221021 - Chatterbox

Chance to win prizes if you complete staff survey

Prizes available for those who complete their Staff Survey!

The NHS Staff Survey 2022 is now open. Please take the time to have your say.

We want to make our organisation a great place to work for everyone, so please fill your survey in. Just 15 minutes of your time will ensure that the changes we make now and in the future are informed by you.

Prizes are available for individuals and teams who complete their survey including £50 high street vouchers, a spa day for two, a £500 holiday voucher and money to spend on health and wellbeing for your team.

Emily Farla, Specialist Neuro physiotherapist on the stroke and rehab unit, won the spa trip in 2021. Emily, pictured, completed her survey and was contacted by the People and OD team not long after who revealed she was winner of the spa day.

Emily said: I couldn t believe it when I was told I d won the spa trip! It was such a lovely surprise and it’s going to be an amazing treat for me. I am currently on maternity leave so it is booked for the end of October and I’m looking forward to having a nice relaxing day.”

“

The survey took me about 15 minutes to complete. Filling it in gave me the chance to feed back about our workplace and help guide its future which is important to me. I’m really glad I completed the survey last year, not only to support improvements for us within the Trust but I now have an amazing spa trip to look forward to!”

More information about the NHS Staff Survey 2022 is available on the intranet. Share your views on working here, what we are doing well and what you think could be improved.

Thank you to those who have completed their survey

Stop the Pressure Week (14 -18 November) is a pioneering campaign to eliminate avoidable pressure ulcers in all health and care settings.

To mark this week we are asking all wards to produce a

Tissue Viability Stop the Pressure Board with a focus on risk assessment. We are looking for innovative, creative ways of highlighting risks to our patients and families and are looking for educational, informative and well-displayed boards.

The closing date for entries is Monday 31 October with judging taking place during Stop the Pressure Week. Prizes will be won!

To enter your ward, contact C.checketts@nhs.net or call extension 3834.

Reconditioning games

When COVID-19 first hit we were told to stay at home, however we are now seeing a deconditioning pandemic from the effects of lockdown.

Our patients are coming into hospital much frailer as they haven’t been as active as they previously would have been. The Re conditioning Games aim to recondition the nation as we encourage patients, visitors and staff to keep active to stay healthy and prevent muscle wastage.

The opening ceremony for the games will take place at both RSH and PRH on the Tuesday 1 November with ribbon cutting. Medals are up for grabs for those areas that take part and the more you do and share the more likely you will hit gold!

During the week we have local businesses and sports personnel attending both hospitals to run taster sessions for our patients. These will be chair based sessions held away from the ward environment with the quality teams facilitating. Refreshments will be provided after the sessions.

We are encouraging staff and teams to also take part in the games. Ideas we have received so far include press up challenges, team step counters. The games will run for a minimum of six months so watch this space for more ideas and fun in the coming months.

For further information or for help to apply for a medal please contact Clare Walsgrove or Leeanne Morgan.

Jules and Colin commended as they Make a Difference

Congratulations to Jules Lewis, Lead Nurse for End of Life Care, and Colin Stockton, Volunteer for Cancer Services, who have been highly commended at the BBC Radio Shropshire Make a Difference Awards.

Jules and Colin, pictured with Radio Shropshire presenter Adam Green, were both finalists in the awards which are a chance to show recognition and appreciation for people who make life better for others.

Jules was a finalist in the keyworker category, was nominated for the support and care she showed to patients, families and colleagues during the pandemic. Colin was a finalist in the volunteer category and was recognised for the work he does to support those living with and beyond cancer.

Well done both!

Bake sale

The Ophthalmology team cooked up another fundraising venture when they held a Bake Sale.

It was a great turn out and the current running total raised is more than £300!

If you didn’t manage to get yourself down to the Bake Sale , you can still donate via the JustGiving Page: Fundraising to save eyesight in Shropshire, Telford & Wrekin and Mid Wales JustGiving

Fond farewell to Delivery Suite Co-ordinator Alison

A fond farewell was said to Sister Alison Burrows, a Delivery Suite Co-ordinator, who has retired after more than 40 years in the NHS.

Alison qualified as a nurse in 1979. She then worked as an SRN for one year.

Her midwifery career started in SaTH in 1980 as a student midwife.

Alison worked initially as a staff midwife and became a Midwifery Sister in 1983, completing the Advanced Diploma in Midwifery Course in 1984.

She continued in this senior role for 41 years.

Alison had a break in her career

when she had her two daughters, and she is clearly relishing her new role as a grandmother.

Colleagues have described Alison as a role model, knowledgeable, thorough, supportive, professional and above all, kind.

She has thrived in the role as a Labour Ward Co ordinator and has been involved in the births of many Shropshire babies during her 42 years.

Alison will be missed by her friends and colleagues, particularly on Delivery Suite.

Enjoy your retirement, Alison!

40 years service for porter Mike

Porter Mike Lewis is celebrating 40 years service in the NHS.

Mike joined Salop Area Health Authority in 1982 on a Youth Opportunities Programme (YOP) working as a Porter in Copthorne South at the age of 17.

Being only 17 years old, Mike had to start off in the mailroom because you had to be 18 at that time to work on a ward.

Mike has loved every minute of working in the Trust and during his years has seen a lot of changes and staff come and go.

His current Portering Manager is the fifth manager Mike has worked for.

Mike worked over at Copthorne South for 25 years before it finally closed and all services were transferred over to RSH.

Mike says he feels he has quite a few more years left in the department before he will consider his options.

On Friday 14 October, we celebrated more than 600 Allied Health Professionals (AHPs) who play such a tremendous part at our Trust on AHP Day.

AHPs play a key role here supporting doctors and nurses in every department. They are the third largest healthcare workforce within the NHS and AHP Day gives us an opportunity to showcase the impact they have.

Here at the Trust, we have 10 of the AHP specialities: Dietitians; occupational therapists; operating department practitioners (ODPs); orthoptists; paramedics; physiotherapists; podiatry; diagnostic radiographers; therapeutic radiographers and speech and language therapists.

Thank you all!

Respiratory study days on ward a success

Two respiratory study days carried out on 7 and 14 October for all the staff on the respiratory ward (Ward 17) at PRH were a resounding success.

Due to COVID this was the first educational session since 2019.

During the sessions we were able to cover many different topics all relevant to respiratory care, including care of chest drains, Airvo, and NIV initiation.

We have also been lucky to have sessions delivered by other specialists such as Sr Julia iologist who demonstrated the

use of the new spirometers.

The ward staff have benefited greatly by having this dedicated learning opportunity, it ensures their knowledge and skills are kept up to date and also enhances confidence and team building. We have already set dates for the same next year.

These days have been put to together by Sr Michelle Edgar (Ward 17 Manager), Clinical Nurse Educator Sr Debbie Beard and Respiratory Nurse Specialists Sr Penny Plover and Sr Ellen Dean.

Pharmacy Technician case studies

Name: Gemma Hall

Job Title: Second-year Pre-registration Trainee Pharmacy Technician

Tell us about the role and what it involves?

My job involves me rotating through the dispensary, pre pack and aseptic/chemotherapy outsourcing teams. In my role have I received training, and now competently carry out job roles associated with pharmacy technicians such as dispensing and supplying controlled drugs for ward stock and patient discharge.

As I am in my second year, I am soon to be joining the medicines management team on the wards. I am super excited to start this experience as I have no experience in this area so it will be great to get a feel for what goes on in the hospital outside of pharmacy.

What led you to apply for a student role in Pharmacy?

I applied for the student technician role as I had been working in pharmacy for over 10 years, coming in as a part time Aseptic ATO and progressed to an aseptic SATO. Having a real interest in pharmacy, after doing that role for three years I decided it was the right time to progress further and apply for my current role.

What do you love most about your job?

I love working in Pharmacy. I am learning every day and becoming more confident in all areas that I am working in. I am very lucky as

here at RSH Pharmacy we have a strong team who are all helpful, friendly, and dedicated to their roles and give the best possible care to the patients we serve.

Any advice for new students?

Take advantage of your colleagues’ experience, regardless of their job role. if you’re not sure of something ask and don’t be afraid to do that new task- get stuck in!

Name: Kirsty Heathcock

Job Title: Student Pharmacy Technician -

I am currently in my second year as a student.

Tell us about the role and what it involves?

For my role I work closely with the dispensary team as a student pharmacy technician to process and assemble the medications needed for inpatients, outpatients, wards, and clinics, while adhering to the necessary protocols and regulations to guarantee optimal patient safety.

I'm also working to successfully complete the pharmacy technician course at Stoke College, which entails passing a variety of units on topics like clinical knowledge, Pharmacy laws and ethics, the use of drugs to treat diseases and their safety, biology, microbiology, chemistry, patient centred care, health and safety, and many others.

As a student, I am currently compiling a portfolio of evidence over the course of two years to show that I am competent in the various pharmacy related areas.

What led you to apply for a student role in Pharmacy?

I applied for the position because I thought it would be an excellent opportunity to expand my knowledge and skill set in the pharmacy sector since I had previously worked for seven years as a dispenser in community pharmacies before joining the Trust.

What do you love most about your job?

The aspect I enjoy most about my job is the opportunity I have to work with a diverse range of colleagues with different backgrounds and experiences, who share their skills and expertise with me on a daily basis. Every day is so different and I get to learn something new every single day.

Any advice for new students?

My advice for new students would be to participate in as many different experiences as they can and not be hesitant to seek advice or assistance from our fellow technicians and pharmacists.

Name: Rebecca Austin Job Title: Student Pharmacy Technician

Tell us about the role and what it involves?: The role is very challenging and rewarding. The role includes studying which is work based and personal for two years to achieve the BTEC level 3 diploma in the Principles and Practice for Pharmacy Technicians. The certificate enables you to register as a Pharmacy Technician with the GPhC.

There is the opportunity to rotate and work in all aspects of the pharmacy department to understand how each role has an impact on delivering pharmacy services such as dispensary, purchasing stock & providing pharmacy services at ward level.

What led you to apply for a student role in pharmacy?

I have worked in community pharmacy for over 10 years as a dispenser but I fancied a change. Personally I didn’t think I would be clever enough to get into a hospital, but as soon as I started, I saw how much pharmacy technicians are relied on within the pharmacy team and I wanted to be a part of that.

Also, once qualified I know that the role of a pharmacy technician is forever evolving and that there will be plenty of opportunities available for me to progress my career further.

What do you love most about your job?

Personally, I love how we

Pictured are: Megan Murphy new student; Gemma Hall second year student and Graeme Smith recently qualified.

Tuesday 18 October was National Pharmacy Technician Day.

It gave us the opportunity to celebrate all the Pharmacy Technicians whose role makes a difference to the care and safety of our patients.

We have 50 Pharmacy Technicians working within our hospitals across both sites and in very different roles.

Case studies continued.

play a small part in supporting the care of patients. The dispensing aspect is what is most seen by the public but it is so much more than that. I love working as part of a very strong team who all have the same end goal, we all play a part to get there and without each other it would be impossible. Your work colleagues really do become your family. No two days are the same, we get each other through good days and bad days.

Any advice for new students?

It’s hard work but its extremely satisfying and rewarding. You learn something new every day. So I’d say work hard, organise your time

and don’t hold back on any opportunities that you are given and enjoy the course!

Name: Steph Holmes Job title: Student Pharmacy Technician

Tell us about the role and what it involves?

The role involves rotating through different sectors of the Pharmacy department such as dispensary, distribution, Aseptics, clinical trials, homecare, ward service, procurement office and receiving training to allow us to experience all the different sectors of pharmacy which is interesting. On the course side of things, I am also enjoying learning about various

subjects to enable me to have the skills to be a qualified technician in 2023!

What led you to apply for a student role in Pharmacy?

I have worked in pharmacy as a dispenser in a community pharmacy for three years and then moved over to hospital pharmacy in 2019 before I joined the RSH Pharmacy department as a Senior Assistant TO in October 2020 and loved my role at RSH which led me to applying for the role of Student Technician.

What do you love most about your job?

I love my job because I like knowing that we are

SaTH Pharmacy has been sharing videos each day this week on their social media platforms to celebrate the different roles of Pharmacy Technicians within our Trust.

Please view its Instagram profileSaTHPharmacy and Twitter account

@SaTHPharmacy

Thank you to all our Pharmacy Technicians you make a difference.

..helping the patients receive the medication they need to get well or maintain their health during their hospital stay or so they can get back home. I also love the colleagues I work with and enjoy coming to work with such a friendly bunch :)

Any advice for new students?

If I had any advice for future student pharmacy technicians it would be to enjoy the process, although there is a lot of work to do it will be worth it in the end!

Clinical audit workshop Lecture focuses on NHS work

The Clinical Audit Department will be running a clinical audit workshop on Tuesday 1 November at Education Centre, Room B, PRH, from 10am-12 noon

The aim of the workshop is to give an overview of the Clinical Audit Process, illustrating the advantages and disadvantages of different data collection methods.

The workshop takes participants through the steps of carrying out an audit at SaTH, and briefly covers data analysis and presentation. The workshops would benefit any member of staff who is involved in clinical audit projects as part of their job role.

Please contact Jane Burgess, Clinical Governance Administrator, on ext. 3392 or email jane.burgess3@sath.nhs.u k to book a place.

Carbon Literacy Day

On Monday 7 November it’s Carbon Literacy Action Day the world’s largest climate education training day, which also coincides with Day 1 of the UN COP27 negotiations.

The Sustainability Team will be holding an information stand at PRH on Monday 7 November on the corridor leading to the Apley Restaurant, and at RSH on Tuesday 8 November in the Mytton Restaurant, to raise awareness and engage with staff.

We’ll be asking staff to make a Carbon pledge and all pledges will go into a draw to win a prize.

This year's William Farr Memorial Lecture focuses on the wonderful work being done by staff and volunteers in our hospitals and community for our military community.

It will celebrate the life and work of Florence Nightingale and volunteers like her

during the Crimean and American Civil wars, and then highlighting the similarities to people's response to today's challenges including COVID 19. The event is on Wednesday 30 November 6 9pm at Shropshire Education and Conference Centre (SECC). For more details or to book for the event click here

Raising further awareness of sepsis

The Deteriorating Patient Team were out and about at both PRH and RSH to raise further awareness of sepsis.

It looks like they had a great day with all these fabulous photos.

Civility and Respect— A social movement for positive change

Last week our first Civility and Respect workshop took place inspired by the work of Dr Chris Turner. So many of you ,through multiple forums, had expressed you wanted SaTH to be a kinder, more respectful place.

So, we listened and put together this workshop which is the start of a social movement for positive change.

There’s been no big launch or grand claims but instead a few people working behind the scenes to do something different.

In the coming days and months there will be more…if you want to know about what we are doing please get in touch.

Or book onto a workshop at SaTH Training Diary.

SaTH Training Diary

Our FTSU Team has organised a calendar of events and we will be sharing further updates with you during the month. Please do get involved and visit the FTSU intranet page to learn more.

Update to Retirement and Return criteria from 1 November

During COVID the rules around Retire and Return were temporarily suspended and changed to support the pandemic. These were due to end on 31 October 2022.

From 1st November 2022 the temporary suspensions will be continuing.

The Department of Health and Social Care and NHS Pensions have confirmed the following which may affect your retirement and return to work from 1 November 2022.

Break in Employment

All staff who decide to Retire and Return must take a break in employment before returning to work. Prior to COVID this break was 14 days, during COVID this was amended to a 24 hour break.

The Trust has taken the decision to continue with a 24 hour break following finishing employment and returning to work and will not return to the 14 day break as before COVID 19. The retirement policy has been updated to confirm this.

Return to work 16 hour rule (1995 section only) now suspended until 31March 2023

Members who return to work after retirement from the 1995 Section of the NHS Pension Scheme were restricted to working no more than 16 hours per week in the first calendar month after retirement. This restriction has now been temporarily suspended to allow members to return to work after taking a minimum 24-hour break and continue their existing working commitments, or increase them, whilst they are in receipt of their full pension benefits.

Abatement for special class status holders in the 1995 Section now suspended until 31 March 2025.

Abatement applies where special class status staff return to work between the ages of 55 to 60 and their pension plus salary exceeds their pre retirement income. Where this occurs, the payment of a member’s pension is reduced so that their pension plus salary does not exceed their pre retirement income This abatement has been temporarily suspended and will remove the barrier which stops special class nurses and mental health officers aged 55 to 60, who have claimed their pension benefits, from returning to work without having their pension suspended. This will allow staff to continue their existing working commitments, or increase them, whilst they are in receipt of their full pension benefits.

Abatement in the 2008 Section and 2015 Scheme for Drawdown suspended to 31 March 2023

Abatement requires a reduction to pensionable pay by 10% upon each election to draw down benefits. Payment of pension is reduced or suspended if members do not reduce their pensionable pay by at least 10% when electing to draw down benefits. This abatement has now been temporarily suspended so members can increase their earnings or commitment to the NHS so that they are in excess of 90% of the level before draw down.

Information and Support

Further information regarding The NHS Pension Regulations on Returning to work after retirement can be found on the Pension Hub here: COVID 19 guidance on support for retired members | NHSBSA and on Re employment here Re employment | NHSBSA

If you would like to talk through the implications for you please contact the Pensions Manager on 01743 492412.

SaTH Intranet - HR Policies Retirement Policy W26 SaTH Intranet HR Policies Flexible Working policy W23

Notice Board

Notice Board

Staff Support