This is a space for us to celebrate the incredible work happening every day across The Princess Alexandra Hospital NHS Trust (PAHT).
Inside, you’ll find stories showcasing innovation, improvement, and compassionate care, along with the latest updates from across the trust, or simply a snapshot of daily life here at PAHT.
Our hospital is more than its buildings - it is the people who make a real difference. This magazine is a way to recognise that and to share the progress we are making together.
I hope you enjoy reading and that you see reflected in these pages the pride we all share in being part of PAHT.
Best wishes,
Thom Lafferty, chief executive
A warm welcome
Shine the spotlight on a nurse or midwife who goes the extra mile
Our Butterfly Hub: A haven of comfort
Meet one of our Butterfly Volunteers
The Princess Alexandra Hospital Charity
Community event focused on future of local healthcare
Working together for healthier lives in West Essex
A conversation with... Darshana Bawa, acting chair
Putting personalised care under the microscope: A research first at PAHT
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Shine the spotlight on a nurse or midwife who goes the extra mile
Our nurses and midwives make a difference every single day, and the DAISY Awards® are an opportunity to honour and recognise the outstanding clinical skills and compassionate care they provide.
The DAISY Award® is an international programme that was established by the DAISY Foundation in 1999. The award was created in memory of J. Patrick Barnes to allow patients, families, and colleagues to express gratitude for the significant difference extraordinary nurses and midwives make in people's lives.
Each month, nominations are compiled, and a judging panel selects a winner to receive a DAISY Award®.
The DAISY Award® winner receives a certificate, a hand-carved Healer’s Touch Sculpture from Zimbabwe, a pin badge, a copy of their nomination, a gift bag, and
Our latest DAISY Award® winner is...
Congratulations to our latest DAISY Award® winner, Nikitha Johnny, who is a registered nurse on Winter Ward
cinnamon rolls to share. The winner is then eligible for numerous professional development, education, and wellness benefits.
Now it's your time to recognise a nurse or midwife who has made a real difference.
Is there a nurse or midwife who:
• Has made a real difference to you or a loved one?
• Went the extra mile, or whose compassion and care stood out? If so, you can nominate them for a DAISY Award®.
To find out more and to nominate, visit: www.pah.nhs.uk/DAISY
44 44 55
Patient Advice and Liaison Service
Email: paht.pals@nhs.net
The Princess Alexandra Hospital Charity Email: paht.fundraising@nhs.net Tell us what you enjoy and what you’d like to see in future issues - from patient stories to health tips or behind-the-scenes updates.
Email your ideas to paht.communications@nhs.net - we would love to hear from you.
Nikitha, from Harlow (pictured), was nominated by the relative of a patient for the meticulous and exemplary care she gave to a patient being discharged to a care home. They commented that her dedication, quick thinking and ability to manage a complex situation made a real difference, and that she is a true credit to the team.
Well done, Nikitha – and thank you for showing the very best care.
Nikitha Johnny, receiving her DAISY® Award.
Our Butterfly Hub: A haven of comfort
At some of the most difficult moments in life, finding a place of calm and support can make all the difference. That’s why we have our Butterfly Hub - a warm, welcoming space designed especially for the families and carers of patients nearing the end of their life.
The Butterfly Hub offers a safe, soothing environment away from the busy wards, giving loved ones the chance to take a breath, recharge, and know they’re not alone.
What is the Butterfly Hub?
The Hub is more than just a room - it’s a sanctuary. Here, families and carers can:
• Relax in a quiet, comforting space.
• Refresh and recharge with toilet facilities and a range of refreshments.
• Access information and guidance on the support available for patients and families.
• Speak to our Butterfly Volunteers, who offer a listening ear and emotional support during what can be an overwhelming time.
From the moment you walk in, you’ll notice the difference. Soft lighting, calming colours, and thoughtful touches, like comfy seating and a butterfly theme throughout, make it a truly inviting space. It’s a world away from the clinical environment of the wards,
designed to help families feel cared for and supported.
The Hub is available seven days a week, from 9am to 10pm, and is located on the lower ground floor, in the Blue Zone. The room needs to be booked via the Butterfly Coordinator (weekdays from 7.30am to 3.30pm) or via the site team outside of these hours. Please speak to the nurse in charge to contact the relevant person.
The role of our Butterfly Volunteers
The Butterfly Hub wouldn’t be what it is without the dedication of our Butterfly Volunteer coordinator and Butterfly Volunteers. These compassionate individuals provide emotional support, practical advice, and signpost families to other services. Most importantly, they offer a reassuring presence, reminding families that they are never alone.
Why the Butterfly Hub matters
End-of-life care isn’t just about supporting patients - it’s about supporting families too. The Butterfly Hub helps loved ones find moments of peace during difficult times, ensuring that care extends beyond the bedside.
Want to know more or become a Butterfly Volunteer?
Email Nicki Harris, Butterfly Volunteer coordinator, at nicki.harris1@nhs.net.
It was a traumatic time, but also a time that I look back on and can take as comfort because I had the Butterfly Hub and support from the Butterfly Volunteers.
- patient's relative
Meet one of our Butterfly Volunteers... Tia Davolls
What inspired you to become a Butterfly Volunteer?
It started with a chance conversation with a friend who had cared for her mother-inlaw in the final stages of cancer. She spoke about the incredible support she received from a service like ours and how she couldn’t have managed without it.
I’d been considering volunteering in retirement, and after a quick search, I discovered The Butterfly Service at The Princess Alexandra Hospital. Two and a half years later, I haven’t looked back.
What does a typical day look like for you as a Butterfly Volunteer?
We work two shifts a day, weekdays only, starting with a handover from our Butterfly Coordinator, Nicki Harris. Every visit is different - sometimes the patient is alone, other times with family. Our role includes:
Emotional support - talking, listening, or simply sitting quietly with patients, as hearing is often the last sense to remain.
Practical help - arranging parking, making tea, or giving patients a handmade blanket.
Communication - sharing concerns with staff and signposting families to other services like chaplaincy or PALS.
Family respite - staying with patients so loved ones can take a break.
Sometimes we’re present when a patient dies. You’re never alone - we’re fully supported by Nicki and the team.
What do you find most rewarding about your role?
The privilege of listening to patients’ stories,
their memories, and sometimes their thoughts about life’s final stage. Listening is a gift that should never be underestimated.
How do you think the Butterfly Hub makes a difference for families and carers?
The Hub is a sanctuary for families - a quiet, thoughtful space with practical comforts like a kitchenette and washroom.
Feedback has been overwhelmingly positive, with many families expressing their gratitude.
What would you say to someone who is thinking about becoming a volunteer?
Do it! Speak to Nicki and chat with a Butterfly to learn more. After an interview, DBS checks, and training with a mentor, you’ll be supported every step of the way.
On a practical note, mileage expenses, parking, and lunch is provided. Plus, you’ll join a caring team, with regular meetings, updates, and plenty of tea and biscuits.
It's one of the best decisions I've ever made.
The Princess Alexandra Hospital Charity
Our charity supports our patients, people, and visitors at all of our hospitals.
They provide supplementary support that is beyond the scope of the NHS. With your support, we enhance patient care, purchase special equipment, improve facilities and invest in vital research that supports patients now and into the future.
Stay connected
Follow us on Facebook and Instagram to see the impact of your support, hear inspiring stories, and stay up to date with our latest news and events.
The Princess Alexandra Hospitals Charity
@paht_charity
How you can help
Every donation, big or small, helps us provide the best possible care for everyone who needs it. Together, we’re making a real difference.
Scan the QR code (below) to donate now or visit pah.nhs.uk/charity to explore other ways to get involved.
Charity golf day success
Full Vision, a local signage and branding specialist, raised an incredible £74,523 for The Princess Alexandra Hospital Charity’s Neonatal Unit fund at a golf day held at West Essex Golf Club.
The event marked a milestone of Full Vision’s official partnership with the charity, inspired by director Sam Tanner’s personal experience when his twin daughters received specialist neonatal care at PAH.
Sam said: “The neonatal team cared for our twins when they needed it most. To see so many people come together to support a unit that means so much to us was truly heartwarming.”
Funds will go towards specialist equipment and improved facilities for families.
Natalie Tarrant, head of the PAH Charity, added: “We are so grateful to Full Vision. Events like this not only raise vital funds but also highlight the incredible work of our neonatal team.”
Community event focused on future of local healthcare
Local residents, patients and visitors joined a public meeting recently where future plans for healthcare at our hospital were shared, including key developments at Herts and Essex Hospital in Bishop’s Stortford.
This was an opportunity to hear directly from our senior leaders about:
• Progress on our New Hospital Programme and how our hospital sites will evolve to serve growing local communities
• The impact of the NHS 10-Year Plan on our service
• Our commitment to strengthening patient and public engagement
• Our role within the Hertfordshire and West Essex Integrated Care System
See the selection of photos from the evening (right).
This event was the second meeting in a series organised by our Patient Panel, volunteers representing people who use our services, to improve patient experiences in the future.
Full Vision together with the PAH Charity team and colleagues from the Neonatal Unit.
They support us to engage with local people about how services are expanding and improving, both in our hospitals and within the wider community.
Contact paht.patient.panel@nhs.net to be part of future events, or visit www.pah.nhs.uk to learn more about how to get involved.
Working together for healthier lives in West Essex
The West Essex Health and Care Partnership (WEHCP) brings together local NHS organisations, councils, and voluntary and community groups to help people in our area live longer, healthier lives.
Who’s involved?
• PAHT (partnership host)
• Hertfordshire and West Essex Integrated Care Board
• Essex Partnership University NHS Foundation Trust
• Essex County Council
• Primary Care Networks
• Local district councils
• Healthwatch Essex
• Voluntary partners such as St Clare Hospice and Rainbow Services
Our priorities
• Reducing health inequalities (e.g. childhood obesity and mental health)
• Proactive care close to home, especially for people living with frailty
• Improving urgent care and offering community-based services and virtual hospital care at home
• Reducing waiting times with faster diagnosis and treatment
• Improved children’s services with more proactive and community-based support
• Making the best use of resources – by sharing premises, reviewing contracts and achieving financial balance
What this means for you
• Integrated Neighbourhood Teams
– local health and care staff working together to keep you well at home.
• Care Coordination Centre (CCC) – one point of contact, handling 1,500 calls a week to get people the right support.
Patient story - Care Coordination Centre experience
When Mrs R, who was living with lung cancer, called an ambulance for severe pain, the CCC stepped in.
A senior clinician checked her care plan and arranged immediate pain relief, a community nurse visited the same evening, and St Clare Hospice and her GP were brought in for ongoing support.
The care was excellent, and everyone worked together to give me exactly what I needed.
- Mrs R
A
conversation with... Darshana
Bawa, acting chair
Tell us a little about your background and what led you here?
I qualified as an accountant and spent most of my career as a finance director in the commercial sector.
When I retired two years ago, I wanted to give something back to the community. A non-executive role in the NHS felt perfect, and I was delighted to join PAHT, my local hospital. Earlier this year, I was honoured to be asked to step up as acting chair.
What does a typical day look like for you?
No two days are the same. My role isn’t full-time or operational - it’s about staying objective and remaining independent, supporting good governance, and building strong relationships. I particularly value my walk rounds, which let me hear directly from staff and patients.
How do you support staff wellbeing?
As a staff health and wellbeing guardian, I listen to staff and make sure their voices shape the support we offer. Surveys and conversations matter - no one here should ever feel unheard.
What do you hope every patient feels when they leave PAHT?
Healed - because recovery is about both body and mind.
Who inspires you as a leader?
One of my former bosses gave me my first board role as finance director. He believed in me when others wanted a 'traditional city
type'. His vision, inspiration and ability to listen created a team that achieved so much together as a board. It was truly the most enjoyable 20 years of my working life.
How do you like to relax?
I’m not great at switching off, but I love walking, trying new recipes, spending time with my granddaughter, and watching thrillers.
One fun fact about you?
I’ve got a great sense of humour!
If you had to sum up your vision for PAHT in one sentence?
A safe hospital where patients get the right care, in the right place, from the right people - and where staff feel valued, fulfilled and proud to work.
My role is to champion openness and partnership, ensuring patients and the public are heard and help shape how care is delivered.
Putting personalised care under the microscope: A research first at PAHT
Our commitment to improving patient experience is stronger than ever, and one research project in particular is leading the way.
Meet the researcher: Dr Arjun Kingdon
“I’m a palliative medicine consultant and researcher,” says Dr Kingdon. “My time is split between the specialist palliative care team (SPCT) here at PAHT, the community team at St Clare Hospice, and the PELiCam research group at the University of Cambridge.”
So, what sparked his interest in research?
“It all began during my medical school elective in Kerala, where I carried out a research project. When I joined PAHT, I started the PERSPEX study because I
wanted to understand how we can improve personalised care for hospital inpatients near the end of life.”
What is the significance of the study?
The PERSPEX study, short for personalised care and patient experience, is the first research study sponsored by our research, development and innovation (RD&I) team. That means PAHT isn’t just hosting the research; it’s taking full responsibility for governance and oversight.
“This is a big milestone,” explains Dr Kingdon. “It shows how far PAHT’s RD&I team has come. Sponsoring research is something usually seen in large academic hospitals, so it’s a major achievement for a district general hospital like ours. It also paves the way for more research here in the
What does the study aim to discover?
The study takes an ethnographic approach, which means gathering real-world insights from multiple perspectives, including patients, families, and staff.
“We want to understand what ‘personalised care’ really means to different people,” says Dr Kingdon. “Do patients near the end of life feel they’re receiving it? How important is it to staff? How can it be taught and measured? And what difference does it make to patient experience?”
“Personalised care is a core priority in the NHS Long Term Plan, but it often gets overshadowed by other priorities like safety targets. Our findings could help change that.”
Why is this research so unique?
"Ethnographic studies in hospital palliative care are extremely rare,” says Dr Kingdon.
“As far as I know, this study is one of the first to explore multiple perspectives on personalised care in hospitals like this."
How could this benefit patients and staff?
“If we get this right, the findings could lead to better training for staff, better ways to measure personalised care, and ultimately a better experience for patients,” he says.
“My hope is that it will encourage all of us in healthcare to prioritise personalised care every day.”
A big thank you to participants Recruiting patients near the end of life can be challenging, but Dr Kingdon has been amazed by their generosity with their time. He said: “Many people, even when very unwell, agreed to take part because they wanted to help others in the future. That’s incredibly humbling.”
How can staff and the community get involved?
Many colleagues have already contributed by taking part in interviews or observations. “I’m still recruiting for a short time,” says Dr Kingdon. “If you work on an adult medical or surgical ward and would like to take part, please get in touch.” Visitors and the local community will also see the benefits through improvements in care and by hearing about the study’s findings in local presentations.
What’s next?
Dr Kingdon is already planning his next project, which will analyse Patient Advice and Liaison Service (PALS) feedback about care during the last months of life. “By combining this with insights from PERSPEX, we can get an even deeper understanding of what matters most to patients and families. Thank you to everyone, including patients, families, and staff who have taken part. Your contribution is helping shape the future of care at PAHT," he said.
Want to know more?
Please contact Dr Kingdon directly at arjun.kingdon@nhs.net
