Anthem August/September 2014

Issue 35 August/September 2014

North Tees and Hartlepool NHS Foundation Trust

Staff take on army medical challenge page 23

Long term achievement award for Lisa page 19

Skin to skin Trust launches Small Wonders page 28/29 Anthem | August/September 2014 1

Supporting mums to breastfeed A new service – Latch-On – has been launched to encourage more mums across Stockton and Hartlepool to breastfeed.

Trolley service popular with patients The return of a trolley service being run by volunteers is proving to be popular with patients. Volunteers from the Royal Voluntary Service take the trolley around ward areas at the University Hospital of North Tees - selling items such as drinks, sweets, books and newspapers to patients. Vivien Evenden, Eileen Wilkinson and Susan Carter (pictured, left to right) are three of the volunteers who help. RVS locality manager Nikki Greenwood said: “We are delighted to be able to offer this service to patients. Our team of volunteers have proved to be very popular with patients, who seem to like the convenience of it as well as the interaction they have with our friendly volunteers.”

The service is being run by the trust, in partnership with Stockton Borough Council, Hartlepool Borough Council and Public Health England. It is providing new mums with help from breastfeeding peer supporters who will be able to offer advice and guidance. It also involves encouraging as many businesses and public organisations to sign up to become places that support breastfeeding. Infant feeding leads Ros Nunn and Annie Wallace have already recruited 25 women across Hartlepool and Stockton who will volunteer as mum to mum peer supporters, training them on a 13 week course. Ros said: “One of the biggest challenges is helping mums feel comfortable when needing to breastfeed in public places. There are challenges around the attitude some people have when seeing a mother breastfeed.

Annie and Ros (far left) with some of the peer supporters

Say it with fruit Octagon Marketing Company Ltd specialise in gaining advertising support for magazines so Anthem is now produced, packaged, distributed and delivered at minimal cost to the trust. 2 Anthem | Issue 35

“One way we hope to counter this in Stockton is through a breastfeeding welcome scheme set up by NCT, a charity for parents. The scheme promotes public facing spaces that are breastfeeding welcome, creating an atmosphere that makes mothers feel comfortable in.” Annie said: “Venues in Hartlepool are already signed up and trained to welcome breastfeeding mothers into a comfortable environment but we are always ready to welcome new businesses and venues. “The plan is to continue training mothers and eventually be able to cover more clinics, attend parent-craft sessions and to meet mothers in the hospital wards. The next course starts in September so any mums interested in training to be a peer supporter can enrol now for places.” For more information or to enrol contact Ros on 01642 524923 or Annie on 01429 284466.

Staff from wards 28 and 31 at the University Hospital of North Tees received unexpected gifts from a patient’s family as thanks for all their hard work. A grateful wife and daughter wanted to thank all the nurses and brought in fruit baskets for all the staff to show their appreciation for the care they delivered. Ward 28 matron Sharon Sanderson said: “It’s always lovely to receive thanks by patients and their families and the fruit baskets came as a very welcome and pleasant surprise.”

Celebrating food from across the world To mark equality, diversity and human rights week the catering team cooked up a range of culinary delights from across the world.

Diabetics must be aware of foot attack risk Staff have backed a campaign for people with diabetes to be aware of the related risks of a foot attack. There are around 15,000 people with diabetes in the North East who are at high or increased risk of a diabetes-related foot attack - which is an injury to a foot which has It is very reduced feeling important that or blood circulation. people with Highly diabetes regularly specialised check their own podiatrist diabetes Claire feet for changes. Ward (pictured) is one of a group of staff at the trust who is part of the Northern Diabetes Footcare Network. This is a group made up of experts including consultants, podiatrists and specialist diabetes nurses who work with Diabetes UK and meet regularly to raise awareness of the related risks people with diabetes have of suffering a foot attack. She said: “It is very important that people with diabetes regularly check their own feet for changes and be aware that they may have numbness which means they may not experience any potential pain or discomfort. “The network works with GPs, hospitals and specialists to ensure that when acute foot problems occur, patients are seen quickly and

treated early. I urge people to read the leaflet and make themselves aware. “Amputations are over 20 times more common in people with diabetes and there are too many people with the condition who do not understand that delays to treatment could result in amputation. Around 6,000 related amputations a year across the country are as a result of poor services and a lack of awareness.” Recently 15,000 leaflets were sent to all foot clinics in the region so that people at high risk of foot ulcers have clear guidance about when to take action. The booklet includes a card that people can use to remind them that they need to seek urgent medical attention if: • their foot is red, warm or swollen • there is a break in the skin or any discharge or oozing onto their socks or stockings • either of these is accompanied by feeling Claire Ward unwell.

Head of catering Colin Chapman arranged for a range of foods from across the globe to be served up at the Tees restaurant to mark world food week. Greek style tuna with spicy potatoes, Cajun chicken gumbo, Moroccan Lamb, red Thai seafood curry, citrus jerk pork, piri piri chicken and minced beef burrito were just some of the meals served up over the week. Colin said: “In this trust we are lucky to have staff who come from a diverse range of cultures and countries and it was fantastic to be able to celebrate that. “It is quite common for us to serve up food from across the world, but this week was an opportunity to try a couple of new meals which we hadn’t had before. “The feedback we had from patients, visitors and staff is that the new menu was a welcome change and they had enjoyed the meals. “Some of these meals are ones that I now plan to add to the menu we have throughout the year. “Equality, Diversity and Human Rights Week is a chance for the trust to highlight the work it is doing to help create a fairer, more inclusive NHS for patients and staff – this menu is just one example of that.” The week, organised by NHS Employers nationally and by the trust’s equality and diversity sub committee, shines a light on the work across the NHS to ensure that it continues to meet the diverse needs of local populations and is a place where staff from all backgrounds will want to work.

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New role is NICE for Michael Physiotherapist Michael Butler has two reasons to celebrate after first setting up his own business venture and then landing a role with the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE). Michael was recently selected to work on an advisory body to NICE known as the health technologies adoption programme reference panel. Michael is also part of an entrepreneurial business idea to develop an exciting new e-health company – PhysiCall. As part of this he has helped create a smartphone app and website which will allow patients to refer themselves for physiotherapy treatment, without needing to visit their GP. He said: “I’m really pleased to have been chosen to work with NICE. This is a virtual role where I will be able to work with a panel of around 50 people to help contribute to the development of up to 20 adoption support tools. We will all have our own areas of expertise so it is the chance to share this knowledge as well as meet more people and learn new skills that will ultimately help me in my own work at the trust.” As part of a team of people with knowledge in the health sector, Michael is hoping to trial the PhysiCall app and website locally. If his idea proves popular he hopes to get the interest of clinical commissioning groups across the country for use as a standard way of accessing physiotherapy services. He said: “Our first product is a website and smartphone application that enables patients to self refer to physiotherapy without being seen by their GP first. “An estimated 12-20% of GP contacts are due to musculoskeletal (MSK) conditions. In 2013, 340 million GP appointments were attended (41-68 million MSK) nationwide. “It is our hope that the use of the website and app will reduce demand on primary care whilst making savings. “The website and app uses an algorithm in which patients answer simple questions designed by a GP and myself to ensure patients are seen by the correct professional. “Patients are also encouraged to rate the services they receive in keeping with the governments friends and family test’ initiative.” Steve Pett said: “Both of these new ventures will certainly help Michael add another few strings to his bow. It will also add to the knowledge and experience he will bring to the team we have here which is fantastic news.” 4 Anthem | Issue 35

(left to right) ward matron Mercy Cabrega, ward matron Janice Dunbar, consultant haematologist Philip Mounter, Julie, Alan and ward matron Sheila Mounter

School sweethearts donate money to unit School sweethearts Alan and Julie Povey celebrated their golden wedding anniversary by raising funds for the haematology unit at the University Hospital of North Tees. The couple, from Hartburn, wanted to give something back to the unit where Alan has received treatment for multiple myeloma over the last 11 years. They decided that instead of asking guests who came to their 50th wedding anniversary party at the Stockton Masonic Hall to bring presents they would ask for cash donations. As a result, Alan and Julie, aged 74 and 73, were able to hand a cheque to the unit of £1,100 recently.

Grandfather of five Alan said: “I have received nothing but care and kindness from staff who have treated me over the last 11 years, through a stem cell transplant and many bouts of illness which included hospitalisation where I was diagnosed with diabetes and pancreatitis. “Nothing has ever phased the staff in this unit and it is only due to their continuing care and attention that I am still here. I want to thank them all and I hope that this donation will go some way to doing that.” Consultant haematologist Philip Mounter said: “I would like to thank Alan and Julie and all of their friends and family who helped raise this money – it will be used to further improve the care we give to patients.”

Nurseries celebrate the world cup Children and staff from the nurseries at the University Hospital of Hartlepool and the University Hospital of North Tees celebrated the start of the world cup with parties and football themed activities. In Hartlepool children enjoyed their time yesterday playing football, designing flags for all the countries playing in the

world cup and icing cupcakes with the England flag. The children at North Tees also enjoyed some penalty shoot outs, colouring their own footballs, face painting and baking cakes.

Trina joins safeguarding team Trina Holcroft has joined the trust as the new named nurse safeguarding children. Trina is based at Lawson Street Health Centre with the safeguarding children team. She will have responsibility for the Stockton and Hartlepool areas. Trina’s career started as a registered nurse at the formerly named Hartlepool General Hospital, before she went on to become a registered sick children’s nurse working at both Hartlepool General Hospital and the University Hospital of North Durham.

To gain community experience and continue her work with babies and young children she completed health visitor training and worked at Middlesbrough then Easington. For the past seven years she has worked in County Durham as a safeguarding nurse and wants to continue to build on her knowledge and experience in this new role. She said: “I am delighted to have joined the trust as the new named nurse safeguarding children. “My passion is safeguarding children and I will endeavour to

continually deliver and improve services in order to help protect one of our most I am delighted vulnerable members of to have joined the our society”. trust as the new Trina can be named nurse contacted on 01642 704302. safeguarding Belinda Booth is children. covering the East Durham area and is based in the Hart Building UHH and can be contacted on 01429 522523.

(left to right) Bev Trees, Dougal Southward, Peddada Raju, Sanjeev Anand, Kevin Moore and Michelle Ferguson

The audience listen in on a presentation

Experts speak about treatment of sports injuries Expert speakers gave presentations and workshops at the annual North East symposium on sports injuries and exercise medicine. Specialist areas covered during the two day event included injuries to the knee, groin, back and injuries picked up by athletes

at the London 2012 Olympics. A range of speakers with experience working for elite level sports clubs, universities and health trusts appeared at the event at St James’ park in Newcastle. The faculty included three speakers who have also represented the UK in their sports, two of them at the

Olympic Games. The event was led by four of the trust’s consultants - Dougal Southward, Kevin Moore, Sanjeev Anand and Peddada Raju - and by education support officer Michelle Ferguson and courses and events officer Bev Trees. Dougal said: “It is the fifth time

this event has been held and every year it continues to grow in popularity. “We were able to organise speakers to attend who are among the best in their field of expertise in the country. “I would like to thank everyone who came along and made the event such a success.”

Two of the workshops Anthem | August/September 2014 5

Thankful parents make donation to improve diabetes treatment The parents of a teenager who was first diagnosed with diabetes at the age of six have kindly donated an important piece of equipment to the trust’s children’s diabetes service. Gus and Julie Fox donated £1,200 to help pay for a glucose sensor which monitors the level of glucose in the blood.

(Left-right) Bev Day, Julie, Jake and Gus

The couple’s son Jake, who is a pupil at Sedgefield Community College, was first diagnosed with type one diabetes after suffering a number of common symptoms including constantly feeling very thirsty. Since then he has had to have four injections of insulin a day and at least four blood tests a day. He is reviewed every three months at children’s outpatients at the University Hospital of North Tees. Jake, now aged 15, said: “I have just got used to having to do the injections – it’s not a problem really. I have to do two of them during school. All of my friends

Physios chosen for Commonwealth Games Three physiotherapists at the trust were selected to work at the Commonwealth Games this summer. Femke Nauschutz, Ryan Pearson and Eoin Carroll were picked from thousands of applicants, following a rigorous 18 month process, to work at the event in Glasgow. Their role was to provide assessment and treatment of both athletes and Games officials from more than 70 countries, working with colleagues from across the country in other specialties. All three – who were among thousands of ‘Clyde siders’ who volunteered - have previously worked 6 Anthem | Issue 35

at major events in the sporting calendar. Specialist physiotherapist Femke was lucky enough to have worked at the London Olympics two years ago. To qualify to work at the Commonwealth Games physiotherapists need to have been qualified for a minimum of four years, have a special interest in sport and be able to work as part of team. Therapy services lead Steve Pett said: “We were delighted that Femke, Ryan and Eoin were selected. It is a great honour for them and for us to have our physiotherapists recognised at this elite level.”

Ryan, Femke and Eoin

know about it and it’s fine. “We wanted to give something back to the diabetes service for the fantastic treatment I have had here.” Julie said: “The fact that Jake is diabetic really hasn’t had any negative effect on his life at all. He is doing well at school and is very sporty – he loves boxing and likes doing exercise. “I have nothing but great things to say about the diabetes team. Over the years we have raised and donated quite a lot for Diabetes UK and I thought it was time we gave something back to the diabetes service.” Children’s diabetes lead nurse Bev Day said: “We would like to thank Gus and Julie for making such a kind donation to the children’s diabetes service, it is much appreciated.”

Health trainers turned my life around Hartlepool pub landlord Steve Bell first visited the trust’s health trainers after being referred there following a heart scare.

The audiology team

Team wins national award The trust’s audiology team have been awarded the Improving Quality in Physiological Service (IQIPS) Programme – one of only 13 organisations in the country to do so – following a rigorous two day assessment. Team lead Richard Scott has said special recognition must go to senior audiologist Emma Carr who made sure the service met every step of the accreditation. Richard said: “I would like to congratulate every member of the team for all of their hard work and dedication which has quite rightly been recognised. “I’d particularly like to thank Emma for her dedication, professionalism and organisation to ensure we met every step of the accreditation. “The assessment particularly highlighted the way the service works with support groups to raise awareness of hearing impairment and how to access services, as well as the care and empathy staff showed to patients.” “This award is a badge of quality which assures both the patients and the organisations which buy our services on

Goodbye to Anil

their behalf that they can be confident in us.” The department passed in all of the four domains and 26 associated standards covering: • patient experience • safety • facilities, resource and • clinical Richard added: “Although this is a great achievement, the job is never done. We have a number of mandatory requirements that need to be completed within the next three months and a number of recommendations to improve the service further before our next review.” “It’s an absolute pleasure to work with such a fantastic team and everyone should be extremely proud of what we have achieved today. It’s all down to the hard work and dedication of the whole team.”

The 52-year-old, who runs The Fishermans Arms in Southgate, was sent to the health trainers after suffering a heart attack. After initially being hesitant about going, he has been taken on all of the advice and help he has been given and has completely transformed his life. He said: “Around the time that I had the heart attack I was drinking a lot, was smoking regularly and was eating the wrong things quite often. “I also didn’t really have any exercise in my life. “I remember my first day visiting the health trainers at Fitness Connexions in Brenda Road in Hartlepool – I didn’t want to go along at all. “It was only after meeting and speaking with the health trainers that nobody was forcing me to do anything – all they were doing was offering help and advice. “Thanks to them I have turned my life around. I have given up smoking, I have improved my diet and I am exercising regularly.” As his fitness has improved, Steve has taken part in various running events such as the Great North Run and the Race for Life. Along with a group of the health trainers and other people who have been to the sessions, Steve has also recently cycled 150 miles on the coast to coast from Workington to Sunderland. Health trainer Roz Charlton, who also took part, said: “I remember seeing Steve arrive for his first session at the gym and since then he really has turned his life around. “Steve has taken on board all of the advice and information we have given him. He’s a real inspiration to anyone who wants to make real changes to their life.” Part of the role of the health trainers is to work with trust’s cardiac nursing team, arranging rehabilitation classes across the community for people who have heart problems, for example angina, heart failure and heart attacks. The sessions are partly an exercise class followed by information about healthy eating, relaxation, reducing alcohol intake, being a healthy weight, and managing medications. For more information about the health trainer service phone 01642 853998.

Friends and colleagues gathered in the lung health department at the University Hospital of North Tees to say a fond farewell to associate specialist in respiratory medicine Anil Trivedi. Anil left the trust after 14 years to train to become a GP. Colleagues said he was a fantastic person to work with and they were going to miss him. Our thanks for your time with the trust Anil, and our very best wishes for the future.

Roz and Steve at one of the health trainer sessions Anthem | August/September 2014 7

Driver idea is motoring The volunteer driver service for patients who need help travelling to and from hospital for an appointment is now available on site at the University Hospital of North Tees. On weekdays between 1-4pm a small team of drivers are now based in an office, which allows them to immediately transport patients back to their homes after their appointment. Colin Ogden, from Seaton Carew, is a retired former waste management manager at Hartlepool Borough Council. The 57-year-old said: “Once patients have been to hospital for their treatment they just want to get back to their homes. This new service is fantastic because it means we are based on the hospital site for three hours a day and are here to take patients home when needed.” George Stephenson, 61, from Ingleby Barwick, is a semi-retired sales rep. He said: “The fact we are now based near the ward in the afternoon means patients don’t have to wait for the service desk to call us and ask us to drive from our homes to collect them. Staff from the discharge lounge can book a driver and we are here to take people back to their homes.” Associate director of estates and facilities Peter Mitchell said: “We are delighted with how the volunteer driver service has progressed over the last few months. Being able to offer an on-site service on weekday afternoons is just the latest step forward we have made as we look to develop the service.” To book a driver call the service desk on 01429 522550.

George (left) and Colin 8 Anthem | Issue 35

Staff from the unit with Jane (third from right)

Improving care for patients with dementia Staff in the Holdforth Unit at the University Hospital of Hartlepool have been part of training to help improve the care for patients with dementia. Jane Hayllar, one of the trust’s community dementia nurses, has been working with staff in the rehabilitation ward in Hartlepool. Staff have taken part in three main training sessions to help them understand more about what patients with dementia experience. The first session was aimed at raising awareness of the condition and informing staff about dementia friends – a national initiative where people can pledge to learn more about dementia and spread awareness to others. The second session was about helping staff improve the way they treat dementia patients who have challenging behaviour. The third was around delirium (an acute state of confusion) which many people with dementia can suffer from. Jane said: “Staff in the unit really embraced the training sessions and all of the other work we did around the ward to help raise their understanding of dementia and patients who have it. Some of the patients who are treated in this ward have dementia and staff were passionate about learning as much as they can so that they can provide the

best care possible to patients. “People with dementia can People with sometimes dementia can behave in a challenging way sometimes – for example, behave in a by being challenging aggressive or shouting out. This way. can understandably be distressing for other people but by understanding what may cause this type of behaviour and how to deal with it when it does, it can really help. “If staff can understand this behaviour, they can not only improve the care they provide to these patients they can also help other patients and visitors to be more understanding as well.” The unit was opened in October for patients from the Hartlepool and Easington area who are admitted as a medical emergency to the University Hospital of North Tees and transferred to the unit for the final part of their hospital stay.

Mum thanks ward for lifesaving care The friends and family of a mum who nearly died after contracting a rare form of ecoli have raised £9,000 for ward 27 at the University Hospital of North Tees.

From left to right: Staff member Alex Wallace, customer Linda Heslop, Geraldine Croft, Lynne, store team leader Gill Sumpton and Karen Milburn.

Teneill Morris and her husband Craig, from Ingleby Barwick, raised the huge total by holding a fundraiser for her 30th birthday party at Marton Country Club.

Horden Sainsbury’s raise funds for breast care

The money is helping pay for a bladder scanning machine for the ward. She said: “I want to say thank you to the hospital staff and my friends and family. It’s a nice way to say thank you and I want people to know that the full £9,000 went to the hospital.” Teneill started to feel unwell a few weeks after giving birth to her daughter Tallulah in June last year. Teneill one day collapsed and was rushed to the University Hospital of North Tees where she was placed in intensive care. She had contracted a rare form of ecoli which was attacking her organs, which in turn caused haemolytic uraemic syndrome.

Teneill said: “It was attacking all my body. My blood platelets had started to collapse and I had started to have fits. The air ambulance was going to fly me to London but when I started having fits I didn’t end up flying. “I had kidney, liver, North Tees bowel failure and four blood transfusions. staff saved “Twice my mum and my life. dad were told by the doctors that I wasn’t expected to make it through the night and they stayed with me with my brothers and sisters. “Most of my care was on ward 27 with Dr Christopher Wells and gradually I started to recover. “I got taken to hospital at the beginning of August, I was in for the full month of September and in and out of hospital until November. “It seems like a horror film to me, I was totally out of it and I missed out on all that time with my daughter, I’m just glad I made it. “North Tees staff saved my life, Dr Wells and his team went way beyond the call of duty looking after me and caring for me. I owe the staff everything.” Ward manager Jane Corbey: “We would like to thank Teneill and her family and friends for helping raise such a huge amount of money for the ward – we really appreciate it and can’t thank them enough.”

Craig, Tallulah, Teneill and Jane Corbey

Specialist breast cancer nurses Geraldine Croft and Karen Milburn visited staff in the Sainsbury’s Local store in Horden to thank them and their customers for raising £925 for the trust. The store – which raises money for a different cause every year – chose to fundraise for the trust after staff member Lynne Peacock was treated there. Lynne, 57, was diagnosed with breast cancer after being invited to the University Hospital of North Tees for a routine mammogram nearly two years ago. Following this, she had an operation to remove the cancerous lump and was given four weeks of chemotherapy treatment at the University Hospital of Hartlepool. Lynne said: “All of the staff I have been treated by at both Hartlepool and North Tees have been absolutely brilliant. “Being diagnosed with something like this is clearly very worrying, but staff have always made me feel comfortable and have put me at ease. “The store always raise money for local causes and I thought it was only right that we raised money for the breast cancer care. We held a collection in the store, which customers have donated very generously to and we would like to thank them for that. The work these staff do is fantastic and I know this money will be used to treat other patients like myself who need it.” Lynne, who is a mother to two daughters and has four grandchildren, lives in Blackhall with her husband David, 57. She still visits the University Hospital of Hartlepool every six months for an appointment. Karen Milburn said: “We are very grateful to the all of the community in Horden who have donated and we would like to thank Sainsburys for doing this. “This is money that will go towards improving the care we provide to patients who really need our help.” Anthem | August/September 2014 9

Jean hands over the reins Clinical director for medicine Jean MacLeod has stepped down as chair of the audit and clinical effectiveness committee after seven years. Jean has handed over the reins to consultant radiologist Peddada Raju to run the committee, which not only deals with medical issues, but it has a strong link with nursing and education. It also aims to improve the quality of care for patients through best practice and audit. Speaking at the presentation, director of nursing, patient safety and quality Cath Siddle said: “It is important that we recognise Jean’s

commitment to this committee and what has been achieved over the years.” Jean said: “Every directorate has pulled together and made this committee what it is today. I have loved running this committee and I know that I am leaving the committee in very good hands.” She also thanked quality and clinical effectiveness manager Terry Holdcroft and deputy clinical effectiveness manager John Blenkinsopp for their huge contribution to the success of the committee.” Dr Raju thanked Jean for her work and also expressed his continuing support to the members of the committee.

Accident and emergency ward matron Stuart Harper

Appeal for patients to return crutches Accident and emergency staff are asking people who have been issued with crutches but don’t need them any more to bring them back to the University Hospital of North Tees or to One Life Hartlepool’s minor injuries unit. The trust lends more than 5,000 pairs of crutches out each year and the vast majority of them are not returned. Each pair of crutches costs around £13, meaning over the course of the year more than £80,000 is spent – money which could be used improving patient care. Accident and emergency ward matron Stuart Harper (pictured) and his colleagues decided the only thing to do was declare a crutch amnesty. He said: “We know that returning crutches is the last thing on anyone’s mind when they’re properly back on their feet again after breaking a leg or foot. However we need the crutches for other patients so we’re asking people to come and hand them in at accident and emergency. “I’m sure many people put them away in a cupboard and forget all about them, but it’s always worth reminding people to just have a look around the house and hand them in if they have inadvertently hung on to them.” So, if you’re finished with your crutches please hand them in. Accident and emergency staff will be more than happy to take them off your hands! 10 Anthem | Issue 35

Consultant radiologist Peddada Raju, clinical director for medicine Jean MacLeod and director of nursing, patient safety and quality Cath Siddle

Popular Shirley retires Colleagues of staff nurse Shirley Fuller from the paediatric day unit at the University Hospital of Hartlepool gathered to say a sad goodbye to a much loved member of staff. Shirley has decided to retire and

enjoy a well deserved break. At her leaving do, head of midwifery and children’s services Janet Mackie wished Shirley well and read out a poem written about Shirley by staff nurse Richard Bates.

Welcome to our new Filipino nurses A new group of Filipino nurses have been welcomed to the trust and are now taking part in training so they can start work. The group are doing an English language course and those

who pass will then go on to complete an adaptation course at Teesside University. All of the group are registered nurses in the Philippines and a small number already work at the trust as healthcare assistants.

Shaping the future of health services Experts from health services across Hartlepool talked to local people at a face the public event. The Hartlepool council health and wellbeing board held the event in its council chamber in the Civic Centre. Staff from the trust’s stop smoking service and the health trainer service organised information stands and were on hand to provide advice to people. Senior health trainer Denise Murphy said: “The event was a great opportunity to speak to lots of people about their views on health services and what the future should be. “It’s also an opportunity to speak to people about what we do and how we can help them. “We are able to offer people advice on the right things they should be eating and how they can have a more active lifestyle. “Many people don’t realise that we hold health sessions in the community very regularly and

we are free, so there really is no reason why people shouldn’t come to us if they want some help or health tips.” Stop smoking specialist advisor Alison Johns said: “These public events are always a fantastic way to speak to people about smoking and, if they do smoke, how they can quit. “Quite often smokers do actually want to quit but they just need that bit of encouragement and help to do so – support is free and available across Hartlepool in various venues, six days a week with different times in the day available.” The face the public event was followed by a presentation on the progress made by the health and wellbeing board over the past year followed by discussion workshops to find out

what people feel the board could do to improve health services in the town. There was also an opportunity to put questions to the board members including Hartlepool Council, Healthwatch Hartlepool, Hartlepool and Stockton-onTees Clinical Commissioning

These public events are always a fantastic way to speak to people about smoking. Group and NHS England. If you want help to start leading a healthier lifestyle you can contact the trust’s health trainers on (01642) 383833 or to find out about the help on offer to quit smoking, you can contact the trust’s stop smoking service on (01642) 383819. Denise Murphy talks to a visitor, before people gathered for the board meeting

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The team with Mr Inglesby (centre)

David Inglesby leaves the trust Staff from the University Hospital of Hartlepool took time out in May to say farewell to David Inglesby, an ophthalmologist from the Sunderland eye infirmary who held diabetic retinopathy clinics every Thursday at the main outpatients at the University Hospital of Hartlepool. He said: “I’d like to thank everyone for all their support over the years, everyone has been a joy to work with and it would not have been the same without such a cheerful and helpful team.”

Members of the oral health promotion team in the Tees restaurant and at Asda in Portrack Lane, Stockton.

Member latest d at the tr

Members had the opportunity to hea Breast services

Lead cancer nurse Jan Harley told members how people are referred to the breast unit from either their GP or breast screening and how they are seen by the unit within the national target of two weeks. She told members about the different clinics which are run, including the one stop clinic and the lymphoedema (swelling of the lymph glands caused by fluid build-up) nursing service. Jan went on to talk about the breast screening service, she explained: “We run the breast screening programme for the whole of Teesside and parts of Durham and North Yorkshire and carry out at least 1000 mammograms a week, with 78% of women taking up their screening appointment.” Consultant surgeon Colm Hennessy completed the presentation by talking about the long established and comprehensive surgical team and the techniques they are using and how they have moved on and developed over the years. Colm explained about the treatment

Keeping Teesside smiling The trust’s community dental service team were busy encouraging people to look after their teeth across the trust and in the community over national smile month.

12 Anthem | Issue 35

The oral health promotion team organised information and awareness sessions to encourage staff and the wider public to take care of their teeth and to understand the benefits of good oral hygiene. Organised by the British Dental Health Foundation the event has three main aims, to encourage people to: • ensure they visit their dentist regularly • cut down on sugary foods and drinks • brush their teeth for two minutes, twice a day, with a fluoride toothpaste Oral health promotion co-ordinator Wendy McGee: “It’s always a pleasure to be part of national smile month and to have the opportunity to go out into the community to share good oral health practices. It’s an important part of ensuring you look after your overall health and wellbeing.” You can find out more about National Smile Month and tips to help improve your oral health at http://www.nationalsmilemonth.org/.

Somen Roy explains the latest techniques in gynaecology

Val Storey talks about chemotherapy services

rs hear about the developments rust

ar about developments in the trust at two member events held recently. options for breast cancer and what happens once the diagnosis has been made and how the surgeons are using pioneering techniques for breast reconstruction, such as cell enriched breast reconstruction, which rebuilds the breast using a patient’s own fat tissue and naturally occurring regenerative cells.

Compassion in practice – the 6Cs

Assistant director of nursing and professional standards Debbie Blackwood and senior nurses for professional standards Claire Wong and Louise Samuel introduced themselves to the audience and explained what their role at the trust was all about. Debbie told members what the 6Cs (care, compassion, competence, communication, courage and commitment) were and that a three year strategy called Compassion in Practice had been drawn up by Jane Cummings, chief nurse for England. Debbie explained that it wasn’t just about nursing staff. It is about everyone. She took the presentation to a close as she spoke about the #hellomynameis campaign. She explained that it was a huge campaign led by a terminally ill doctor called Kate Granger. The team showed members a powerful video of how it is being introduced to our own staff across the trust. Finally, Debbie spoke about the role of a Caremaker. She explained that the NHS had picked up on the concept taken from the Olympic Games - with the games makers, where a group of people had the role of meeting and greeting to provide a welcoming atmosphere. Members heard how we’re introducing care makers into all areas in the trust. This can be anyone who really makes a difference and will act as ambassadors for the 6Cs. You can see the videos from the team on the trust’s Youtube channel at http://www. youtube.com/user/NTeesHpoolNHSFT

Gynaecology and what’s new in outpatient services Consultant gynaecologist Somen Roy explained that procedures which used to

be carried out under general anaesthetic with the need for an overnight stay in hospital can now be safely carried out in outpatients. He and his team treat patients who have abnormal bleeding (usually heavy periods) with a procedure called endometrial ablation. Medical advances have meant that this can now be performed quickly and safely using a method where a mesh is passed through the cervix, opened and a current passed through it which removes the lining of the womb. Thanks to the excellent work of gynaecology specialist nurse Maggie Wilkinson, who ensures patients have all the information they need before going ahead with the procedure, patient satisfaction is very high with the vast majority agreeing or strongly agreeing they are happy with the result of the ablation. Members also learned that procedures such as removing fibroids and polyp and sterilisation can also be carried out by passing instruments through the cervix. This means patients virtually have a walk in, walk out service using the latest techniques which are safe and effective.

Lead cancer nurse Jan Harley and consultant surgeon Colm Hennessy

Chemotherapy (cancer medicine) services

General manager for medicine Sue Piggott introduced the presentation on chemotherapy services, setting the scene about how many patients are treated in the units at the University Hospital of Hartlepool and the University hospital of North Tees, what type of cancers they are treated for and how chemotherapy treatments have changed dramatically over the years. Now fewer patients receive chemotherapy into a vein because oral (by mouth) and subcutaneous (by injection into the skin) chemotherapy is now available. Chemotherapy day unit matron Val Storey explained that chemotherapy drugs (some of which are bought in but most made in the trust pharmacy) are given to patients by specialist nurses. They are supported by registered nurses and healthcare assistants. All patents are counselled by the consultant oncologist and specialist nurse before treatment. She explained

Assistant director of nursing and professional standards Debbie Blackwood and senior nurses for professional standards Claire Wong and Louise Samuel

that the units are monitored by Cancer Network Peer Reviews and the units must comply with 78 standards to maintain their accreditation. Sue rounded off the presentation by saying in future the units will continue to meet the changing needs of the population and there are plans in place to expand the University Hospital of North Tees unit, bring back more complex chemotherapy treatments from The James Cook Hospital in Middlesbrough and further improve patients’ experience. Anthem | August/September 2014 13

Memorial service for organ donors The trust remembered the people who died in our hospitals in the last two years and whose organs and tissues are helping others live on.

In a moving service in the chapel at the University Hospital of North Tees hospital chaplain Lorraine Millar led the service. Families who have lost loved ones were invited to light candles. Staff were invited to light candles to say thank you, because as health professionals, they’d been able to help others because of the gift of organ and tissue donation. Families also placed mementoes in the organ donation artwork we unveiled two years ago. Clinical lead, organ donation, Anil Sharma said: “As the newly appointed clinical lead for organ donation I was very moved by today’s service. It was a privilege to be there with

Procurement and supplies team

families to remember their loved ones and it was also good to see colleagues from different departments gathering to show their support.”

One of the exercises

Team building exercise for staff Staff from procurement and supplies learned a lot on a recent team building exercise run in the Tees meeting room. More than 20 staff took part in a day of different exercises created to help improve the way they work as a team. The day was organised by the trust’s education and organisational development department, who support team development days for staff. Head of procurement and supplies Jane Hawkes said: “I booked the staff in for this session because I wanted to see how we could improve the way that we work together. “Staff are based on different sites and it’s easy for them to forget that they are part 14 Anthem | Issue 35

of a big team. “In their first exercise in the morning many of the staff were quite hesitant but by the afternoon they noticeably improved and were working well as teams. “It was interesting to see different people’s strengths and weaknesses come out. Many of the staff surprised me and I can think of numerous examples in the days since this session where staff have been working much better as a team.” Improvement and development manager from procurement and supplies, Louise Allen, said: “I took so much from it on both a personal and professional level. We all found out a lot more about each other – our strengths and weaknesses – and we are working better as a team as a

result of it.” Janet Varga, one of the trust’s education and development facilitators, organised the exercises and helped manage the day, said: “One thing that really comes of these exercises is that it really doesn’t matter if you are a senior manager or a more junior member of staff – everyone has strengths which can be developed and we find that these exercises highlight what these strengths are. “It’s a fantastic opportunity for managers to find out more about their staff as well as helping them bond together and work better as a team.” To find out more about the team building exercise sessions contact education and organisational development.

Young parents and their relatives with members of the National Family Nurse Unit and our local family nursing team at the annual review

Family nurses celebrate success The family nursing team who work across Hartlepool and Stockton took part in an annual review for the family nurse partnership programme (FNP). The review was attended by nurses of the scheme with representatives from the National Family Nurse Unit and families and their babies who were a part of and supported by the scheme. The partnership is a voluntary home visiting programme providing support to young teenage parents across Stockton, Hartlepool and across the country. A family nurse is assigned and visits the parents from early pregnancy through to the child’s second birthday, providing specialist advice and support. The programme aims to: • help the parents to plan their own futures and achieve aspirational goals • ensure the young mother has a

healthy pregnancy • improve their child’s health and development The day was a chance for young parents and relatives to give their views on how the scheme has supported them. One of the young mothers Katie Cross said: “I was only a few months pregnant when I first joined the scheme. I’ve had family support all the way through but the nurses were invaluable in explaining what to expect and giving me specialised and general support that I otherwise wouldn’t have had.” Another young mother Toni Willis said “The scheme helped me to build confidence in what I was doing as a mother. I love the fact that every time the support nurse came around I was learning more about my child and how to interact with them. “It amazes me that I’m constantly learning more about how to be a better mother and that they made it fun. Ultimately getting the

reaffirmation that what I was doing was right and the support to help me continue my education has been priceless.” Family nurse partnership supervisor Susan Hutchinson-Brown said: “The annual review highlights how successful the programme has become since it began in Stockton and Hartlepool in April 2012, it is a privilege to work with our fantastic young parents and to have them support us. “Hearing all the young parents and their relatives’ stories on how the scheme has helped them is overwhelming, and their comments and ideas will be used to ensure we continue to provide the best support for young mothers and fathers in our area”. To find out more call the Hartlepool team on 01429 522070 or 01429 522626 or the Stockton team on 01642 704227 or 01642 704228. For more information on the programme visit http://fnp.nhs.uk/

Making computers available to everyone Computers have been made available at the back of the restaurant at the University Hospital of North Tees to help staff have access to a computer at work when they normally might not. The computers, provided by education and We are currently organisational development offering more will also mean than 10 locally people can use the e-learning developed courses and e-learning library and courses. information services. Project facilitator

Daniel Evans, from education and organisation development, said: “These computers will allow staff to complete a broad range of mandatory and nonmandatory training using e-learning, as well as use information from the library, including e-books and e-journals. This will be of particular use to staff who don’t normally have access to a computer in their workplace. “We are currently offering more than 10 locally developed e-learning courses, including safeguarding children, fire and information governance as well as many more, including a national diabetes safety suite of e-learning courses. “There are many benefits of e-learning including the fact that people can learn at

their own pace, can use online quizzes and assessments and learn at a time when it suits them.” For support and to find out more about e-learning contact elearning@nth.nhs.uk

Anthem | August/September 2014 15

Thank to our vo

The trust said thank you to its volunteers and retired members at a very special event held in the Tees Restaurant at the University Hospital of North Tees. Our army of volunteers give up their time to help support patients and staff and we are very fortunate that many have supported the trust for a number of years. We also welcomed many new volunteers to the event. Nearly 200 people filled the room to enjoy a beautifully presented, delicious high tea, served by our dedicated

16 Anthem | Issue 35

k you olunteers

catering team. The entertainment from the trust’s choir got everyone on their feet and was a fantastic end to an evening enjoyed by all. Chairman Paul Garvin said: “It is excellent for me as chairman to say a formal thank you to our volunteers. It is important that we recognise how dedicated our volunteers are. The work they do makes such a difference to staff, patients and visitors and we are very grateful for their efforts.� Thank you to our catering team for serving the excellent food and everyone who made the event a success.

Anthem | August/September 2014 17

Leaving party for Nick Staff dressed assistant director for integrated services Nick McDonaugh in this make-shift nurses outfit as they wished him goodbye and good luck at his leaving party at Mandale House in Hartlepool. Nick, who was very popular with staff, is continuing his career at another health trust in Cumbria.

Staff on the trauma ward with a mascot from hand gel provider Gojo

Remember to wash your hands The infection prevention and control team were out on the wards again this year to raise awareness during hand hygiene week. The campaign is part of World Health Organisation global hand hygiene campaign – Save Lives: Clean Your Hands. The infection prevention and control team visited wards across the University Hospital of North Tees and the University Hospital of Hartlepool, giving out hand gels and observing whether people were following hand hygiene guidelines. Assistant matron for infection, prevention and control Debra Jenkins said: “Staff and visitors must always ensure they clean their hands with gel or with soap and water before and after having contact with a patient. “Patients also have an important role to play in 18 Anthem | Issue 35

regularly cleaning their hands and always doing so before and after entering or leaving a ward. “If you look at the reducing number of hospital related infections over the last few years, it is clear we are continuing to improve. “But we must continue to do more so that we can reduce the risk to patients and be able to offer the best environment for patients. “Ever since this campaign first started we have been behind it – awareness campaigns are vital because they make people realise what a difference they can make.” Everyone can do their bit to help prevent the spread of infection, including by avoiding touching wounds, limiting clutter around patients’ bedsides, visitors not sitting on patients’ beds and visitors not coming into hospital if they have an illness such as a cold.

New day case unit opens at University Hospital of Hartlepool The first patient treated at the University Hospital of Hartlepool’s new day case unit officially opened the unit. The Trust invited John Richmond and his wife Gillian to open the new unit, which is located where the critical care unit was based before being centralised at the University Hospital of North Tees. The 16 bed unit is for the treatment of patients who need minor operations which do not involve having to stay in hospital overnight. Great care has A ribbon cutting been taken ceremony to ensure was held the comfort in the unit with of patients. doctors, nurses, manager and visitors. Mr Richmond, 62, from Ingleby Barwick, was the first patient to be treated in the unit, where he received a minor operation to his knee after a referral from his GP. He said: “I was delighted and honoured to be asked to open the unit. “I found the whole experience from the moment I arrived to the moment I left to be excellent. “Staff made me feel comfortable and explained clearly what

would be happening. I found the whole set up to be extremely professional and every member of staff on the unit was wonderfully helpful.” Clinical director of anaesthetic and critical care, Narayanan Suresh, who is in charge of the unit, said: “This unit will provide patients with care during the day and will allow them to go home following their procedure. It will allow patients to receive their treatment in a way that involves minimal disruption for them and will also help us manage patient flow from our other wards. “There is also the advantage of the unit being located next to theatres, meaning patients can be transferred easily into the day case unit and allowing staff from both units to work side by side.” The unit is an open space with beds, chairs and a communal area for patients. Chair of NHS Hartlepool and Stockton-on-Tees Clinical Commissioning Group Boleslaw Posmyk, who attend the opening, said: “The new day case unit at the University Hospital of Hartlepool is a very impressive area. Great care has been taken to ensure the comfort of patients. The unit will enable the team to provide excellent care for our patients.”

John (left) with chairman Paul Garvin, Narayanan Suresh and guests

Best of Health award winners

The chemotherapy day unit staff with Mail deputy editor Gavin Foster

Congratulations to staff who were nominated, shortlisted or who won an award at the Hartlepool Mail Best of Health awards. Many of our staff were able to attend an evening of celebrations at Hardwick Hall, where health professionals from across Hartlepool were recognised. Congratulations to all of our staff who picked up awards or who were shortlisted. They were: Pharmacist of the year Peter Burrell was shortlisted

Receptionist of the year Laurence Herdman was shortlisted Nurse of the year - Specialist nurse, organ donation, Clare Fletcher won this award and Sue Lennard from the early pregnancy advisory clinic was shortlisted Midwife of the year - Sharon Gowans won and Karen Stevens, Vicki Brown and AnneMarie Jones were shortlisted

Team of the year - the Phoenix Centre community nurses, the chemotherapy and haematology day unit and the community stroke team were all shortlisted Long term achievement award - diabetes nurse Lisa Doughty won this award Special recognition award - the chemotherapy and haematology day unit won this award

Sharon Gowans

Boleslaw Posmyk, chair of the Hartlepool and Stockton Clinical Commissioning Group, with Lisa Doughty

George Clarke, site manager with Seneca Homes, presents Clare Fletcher with her award Anthem | August 2014 19

A day on the unit for new manager Clinical director for integrated care services Linda Watson spent the day with staff and patients in the Holdforth Unit which recently moved under her charge. She used the day to get to know staff, see at first hand how the unit is organised and to speak to patients about their We want experience in to keep the unit. continuing Linda to improve (pictured, right) said: the care “From the we provide. start of May the Holdforth Unit moved under the integrated care services directorate. “This was an opportunity to get to know the staff and to speak to patients about what they like and don’t like about the unit. “This is a unit that has only been open for a few months and, though feedback has been very positive, we want to keep continuing to improve the care we provide.” The unit provides care for frail and elderly patients from Hartlepool and the surrounding area who need rehabilitation after being treated at the University Hospital of North Tees. The unit offers 24 hour care and is equipped with a gym so that patients can work with physiotherapists.

20 Anthem | Issue 35

From left to right: Staff nurse Samantha Davies, Debbie Bryan, Cher and Arlia and sister Denise Carr

Family donates to neonatal unit as thanks for baby’s care Grateful parents whose newborn baby had innovative new treatment at the neonatal unit at the University Hospital of North Tees have raised money for the unit. Cher Griffiths visited staff in the unit recently to donate more than £1,000 as thanks for the care given to her daughter Arlia. Cher, 30, and her husband Wayne, 37, who live in The ward and Hartburn, held team were a barbeque with family and amazing and friends to help we wanted to raise the funds. do something Arlia was given to thank a new treatment on the unit known them. as cooling. The treatment, which lowers the temperature of the body, is used for babies whose brains have been deprived of oxygen during birth and has been shown to lower the risk of any brain damage. Cher said: “Arlia arrived kicking and screaming but it quickly became clear she needed some extra care and attention. She was taken to the neonatal unit straight from the delivery room and stayed in

intensive care for what proved to be the hardest four days of our lives. “After ten days of intensive treatment on the ward we were over the moon to finally get the all clear and get her in our arms and take her home and we haven’t stopped cuddling her since. “Whilst those ten days were indescribably difficult we know how lucky we are to have had such a positive outcome. The ward and team were amazing and we wanted to do something to thank them, but what do you possibly give a team of people who gave you your daughter back? We therefore decided to raise some money to donate back to the ward in Arlia’s name to thank them for the amazing work they do and help them to continue their amazing work in the future.” Cooling involves laying the baby on a mattress filled with fluid which helps lower the temperature of a baby’s body from the normal 37C to 33.5C. Ward matron Debbie Bryan said: “We would like to thank Cher and Wayne and all of their family and friends who helped raise this money for the unit, we are very grateful. “Arlia was one of the first babies on the unit to receive cooling treatment and we are delighted to see her now looking so happy and healthy.”

A boost for speech and language in schools A programme to help boost children’s language development in schools has already shown to be a real success for a school in Hartlepool. West View Primary School in Davison Drive is one of the schools whose staff have completed the training needed to deliver Talk Boost to their children. In the space of just a few weeks the school has seen real progress with the children involved. Talk Boost is a catch up programme, developed by the children’s communication charity I CAN and The Communication Trust, which has been shown to produce great results in schools. Research has shown that Talk Boost This is the can boost

best training programme I have ever used.

children’s communication by up to 18 months. The programme can be used with groups of children in reception, year one or year two once the teacher and teaching assistant have been trained. Two of the trust’s speech and language therapists Kate Cummings and Alison Thompson are both qualified to deliver the training that staff need to run Talk Boost in their school. Kate said: “The programme aims to give children’s language skills a boost and can make them a lot more confident to talk in class. “Each session includes activities that cover the key elements of language, including

A Talk Boost class

Kate (far left) talks to Jacqui and Michelle

attention and listening, vocabulary, building sentences, telling stories and conversation. We’ve found that teachers and teaching assistants will love the resources, and all of the sessions are planned out ready to use with the children. “It’s a fantastic programme and encourages parents and carers to support the language activities through a family workbook which the children take home. “I have recently been to visit West View Primary School and it is lovely to see the progress children have made thanks to Talk Boost.” Teaching assistant Jacqui Robinson said: “This is the best intervention programme I have ever used. It really has made a

real difference. “The children who have been coming to the Talk Boost group are more confident, more willing to speak up and put their hands up in classes and wanting to be involved.” Teacher Michelle Ellis added: “When the children involved in the group join back up with their regular classes you can see the difference in them straight away. They are having conversations with the other children and feel more a part of the class. I would definitely recommend this training to other schools and we would be more than happy for any school to visit us to see Talk Boost in action.” Find out more about Talk Boost by visiting www.talkboost.org.uk

Leslie’s family join him in sim suite Sim-man Leslie and his baby daughter Daisy were the first members to join the trust’s simulation suite when it opened last year – but he is delighted to have welcomed some new family members. Leslie’s wife Noelle, five-yearold son George and newborns Molly and Harry have been

introduced to the suite recently. The new family members will mean junior medics who train at the suite will be able to experience a wider variety of different scenarios. This training is designed to help prepare them for the real thing, improve their skills, increase confidence in difficult situations and improve patient safety. Anthem | August/September 2014 21

Research funded by breast cancer victim gets national recognition Research at the trust which has been funded by a charity named after a Hartlepool breast cancer victim has received national recognition. The research was paid for by the Kay Smith Fund, a charity set up by the woman of that name from the Dyke House area of Hartlepool who created it while she was battling the disease. Kay sadly died in January 2006 after a year-long battle against breast cancer. The research investigated whether cell growth is linked with breast cancers that produce a protein called

mammaglobin. A total of 80 patients who have had surgery for either benign reasons or for malignant breast cancer were randomly selected, after giving consent to be involved. Specialist biomedical scientist Naomi Whiteoak (pictured, far

left) has been selected to talk about her research work, at the prestigious European Congress of Pathology in London on Sunday 31 August. Naomi carried out the research as an extension of a previous study done at the trust by

I am excited to have been invited to talk about this research

clinical research scientist Liz Baker and senior biomedical scientist Louise Hall. As a result of this work it could be possible for some breast cancers to be diagnosed by a blood test, rather than an invasive tissue needle core biopsy in the future. Naomi said: “The charity that Kay set up while she was battling breast cancer has helped fund important research at the trust, the latest of which I have been a part of. The trust can never thank her and her family enough for this incredibly important contribution. “I am excited to have been invited to talk about this research at this conference at the end of the month. As a result of this work it could be possible for some breast cancers to be diagnosed by a blood test.” The Kay Smith Fund has also helped fund the recruitment of a child bereavement counsellor at Hartlepool and District Hospice.

Naomi (left) with Louise Hall and Liz Baker

Highlighting equality and diversity Expert speakers held discussions with an audience of guests as part of equality and diversity day. The event, held in the boardroom at the University Hospital of Hartlepool, started with a presentation by assistant director of nursing and professional standards Debbie Blackwood and senior nurse in professional standards Claire Wong who spoke about the 6Cs – a set of fundamental nursing values. Community dementia nurse Jane Hayllar and community 22 Anthem | Issue 35

dementia occupational therapist Joanne Sims then spoke about the importance of dementia friends in helping people understand what it is like to have dementia. In the afternoon chaplain Dave Russon talked about how the chaplaincy team work with families. This was followed by talks from a range of speakers about supporting patients with sensory loss, including from Wendy Harrison from Hartlepool Deaf Centre and quality assurance nurse Sue Hoare-Leather.

Staff take on army medic challenge A team of staff from physiotherapy were the winners of a military event which tested health staff from across the region in their medical, leadership and team building skills. Staff from 11 health trusts tackled everything from a boat casualty rescue on the River Tyne in Newcastle to helping load a casualty into a helicopter or helping a casualty while under fire, as they took part in Exercise Medical Challenge. Five teams from the trust took part – dietetics, HR, two teams from orthopaedic outpatients and of course physiotherapy who won the event. Organised by the 201 Field Hospital from its barracks in Fenham in Newcastle, the event was set up to test staff in scenarios they are not used to. Healthcare assistant Jane Hebbron, from orthopaedic outpatients at the University Hospital of North Tees, said: “We all had a fantastic time and it was an amazing experience. We have all said we are going to do it again next year. “We were expecting it to be quite physically

demanding but the exercises we did were actually much more about being part of a team and working together in a demanding environment under pressure. “I think we all had to work out of our comfort zone and it certainly gave us a different perspective when we returned to our jobs the next week!” The winning members of the physiotherapy team were: • Steve Carter (team captain) • Andrew Fisher • Chris Tarn • Lauren Spoors • Robyn Sharp • Alan Bolton • Anne-Marie Benson

I think we all had to work out of our comfort zone.

The physiotherapy team

Chief executive Alan Foster is an honorary colonel at the 201 Field Hospital, who are army reservists.

Trust staff who took part Anthem | August/September 2014 23

It’s in the bag! Steven picks up third prize in innovations award Clinical educator Steven Yull was awarded third prize in the innovative technology or device category of the Bright Ideas awards in a glittering ceremony at Gateshead’s Hilton Hotel. The Bright Ideas awards are an annual event and are designed to showcase and celebrate the innovations of people working in or for the NHS in our region.

How the community nursing kitbags came about

Steven said: “After holding a series of ideagenerating workshops, it was identified that there was no standard set of equipment for nursing staff working in the community. Using staff feedback, the ideal bag contents were identified and, with the help of a local manufacturer, a specialised kitbag was Brenda (right) with colleagues Kath and Mary

Brenda remembered by her colleagues and friends The sad news of domestic Brenda Hay’s death in July brought tributes from the colleagues who knew and loved her. Brenda and her colleagues Kath O’Donovan and Mary Allen were nominated in the working behind the scenes category in the Shining Stars awards in 2013. Head of midwifery and children’s service Janet Mackie said: “The cleanliness of the birthing centre is always commented on and much of that was down to the care and attention Brenda gave to ensuring the environment was perfect for the women giving birth there. Brenda, Kath and Mary ensured the birthing pool was clean in line with all the regulations. We very much appreciated the attention to detail because we could be confident everything was safe and ready for the next mum. We’ll remember Brenda for her cheerful attitude and the contribution she made to the birthing centre, the maternity day unit and the assisted reproduction unit. Domestic supervisor Lynne Wintersgill said: “We were all very upset when we heard we’d lost Brenda. You couldn’t wish to meet a lovelier person. She was like one of the family and she’ll be sadly missed.” 24 Anthem | Issue 35

Steven pictured with head of NHS Innovations North Nicola Wesley

designed, prototyped, piloted and then rolled out across the trust. The bag has infection control principles at its heart, is easy to keep clean and can be re-stocked easily and appropriately. “I was delighted to be awarded third place. There were some amazing entries for the awards this year, so the competition was very tough. However no one had done anything as inventive as our kitbags and I’ve had plenty of enquiries from other trusts about how they could make use of our idea.”

Got a Bright Idea? If you are an NHS employee with a new idea, we can help make it a reality!!! NHS Innovations North has a proven track record in the protection and commercialisation of NHS intellectual property, and our experienced team can help you evaluate, protect and exploit your Bright Ideas, leading to their adoption and widespread dissemination, to help to improve patient care and generate wealth for both the NHS and the region as a whole. Our activities include... • identifying and assessing new ideas and technologies • evaluating the novelty, potential market and clinical benefits of an idea or technology • protecting and managing intellectual property assets • developing and progressing strategies for developing healthcare products and services For further information on how we can help you please contact: enquiries@nhsinnovationsnorth.org.uk

Norman recognised for services to hospital radio The Hospital Broadcasting Association has recognised Radio Stitch volunteer Norman Johnson for 30 years’ service to hospital broadcasting. Norman, a stalwart of the station when it was originally set up as Radio North Tees, is currently presenting Thanks for the Memories – music and memories covering six decades, which is broadcast at 2pm on Thursdays. Station manager Marcus Summerfield said: “People like Norman are the backbone of any hospital radio station. Thirty years is an amazing achievement and we’re pleased and proud that Norman has been recognised for the contribution he has made and continues to make to the station and the life of the trust.”

You can find out more at www.radiostitch.co.uk. Patients can listen to Radio Stitch on channel one on the Hospedia bedside entertainment system.

New role in adult safeguarding team Jenny Duthie has joined the trust’s adult safeguarding team in a new role as a domestic abuse link worker.

Doreen (centre) surrounded by friends and colleagues

Doreen Armstrong bids farewell Staff from x-ray at the University Hospital of Hartlepool wished Doreen Armstrong a happy retirement. Doreen was a radiographer at the University Hospital of Hartlepool for 36 years and started out as a student radiographer in 1974. She has been invaluable to providing ultrasound services within the community in Thorpe Hospital and Peterlee Community Hospital and was involved in providing ultrasound scans for the trusts infertility

service since it’s inception. Ultrasound manager Brian Allen said “I’d like to thank Doreen for all her service over the years. She has been a great asset to the team and I wish her a long, healthy and very happy retirement.” Doreen said “I’d like to thank everyone who came to celebrate my retirement. I’ve enjoyed my time working here immensely and could not have done it without everyone’s support, I’ve had a great team to work with and I’ll miss them all dreadfully.”

She has come on a 12 month secondment from domestic violence charity, Harbour, where she has been supporting high risk victims of abuse over the last seven years. Jenny’s role at the trust is to look at key areas within the trust (acute and community) and identify what is happening and what is in place regarding domestic abuse and advise on any gaps and future training needs for staff. She will also be focusing on assisting with the completion of a policy and pathway for the trust. She is planning to speak to as many staff as she can, raising awareness of her role and offering information in concourse areas at both hospitals. Jenny said: “I am not going to be working directly with patients. I will be offering advice and guidance to staff about how they can support patients and recognise the signs and implications of domestic abuse. Staff are invited to contact me if they want any further or specific advice in relation to domestic abuse.” Staff can contact her by calling (01429 5)22746 or 07973 186642 or by emailing jenny.duthie@nth.nhs.uk or Jennifer.duthie1@nhs.net

One good visit deserves another After non executive director Steve Hall spent some time out on home visits with district nurse Anne Horsfield, Steve returned the favour and invited Anne to a board of directors’ meeting. Steve said: “As a non executive director with a particular interest in quality and patient experience I like to get around the trust as much as I can to see for myself the services and care our staff are providing. It was very illuminating to accompany Anne on her visits, to see the great work she and her colleagues are doing taking such good care of patients and also to hear about the challenges she has to deal with on a day to day basis. I was very grateful to Anne who was kind enough to let me shadow her and I thought I’d return the favour by

Steve and Anne after the board meeting

asking if she wanted to see the workings of the board at a board of directors’ meeting.” Anne said: “It was excellent that Steve took such an interest in our role as district nurses. I and my colleagues certainly appreciated having a visit and I think it was quite an eye opener for Steve. I

came along to the board not really knowing what to expect but left it with a far greater understanding of where things fit together. Quality is at the top of the board agenda and, as nurses, it’s at the top of our agenda and that was good to see. We are often faced with targets that we don’t fully understand but after my visit to the board meeting I could see where everything fits together and that what happens at the board directly relates to what’s happening on the front line.” Board of directors’ meeting are held in public and the next one will take place at the University Hospital of Hartlepool at 1pm on Thursday 11 September. Space is limited so please book a place by contacting the private office on 01642 624060.

Jenny Duthie Anthem | August/September 2014 25

American experience helps UK specialists Professor of paediatrics from Michigan USA Steve Donn was once again a guest of Teesside’s neonatologists recently. Following a very well received lecture in 2013, he once again returned to the lecture theatre at the University Hospital of North Tees this summer to talk about medical, liability, risk management and quality of care in the highly specialised field of obstetrics, baby and child health.

Clinical director for paediatrics Jagat Jani, consultant neonatologist Samir Gupta, medical director David Emerton, retired neonatologist Sunil Sinha, Steve Donn and consultant neonatologists Win Tin, Sundaram Janakiraman and Chidambara Harikumar, community paediatrician Kameshwar Singh and consultant neonatologist Bernd Reichart

Steve told the audience that, of all doctors, those working in this area were the most likely to be sued in the USA during their career which resulted in doctors’ indemnity (insurance) being a third as much again than for a doctor not working in these areas. He said much could be addressed by doctors and the organisations they work for identifying the risks attached to caring for these very vulnerable young patients and putting arrangements in place to minimise them as far as possible. Much can be achieved, he said, by doctors being aware of the risks, communicating effectively with families and documenting care thoroughly and carefully. However he also described the obvious challenges of looking after small or sick babies; simply that they

cannot speak for themselves, they are totally dependent on others and Steve’s the illnesses lectures they have are always give relatively rare. us food for Consultant neonatologist thought. Samir Gupta, who hosted the visit, said: “It was a pleasure to welcome Steve back to the trust and to also welcome colleagues past and present from our neighbouring trust’s neonatal unit. “Steve’s lectures always give us food for thought and results in a lot of questions and discussions. It’s a privilege for us to have such an internationally renowned clinician as Steve here on Teesside. I know he admires our work and our commitment to providing the highest quality care possible to premature and sick newborns and their families.”

Good practice shared at regional event Durham’s Ramside Hall Hotel was the venue for a regional NHS good practice event recently. Trusts from the North East were invited to submit their posters to showcase at the North East Transformation System’s annual good practice event and, if selected, their posters would be displayed in a regional sharing and learning event. The trust was selected to display three good practice posters. Assistant director for nursing and professional standards Debbie Blackwood showed her poster about the trust’s unique approach to compassion in practice (the 6 Cs), clinical educator Steven Yull presented the community kitbag, developed along with nurses working in 26 Anthem | Issue 35

the community to ensure they always have a well-stocked and standard kit bag when visiting patients in their homes and specialist registrar in acute medicine Nadia Stock presented a poster about the trust’s leading edge simulation suite which is being used to train doctors, nurses and other health professionals to deal with patient scenarios they may encounter. Service change manager Lindsey Wallace, who co-ordinated the trust’s poster entries, said: “It was excellent to have three of our areas of good practice on display at the event. It says something about the NHS in the North East that we have events like this where we can share what we’re doing and learn from others. We saw lots of good practice from other

Left to right clinical educator Cate Small, Debbie Blackwood, Steven Yull, Nadia Stock and Lindsey Wallace

trusts as well and we brought back some ideas to make further improvements to care for our patients.”

Edna (centre) with League of Friends members and with staff

A little help from our Friends The walls of two new children’s therapy rooms have been creatively decorated thanks to money raised by the League of Friends. Volunteers who work at the charity’s coffee shop at the University Hospital of North Tees raised £1,900 for the new rooms. The money was used to commission professional local artist Stephen Robson who came up with a design and spent several tireless hours in the rooms with his paint brushes. The rooms have recently been opened in the Tatchell Centre at the University Hospital of North Tees as part of the relocation of the trust’s physiotherapy services. League of Friends secretary Edna Anderson said: “We heard that the service was being moved and we wanted to help. The children’s rooms were in need of some decorating so this seemed the best way to make use of the money we have raised. The artist we have used has done a fantastic job – it looks really bright and interesting and I am sure children will enjoy it. “Every penny that we raise from the shop goes back in to helping further improve patient care at

the trust and, as we have done for many years, we will continue to help as much as we can.” Clinical team leader of physiotherapy Denise Jones said: “The therapy staff would like thank the League

of Friends for making such a fantastic and generous donation to the service. “These two rooms look beautiful - we have already received very nice comments from children who have had treatment

The artist we have used has done a fantastic job.

here. The rooms provide an atmosphere which is pleasant and comfortable for children.” The League of Friends, which is as old as the NHS itself, raises thousands of pounds every year for services across the trust.

Anthem | August/September 2014 27

Small Won improveme sick babies Peggy with ward staff

Alan chats to Peggy

Peggy gets VIP treatment

The neonatal unit at the University Hospital of North Tees has lauched a new initiative called Small Wonders which aims to help parents play a much bigger part in the care of their tiny or sick baby. Small Wonders has been devised by the charity Best Beginnings whose aims are to give every child in the UK the healthiest start in life. Small Wonders aims to support parents to be at the cornerstone of their baby’s When a baby care in ways that are shown to arrives earlier than improve health outcomes for babies expected or is and wellbeing of parents. Strong evidence suggests that increasing sick, parents often parental involvement reduces infection feel helpless. rates, developmental outcomes and improves bonding. Specialist midwife in infant feeding Diane Hudson said: “When a baby arrives earlier than expected or is sick, parents often feel helpless and coming into a neonatal unit with all its technology can be frightening. “Best Beginnings have produced a Small Wonders information pack with a DVD and guidebook to tell mothers what to expect and we’ll be giving a copy of the pack to all mothers whose babies are admitted to the neonatal unit. Pregnant women whose baby we anticipate may be admitted to the unit, will also be receiving a copy of the pack so they are well prepared if this should happen.”

Chief executive Alan Foster called into ward 39 to offer his congratulations to patient Peggy Allen from Seaton Carew who was awarded an MBE for services to the community. Mrs Allen who was originally from Brighton, was recognised for her lifelong dedication and service to the church, the Women’s Fellowship and the community. Alan Foster said: “It was privilege for me to meet Peggy and it was lovely of the staff on ward 39 to organise a cake and flowers for her to congratulate her on her award.” 28 Anthem | Issue 35

A display of the evidence behind Small Wonders

nders brings huge ments for tiny and s

The neonatal team shows its support for Small Wonders

Strong body of evidence “There is now a strong body of evidence showing that skin to skin contact is very beneficial for tiny or sick babies. It can regulate their temperature, calm them and, while skin to skin contact with either parent promotes bonding, mums who are providing breastmilk to feed their babies will find their milk supply improve and begin to produce the antibodies the baby needs.” “We now encourage mothers of tiny and sick babies to begin expressing within six hours of the delivery. The first milk is called colostrum, which like breast milk contains antibodies, protection from infection and is

Baby Benjamin Feighery has some skin to skin contact with dad Kieran watched by mum Amy

There is now a strong body of evidence showing that skin to skin contact is very beneficial for tiny or sick babies.

“As well as myself as a specialist midwife for infant feeding, we have midwives, nurses and doctors who are champions for Small Wonders. We want babies to get the very best start in life and for parents to play a much bigger part in the care of their little ones at this crucial time

because it makes a difference to the health and wellbeing of the whole family. “We’re here to give encouragement, support and to give parents confidence to care for their babies and we’re excited about the difference that introducing the Small Wonders programme into the unit will make.” To find out more about Best Beginnings please visit www.bestbeginnings.org.uk. To see a film of the launch please visit www.nth.nhs/services/neonatal-unit

Baby Alice Carruthers who is now doing well after a long stay in the neonatal unit with her mum Kathryn

Skin to skin for the first time, twins Olivia and Ollie who were born at 31 weeks with their mum Michelle Scott

designed to meet all the baby’s individual needs. When your baby has arrived early or is sick, providing your own milk is the most important thing a mother can do. Many women really value being able to make a difference to their baby’s health and wellbeing during this difficult time.

The very best start

Anthem | August/September 2014 29

Halt it The trust is helping carry out research as part of a national trial which could lead to improvements in care for patients with bleeding in the digestive tract. The Halt it (haemorrhage alleviation with tranexamic acid – intestinal system) research is a study into the effect the medicine has on the health of patients with acute gastrointestinal (GI) bleeding. More than 20 patients who have been treated for acute GI bleeding at the trust have already agreed to take part in the research. Clinical research nurse Debbie Wilson said: “Acute gastrointestinal bleeding can be very serious. Patients who are treated for this most commonly come through accident and emergency at the University Hospital of North Tees, though patients in hospital wards who develop a GI bleed are also still eligible to take part. “The knowledge we already have that tranexamic acid reduces Acute blood loss in surgery and reduces mortality in gastrointestinal traumatic bleeding raises bleeding can the possibility that it be very serious. might also be effective for GI bleeding. “This study is looking into

Research nurses Tracey Johnston, Anne Eastick, Sue Kelsey, Debbie Wilson, consultant in emergency medicine Ignacio Cardona and consultant gastroenterologist Matt Rutter

whether this treatment can help in reducing mortality and morbidity and helping blood transfusion, surgical

intervention and to improve the health of patients.” The trust is one of several across the country who is helping carry out the research.

Survey being rolled out further The national Friends and Family Test is being rolled out to orthopaedic outpatients, main outpatients and the day case unit at the University Hospital of North Tees.

Associate practitioner Cynthia Gibbon, healthcare assistant Emma Howard alongside a patient who completed the questionnaire 30 Anthem | Issue 35

The test is a national initiative which asks patients and visitors whether or not they would recommend the trust to their friends and family. It has already been running in inpatient wards, emergency departments and across maternity services. The test asks how likely are you to recommend our ward or service to friends and family if they needed similar care or treatment?. Patients are given a range of answers to choose from ranging from extremely likely to extremely unlikely, and are give the opportunity to explain their response. Results are published on the NHS Choices website to give patients an idea of the quality of care other patients have received. It is another way for the trust to gain feedback from patients to ensure we provide the best patient experience we possibly can. The trust also gathers patient and visitor feedback in various other ways to help continuously improve services.

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• j ust offer your support to the trust and its services You will have instant access to NHS Discounts once you’re registered and the chance to be entered into a prize draw. If you ask for a membership card you can take advantage of reduced rates in any of our Wilbers coffee outlets. Our membership office is always pleased to hear from people who may be interested in becoming a member of the trust. Anyone who is over the age of 16 can become a member by: •c ontacting the membership office on 01642 383765

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Anthem | August/September 2014 31

Members’

noticeboard Membership cards

Council of eeting governors me of our members whogehneelpral

voic the ors are the ust. Members and hich are tr The govern e sw future of th bserve the meeting shape the o cheduled s to elcome eeting is w m t re x a e n lic b e pu lepool r. Th ber at Hart mes a yea held four ti Thursday 18 Septem l general meeting on nnua to be held ote our a wing the ase also n le p mber follo , te e p g e S lle 8 Co 1 n o e c ke pla will also ta vernors meeting. go f o il c coun

Your trust needs you!

Please help us to recruit new members. We want to increase our me mbership so that we are truly representative of the community we serve and that more pe ople can become involv ed with their local hospital. Please encourage your family and friends to join the trust as a member and sign them up using the attached form, but don’t forget to include your details! Please ret urn completed forms to The Membership Office, 4th floor North Wing, North Tees and Hartlepool NHS Foundation Trust, Hardwick Road, Stockt on on Tees, TS19 8PE. We would especially like to hear from anyone aged 16-25 years old as we have a number of potential opportuniti es they could be involved with. You can join by contacting us on membership@nth.nhs.u k, calling 01642 383920 , applying at www.nth.nh s.uk

Member eventsterested are

in anyone who is to take Members and ent scheduled ev xt ne e th nd tre, te at ea to Th d e te ur invi ctober, lect O 18 , ay rd tu or pital of N th place on Sa University Hos , tre en C ld ie tations from Middlef includes presen on and an da en ag e Th . Tees d Stockt – Hartlepool an HealthWatch l. ita sp new ho update on the ed to book free, but you ne e ar ts en ev contact the The se ea pl ore details m r Fo e. ac pl a fice. membership of

32 Anthem | Issue 35

We have launched a me mbership card, which entitles members to sta ff rates at any of the Wilbers Coffee Shop ou tlets at the University Hospital of North Tees or Hartlepool, as well as access to NHS discounts. To obtain your membership card, please contact the membership office on 01642 383920 or membership@nth.nhs.u k.

Board of tings e e m s r o t c e r di ound

eet ar f directors m of the The board o e b rs year. Mem six times a ome to e aff are w lc public and st etings. This is your me d operates observe the ow the boar h e se to chance dge on the hand knowle st fir n ai g d an ts. developmen trust’s latest tings are e e m e th d ten Spaces to at e contact the private leas to limited so p in advance 642 383563 01 f o d ar o b office on t ex place. The n ber at m te p e secure your S 11 eeting is on rsity directors m at the Unive boardroom e 1pm in th Hartlepool. Hospital of

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