Chatterbox - 251024

CHATTER BOX Your fortnightly bulletin for SaTH colleagues and events Friday 24 October 2025

Congratulations to our 2025 winners Congratulations to all those who were nominated, our brilliant finalists and winners.

Thank you for the difference you have made and are continuing to make every day.

We would also like to say a big thank you to our

fantastic sponsors ModuleCo, Vinci Building, Dyke Yaxley, Group Nexus and One Retail who helped to make Friday evening so special.

Once again, a huge well done and thank you for all that you do for our patients, our local communities and each other.

Hear from our winners in exclusive backstage interviews after recieving their awards!

Click on the image above to watch.

Meet your Trust Celebratory Award winners in this week’s special edition of Chatterbox, which is available to view and download here.

Long Service Awards On Wednesday, we recognised colleagues who have completed 25 years and 40 years’ service with the NHS, at a very special Long Service Awards.

We had over 1,100 years of experience in the room, and it was a real privilege to recognise and celebrate the dedication of colleagues and thank everyone for their commitment, professionalism and care over the years, which has made a lasting difference to patients, families and colleagues.

Looking back to 25 years ago, in the year 2000 the NHS was preparing for the launch of NHS Direct, mobile phones were just starting to become more commonplace, and the Millennium Bug had just passed without incident. The year 2000 was the first time we saw Big Brother on our screens, everyone was playing ‘Snake’ on their Nokia 3310 and Billy Elliot danced his way into our hearts.

Back in 1985 – 40 years ago – the NHS was a very different place. Mobile phones were rare, computers were just arriving in offices, and most

Bryony Price

records were still kept on paper. But even then, the heart of the NHS was its people, just as it is today.

Over four decades, these colleagues have seen huge changes in healthcare, technology and the way we work. Much has changed in these years, but what hasn’t changed is the value of our colleagues who show up every day, support others and keep our services running.

One such person is Gill Johns, Senior Practice Education Facilitator for Post Registration Education. She has worked across the organisation as a staff nurse, ward manager, clinical site manager and is a founding member of the clinical practice educator team. She has had a long career dedicated to raising and maintaining high standards of clinical care, teaching and training.

Thank you to all our award winners for everything you’ve done, and continue to do, for our patients and for each other.

Carl Ray

Carol Betmead

Clare Emery

Donna Clark

Dr Ruth Beddows

Jackie Thomas

Jane Wood

Jan Sweet

Jean Medina

John Cunningham

Julie Madureira

Julie Powell

Karen Forrester

Kathy O’Neil

Lisa Cronshey

Nicky Taylor

Pat Bennett

Ruth Field

Sarah Gilks

Sean Roberts

Shelley Simpson

Sian Meagre

Steven Lewis

Susan Macdonald

Trudy James

A message from your Chief Executive: Staff Survey The annual NHS Staff Survey is one of the largest workforce surveys in the world and has been running every year since 2003. The survey is an official statistic; it is run independently of NHS England and what you say is kept confidential and anonymous.

At the end of November, the survey closes, and everyone’s answers are gathered by the Staff Survey Co-ordination Centre that manages the survey for the NHS. It does take a bit of time to be reported on because they must carefully check and analyse that very large amount of anonymous data.

When the Trust receives the data, we have no way of knowing who responded and none of the comments can be linked to any individual. It is crucial for you to understand that your data and opinions cannot be traced back to you, as this information is not held by the NHS or released.

Our results will give us a really accurate picture of what it’s like to work at SaTH and with the results we then try and make things better for you, your colleagues, and our patients and service users.

Since 2021 the questions in the NHS Staff Survey are aligned to the NHS People Promise. This sets out, in the words of our NHS people, the things that would most improve our working experience – like health and wellbeing support, the opportunity to work flexibly, and to feel we all belong whatever our background or our job.

When I was appointed to lead the organisation as your Chief Executive, it has and will always remain a privilege.

It’s a role that I truly love, I feel as though I can

make a difference. I work alongside some incredible teams, I feel that patient care is at our heart, and I have been allowed and supported to flourish and grow – all aligned to the People Promise.

But that isn’t enough for me. Everyone deserves this promise is delivered for them, whatever your role. If you too love your role, if you want us to improve things or if we are failing you against the NHS People Promise – please tell us.

I have witnessed many of you thriving in your roles, both individually and as part of a team.

You consistently share your accomplishments and express your unwavering commitment to enhancing our services and supporting our patients and one another.

We recognise that more needs to be done for everyone to feel valued, included and supported.

I am committed to achieving this, but I need your help. Please spare 10 minutes to share your views with us.

As it is anonymous, sadly I won’t be able to thank you individually, but I hope that you do share your voice and help us to continue to make SaTH the best place it can be to work. Wherever you work in our Trust, tell us what does being part of SaTH truly mean to you – thank you.

Jo

Be fab, get the jab We have completed three full weeks of flu vaccinations and we are delighted to say that over 25% of SaTH colleagues have now had their flu jab.

Leading the ways are Administrative and Clerical teams with 31.1% vaccinated, followed closely by Estates and Facilities with 30.5% of the team vaccinated. There is still more to do!

As we head into autumn and school half term holidays, it’s more important than ever to stay protected. Flu can spread quickly, and having your vaccination helps keep you, your patients and your loved ones safe.

If you’re pregnant, the flu jab is strongly recommended, in every pregnancy, at any stage. It’s safe, effective, and protects both you and your baby. Flu during pregnancy can lead to complications, including premature birth and low birth weight. The vaccine also gives your baby protection in their first few months of life.

Flu can be serious for patients with weaker immune systems. By having your vaccination, it helps stop it spreading to those who need extra protection.

We’re running daily flu vaccination clinics at both PRH and RSH, with a mix of early and late sessions and venues to suit different shifts. Please make time to get yours - it’s quick, free, and makes a real difference.

At SaTH, Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) are at the heart of our organisation.

Our workforce and patients embody a vibrant diversity of cultural and ethnic backgrounds, and we value the profound contributions Black individuals have made, and continue to make, to our Trust, the NHS, and the broader communities we serve.

Black History Month provides us with a significant opportunity to reflect on the rich history, the formidable struggles, and the outstanding achievements of Black Britons who have played a pivotal role in shaping the NHS. It is a time to honour and celebrate their resilience, strength and enduring impact on our healthcare system.

This month, we encourage everyone to engage with the various events and resources available, to deepen our understanding and appreciation of the invaluable contributions made by the Black community. Let us join together in recognising and celebrating their invaluable contributions, both past and present, and commit to fostering a future of inclusivity and equality.

This year’s theme is ‘Standing Firm in Power and Pride’ - a tribute to the resilience, strength and commitment to progress that defines the Black

community. It celebrates the leaders, activists and pioneers who’ve shaped history, and looks ahead to a future of empowerment, unity and growth.

Power is about influence, leadership and the ability to drive change. It honours those who’ve led movements, broken barriers and created opportunities - showing that true power comes from collective strength and courage.

Pride means embracing history and confidently stepping into the future united. As a Trust serving a diverse community, we proudly celebrate the contributions of Black individuals, both past and present, who have helped shape our society.

To celebrate Black History Month, we will have food stalls at both PRH and RSH on the below dates: PRH • Monday 3 November: Captain Tom’s Courtyard, Taba-Ife from 10am to 3.30pm • Tuesday 4 November: Captain Tom’s Courtyard, Mukasse Foods from 10am to 3.30pm RSH • Tuesday 4 November: Captain Tom’s Garden, Taba-Ife from 10am to 3.30pm • Monday 10 November: Captain Tom’s Garden, Mukasse Foods from 10am to 3.30p

CareFlow Connect demo sessions - thank you for joining us!

This week, we hosted a series of demo sessions showcasing CareFlow Connect, and we’re thrilled with the turnout and engagement from colleagues across the Trust.

These sessions provided an opportunity to explore how CareFlow Connect supports communication, patient care and real-time updates across teams.

Hypo Awareness Week Thank you for supporting Hypo Awareness Week 2025.

As part of Hypo Awareness Week 2025 some of the Diabetes Specialist Nurses visited the wards and departments at RSH and PRH where staff had the opportunity to take part in our hypo activity and fill up the empty hypo box.

The team would like to offer our thanks to all who took part for your enthusiasm and engagement.

Participation in the activities and discussions has helped to raise vital awareness about hypoglycaemia in hospital and how we can treat it appropriately. The dedication to improving patient safety and care makes a difference every day. The success of Hypo Awareness Week reflects the professionalism, teamwork and dedication of our colleagues.

Once again thank you for your valued contribution.

Colleagues were able to see the platform in action, ask questions and understand how it integrates with existing systems. The feedback received was incredibly positive and we’re grateful to everyone who took the time to join us.

For those who couldn’t attend or would like to revisit the session, a recording will be shared shortly. Keep an eye out for the link on the intranet.

We would like to wish all our colleagues, patients and visitors who celebrated on Monday, a very happy Diwali.

Diwali - the Festival of Lights - is celebrated around the world and by many here at SaTH. It represents new beginnings and the triumph of good over evil, and light over darkness. Diwali is traditionally marked with visits to temples and gurdwaras, firework displays, feasts, parties and time spent with family and friends.

The Multi Faith rooms were lit up in celebration and treats were shared. It is a significant time for many of our colleagues, and a timely reminder that our Chaplaincy Team is always available to offer support and guidance.

Lisa is an Inspiration Award Winner Congratulations to Lisa Challinor, who is the Divisional Director of Operations Surgery, Anaesthetics, Cancer and Critical Care, who was awarded the Inspiration Award at the Midlands Air Ambulance Charity’s annual Saving Lives Charity Ball.

This was awarded to a group, organisation or individual connected to the charity who is a source of inspiration and pride. Lisa was seriously injured when she was struck by a car travelling on the wrong side of the road, resulting in an above-knee amputation and severe blood loss. Despite her injuries, Lisa has shown remarkable determination in her recovery.

In early 2025, she was fitted with a running blade and is now focused on her goal of completing the London Marathon. Her strength and perseverance are why she was recognised as a true inspiration by the charity.

Happy AHP Day Last Wednesday, we wished a very Happy AHP day to all our amazing AHP colleagues here at SaTH. It was chance for AHPs to connect, celebrate and also look ahead to the future. This year’s theme is the three shifts, as part of the 10 Year Plan: • Hospital to community and building our neighbourhood health service • Treatment to prevention • Analogue to digital

AHPs will have a vital role in delivering our ambitious transformation work locally and as part of delivering a modern NHS by 2035. We hope you can take some time, in your Multidisciplinary Teams, to discuss your ideas and suggestions for how AHPs can take a leading role in shaping our exciting future.

We celebrated the remarkable impact you all have on the delivery of care. We are all really proud of the work our AHPs do in SaTH every day and cannot thank you all enough for your invaluable work in ensuring exceptional care is delivered to our patients.

Read some of our AHP case studies below, the full version is available on the intranet.

Charlotte Jack, Therapy Centre Manager Over the last eight months, I have had the pleasure of leading four key AHP groups within the Therapy Centre, these being, Dietetics, Occupational Therapy, Physiotherapy and Speech & Language. All these professions bring a creative, unique and a holistic approach to patient care and the services they deliver.

I have been able to witness a wide variety of services for our STW residents, that are shaped and responsive to the population we serve. Each of our proud professions aim for high quality, safety and are committed to ensuring the best possible outcomes for our patients.

Hand Therapy Team Our Hand Therapy Team combines Occupational Therapists, Physiotherapists and Therapy support workers to provide a specialist hand therapy service. They work closely with the orthopaedic consultants to ensure patients get the best possible outcomes following traumatic injury or surgery. They also support patients with long term conditions such as osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.

Pelvic Health Team Our Pelvic Health Team are specialist physiotherapists who assess and treat men and women who present with pelvic floor dysfunction for example urinary and bowel incontinence, pelvic pain and urogenital prolapse and much more.

They work closely with the Urogynaecology consultants and contribute to the MDT with our shared cases.

Gym TSW’s Our amazing therapy support workers ensure that our therapy outpatients are well supported and encouraged with their rehabilitation. They provide individual treatment sessions and run and support exercise classes in our wellequipped and busy gym.

Shrewsbury half marathon heroes We’re thrilled to celebrate the incredible achievements of seven dedicated runners who recently conquered the Shrewsbury Half Marathon on Sunday 28 September.

These inspiring individuals have gone above and beyond, raising over £3,600 for various causes supported by the Shrewsbury and Telford Hospital Charity.

Massive thanks to our runners; Emily Lovell, her husband Jonny Roberts who raised funds for the Children’s Unit, Amanda Pyper and her colleague Miriam Kill who raised funds for Critical Care where they work, Stephanie Kitchenham-Laing who works in Women’s and Children’s raised funds for the midwife bereavement service, Carl Powell, our volunteer raised funds for the general fund and Kerry Johnson who raised funds for the X-ray department where she works.

Their hard work and determination will make a significant difference, supporting vital areas around the hospital, to improve patient and their loved one’s experience. Let’s give them a huge round of applause for their commitment and passion.

Thank you to everyone who supported these runners on their journey.

Macmillan coffee morning success Last month, Rebecca Austin from Pharmacy at PRH organised a coffee morning in aid of Macmillan in Toms Garden and raised over £1,100. Well done Rebecca!

Head shave for the dementia fund A few weeks ago, two courageous colleagues, Indika Premarathna and Erika Davies from catering took a bold step to support a cause close to their hearts.

They bravely shaved their heads to raise funds for the SaTH Charity’s dementia fund and we’re thrilled to share that they raised over £500 in the process.

The money will go towards Dementia Services and a big shoutout to Karen Breese (Dementia Nurse Specialist), who skilfully handled the clippers. Your support and generosity mean the world to us, and together, we’re making a difference in the lives of those affected by dementia.

New additions to our Neonatal Unit We are thrilled to announce the arrival of two new, incredibly comfortable chairs for our mums to use while expressing breast milk for their babies thanks to the generosity of our amazing supporters.

These chairs will provide a more homely and relaxing environment for mums during such an important part of their babies’ development. We know that a comfortable, relaxing environment plays an important role in ensuring a positive experience, and we are grateful to everyone who helped make this possible.

Thank you for your continued support in enhancing the care we offer to our families.

Congratulations to Jane France We’re thrilled to celebrate Jane France for her incredible achievement in completing the Chester Triple and raising an amazing £1,679 for the Breast Cancer Team!

To achieve the Chester Triple she has completed a 10k on 9 March, a half marathon on 18 May, and finally a metric marathon on 5 October.

But that’s not all, Jane has secured a place in the London Marathon next year, where she’ll be running again for the Shrewsbury and Telford Hospital Charity. Let’s cheer her on as she continues to support us with her remarkable efforts.

Join us in supporting Jane and her journey. Visit her JustGiving page to learn more and contribute to her cause.

If you are interested in doing a fundraising event for Shrewsbury and Telford Hospital Charity, please email sath.charity@nhs.net and we can let you know of any upcoming events.

Colleague Notice Board

Bringing Communities together in partnership

Sat 4th Oct(10.30am-4pm)

Fri 17th Oct (6pm-1am)

Moving Forward in Health Together The Telford Hotel Spa & Golf Resort

Shrewsbury football stadium

Seldom Heard Voices

Sat 18th Oct (3pm-8pm) Nigerian Independence Day

Blac awards

Sat 18th Oct (9.30pm-1am) Dance event

A day of culture, food, education, and fun!

Go Greek (formerly known as Whispers), Welington

Sat 25th Oct (7pm-9pm) TAARC Celebration

Sun 2nd Nov (2pm) Grandad Anansi

All Saints Church, Welington

Belmont Hall (performance contains BSL interpreter)

Food & Entertainment

INTERESTED IN A CAREER IN RADIOLOGY? We would like to invite you to our taster sessions in our radiology department, where you will gain an insight into the department and find out more about the training and job opportunities which exist.

You must be 16+ to apply.

When: Saturday 1st November 2025 Early Session: 09:30 to 11:30 Later Session: 12:00 to 14:00 Venue: Royal Shrewsbury Hospital Booking is essential as places are limited. For further information or to book a place please email: HannahBlackwell@nhs.net

Colleague Notice Board

SATH STAFF NETWORKS Joining a staff network here at SATH is a great way to connect with colleagues, share experiences, and help make our workplace more inclusive and supportive for everyone. Whether you’re looking to build community, develop new skills, or have your voice heard, there’s a place for you. To get involved or find out more, contact us on edi email: sath.edi@nhs.net

A selection of new arrivals now available at

Shrewsbury and Telford Health Libraries.

For more resources visit us online at: https://www.library.sath.nhs.uk

STAFF LOTTERY This month ’s winners...

JOIN THE STAFF LOTTERY AND BE IN WITH A CHANCE TO WIN 13 CASH PRIZES EVERY MONTH!

1st £650 Fiona Finnigan, Women & Children’s 2nd £325 Becky Holland, Undergrad Med School 2nd £325 Hannah Brown, Radiotherapy 3rd £175 Louise Stevens, Library Services 3rd £175 Gillian Dean 4th £125 Yvonne Draper, Medical Education 4th £125 Michelle Whittall, Phlebotomy 5th £75 Rebecca Jones 5th £75 Andrea Taylor-Cooper, AMU 6th £60

Margaret Blackham, Clinical Site Management

6th £60 Kerrie Lea, Maternity 6th £60 Isla Anderson, Audiology 6th £60 Chloe Brace, Ward 6 Cardiology

Tickets only £1 Payment will be deducted from your salary; winnings are paid into your salary the following month.

Why join our staff lottery?50% of profits are given out in prizes and the other 50% is adding to our Small Changes Make a Big Difference Fund which is all spent on items for staff.

The SaTH Small Things Make a Big Difference Fund aims to improve the working environment and amenities for all employees.

Click here to download the T&C’s and enter the staff lottery

Thank you

My 81-year-old Mum was diagnosed with breast cancer about 10 weeks ago, which was quite a shock as you can imagine. We cannot fault the speed and care of all the staff at SaTH who have been involved. They have been incredible with their time and care from diagnosis to operation. They listened patiently to all the family concerns and no question was left unanswered (and we threw quite a lot of questions at them). Nothing was too much trouble. Thankfully they managed to remove all the cancer and now she just needs a short course of radiotherapy. Please pass our very grateful thanks to the teams involved, without them we really don’t know where she would be right now.