor and Rachel Allen’s son, Edward, nine, is taking part in the study.
David and Rachel said: “Our experience of being on a clinical trial has been fantastic. Regular check-ups with a kind and friendly team are great and he is being cared for brilliantly. It is amazing to think that being on a clinical trial allows Edward to help others in the same position in the future.
“The staff at Leeds are amazing and they go out of their way to ensure you receive the best care possible. We are really fortunate to live near such a great centre for research!”
Leeds becomes first trust outside London to use robotic technology for minimally invasive liver and kidney cancer treatment
A new robotic guidance system at the Trust is enabling precise, minimally-invasive CTguided ablation of tumours. The Epione system allows clinicians to accurately locate and destroy cancerous tissue without the need for traditional surgery.
Epione’s robotic arm precisely pinpoints tumours, allowing clinicians to destroy the cancer by freezing or burning, offering patients effective treatment with fewer risks and shorter recovery times.
Dr James Lenton, Vascular and Interventional Oncology Radiology Consultant whose team are using Epione, said: “The Epione robotic system offers us the ability to effectively treat our
cancer patients without the disruption that comes with surgery and significantly improve their experience.”
“The system facilitates minimally invasive treatment which supports shorter hospital stays, reduces disruption to patients’ wellbeing, and allows the Trust to manage more cases.”
Treatments like this procedure support LTHT’s new R&I Strategy, and go towards meeting the challenge posed by the government’s 10-year health plan to harness the latest technology to reduce waiting times and get patients home sooner.
New AI pilot to speed up prostate cancer diagnosis in Leeds
Leeds Hospitals is launching a new pilot in early 2026 which could transform diagnostic testing for prostate cancer and save some men up to a month of waiting.
Through the pilot, men will be called
for an MRI scan following a referral by their GP for suspected prostate cancer. This scan will be reviewed by Lucida Medical’s Pi™ AI technology and, if a scan is found to have a high-risk of cancer, it will be sent immediately to a radiologist for priority review. If a patient needs a biopsy, this will take place on the same day, removing the waiting time between appointments which can often cause distress and anxiety.
This gives doctors everything they need to either give an all clear the same day or confirm a cancer diagnosis, following a review of the biopsy results.
Dr Oliver Hulson, Consultant Radiologist at the Trust and leading the trial in Leeds said: “The AI assisted MRI screening introduces a rapid diagnostic approach, so that we can fast-track those patients that may need to receive further investigations. We hope this can pave the way to mean faster treatment and better outcomes for our patients and their families.”
Investing in your potential
Want to unlock your career? Learning, education and training courses are available for all LTHT staff.
On this page, take a look at some of the courses and training opportunities that can take your skills, leadership and personal development to the next level. Courses listed are hosted internally through our Organisational Development and Culture team, and through partner providers Leeds Health and Care Academy and NHS Elect.
Organisational Development and Culture
Our Organisational Development and Culture team supports the Trust ambition to enable all employees, regardless of their professional background, to access high quality learning, education, and training to reach their potential.
The following courses can be booked through ESR. Get in touch at leedsth-tr. olcoursebookings@nhs.net or search ‘Organisational Development & Culture’ on the Intranet for a whole lot more.
Navigating Change Through Storytelling
This interactive half-day session is designed to equip team leaders with the skills to guide their teams through change and new ways of working using the power of storytelling. Leaders will explore how to craft and communicate a compelling narrative that supports transition, engages teams, and fosters clarity and commitment. Available to book through ESR.
Planning a Positive Retirement
This seminar is designed for those of you who are thinking about retiring or taking pension benefits within the next three years and wanting to understand how the pension changes may impact your retirement savings. Available to book through ESR.
Leeds Health and Care Academy
The Leeds Health and Care Learning Portal provides free access to learning opportunities for all those who work or volunteer in the Leeds Health and Care sector.
The portal has over 100 items of e-learning, bite-sized video-based
learning, and development programmes that colleagues can access on any device.
As a user, you can:
• Learn at your own pace, at a time that suits you using your laptop or smartphone.
• Hear from experts and people with lived experiences in videobased learning.
• Book on to workshops and learn with colleagues across professions and organisations in our sector gaining from their expertise and experiencing the power of learning together.
• Benefit from industry-leading resources that are added to and updated each month.
Learning opportunities are available on a wide range of topics in the following categories:
• Delivering Care
• Diversity & Inclusion
• Health & Wellbeing
• Personal Development
• Team Working, Leadership & Coaching
• Careers & Digital Skills
For these and more, visit the Learning Opportunities page on the Leeds Health and Care Academy website. Sign up on the website and create your free account to get started.
NHS Elect
The Trust is now subscribed to the NHS Elect Virtual Offer, giving all colleagues free access to a wide range of highquality development resources. Through this subscription you can access:
• Live and recorded webinars
• Self-directed online courses
• Extensive resource library
How to get started:
1. Register for a free account
Visit the NHS Elect website to create an account using your work email address. Once registered, you should receive an email with a link to activate your account (you may need to check your junk folder). You will only be able to log in once you have activated your account.
2. Kick start your learning Book onto an upcoming webinar, start an online course, or browse available templates and guides. Visit the Online Learning page on the NHS Elect website to get started.
3. Subscribe to member updates
Be the first to hear about new webinars and courses by signing up for the newsletter. All you need to do is tick the subscribe box when you register for your online account.
Young people ‘go for gold’ with support from hospital youth workers
From 29 July to 1 August, hospitalbased youth workers supported four young people living with long-term health conditions to successfully complete their Gold Duke of Edinburgh Award assessed expedition.
Over four challenging days, young patients demonstrated outstanding resilience, teamwork, and determination, overcoming both individual and group challenges along the way. The participants all receive treatment at Leeds Children’s Hospital within services such as Diabetes, Chronic Pain, and Rheumatology.
Hospital youth workers have worked with young people to tailor individual elements of The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award to make the challenges accessible whilst still meeting the requirements for accreditation.
Participants completed a 43km trek, took care of their own navigation, camped out for three nights, completed eight hours of planned physical activity every day and produced an expedition vlog! The expedition was carefully planned, taking into account team members’ individual medical and well-being needs.
Youth Worker Faye Bishop said: “To have supported these young people all the way through their Bronze, Silver and Gold Award has been a privilege. While the journey to complete their overall award continues, the determination shown leaves no doubt that their final steps and their moment of recognition on royal grounds, will be just as inspiring!”
The Leeds Teaching Hospitals Youth Work team is the first hospital-based youth work team in the UK to deliver the gold DofE award with patients, a huge milestone for the team and the youth work community. Without Youth
Making IT support more accessible
Our DIT team is working hard to make our IT support facilities as accessible as possible for colleagues across the Trust.
This year, we’ve launched Digital Drop Ins and Big Reboots across our sites, and made many improvements to our IT Service Desk support portal. These facilities are designed to get face-toface help with tech issues, explain and promote self-service support to save colleagues time and effort, and manage our IT support requests effectively.
It’s been great to hear all the positive feedback from across our sites following the recent Digital Drop In sessions at the LGI, Seacroft, Chapel Allerton and Wharfedale. Many colleagues stopped by to raise issues, report broken equipment and ask lots of digital questions.
This December we’ll be visiting wards across the LGI and SJUH to help resolve any outstanding tickets before the Christmas break, doing our bit to
Worker support this fantastic opportunity might be out of reach for patients with long term health conditions through traditional providers like schools.
support teams during our Winter response. Search ‘Big Reboot’ on the Intranet for more information.
OUR TRUST
£110.4M delivered in waste reduction
133,000 pieces of feedback through Friends and Family Test
15,000 non-elective operations –including 2,900 major trauma procedures
£12M Elective Care Hub opened at Wharfedale Hospital
2 new Community Diagnostic Centres opened
10,000 fewer people on our waiting lists
37,800 elective operations -4,500 more than in 2023/34
£19.8M adjusted financial performance surplus £
1,200 fewer adults admitted to hospital thanks to HomeFirst
20,700 participants recruited into research trials More than 1,333 Live research projects
PEOPLE
20,209 We have people working across our hospitals
1.8M episodes of care
1,100 resident doctors
7,000+ smokers supported to quit through Stop Smoking Service
1.26M outpatient appointments –193,756 more than 2023/24 Reduced our carbon footprint by 36% *(from baseline in 2013/2024)
2,600 clinical placements for medical students
800+ trained Mental Health First Aiders
109,000 inpatient admissions
106,940 tests delivered across all three Community Diagnostic Centres
£76.5M
358,873 attendances in our Emergency Departments an increase of 4% capital investment
400+ managers trained in Health and Wellbeing for Managers
500 staff nominations for annual Time To Shine Awards
Celebrating World Photography Day at LTHT
To mark World Photography Day in August, the Clinical Photography team hosted an engaging and informative stall, inviting staff from across the Trust to discover more about the role clinical photographers play in healthcare.
The event featured a vibrant photo booth, complete with quirky props and backdrops, which brought a fun and creative energy to the day. Staff from a wide range of departments joined in, capturing light-hearted moments with colleagues.
Beyond the fun, the event offered a
team. Visitors were introduced to the team’s role in producing high-quality clinical photographs and videos that support patient care, treatment planning, education, and research.
Staff were shown how to access and use Medical Image Manager (MIM), the Trust’s secure image library. The team provided guidance on how to request photography and video services, ensuring colleagues know how to make the most of this resource.
The highlight of the day was undoubtedly the photo booth, which sparked plenty of smiles and laughter. It was a great reminder that while clinical photography is a highly skilled and technical profession, it also has a deeply human side capturing moments, telling stories, and supporting compassionate care.
A big thank you to everyone who stopped by to take part and help celebrate!
Leeds HomeFirst – the next phase of transforming care
The Leeds HomeFirst Programmewhich colleagues at the Trust play a key role in - has significantly reshaped intermediate care across the city, resulting in over 1,000 avoided hospital admissions annually and shortening average hospital stays by around eight days. This has enabled more residents to access reablement services and return home sooner with the support needed to live well and independently.
Now, the project is building on this success by focusing on proactive neighbourhood-based care for those people most at risk of poor health and frailty. By investing in coordinated community services, and prioritising
prevention and early support, teams will be able to improve outcomes, reduce crisis interventions, and make better use of shared resources. Intermediate care remains a key part of the programme.
Key goals include:
• Implementing a proactive care model to improve health outcomes.
• Enhancing intermediate care to reduce time spent away from home.
• Better targeting support and promoting independence. These changes promise better experiences for people and staff,
improved medication management, continuity of care, reduced unplanned care, and more efficient use of resources. Ultimately, the programme seeks to empower more people to live independently, supported in their communities.
One example where progress is being made is in implementing neighbourhood proactive care. The Advanced Respiratory Project, which began in April 2025, is providing people at end of life or severely frail with advanced respiratory disease with the help they need through a proactive, multi-disciplinary team approach.
with Racquel Wilkes
A senior practice learning facilitator, Racquel has worked at the Trust for 10 years.
What are the main aspects of your role?
My role is to support our future workforce when they are on placement within the Trust. We provide placements to a lot of universities and I support pre-registration adult nurses. I also support clinical staff to support the students to ensure they are achieving their proficiencies and obtaining learning opportunities whilst on placement. I am the bridge between university if there are any concerns that need to be addressed.
What else have you done in your career so far?
Before becoming a nurse my background has always been customer service or education and
training. I have been a part-time lecturer at Leeds Beckett University, and also I have been a clinical educator with the Trust.
What’s the best thing about your job?
The best part about my job is being able to support staff and students, seeing students succeed and meeting them when they have qualified. I also enjoy getting to know lots of staff across the Trust and providing guidance and support where required.
What is the one thing you would change at LTHT to help you do your job better?
Practice assessors and practice supervisors being provided time to complete students’ documentation. This is challenging for staff when they are caring for patients, and it doesn’t allow staff to have a meaningful discussion with the students to let them know how they are performing and providing feedback on areas for development.
What’s your best advice to a new starter at the Trust?
Always work within your scope of practice. There are lots of opportunities for you to develop within the Trust.
New Frailty Strategy launched
During the week of International Day of Older People in October, colleagues from our Speciality and Integrated Medicine teams brought together staff from across the Trust, along with some of our Third Sector community partners, to launch our new Frailty Strategy.
The event took place at the Thackray Museum and included presentations on frailty, the new strategy, and best practice work that is going on in CSUs alongside a drop-in market stall approach of information from Third Sector organisations who support us to look after people at later life. These included Leeds Older Peoples Forum, The Alzheimer’s Society, the Leeds Directory, Leeds Age UK and Carers Leeds amongst others. We also had members of our own teams including Tissue Viability and Continence attending.
The Frailty Strategy sets out the care we aim to provide for people at later life for the next three years and is for
all patients over 65 within LTHT who have a clinical frailty score of 5 and over. There are 12 priorities and aims of the strategy, starting with recognition of the importance of proactive identification, and then priorities and aims including other parts of a patient’s journey. It also includes increasing use of digital technologies, how we work in partnership with patients, their carers and the Third Sector, education and culture, research, and the environment.
Ali Raycraft, Lead Nurse for Older People,
said: “It’s wonderful to be moving forward with the Frailty Strategy and how we can tailor our services, care, and plans to our older patients. There has been so much energy and enthusiasm at this event today. We have already achieved a lot in relation to frailty already as a trust and as a city, but there are more things that can be done which will impact further, delivering person-centred care and continuing collaborative partnership working with all of our community colleagues remains an essential part of this.”
A fond farewell to our long-serving staff
Dorothy Williams
Dot has retired from her role as a paediatric staff nurse on Ward L42 at Leeds Children’s Hospital after an outstanding 38 years of working in nursing. Dot has been a truly valued and hard-working member of the Trust and will be greatly missed by all colleagues.
Dot will enjoy her time travelling, going to watch shows at the theatre and putting up her feet for a welldeserved rest.
Jane Brown
Jane Brown retired from her role in June as HIV Clinical Nurse Specialist after completing 39 years in the NHS, 22 of them within LTHT. She worked as a health adviser at Leeds Sexual Health for 13 years and the last few before retiring in the HIV Outpatients clinic.
Jane made a significant impact on her colleagues, her patients and communities during her dedicated NHS career. Jane was an exceptional team player and
always went above and beyond to help and support her colleagues as well as supporting the most vulnerable of her service users which required exceptional dedication, enthusiasm and tenacity.
Jane was a hugely experienced nurse who had a wealth of skills and knowledge that took decades to acquire. Her retirement means her colleagues face a huge loss to their multidisciplinary team and to their services users, and she will be very much missed by all.
Marilyn (Maz) Billingham
Marilyn (Maz) Billingham first started out as a Ward Housekeeper and then changed to her current role as a Clinical Support Woker. She is 73 years old and has dedicated 24 years of her working life to Ward J54. She has a lovely bedside manner and can often be found spending time chatting to the patients and keeping them in good spirits. She always has a story to tell!
Maz isn’t ready to give up yet so will be returning to do bank shifts. She also enjoys spending time with her daughters and her much loved cat Oliver!
Margaret Horne
Margaret Horne has retired after a remarkable 45 years of service within the Trust, including 28 dedicated years in the cardiac department. Throughout this time, Margaret has worked across various sites, demonstrating
unwavering commitment and professionalism, and making lifelong friends throughout the years.
Margaret is looking forward to the welldeserved rest and her colleagues are sure she won’t be bored with all her many hobbies, friends and children.
Sally Rollinson-White
Sally qualified as a registered nurse in1989 and since then has spent 36 years working for LTHT, dedicating her time to working within Diabetes. Her reputation as a ward leader is that of someone fair, patient centred and compassionate. Sally made the decision this year to retire and focus on her passion for gardening.
Her colleagues said: “Throughout her 36 years Sally has remained dedicated to providing the highest quality of patient care, her standards are second to none. As a CSU we have relied heavily on her experience and skill to guide our staff to maintain the exemplary standards of care she always produces.
“It is difficult to put into words how much Sally will be missed by us all, for many of us she has been a source of comfort when we have needed it and supported us through difficult times. And as much as we are all pleased for Sally and wish her the best for her retirement, as she deserves it, her ward (J26) and our CSU won’t be the same without her. Thank you Sally, for all the years of service, kindness and care you have shown. We’ll miss you!”
< Emor Miller
Senior Sister Emor Miller, has retired after 39 incredible years in the NHS, 23 of those in PICU with the Ward L47 team. Emor began as a Health Care Assistant in 1986 and became instrumental in shaping the Children’s Critical Care Unit. Emor has cared for thousands, supported families, mentored countless staff, and shared her expertise through charitable work overseas. Emor’s dedication, compassion, and leadership will be dearly missed. Emor is going to spend time doing charity missions overseas, is going to work part time delivering school vaccinations and spend more time with her family.
Leeds Hospitals Charity news
Austin’s story
In September, Leeds Hospitals Charity was excited to launch a brand-new campaign, highlighting how gifts in Wills are helping to fund life-changing research at Leeds Teaching Hospitals.
At the heart of the campaign is Austin, an 11-year-old boy from Leeds who lives with Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD), a rare and life-limiting condition. Austin was diagnosed with DMD at just two years old and there is currently no cure, but thanks to incredible donations supporting research, families like Austin’s are seeing real progress in the search for better treatments.
The campaign will help raise awareness of Leeds Hospitals Charity and encourage new donors to support vital research projects across Leeds Teaching Hospitals, making a real difference to the people and patients of Yorkshire.
The advert has been airing across ITV channels, reaching thousands of viewers across Yorkshire, so keep an eye out!
A Will writing service is offered free of charge for a basic Will and is open to all staff across the Trust, including partners, family and friends, all year round.
You can find out more on the Leeds Hospitals Charity website.
Get involved with charity events - fundraising for Leeds Hospitals
A whole calendar full of exciting charity events is taking place throughout the remainder of 2025 and throughout 2026 – and there is something for everyone!
Leeds Santa Dash – 7 December
People of all ages and abilities are invited to don their Santa suits and take on a festive 3K route through the city streets. This year’s event is extra special, as it forms part of Kevin Sinfield’s final leg of his epic 7in7 challenge.
Christmas Jumper Day – 11 December
Dig out your most festive knitwear and encourage your colleagues to do the same! Let’s bring some seasonal sparkle to our departments and celebrate together.
Bexley Wing Festive Market - 11 December
for a festive market, where you can browse and buy seasonal goodies to get you in the Christmas spirit.
Throughout 2026 there are even more ways to get involved, including Canal Walk: Miles in Memory, Wear Purple Day, celebrating the NHS Birthday and the iconic Rob Burrow Leeds Marathon. Find out more on ways to get involved on the Leeds Hospitals Charity website.
Funding opportunities for staff
So far in 2025, seven new funding opportunities have launched across Leeds Teaching Hospitals, supporting staff to deliver the best care for over a million patients and their families each year.
Leeds Hospitals Charity is always keen to hear from staff, so please get in touch if you have an application idea, are aware of a significant donation or want to discuss focused fundraising for a project.
Sign up to the funding newsletter to receive the latest information about these funding opportunities as soon as they become available. Search ‘Funding opportunities’ on the Leeds Hospitals Charity website.
Head down to the Bexley Wing atrium
60 seconds
with Brendan Brown
Brendan is Chief Executive at the Trust and joined in September.
What do you do to wind down and relax after a hard week at work?
Some of you know I have three rescue donkeys which are a joy, and spending time with them is the
best way to wind down. I also am a huge TV and film fan.
What is your ideal holiday destination and why?
My family are from the west coast of Ireland – so that’s my favourite place in the world, as it’s green, the people are a joy, and I have many happy memories of my time there.
I’d also happily list San Francisco, Japan, New Zealand, Ibiza, Berlin and Tuscany as ideal places to revisit.
What is your favourite food?
Food is one of my favourite pursuits. Indian, Thai, Italian, Mexican, traditional fish and chips, any type of cake and finally bread –of any variety. I can’t limit myself to one favourite.
What did you want to be when you were growing up?
be honest. I worked for Tesco’s, and my friend recommended nurse training. I never looked back from starting in 1988.
What is your favourite film?
The Constant Gardner. If you haven’t seen it – take a look.
Who would you most like to meet and why?
I’m stumped by this question! I’m naturally curious (some would say nosy) so anyone with a good sense of humour and a story to tell would be someone I’d want to meet.
What is your favourite book?
Cutting For Stone – by Abrahim Verghese. I can pick it up and read it again and again.
Tell us something we don’t know about you …
60 seconds
I didn’t really know what I wanted to do when I was growing up to
50 years strong - Carol Skerrett
In August, colleagues from the Payroll team gathered to celebrate an impressive milestone for one of their colleagues, Carol Skerrett, Senior Payroll Officer, who marked 50 years of dedicated service.
Carol commenced in 1975 as a Clerical Officer in the General Office at Seacroft Hospital and was responsible for collating timesheets and sending these by transport to the payroll department at Bond Court. In 1977, Carol made the move into the Payroll department, where early tasks included paying out the wage packets at several hospital sites, going out to individual hospitals to collect details of enhanced
You pretty much know everything by now! I’m very straightforward!
has navigated a number of payroll system changes and experienced five different base location changes all over Leeds before finally moving to Trust Headquarters at St James, where you can find her now.
Carol is still as committed to her work and retirement is not on the cards just yet, even after 50 years of dedicated service, and the team is happy that they still get to benefit from Carol’s 50 years of experience.
hours worked, and assisting the Pensions department with completion of several forms. Over the years and her career, Carol has progressed to Senior Payroll Officer and has passed her wealth of experience and knowledge to many members of the team.
Within her working life, Carol
Congratulations Carol and thank you for the hard work and commitment you have given to the department over the years.
Advertising opportunities available in our staff magazines, care directories, and independent living guides
SEFTON
CARE DIRECTORIES
County, City and Borough Council care directories are comprehensive guides to nursing care, residential care and independent living support. Created for individuals and their families exploring the possibility of moving to nursing/ residential care or seeking advice and support to continue living independently at home.
COUNTESS
NHS publications are circulated throughout hospitals to staff, patients and visitors on a regular basis. Advertising within the publications enables companies to promote their services to NHS employees and are an excellent way to Increase their customer base within this very targeted audience.
Options provides older people with important information from health organisations such as CQC, ICB and the NHS. Circulated through various healthcare professionals including Council social work teams, NHS hospital discharge, community nurses, and various age related charities.
