breathe Restoring Balance by Suzanne Wylie page 3 World Health Day, “Our planet, our health” page 9 International Nurses Day page 12
Register for AXA and THRIVE webinars page 15
APR/MAY 22 #4
hello from the wellbeing team! Are you looking for ways to improve your health and wellbeing? Would you like to find out what services are available to you as a Government of Jersey employee?
Assessments are conducted within the workplace. You'll be advised ahead of Ben’s visit on how to book your place. You’ll also have the opportunity to get lifestyle support and advice.
Look no further... we'll be bringing you this every month in your wellbeing magazine.
You can also register on the AXA Health Gateway and check your health age and access a range of tools and resources to help you improve your health age!
You’ll also hear from colleagues across the organisation on what wellbeing means to them. Know your Numbers Health Assessment
These are free, confidential 15-minute health assessments provided by AXA Physiologist, Ben Williams, that include the following checks: • • • • • •
height weight waist circumference blood pressure blood glucose cholesterol
You’ll be asked, where possible, to fast for four hours (excluding water) prior to your assessment.
Concerned about your health? You can call Health at Hand on 0800 003 004. This is a confidential telephone service, provided by AXA Health, which is available 24/7, 365 days a year for you and your immediate family.
Contact us Rob Dimsdale, Interim OD Business Partner for Wellbeing E: r.dimsdale@gov.je Olivia Gill, Wellbeing Consultant E: o.gill2@gov.je T: 01534 440248 Luana Esteves, Wellbeing Assistant E: l.esteves@gov.je T: 01534 440410 Ben Williams, AXA Physiologist E: ben.williams@axahealth.co.uk
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Restoring Balance
By Suzanne Wylie CEO Government of Jersey
I’m delighted to write a short piece for breathe on one of my passions for life and work - wellbeing. For me, this is about finding a way of constantly restoring equilibrium (a state of balance between forces) in our lives which counterbalances the pressures of work and everyday life challenges and chores, with pleasure and joy, fresh air and nature. A way of reenergising. I arrived in Jersey six weeks ago now from Belfast, coming ahead of my husband and two wonderful dogs, Bode (Golden Retriever) and Raffi (German Shepherd) who arrive in late March. It’s been pretty full on, getting to grips with the job, meeting entirely new people, setting up a new home and finding my way around the Island. Of course, like many changes in life, it could all become a bit overwhelming if I didn’t find ways to re-establish that equilibrium. It will be easier of course, when I have my dogs here as they are such a de-stressor and I love nothing more than to walk them on the beach – what happy dogs they’re going to be here!
I also believe in building exercise into everyday life and so I cycle in and out of work on my newly purchased electric bike (home is up a fairly steep hill – honestly!). This is a great way to clear your head from all things work on the way home and you feel so much better in the mornings avoiding that traffic. I also love yoga and Body Balance (a mixture of yoga, Tai-Chi and Pilates) which I now do online from the office – after hours of course! This zoom version of exercise, invented during lockdown, really suits me as I just don’t get the time to get to the gym. And then there’s making time for things that give me pleasure – even if that’s only for a short time at the weekend. I’ve had such pleasure making my house a home here, upcycling furniture and seeking out great bargains in the charity shops. And this has meant that I’ve been able to traverse the island, taking in the beautiful scenery and discovering new places. The balance and resilience restored for another challenging week at the office!
Wellbeing… What this means to us
Paul McGinnety
DIRECTOR OF LOCAL SERVICES CUSTOMER & LOCAL SERVICES
When I think about wellbeing the most important factor is balance. We need to always remember that we’re on loan to our organisation from our family and friends and we need to make sure we always look out for each other. Emotional intelligence is key to supporting each other, as is how we conduct our daily business. It really isn’t hard to be nice to people and to have empathy. Personally, I’m very fortunate. I get to work with amazing people every day of the week from all sectors. Having a job that I love really does help my wellbeing. Away from work I’m equally fortunate - I’m blessed with an amazing family and friends. There are a number of factors that support my wellbeing. Having a sense of humour is important, as is allowing time to think and reflect. We’re fortunate to live on such a beautiful island and I enjoy exploring it with my family and our dog Winston which certainly helps my wellbeing. I’m a keen sports fan, but I’m not sure my lifelong support of Newcastle United has aided my wellbeing! I also enjoy watching our son play football and rugby. Having played ice hockey for many years, including at Wembley and also as a GB junior, the old injuries seem to hurt more the older I get! Away from work I love to cook having learnt from my dad who worked at the Ritz. Our daughter also loves to cook, and we often cook together. At work I really enjoy speaking to colleagues who are so passionate about delivering an exemplar service for customers. This inspires me on a daily basis. We’ve seen some amazing resilience during the pandemic, our community spirit has shone through, and people went above and beyond to support each other. I hope we can keep this kindness in the future and support each other’s wellbeing.
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Katie Le Feuvre
HEAD OF ART AND PHOTOGRAPHY AND WELLBEING OFFICER AT GRAINVILLE SCHOOL CHILDREN, YOUNG PEOPLE, EDUCATION AND SKILLS
Educators across the island I’m sure would agree, that to help create a happy, inclusive and inspiring school, we must not only look out for our students, but ourselves and each other as well. You can’t pour from an empty cup after all. Wellbeing for me is not just about going to the gym, taking long walks or baths to unwind (although these are all very useful after a long day’s work) but also the opportunity to feel supported and heard whilst knowing there’s a space for your thoughts to be shared. It always helps to have someone to talk to. I’ve always been very lucky to have a very supportive family and friendship group who are always there for me in that way! Growing up I was an over thinker and often worried about the future. One person who always inspired me to look on the positive side of all situations was my grandmother, Valma. She always said, ‘there’s no point worrying about what might happen, you just have to wait and see what does happen’. Being a busy person, I used to feel guilty and found it hard to stop and make myself take the time to prioritise my wellbeing. However, these wise words have always helped guide me. After the first lock-down I realised how important it was to sometimes stop, do nothing and reassess how I’m feeling. I appreciated why taking this time to ask myself ‘why am I feeling this way?’ and ‘how or what can I do to change this?’ was so important. As a soon-to-be first time Mum I’ve also, now more than ever, understood how important it is for me to look after myself and prioritise my own wellbeing. Taking time for myself to re-charge and unwind has been a vital part of my own self-growth. Now we can all socialise freely again, I think time with family and friends feels so much more important and it will be something I never take for granted again.
Ed Jewell
CHIEF LIBRARIAN, JERSEY LIBRARY CUSTOMER AND LOCAL SERVICES
The Covid-19 pandemic has in some ways felt like a forest fire. Whilst it wrought wide-spread tragedy and disruption, the pandemic also cleared our lives of many day-to-day distractions and gave us an opportunity to reconsider what we truly value. Health and wellbeing came very much to the fore during the lockdowns, as our worlds narrowed, and days lengthened. As one wit on Facebook posted in March 2020, ‘I’m either coming out of this a chunk, a drunk or a hunk’. I’m not suggesting I was entirely successful in avoiding the first two outcomes, but here are my thoughts on how one might at least aim for the third. We need to remember we are physical animals. Despite our best efforts to digitise our lives, we’re still closer to apes than the singularity. Just as the dog needs its walk and the hamster its wheel, we need more than Netflix and Häagen-Dazs. Thirty minutes of moderate to vigorous activity a day has been proven to significantly improve both physical and mental health. To borrow from the Roman poet, Juvenal; “pray for a healthy mind in a healthy body.” We can use routines to create stability. Routines get a bad press, but in a world that can be hectic and unpredictable, there’s something to be said for having recognisable touch points during the day, whether it be the breakfast Wordle, the mid-morning coffee or the evening gym class. The comedian Miranda Hart once spoke about the importance to her of ‘being creative within a framework’, otherwise you just end up with creative chaos. We need to remember this is a marathon, not a sprint and build in plenty of water stations along the way. We need to get outside ourselves. Mindfulness and self-awareness are incredibly important and are at the centre of mental wellbeing. There’s a danger, though, that they become the whole of wellbeing, when in fact their purpose is to help us better relate to the world around us. The pandemic brought home just how important social activities are. Dinner with friends, a walk with my partner, taking part in a choir or a reading group; those moments that take us beyond our inner monologues, introduce us to something new, let us contribute to something greater than ourselves. Even by Zoom these moments are immensely important. As the great E.M. Forster once wrote ‘only connect!’.
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Angela O’Neil
SENIOR OFFICER, STATES OF JERSEY PRISON SERVICE JUSTICE AND HOME AFFAIRS
Wellbeing for me is leading a healthy lifestyle, particularly around my physical and mental health. My role within the prison service is challenging but very rewarding. I ensure I’m compassionate to myself and recognise when I might need some time out. In my role as a Senior Officer, I work with individuals who have been through some difficult times in their lives, so being able to support them and hoping to make a difference makes me feel fulfilled and gives me purpose. Shift work can be challenging. I work long days, night shifts and public holidays, so to me it’s very important that I focus on getting the right work and home life balance, as home life is incredibly important to me as is spending time with those I love. I have a very supportive husband and two daughters who have now both ‘flown the nest’. On my rest days we make the most of this time together and we have a beautiful dog who we take on long walks down to the beach, no matter what the weather conditions are. At the start of this year, my goal was to improve my physical and mental wellbeing as I’ll be celebrating my 50th birthday so it’s important for me to set myself challenges as I get older, so that I maintain a healthy lifestyle, do regular exercise, and look after my mind and body. I’ve always enjoyed running and have taken part in organised races over the years, as well as completing the Jersey marathon a few years ago, which was a fantastic achievement. I also enjoy swimming which I find helps me to relax and reflect, following a day at work. Being physically fit is also a requirement for my role as a Prison Officer. We’re required to complete a fitness test and complete control and restraint refresher training each year, so doing regular exercise helps me maintain my physical capabilities to perform at work. I like to think of myself as an organised individual, but I don’t plan too far ahead. However, I do like to set goals for myself at the start of the year, as I like to look back on what I’ve achieved in both my home and work life. I believe in focusing, nurturing and being grateful for what I have, and not wishing for something I don’t.
ADD TO CALENDAR
Come along to a virtual talk on bowel cancer awareness, hosted by the charity Bowel Cancer UK on WEDNESDAY 6 APRIL at 11am. Lasting around 30-minutes, a volunteer speaker will highlight the following key awareness messages: • • •
signs and symptoms - learn the most common symptoms of bowel cancer risks - gain an awareness of the risk factors associated with bowel cancer bowel screening - learn about the NHS bowel screening programme and the importance of taking part
On Your Feet Britain - Thursday 28 April 2022 This is your chance to get the ball rolling, get active and take a stand with your colleagues. Team up and see how much you can reduce your “sitting time”. It’s FREE to sign up. Simply register here #OnYourFeetBritain #OYF2022. Research shows that regular movement throughout the day leads to: • • • •
better health increased motivation improved concentration and many, many more wellbeing and performance benefits
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7 April 2022
World Health Day
“Our planet, our health”
On this day, the World Health Organisation (WHO) will focus global attention on the urgent actions needed to keep humans and the planet healthy, and foster a movement to create societies focused on wellbeing.
The actions we are taking and how you can get involved The Carbon Neutral Roadmap shows how Jersey aims to get to net-zero emissions. Netzero means reducing our emissions in line with the globally agreed, science-based targets needed to limit global warming to below 1.5°C. Any remaining emissions must be balanced with carbon removal offsets. The policies in the Roadmap have been informed by ideas from all Islanders and the recommendations from the Citizens’ Assembly on Climate Change, as well as the technical evidence and an understanding of what is working well elsewhere.
Jersey’s draft Carbon Neutral Roadmap: There are lots of things we can be doing to get involved. Click here to find out more about the eco active campaigns which include Plastic Free Jersey, sustainable fashion campaign: New2Me, and Turn it off: Energy saving. If you have an idea about a campaign or event you would like to see run, please email ecoactive@gov.je. To find out more, visit gov.je/Environment
We recommend...
brought to you by Mark Brocklesby at Jersey Library, Customer and Local Services
In this issue, Mark has reviewed some wellbeing books that can be found at our very own Jersey Library. Why Has Nobody Told Me This Before? by Julie Smith Everyone has experienced days when they’re dealing with seemingly overwhelming stress, grief, or anxiety, and think to themselves: “how can I pull myself through this?”. In ‘Why Has Nobody Told Me This Before?’, Dr Smith offers a deeper understanding of how your mind works, giving you the insights needed to help nurture your mental health every day. It doesn’t promise that everything will be perfect once you read the book, but rather offers a much more realistic approach. The book is set out in sections so you’re able to pick a section that covers what is challenging you currently. From building resiliency, managing anxiety, dealing with criticism, coping with depression, building self-confidence, to finding motivation. The chapter at the end of each chapter and diagrams throughout the book are a great addition too. It’s an easy read but backed up by evidence from the latest medical research.
Stolen Focus: Why You Can’t Pay Attention by Johann Hari Part of the experience of living in the twenty-first century is the feeling that your attention span is collapsing, along with those of everyone around you. Why have we lost our ability to focus? What are the causes? And, most importantly, how do we get it back? In Stolen Focus, international bestselling author, Johann Hari, sets out on a global investigative journey into our shortening attention spans.
The Comfort Book by Matt Haig The Comfort Book is a collection of stories that suggests new ways of seeing ourselves and the world. Matt Haig's mix of philosophy, memoir and self-reflection builds on the wisdom of philosophers and survivors through the ages, from Marcus Aurelius to Nellie Bly, and Emily Dickinson to James Baldwin. This is the book to pick up when you need the wisdom of a friend, the comfort of a hug or just to celebrate the messy miracle of being alive.
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International Nurses Day 12 May 2022 Kerry Burnett
ONCOLOGY CLINICAL NURSE SPECIALIST HEALTH AND COMMUNITY SERVICES
When and where did you study to become a Nurse?
How do you manage the difficult situations and stresses you're faced with?
I’ve been a Qualified Nurse since 1998. I studied at Robert Gordon University in Aberdeen where I attained a Higher Diploma in Nursing Education Adult Branch. In 2012, I studied at Southampton University, achieving a BSc (Hons) in Clinical Practice. Currently, I’m studying for a MSc in Advanced Practice through Chester University.
If I’m completely honest, it’s taken me some time to juggle the stresses of working in an emotive environment. I haven’t always been the best at selfcare - as nurses we’re great at caring for patients but often not so good at caring for ourselves or each other. However, through the years I’ve learned ‘you cannot pour from an empty cup’. You must take care of yourself and do the things you love away from the demands of work. Having colleagues you can talk to and debrief with is essential for your mental health. I believe laughter, exercise, fresh air and a nice cup of coffee definitely help keep me sane.
Tell us about your career to date From a young age I was always interested in people and as I matured, I always found myself leaning towards caring roles. Nursing seemed a natural progression from my role as a Healthcare Assistant. I came into Oncology / Haematology nursing in 2006, working at Aberdeen Royal Infirmary. I moved to Jersey in 2007 to take up a post as Senior Staff Nurse in JGH Oncology / Haematology unit. I’ve remained in the department, advancing myself both professionally and academically, now work as an Oncology Clinical Nurse Specialist. What do you find most rewarding about your job? For me, working with cancer patients is an honour. When humans are fearful, this is one of the most vulnerable emotions to feel. In my role, I sit with patients and allow them to express themselves without judgement. We have an open and honest rapport and I support them through their cancer treatment. I strive to make myself approachable to patients and families, so they don’t feel alone. I have an instrumental role in assessment and symptom management for this patient group. When I can help patients see the lighter side and laugh or assist patients and families to reach a point of acceptance of the situation, this is when I feel ‘I’ve made a difference to their journey’.
Over the years, nurses’ scope of practice has broadened, advancing their clinical practice. This often means working full time, with family commitments and embarking on further study to advance professionally. It’s a tough ‘gig’. I have huge respect for anyone trying to juggle these demands. What is your greatest achievement? Starting up ‘Friends of Jersey Oncology’ would definitely be up there as one of my proudest achievements. I started the charity in 2012 to support non-states funded equipment and services for the unit. It’s been such a successful little charity; we’ve had huge support from businesses and the Jersey community. It’s about being able to offer support when it’s most needed. We fund wigs, care packs, and end of treatment vouchers for patients to spoil themselves after their chemo. We’ve purchased various equipment for the department, and we’re currently funding the Central Venous Access lines for three years. Please visit our website to read more about the work we do at www.fojo.je.
My Mum and Mental Illness
13 Inspired by Ana-Liza Vieira
Christopher Vieira Income Support Advisor
Customer and Local Services
Debilitating. Helpless. Sadness. The three words my mum chose to use when I asked her to describe herself and what it’s like to live with a mental illness. As her son, these words are still difficult to digest, though the choice comes as no surprise to me at all. My mum was diagnosed with bipolar disorder and schizophrenia when I was two years old, and the adversity caused by this mental illness has enveloped mine and my family’s lives since as far back as I can remember. Sometimes I have days when I wonder what life may have been like if she didn’t have that breakdown triggering the diagnosis all those years ago. Other days I feel angry, and I reflect on irreparable memories asking myself why such a beautiful person had to be struck with this dark cloud that seems to consistently rain. As I navigate life in my thirties, I’m no closer to understanding her illness. What I’m reluctantly coming to terms with, is that this will never go away. As a child I remember wishing, “I hope mum gets better” before blowing out my candles. Now, the only thing I want is for her to be
happy, acknowledging that sadly not all wishes come true. Every time I see my mum, I have to quickly evaluate her facial expressions and body language, even down to the sound of her voice. It’s only when I undertake this rapid study that I know the kind of son she needs me to be in that moment. It’s for these reasons that I’ve always tried to find silver linings. Without the presence of this mental illness and the Sisyphean battle attached to it, I wouldn’t be the empathetic and resilient person I am today. No-one has taught me the true meaning of strength quite like my mum. I’ve watched her endure tremendously challenging relapses and observed in awe the triumph of overcoming each and every one of these. I’m so lucky that through all the dark times, I have a mum that’s become the very light needed to come out of them. She’s so much more than her bipolar disorder; she is strength, and courage, and bravery. I just wish she could see that those three words much better describe the kind of person she is, and so many others like her. Strength. Courage. Bravery.
Mental Health Awareness Week 9-15 May 2022
Flex Positive News Last month we provided some information about Flex Positive, a project that’s making great strides in implementing flexible working across Government. As part of that work, pilots have been trialled within three departments. Pilot groups worked in their teams to design flexibility frameworks that allow greater flexibility around where, when, and how people worked. These frameworks balance individual needs with organisational needs. Feedback was gathered before and after the pilots and it was encouraging to see the dramatic and positive impact that flexible working has on wellbeing and work life balance.
79%* of survey
79%
respondents felt that their wellbeing had improved as a result of the flex positive pilot.
*IHE and T&E only – CLS pilot groups were not asked this question but 68% of employees from these pilot areas were satisfied with their work life balance following the pilot.
Comments revealed that colleagues felt they had: • a better work life balance • an increased ability to engage in hobbies and local community activities • an improved ability to balance family commitments • the ability to undertake sport / fitness activities • the ability to manage work around health issues • Reduced stress and improved mental and physical health • Reduced travel time If you’re a manager looking to implement greater flexibility within your team, you can now sign up to the espresso session on Flexible Working through Virtual College or by contacting odteam@gov.je. If you’d like to know more about the project, search ‘Flexible Working’ on MyStates or contact Jenny Winspear at j.winspear@gov.je.
Events and dates for the diary... 27 April - Developing your mental health toolkit 12pm-1pm Our mental health makes up a significant part of our overall wellbeing and therefore taking care of our mind is just as important as looking after our body. ADD TO CALENDAR
This webinar will help you to build a toolkit, complete with protective factors and life skills. You’ll also learn how to overcome the challenges we face, so that you can have fulfilled and enjoyable lives. This engaging and interactive session will help educate you on mental health and wellbeing, the importance of looking after yourself, identifying some of the stressors we face as part of day-to-day life and most importantly, how to overcome stress through building resilience. Topics covered include: • • • •
what is mental health and wellbeing the ‘five ways to wellbeing’ what is resilience and mindfulness and how we can develop these skills to build your toolkit.
This is a live webinar delivered on Microsoft Teams. Use the calendar icon and join us!
20 May – The power of food 12pm-1pm ADD TO CALENDAR
This webinar goes back to basics to help you eat and drink well for healthier, fitter and more fulfilled lives. Topics covered include: • • • •
the ingredients that go into a healthy diet what nutrients your body needs and why how to create and follow an easy, healthy diet the facts behind common nutrition myths
This is a live webinar delivered on Microsoft Teams. Use the calendar icon and join us!
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Events and dates for the diary continued... THRIVE Webinars and Events Each webinar is led by one of the experienced team with an open Q&A at the end to give you the opportunity to ask them anything. They’ve got amazing guest expert speakers lined up covering a range of exciting topics. BOOK YOUR PLACE
1 April - Understanding Autism - 12pm 7 April - Managers Stress Workshop - 12pm 5 May - Postnatal Depression - 12pm 20 May - Thrive's Live Meditation Session - 12pm Try out the THRIVE app! The app provides you with the tools to manage your mental wellbeing, empowering you to understand your emotions, differentiate between helpful and unhelpful thoughts and be the best you can be. To access the app, download it from App Store, Google Play or the website and use your work email address as the username. The access code is T21201.
27 April Mental Health Awareness Training This training is a four-hour introductory course into mental health and aims to increase knowledge and confidence for line managers. It'll also provide managers with key skills to have mental health conversations with colleagues. onto sign up, visit Virtual College and search for “H&S Mental Health” under Available Events.
17, 18, 24 and 25 May - Mental Health First Aider Training 9am-1pm
Mental Health First Aiders aren't trained counsellors but can listen and connect you to our Employee Assistance Programme provided by AXA, where you can access counselling services online, over the phone, or face-toface. Ideal candidates will be good at listening, non-judgemental, supportive of others and able to stay calm in sometimes challenging situations. Course details and what you need to attend: • delivered via MS Teams over four mornings (participants must be available on each of days) • Work device and personal device (laptop, iPad, smart phone) • Approval from line manager as there’s a £250 cost charged to your department • Department budget code How to apply: Email Wellbeing to express your interest.
breathe reathe
Lighten the Load It is normal to feel stress in our lives from time to time. Stress is our body’s natural fight or flight defence which keeps us safe.
Sometimes stress can become overwhelming. However it’s important to know there are things you can do to manage it.
I think I’m depressed I’m stressed
I’m always worrying
For example: • taking time out • doing an enjoyable activity • doing something that relaxes you • getting out in nature There are always professionals, resources and services you can turn to.
I feel sad I am overwhelmed
I haven’t been eating or sleeping
I feel anxious
Listen to our new podcast, ’Lighten the Load’, a series of episodes talking to a variety of guests about living with and overcoming stress.
To talk to someone call the Listening Lounge: 01534 866793 or visit gov.je/MentalHealthNetwork to find other partners who can support you.
Together, we’re here for you
SeeBREATHE previous issues of breathe here:
breathe
Get the most out of your Employee Assistance Programme, page 2
DEC 21 FIRST EDITION
Bounce Back and Thrive by Cheryl Power, page 3 How to Look after your financial wellbeing with Lloyds Bank, page 8
Dec 21
breathe
JAN 22 #2
E: wellbeing@gov.je AXA Portal Technical Support: 01323 436727 Employee Assistance Programme: 0800 072 7 072 (24/7 support)
Our Community, Our Island: My experience as a RNLI volunteer by Paul Martin, page 3 Concerned about your health? Expert help, anytime of the day from AXA Health, page 2
Cervical Cancer Prevention Week, “It could save your life… like it saved mine”, pages 7-8
Jan 22
Wellbeing Contact Details
Feb/Mar 22
Please get in touch if you would like to share your stories, or have any ideas on what could feature in future issues of Breathe.