Celebrating 10 years of the Parkinson’s Advanced Symptoms Unit
Nurses raise £10,000 to support lung cancer patients and their families
These
patients have received the same level of care in their own homes thanks to our amazing community teams and other partners.
Dear reader,
Welcome to the latest edition of Talking Point.
So far we have had a very busy winter period across our services at University Hospitals Tees. I want to thank our staff for everything they have done to support and care for our patients and their loved ones, as well of course to patients and our community themselves for supporting us too.
A particularly high spike in flu in our community has been an added factor this year – but I am pleased to say we have continued to serve patients and adapt and improve our services so we can continue moving forward.
The launch of our care coordination centre has been a real example of this. In just a few months, the team has had hundreds of discussions with patients being cared for at home where hospital admission was the original intention. These patients have received the same level of care in their own homes thanks to our amazing community teams and other partners. Thanks to the hard work of medical staff and community teams we have been helping keep patients at home where they feel most comfortable and have a better recovery.
In this magazine, you will find details about our how national cancer charity Maggie’s has joined forces with the Trinity
Holistic Centre in the grounds of James Cook, at the invitation of University Hospitals Tees. I was lucky enough to attend a celebratory event – as I said at the time, I am delighted they are now on site. I know since being there, they have been a vital service in offering practical, emotional and psychological care and support to so many affected by cancer.
You will also find stories about a mum of two’s career journey in our mortuary service, how a dad’s life was saved from severe brain damage and how a young woman has moved from being a hospital volunteer into a career in our radiology department.
There are also details about all of the winners of our special Allied Healthcare Professionals Day Awards from an amazing 100 nominations received.
And there is also plenty of news about innovations and team successes across our hospitals and community services in the Tees Valley, County Durham and North Yorkshire.
Please do share positive stories with us and we will look to include these in future issues.
Thanks for reading.
Stacey Hunter
CHIEF EXECUTIVE
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Maternity support worker recognised for improving care in North Yorkshire
BECKY Eason, a maternity support worker at Friarage Hospital, has been awarded a Chief Midwifery Officer (CMidO) Maternity Support Worker Award for her outstanding contribution to maternity services in North Yorkshire.
The CMidO Awards recognise exceptional midwives and maternity support workers across England who demonstrate excellence, innovation, and dedication to patient care. All nominations are reviewed and approved by senior NHS England colleagues.
Becky was nominated under the category ‘Commitment to Quality of Care’ for her dedication to improving patient care and her proactive approach to addressing unmet healthcare needs in the local community.
Becky identified a gap in local community care after discovering smoking cessation services were not available for pregnant women in North Yorkshire, despite being offered in Middlesbrough.
Determined to ensure all women receive the same level of care, she trained and launched the service in Northallerton.
Since January 2024, Becky has helped 15 women deliver smoke-free babies and is supporting a further eight, with postnatal follow-up to sustain longterm health benefits.
She also introduced walk-andtalk sessions locally, previously unavailable in North Yorkshire, giving pregnant women and young families opportunities to improve physical and mental wellbeing.
In addition to her public health initiatives, Becky works across Friarage and James Cook, providing antenatal and postnatal support, newborn screening, glucose tolerance testing, and wider multidisciplinary care.
Becky said: “All women using our maternity services, whether at the Friarage or James Cook, should be
receiving the same services for better outcomes of care.
“Addiction is a very hard process. People assume that being pregnant is enough to stop smoking, but for some this is a real challenge and being able to support them to overcome this and congratulate them on their successes is a great part of my role.”
Becky was presented her award by Dr Tracey Cooper MBE, regional chief midwife for the North East and Yorkshire, during a visit to the Friarage Maternity Centre.
Tracey said: “Becky’s commitment to
improving care is evident in everything she does. Her work to introduce smoking cessation and walk-and-talk services has made a real difference to women and families. This award is thoroughly deserved.”
Lynne Staite, University Hospitals Tees’ head of midwifery, who also joined Becky at the award presentation said: “Becky is an asset to our team. She goes above and beyond every day to ensure women receive the best care, and it is wonderful to see her recognised for her dedication.”
Reflecting on her achievement, Becky added: “I was overwhelmed with the award, it is so nice to feel appreciated in any role you do, but to have your work get noticed is a lovely feeling and I am very grateful for my supportive team and this nomination.”
Lynne Staite, University Hospitals Tees’ head of midwifery, Becky Easton and Clare McMann, Friarage Maternity Centre manager (left to right)
“I never knew a trip to ASDA would save my life”
WHAT do you expect from a trip to your local supermarket? Maybe some groceries or home essentials.
But for hundreds of Teessiders like Leslie, it has also saved their life from a fatal condition that is responsible for more than 30,000 deaths per year in the UK.
Thanks to a pioneering screening programme, more than 360 lung cancers have been detected in Teesside in the past three years – with 77% of them being diagnosed at stage one and two.
The Tees Valley Lung Cancer Screening programme invites past and current smokers, aged 55 to 74, to get their lungs checked for free at mobile units across specific supermarket car parks in Teesside.
Since its launch in 2022, more than 79,561 invitations have been sent to eligible individuals as it aims to improve the early diagnosis of lung cancer.
One of those was sent to 75 year old Leslie McCaffrey, who smoked 40 cigarettes a day since he was 13 but quit twenty years ago.
In late July 2024, the Guisborough resident received a letter inviting him to attend a lung cancer screening at an ASDA car park in Skelton.
He said: “Although I had no symptoms of lung cancer, it was a no-brainer to attend the clinic.”
Leslie underwent a CT scan at his appointment at the car park on a Sunday afternoon, which took as little as ten minutes.
A week later, he received a phone call from the medical team, who informed him that they had detected an anomaly in his scan.
He was asked to attend an urgent appointment at James Cook for a medical check-up.
Following further enhanced tests, Leslie was diagnosed with stage 3 lung cancer and underwent lifesaving treatment. As he awaits the results of his treatments, Leslie added:
“If not for the programme, I think my condition would have worsened, where things could have gone very wrong. I never knew that a trip to ASDA would save my life.
“I would urge anyone who is invited to the programme to please attend, as this could potentially save your life.”
Jonathan Ferguson, lung cancer surgeon and clinical lead for the NHS lung cancer screening programme, said: “Lung cancer is the largest cause of cancer deaths in Tees Valley for both men and women. I would encourage all who are offered an appointment to accept, and I’d also encourage all families to persuade relatives who receive an invitation to contact us.”
Jessica Ainsley, lung cancer nurse specialist, added: “The lung screening programme has completely changed the lives of many patients on Teesside. We have been given an opportunity to screen and diagnose lung cancers earlier, and for lots of people, that is giving them a second chance at life.”
Leslie McCaffrey and lung cancer nurse specialist Jessica Ainsley
Celebrating 10 years of the Parkinson’s advanced symptoms unit
OUR Parkinson’s advanced symptoms unit (PASU) recently celebrated 10 years of supporting people living with Parkinson’s and their families.
Since opening in 2015 at Redcar Hospital, the service has grown into an award-winning and highly regarded model of care, supporting around 3,000 patients through the most complex stages of their condition.
From the outset, PASU was established with a clear aim: to provide rapid access to specialist support for people with advanced Parkinson’s who are at high risk of hospital admission or longterm nursing care. A decade on, that ambition continues to shape everything the service does.
Sue Palfreeman, Parkinson’s specialist nurse, said: “Over the last decade, PASU has brought together a truly multidisciplinary team, enabling patients to be seen by consultants, Parkinson’s nurses, a consultant pharmacist, highly specialist occupational therapists and physiotherapists, a physiotherapy assistant and a community mental health nurse.
“This joined-up approach ensures both physical and mental health needs are addressed in a timely and coordinated way.”
At the forefront of innovation in Parkinson’s care
Thanks to PASU, patients with complex cognitive symptoms, including visual hallucinations and paranoia, are now able to access specialist treatments such as clozapine.
Care is delivered flexibly, with patients seen either in clinic or in their own homes, supported by personalised action plans designed to improve symptoms and reduce carer strain. PASU also focuses on preventing crisis. By targeting key drivers of emergency
admissions, such as falls, declining mobility, dementia and hallucinations, and carrying out comprehensive medication reviews at every visit.
This proactive approach has helped reduce hospital admissions and shorten lengths of stay.
Going from strength to strength
Recent years have seen further expansion with the launch of the Parkinson’s Outreach Advanced Community Therapy (PROACT) team, supported by a two-year Parkinson’s UK pump-priming grant. This has enabled even more care to be delivered in patients’ homes, strengthening support for both patients and carers.
PASU’s impact has been recognised nationally, including winning the Big Ideas for Better Health Award. The unit also functions as a centre of excellence, providing training and advice to health professionals across the region.
Reflecting on the milestone, Sue added: “Being part of PASU over the last 10 years has been incredibly special. I’m so proud of our team and the difference we’ve made by working together to support patients and families at some of the most challenging times in their lives.”
As PASU looks to the future, its commitment to innovation, compassion and patient-centred care remains as strong as ever.
The PASU team celebrating their 10-year anniversary
Improving dementia care across the Tees Valley
UNIVERSITY Hospitals Tees was delighted to host internationally renowned dementia expert Teepa Snow in Middlesbrough for the second year in a row.
Charities, carers and medical staff across University Hospitals Tees attended the ‘improving dementia care skills event’ at Middlesbrough Football Club organised by the University Hospitals Tees events team.
The one-day skills course provided hands-on strategies and methods for
interacting with individuals living with dementia.
Teepa shared valuable advice on how to protect individuals’ safety, how to build a relationship for care and how to provide verbal responses and support to reduce stress.
Anna Wilson, dementia care lead at University Hospitals Tees, said: “982,000 people are estimated to be living with dementia in the UK and this figure is predicted to rise to over 1.4 million by 2040. It is a devastating disease that touches so many lives and we are doing everything we can to raise awareness and support those people and families living with dementia.
“Teepa brought her positive approach concepts in a hands-on skills day to
help those caring for people with dementia, underpinned by empathy and understanding which provide support to those living with or affected by dementia across the Tees Valley.”
Memorial bauble project brings comfort to patients
THE trust’s specialist palliative care team teamed up with Our Hospitals Charity to offer families the opportunity to light up their trees with personalised memorial baubles.
Each bauble was placed on the Christmas trees at James Cook and the Friarage and contained a feather along with a heartfelt personalised tribute dedicated to a loved one.
Lisa Meehan, fundraising manager for Our Hospitals
Charity said: “By dedicating a bauble, you helped us fill the trees with stories, love, and remembrance, creating a gentle glow for every life that touched ours. Christmas can be a very difficult time for those who have lost someone special, so we hope our memorial trees gave some way in offering comfort.”
Each bauble was £2.50 and all donations went towards helping other families going through similar experiences. A total of £494 was raised from the baubles.
Tracey O’Neill, lead nurse for the specialist palliative care service, said: “The funds
raised will help us to continue the ongoing Dragonfly Scheme where we provide comfort bags to patients, families and carers during their final days of life.
“It will also allow us to provide memory boxes with precious keepsakes for children including books, knitted hearts, worry dolls, pocket hugs and bereavement tokens.”
The specialist palliative care service
Teepa Snow speaking at the event
Staff at the dementia training
Midwives achieve national success for improving maternity care
INSPIRATIONAL midwives from Teesside have been recognised for their commitment to improving maternity care for patients and their families.
Clinical midwife Afshan Ali from University Hospitals Tees received the Iolanthe/Royal College of Midwives Jean Davies Award for her commitment to addressing health inequalities.
Afshan, who is also a part-time midwifery lecturer at Teesside University, is on a mission to make the midwifery curriculum more inclusive, culturally relevant and fair.
The Iolanthe Midwifery Trust (IMT) is a registered charity dedicated to enhancing the care provided to patients, babies and their families. It funds midwives and student midwives engaged in innovative and inclusive projects, with grants and fellowships to support midwifery education, practice, and research.
The funding received from the Jean Davies Award will help Afshan and her co-applicant Susan Holbourn on the development and delivery of structured equality, diversity, and inclusion (EDI) training for midwifery academic staff.
Afshan said: “Being a midwife is part of your identity… it’s a calling and I love being an advocate for my patients and supporting them and their families.
“It is a privilege to receive the award in honour of inspirational trustee, midwife and researcher Jean Davies, whose focus throughout her career was to help families experiencing social and economic disadvantage in her home region of the North East of England, and we would like to do the same.
“Being South Asian and working within the field I can see some of the systemic, national and local challenges faced by midwives.
“Our goal is to create a more inclusive curriculum that acknowledges diverse methods of care and empowers midwives across the region to understand and respect the diverse needs of the populations they serve, which will ultimately lead to better health outcomes for patients and their families.”
Deborah Bezance, labour ward manager at James Cook, said: “Congratulations to Afshan on this well-deserved recognition. Her dedication to tackling health inequalities is not only inspiring but truly transformative.
“Her work is a powerful reminder of the difference compassionate, equitable care can make in the lives of so many. Everyone on the central delivery suite is incredibly proud of all she has achieved.”
Improving local services
Emma-Bliss Harding, also received an Iolanthe Midwifery Trust Student Award for her commitment to improving local services.
She said: “I am over the moon to have been awarded the Iolanthe student award which will aid in providing students, midwives and midwifery lecturers much needed education in how to better care for and support global majority maternity patients and babies and help build a better understanding into the health disparities that they face.”
Emma-Bliss Harding (pictured right) with her award
Afshan Ali (pictured right) with her award
Stockton mum shares her career journey working in a hospital mortuary
A mortuary worker is climbing the ladder in her dream career, as she progresses into her new role while balancing being a mum of two young children.
SHAUNNA Cahillane, from Roseworth, began her NHS career aged 23 at the University Hospital of North Tees working as a healthcare assistant in endoscopy. After a tour of the hospital’s mortuary piqued her interest, she took a chance and applied for job in a trainee position.
“I’ve been here almost 10 years now and I’ve never looked back. I don’t think there’s anything else I’d ever want to do.”
Shaunna has worked in the department for almost 10 years now, working through her qualifications to progress in her career, most recently by completing her Level 4 Diploma in Healthcare Science qualification.
Working across University Hospitals Tees’ four main hospital sites, her role sees her caring for patients after death, performing post-mortem examinations, supporting patients’ loved ones with viewings and liaising with funeral directors to continue care after hospital.
Shaunna said: “There’s a lot of care and compassion in this job. Our patients might not know, but they are getting the care and dignity that they deserve, just as they would have in life.
“Some days are especially tough, but just knowing that our patients are safe and comfortable – that carries on with us after death – it gives me a real sense of pride.
Shaunna’s new qualification sees her taking on more complex post-mortem cases and responsibilities in managing the mortuaries at the University Hospital of North Tees and The James Cook University Hospital.
Neil Wdowikowski, mortuary manager, said: “Shaunna’s qualification is really well deserved. Shaunna always shows high levels of care and compassion to patients and their relatives, having on many occasions, gone above and beyond to assist in making what is often one of the worst times in a person’s life as supportive and empathetic as possible.
“Professionally, Shaunna stands out in both skill and knowledge and, I dare to say, is an ambassador for anatomical pathology technologists everywhere.”
I’ve been here almost 10 years now and I’ve never looked back. I don’t think there’s anything else I’d ever want to do.
Maggie’s joins forces with Trinity Holistic Centre
People living with cancer, as well as family and friends, can now access free expert cancer support in Middlesbrough.
NATIONAL cancer charity Maggie’s has joined forces with the Trinity Holistic Centre in the grounds of James Cook, at the invitation of University Hospitals Tees.
Maggie’s marked the moment with a celebratory event where guests included Maggie’s chief executive Dame Laura Lee, DBE, chair of Maggie’s Stuart Gulliver, and University Hospitals Tees chief executive Stacey Hunter.
Dame Laura Lee, DBE, said: “Bringing our support to Middlesbrough has been made possible thanks to the NHS, Our Hospitals Charity, Carlton Power and the Wainstones Hotel. I am so grateful to everyone who has made this happen.”
Growing need
Stuart Gulliver said: “With the number of people receiving a cancer diagnosis set to grow even further over the next decade, the need for Maggie’s is even more important –we are on a mission to ensure that everyone impacted by cancer in the UK can access the emotional and practical support they need.”
Maggie’s expert support will benefit people like Rachel Hanley, from Middlesbrough, who is living with secondary breast cancer and currently supported by Maggie’s in Newcastle.
Rachel said: “After my stage 4 diagnosis in 2017, I found a safe space in Maggie’s Newcastle. The expertise and support I received from the team is second to none. Joining a facilitated support group for others going through the same was very comforting and reassuring.
“Newcastle is quite far from where I live, so to have a Maggie’s in Middlesbrough will be an absolute lifeline. I look forward to making connections to others in my community.”
The charity has joined forces with the Trinity Holistic Centre and will now deliver Maggie’s expert psychological, emotional and practical support to people with cancer, as well as family and friends, across the University Hospitals Tees area.
University Hospitals Tees CEO Stacey Hunter said: “Special thanks to everyone who has fundraised for and supported the Trinity Holistic Centre over the years. We hope you will all join us in welcoming Maggie’s to the Middlesbrough centre as they look to continue and expand this fantastic support service.”
Maggie’s Middlesbrough Centre head Michelle Holmes added: “Maggie’s expert support is vital in helping people to live well with cancer and I know how desperately this is needed in Middlesbrough and the surrounding area.”
Maggie’s CEO Dame Laura Lee, DBE, Maggie’s chair Stuart Gulliver, University Hospitals Tees CEO Stacey Hunter and Rob Harrison, interim chief executive of Newcastle upon Tyne Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust (and former South Tees director) (left to right)
Hospital group celebrates AHP workforce at special event
University Hospitals Tees celebrated its incredible allied health professionals (AHPs) workforce to mark their outstanding contributions to local communities.
THE AHP Day Awards, which were held at the Riverside Stadium in Middlesbrough, honoured AHPs who regularly go above and beyond their roles.
AHPs are healthcare professionals who provide diagnostic, therapeutic, and rehabilitative services in various healthcare settings and are the third largest clinical workforce in health and care.
More than 100 nominations were received for a diverse range of categories for the prestigious awards.
Occupational therapist Sharon Barker received the Group Chief AHP Outstanding AHP Award of the Year.
Her achievements were part of a wider project in expanding the development of occupational therapy in critical care, from a single member to an established team helping critically ill patients relive their lives at James Cook.
Occupational therapists like Sharon play a crucial role in assessing and treating patients’ physical, cognitive and psychological needs to improve their functional independence and quality of life.
Sharon said: “It was a real privilege to be nominated with such an amazing group of AHPs. I feel really honoured as it was totally unexpected.
“I would also like to thank the people with whom I work daily and to everyone who has supported me throughout my career.”
Emma Nunez, group chief nursing officer, said: “It was an honour to present the awards to our first-ever University Hospitals Tees AHP Awards.
“I know the valuable contributions each one of our AHPs make every day and reading through the nominations reaffirms my belief in the importance of their roles.
“Congratulations to all the winners and those nominated but also, I would like to take this opportunity to thank every AHP who is on the wards and out in our communities – treating, rehabilitating and improving the lives of patients.”
AHP-themed Dragon’s Den
Besides the glittery awards event, a special AHP-themed Dragon’s Den event was also held, where AHPs pitched their innovative ideas to the senior leadership team of University Hospitals Tees.
The best winning ideas were offered extensive support and guidance to further develop the plans, with the sole purpose of improving the care of patients in hospitals.
Occupational therapist Sharon Barker received the Group Chief AHP Outstanding AHP Award of the Year
Other AHP award winners
Senior specialist physiotherapist Linda Furness - AHP Research Award
The paediatric occupational therapy services at West Acklam CentreAHP Innovation and Improvement Award
Radiology CPD team - AHP Clinical Educator Award
Head of occupational therapy Christina Hartley - AHP Leadership in Equality, Inclusion and Diversity Award
Advanced practice reporting radiographers - AHP Workforce Transformation Award
Katie Hill - The Group Chief AHP Outstanding AHP Support Worker Award
Dietitian Deborah Green - AHP Greener Award
Hambleton and Richmond outpatient physiotherapy team - AHP Digital Award
Dad’s life saved from the cusp of severe brain damage after family’s quick thinking
An NHS worker is urging people to be aware of a condition that can cause severe brain damage if not treated quickly – after her dad was on the cusp of losing his life.
CLAIRE Lambert, a clerical officer at the University Hospital of Hartlepool, received a distressing call from her mum after her dad Thomas Lambert collapsed at the local bus stop in the early morning.
Thomas, 79, was quickly helped by locals and managed to reach home. Thinking his morning dizziness was just a sign of being tired, he went to sleep.
“My dad only had an hour left for his life”
When asked by Claire, Thomas described the episode as a ‘funny spell’ and thought he needed more sleep. But when Claire spotted that her dad’s hand had become stiff, she immediately called NHS 111.
Thomas was blue lighted to University Hospital of North Tees, where he was assessed by the stroke team.
They determined that Thomas had suffered a right total anterior circulation stroke due to blockage from a blood clot. Without treatment within a four-and-a-half-hour window, Thomas was at risk of severe brain damage which could cause paralysis.
Thomas said: “I am so grateful to the doctors, nurses, consultants and stroke teams at University Hospitals Tees, as I know they rushed to see me when I arrived and made me and my family understand how little time I had for my life to be saved.”
The team quickly administered thrombolysis – a medical treatment using “clot-busting” drugs to dissolve blood clots and restore blood flow. Thomas was then urgently sent to James Cook to undergo mechanical thrombectomy to remove the clot.
Dr George Thomas, consultant in stroke medicine at James Cook, explains: “It has been a decade since this revolutionary procedure was introduced. We get the best results in the six hours from when a stroke starts.”
Dr Sarah Whitehouse, consultant in stroke and geriatric medicine at the University Hospital of North Tees, continued: “Luckily, Thomas’s family quickly recognised his stroke symptoms and took appropriate action by calling for an ambulance.
“Due to this, it was suitable for both our acute stroke treatments – thrombolysis and thrombectomy.”
The Lambert family (left to right): Clerical officer Claire, dad Thomas, mum Maureen and brother Neil
Volunteer following in her father’s footsteps into a dream career
A volunteer from Stockton is preparing to take her first steps into her dream career – after being inspired by her father and his love for the job.
ZEPHORA Cabaluna, 21, had been volunteering at the University Hospital of North Tees since January 2025 and has now successfully secured a role as a radiography assistant at The James Cook University Hospital.
Her father is a qualified radiographer and his passion for the profession left a lasting impression on her. Determined to follow in his footsteps, she reached out to the volunteering team, who managed to place her within radiography.
Zephora said: “I had seen first hand how rewarding my dad finds a career in healthcare and it has been inspiring.
“Volunteering was a great way to get my foot in the door and to get an idea of what the role would entail before going down a more formal training route.”
During her time volunteering, Zephora assisted radiology staff by preparing rooms for appointments, ensuring there was a safe working environment for patients and staff and helping wherever she could.
After successfully applying for a radiography assistant role, Zephora recognises the experience from volunteering
helped her to make her first steps into the career.
She said: “Everyone within radiology at North Tees has been amazing – I’m so grateful for their guidance and support. Volunteering has truly changed my life and I wouldn’t be where I am now without the support of the team”
Zephora hopes to continue to progress in her new role and hopes to gain deeper insight into the profession and eventually pursue an apprenticeship or university degree.
She added: “I want to help people and be like my dad – to make a difference and have a career that is meaningful and rewarding. I’m excited to start this new chapter.”
Volunteer with us
To find out more about volunteering at Stockton or Hartlepool, visit our websites:
• North Tees and Hartlepool: www.nth.nhs.uk
• South Tees Hospitals: www.southtees.nhs.uk
Zephora Cabaluna
Hospital charity donates £72,000 to improve patient care for heart patients
CRITICALLY ill patients undergoing major heart operations in Teesside will benefit from improved post-operative care thanks to new state-of-the-art equipment.
The cardiothoracic critical care unit at James Cook has received a brandnew £72,000 echo machine with transoesophageal probe thanks to a generous donation from the South Cleveland Heart Fund.
The machine will provide clearer images of the heart as the ultrasound probe is placed directly into the oesophagus, offering advanced views of heart structures, including the valves and the aorta.
It will also help to detect blood clots and heart defects and play a crucial role in supporting clinicians to carry out real-time monitoring during heart operations for critically ill patients.
The South Cleveland Heart Fund is run entirely by volunteers who host regular
fundraising campaigns to provide essential support to patients and their families receiving care in the heart unit at James Cook as well as helping to purchase vital medical equipment.
Adrian Davies, chairman of the South Cleveland Heart Fund said: “We are delighted to have been able to provide this state-of-the-art piece of equipment to enhance excellent postoperative care in our cardiothoracic intensive unit.
“Our aim is to help keep the heart unit at the leading edge of patient care and thanks to so many generous donations, we have been able to do. Thank you to everyone who has contributed to our fundraising campaigns so far, your support really does make a difference.”
Adrian presented the new machine to specialist cardiothoracic anaesthesia and critical care consultants, Dr Mahesh Balakrishnan and Dr Jonathan Brand, who work within the cardiothoracic critical care unit at James Cook.
Dr Jonathan Brand, clinical director of the critical care unit said: “We are incredibly grateful to the South Cleveland Heart Fund. The addition of the echo machine with transoesophageal probe will significantly enhance our ability to deliver timely, accurate, and life-saving care to critically ill patients in the cardiothoracic critical care unit.
“It represents not only a leap forward in diagnostic capability, but a powerful reminder of the impact that meaningful partnerships can have on patient outcomes and clinical development.”
Dr Adrian Davies, Dr Jonathan Brand and Dr Mahesh Balakrishnan with members of the South Cleveland Heart Fund committee with the new machine outside CICU
REALLY, you’re smoking on our hospital sites?
“REALLY, you’re smoking on our hospital sites?” - Is the new campaign slogan adopted by a hospital’s smokefree team as they set out to encourage people not to smoke on hospital sites and to be more considerate.
The tobacco dependency treatment service (TDTS) at James Cook and the Friarage, who offer inpatients support to quit, reduce or abstain from smoking, has rolled out a new campaign that forces people to have a rethink before they pull out a cigarette on hospital grounds.
The campaign will include going out to schools to share the message of the harmful effects of smoking and handing out ‘Really’ goodie bags with information on how to quit smoking in hospitals.
Moreover, the team has installed tannoy systems across hospital sites that are most frequented by inpatient smokers.
The messages will include heartfelt pleas from the children of NHS staff members, school children and ex-smokers.
Lauren Farrow, TDTS manager, said: “This is a harsh reality with no sugarcoating to it, as we have come across instances where inpatients have been smoking in and around hospitals, including the maternity entrance where pregnant mums come to attend their appointments.
“But as a smokefree team, we understand that smoking is an addiction, and we have a range of ways in which we can support patients and their families, to ensure that other patients and visitors can expect a smokefree site.”
“Please would you not smoke on our hospital sites”
The team recently visited Linthorpe Community Primary School, where enthusiastic school children recorded voice messages that will be played across the new tannoy systems.
One such student was year six pupil, Eibhlin, who said: “I want people to stop smoking because my uncle suffered from cancer. He had some of his lung taken out because of this but now he is better. I want to raise awareness so that nobody else has to suffer.”
Headteacher Grace Mitchell said: “As part of our commitment to promoting the health and wellbeing of our pupils, staff, and wider community, we are proud to support the ‘Really’ campaign and the wider Stoptober planning.
“The messages that you will hear over the tannoys are from the voices of some of our wonderful pupils, some of whom have been affected directly by smoking.”
Lauren added: “Our ‘Really’ campaign is a humorous way of sharing an important message to let people know that it’s not acceptable to smoke on our hospital sites. But also letting them know that we are here to support them.”
School children with the smokefree team
Hospital hosts Christmas celebration for neonatal graduates
FESTIVE cheer filled James Cook as staff from the neonatal unit hosted a special Christmas party for former patients and their families.
Around 170 families attended the celebration for children who had been born premature or sick and had spent some time on the neonatal unit at James Cook.
Families enjoyed Christmas music, festive crafts, soft play and sensory sessions.
Food and drinks were also provided throughout the afternoon, thanks to Our Hospitals Charity, creating a relaxed space for families to come
together and reconnect with staff.
Santa also made a very special appearance and handed out presents to every child.
Neonatal nurse consultant Lynne Paterson said: “We often spend a great deal of time with families while their babies are on the neonatal unit, often supporting them through some very difficult early days.
“During this time, strong bonds are formed as we care for their babies at the very start of life, when they are at their most vulnerable.
“Once families go home, we often think about how they’re doing so it means a lot to welcome them back and to see our graduates thriving.”
Special thanks were given to Our Hospitals Charity for the funding event with support from:
• Teesside Charity Foundation, who donated selection boxes
• Baby Sensory Stockton and The Little Bears Soft Play Hire, who donated their time and services free of charge
• Costa
• The Volunteers’ Coffee Lounge
• And the neonatal team, for helping to make sure it all ran on the day Lynne added: “We are so grateful to all the local businesses and charities who
helped us make our Christmas party so special for those attending. You’re all amazing and managed to put a smile on our babies and parents’ faces.”
Lisa Meehan, Our Hospitals Charity manager, added: “It was a pleasure to fund this incredibly special party. As the official charity for South Tees Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, we regularly see the amazing work our neonatal team do for families in our local community.”
Anyone who would like to donate to Our Hospitals Charity for future parties for the neonatal unit graduates can email stees.ourhospitalscharity@nhs.net
Reuben and Joseph-Archie
Jaycee and Kaycee Gatenby with Santa
Families enjoying the neonatal Christmas party
Patients stay in control of outpatient care thanks to digital portal
THOUSANDS of patients are staying firmly in control of their outpatient appointments thanks to the trust’s Patient Engagement Portal (PEP), a digital service that is transforming how patients receive information, manage appointments and access results.
At the heart of this success are patients like Carole Coupland 60, a self-employed retail sales agent who has used the portal many times for appointments and test results.
“I think it’s great,” said Carole. “In the last few months, I’ve used it a lot and I definitely prefer it to print. It gives you all the information you need on the spot.”
For Carole, the speed and convenience of the portal have made a real difference. She explains: “Normally you’d be waiting for the hospital to write everything up and then post it out. Where I used to live it was quite rural, so that would take even longer. This is so much quicker, for the hospital and for me. I would highly recommend it.”
The Patient Engagement Portal allows patients to receive appointment
reminders and digital outpatient letters directly to their smartphone, tablet or PC via text message from 07860 039 092, email, the DrDoctor portal or notifications in the NHS App.
Patients can also let the trust know if they still need their appointment, helping to reduce unused slots and allowing appointments to be offered to others sooner, ultimately reducing waiting times.
Each week, around 29,000 digital outpatient letters and 29,000 text message reminders are sent through the portal and the NHS App, helping patients manage their care more easily and confidently.
Alongside improving convenience and access to information, this digital approach is also delivering significant environmental benefits.
In 2025 alone, the trust has saved the equivalent of 1,430 trees and reduced its carbon footprint by 34 tonnes of carbon, demonstrating that better patient experience and sustainability can go hand in hand.
Tallulah McCue, outpatient improvement manager, said: “We’re very proud of our Patient Engagement Portal. Feedback from patients like Carole and Alison, shows just how valuable the portal is in giving people greater control, reassurance and flexibility while still ensuring the service remains inclusive and optional for everyone.
“While this is a fantastic achievement, we know digital communication isn’t for everyone. That’s why the Patient Engagement Portal is entirely optional. For patients we don’t have a mobile number for, those who have opted out, or anyone who hasn’t viewed their digital letter within 48 hours, a paper copy is automatically posted.”
Digital programme manager Jay Garrett and outpatient improvement manager Tallulah McCue
Have your say on how AI is used in NHS X-ray departments
CONSULTANT musculoskeletal radiologist Maya Jafari is calling on the public and health professionals to have their say on how AI (artificial intelligence) imaging is used to read and report on medical scans.
With funding support from Our Hospitals Charity and the support of the Academic Centre for Surgery, Maya has developed two surveys.
IMPACT-AI survey
The IMPACT-AI (investigating members of the public awareness, confidence and trust in AI for medical imaging) survey is open to everyone aged 16 and above in the United Kingdom and hopes to gain a better understanding of how the public feels about the use of AI in X-ray departments.
It will explore whether patients would like to be told when an AI system is used to help look at scans, how they would like to be informed and their opinion on how humans and AI can work together to report scans.
The results of the survey will help shape how AI is introduced in NHS X-ray departments in a way that is
ethical, transparent and truly centred around patients.
Maya is also calling on imaging professionals to have their say in an international survey.
INTERACT
survey
The INTERACT (investigating interactions between AI and clinicians in tech-supported reporting of imaging) survey is open to health professionals across the globe who use AI to report medical imaging. This includes, radiologists, radiographers, nuclear medicine physicians, sonographers and cardiologists. The results will help identify areas where more training and research may be needed and how AI can safely support decision making.
She said: “Public voice is essential in shaping how we use AI in the NHS. By understanding how staff use AI now,
we can make sure the right training, support and safety checks are in place for the future.
“By taking part in the surveys, you can help shape how technology and people work together in healthcare to make scan reporting quicker, more accurate and trustworthy.”
Charity support
Lisa Meehan, fundraising manager for Our Hospitals Charity, said: “We are delighted to have been able to support Maya and the wider Academic Centre for Surgery team with the development of the two surveys.
“They will provide a crucial opportunity for our patients, colleagues, and wider community to have their voice heard on a national and international level and help to shape the future of our healthcare services.”
Have your say – scan the QR codes below for more information
Lucksy Kottam, Maya Jafari and Natalie Clark (left to right)
Nurse urges women to get checked after breast cancer diagnosis
A NURSE is urging women to get their unusual symptoms checked after receiving her own devastating breast cancer diagnosis.
In 2016, alcohol care team lead Jessica Beck found an unusual lump in her left breast while showering.
Following tests and medical investigations, Jessica was diagnosed with stage 3b grade 2 breast cancer. When Jessica, now 48, was told she had breast cancer, she was ‘devastated’.
The first question she asked her breast nurse was “am I going to die?”
She said: “My children were aged nine and four years at the time. Being so young, I felt that I was alone, as we always associate breast cancer with women over 50.”
According to a study, most women are unaware of breast cancer symptoms beyond a lump, with less awareness of other signs such as nipple discharge, skin thickening and changes in breast size or shape.
This was the same problem faced by Jessica, as she was unaware of the other symptoms of breast cancer.
The Guisborough resident
underwent intense chemotherapy for six months and a mastectomy, a surgical procedure to remove her left breast and the cancerous lymph nodes in her breast.
Jessica then went on to have three weeks of radiotherapy, followed by her ovaries being removed – as a precaution due to the extent of her cancer.
The treatment did not end here as she had her breast removed and a double breast reconstruction in 2017.
She said: “The initial fallout of such a diagnosis and gruelling treatment regimens can turn your world upside down, but I had a good support network with family, friends and the breast team.
“I made a promise to myself that breast cancer would not define me or dictate my life.”
Jessica has made significant progress in her health and is now urging women and men to get their symptoms checked.
She added: “Never ignore any signs or symptoms of breast cancer, know your body and see your GP with any change. Early detection saves lives.
“To all those affected, it doesn’t just affect you physically and emotionally, but it also drains your mental health. Once you have gone through treatment, you will look back and realise that it was all worth it to be here to enjoy life with your children, family and friends.”
Jessica has also fundraised around £1,000 participating in the Pretty Muddy event in aid of Cancer Research UK.
Breast clinical nurse specialist at James Cook, Charlotte Day said: “It is inspiring to learn more about Jessica’s journey, and I would like to thank her for sharing her story.
“It is vital for individuals to come forward as soon as they suspect something is wrong and contact their GPs.
“I would also urge women who get their invite for a breast screening to go without fail as early detection of cancers results in better treatment outcomes.”
Jessica Beck and Charlotte Day (left to right)
Inspirational nurses raise £10,000 to support lung cancer patients and their families
AN inspirational team of lung cancer nurses have raised more than £10,000 to help bring people affected by lung cancer together.
The lung cancer nursing team recently launched support groups across Middlesbrough and Northallerton to give people with a lung cancer diagnosis, a safe space to connect with others.
The ‘lungs and life’ group runs twice a month and is open to patients diagnosed or treated for lung cancer at James Cook or Friarage as well as their families and carers.
This was all made possible after the specialist lung cancer nursing team organised a charity ball which saw them raise over £10,000.
The ball, which was held at Gisborough Hall Hotel, included welcome drinks, a three-course meal, entertainment and a charity auction with donations from lots of local businesses, patients, public and staff working across University Hospitals Tees.
The money raised was split evenly
between Macmillan Cancer Support and Our Hospitals Charity; the fundraising arm of South Tees Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust.
The money donated to Our Hospitals Charity helped to fund the ‘lungs and life’ support group for patients being treated or diagnosed at James Cook and the Friarage.
Macmillan lung cancer nurse specialist, Jessica Ainsley said: “We were keen to
create a support group for our patients and their families and thanks to the generous donations raised at the ball and the support from Our Hospitals Charity, we were able to launch ‘lungs and life’.
“The groups provide a safe space for people to connect with others who have a similar diagnosis, be supported by the lung cancer nursing team, and be educated by guest speakers on a range of relevant topics including legal issues, lung cancer education and accessing Macmillan support.”
Lisa Meehan, fundraising manager for Our Hospitals Charity, said: “From the money raised from the ball, we have been able to support them with the launch of the ‘lungs and life’ support groups which allows people affected by lung cancer to come together to share their stories and experiences and receive specialist support and advice.”
The money allocated to Macmillan Cancer Support will help the team continue to provide emotional, financial and physical support to cancer patients, their families and Macmillan professionals from initial diagnosis, including weekly support sessions, kindness calls and being at the end of the phone.
Inspirational lung cancer team at the lung cancer charity ball
Lung cancer team with their donation to Our Hospitals Charity
“Impressed would be an understatement”
For anyone who struggles to leave their home without support, at-home health services can be a lifeline.
This is something that Derek Brown, who cares for his wife Margaret, knows only too well.
Specsavers is committed to ensuring that everyone has access to essential eye-health and hearing care – but also understands that it’s not always easy for people like Margaret, who suffers from Alzheimer’s disease, to attend in-store appointments.
That’s why, for the past ten years, Specsavers Home Visits has provided comprehensive NHS-funded eye tests to anyone who’s unable to visit a store unaccompanied. It’s also started to provide free at-home hearing services in selected locations in the UK.
Derek called on the Specsavers Home Visits service when Margaret needed a routine eye test and it was too challenging to get to a store. He was blown away by the expert care that was delivered during the visit and the difference the new glasses made to his wife.
Although Margaret wasn’t able to respond to the questions of the optician and their assistant, during the visit, they adapted their approach so they could prescribe the reading glasses that have expanded her world.
“If I was to say I was amazed, that would be an understatement,” says Derek. “What was so significant for me as a full-time carer was that the Specsavers experts were punctual, quiet-speaking and patient, reassuring Margaret with everything they did. The level of care expressed towards her was incredible.”
Derek, from Northallerton in North Yorkshire, has been the primary carer for Margaret, since her diagnosis with
Why Choose Specsavers Home Visits?
• Convenience: Our experts come directly to you.
• Personalised Care: Visits are tailored to the individual’s needs, with specialist equipment to ensure comfort and accuracy.
• Peace of Mind: Your loved one will receive the same kind of highquality care as they would expect in-store.
Alzheimer’s in early 2018. After she spent four weeks in hospital in 2022, Margaret’s condition deteriorated, and she has since been confined to a hospital bed in the couple’s living room, and a hoist to access a wheelchair. With multiple other health challenges, caring for Margaret is complex – but after 25 years of love and marriage Derek has risen to the challenge. As well as taking care of her everyday needs, he’s been able to improve her quality of life thanks to Specsavers at-home service.
Following her at-home eye test, the optician suggested Margaret tried some reading glasses to help her enjoy looking at family photos.
Derek was unsure how she would adapt to wearing glasses but seeing her smile while looking at old family pictures told him everything he needed to know.
“If anyone is in any doubt about inviting Specsavers into their home, all I can say is: simply try it,” Derek says. “You won’t regret it for a second.”
Derek now fights for better support and recognition for carers nationwide, and has launched a website (www.dementiaguidance.co.uk) dedicated to helping carers like him across the UK. He’s keen to ensure they have all the information they need – including the option of getting a comprehensive at-home eye test from Specsavers.
Expert eye and hearing care tailored to your needs
For those eligible, our mobile experts will provide a comprehensive NHSfunded eye test from the comfort of your own home, with all the same care and thoroughness as you would receive in-store. Specsavers has now also started to roll out free at-home hearing services across the UK. To find out what locations this service is available in visit our website.
Our eye care and hearing services are tailored to each person and their needs. They are designed to provide eye care and hearing services that are as individual as they are and can be adapted to meet their changing circumstances and comfort levels.
To see if you or your loved one are eligible, call 0800 0890144 or visit specsavers.co.uk/home-visits
Advertising opportunities available in our staff magazines, care directories, and independent living guides
MATTERS
CARE DIRECTORIES
County, City and Borough Council care directories are comprehensive guides to nursing care, residential care and independent living support. Created for individuals and their families exploring the possibility of moving to nursing/ residential care or seeking advice and support to continue living independently at home.
Hospital at Home: supporting patients in their own
NHS STAFF MAGAZINES
NHS publications are circulated throughout hospitals to staff, patients and visitors on a regular basis. Advertising within the publications enables companies to promote their services to NHS employees and are an excellent way to Increase their customer base within this very targeted audience.
OPTIONS CARE AND INDEPENDENT LIVING GUIDES
Options provides older people with important information from health organisations such as CQC, ICB and the NHS. Circulated through various healthcare professionals including Council social work teams, NHS hospital discharge, community nurses, and various age related charities.
