News for You - Spring 2021

Spring 2021 South Tyneside and Sunderland

NHS Foundation Trust

NEWS for YOU

STAFF MAGAZINE ear on y e n O 19 OVIDC m o t fr pull-ou e g a p 8 inside

NEWS for YOU

Content page

page

03

A welcome message from our Chief Executive

04

#TeamSTSFT shout out

06

Katherine Jones Clinical Engineering apprentice

08

New Sunderland Eye Hospital

10

Our NHS Staff Survey results 2020

11

All in a day’s work Mrs Deepali Varma

12

Civility Saves Lives Respect Not Rudeness

14 16 17

page Path to Excellence News round up COVID-19 One year on 8 page pull-out Includes...

Combatting COVID-19 behind the frontline A year like no other time-line Caring for our Communities

25

Ask the Executives Peter Sutton

26

Silver Award for Better Health at Work

27

Health and Wellbeing our new strategy

28

STSFT Health and Wellbeing our priorities

30

Accessing support Your health and wellbeing

31

Andy’s Man Club

32

HIMSS Level 7 A Digital First for the North

33

Long service update

34

In the spotlight...

STSFT Urology Team

35

Social circle

36

Chief Executive’s Roadshows

Our leadership team

Ken Bremner

Kath Griffin

Melanie Johnson

Shahid Wahid

Hayley Wardle

Peter Sutton

Director of Human Resources & Organisational Development

Director of Nursing, Midwifery & Allied Health Professionals

Medical Director

Director of Finance

Director of Planning & Business Development

Liz Davies

Sean Fenwick

Andrea Hetherington

Andy Hart

Alison King

Director of Operations

Director of Corporate Affairs & Legal, Trust Secretary & Freedom to Speak Up Guardian

Steve Jamieson

Director of Communications

Director of Information Management & Technology

Director of Performance

Director of Estates, Facilities and Clinical Engineering

Chief Executive

@STSFTrust

www.stsft.nhs.uk

www.facebook.com/STSFTrust @STSFTrust

2

Spring 2021

Welcome from Ken

to the latest edition of News for You for 2021 It’s hard to believe a whole year has gone by since the outbreak of COVID-19 turned our lives upside down – and what a year it has been.

The commitment and dedication that I have Chief Executive seen from you all has Ken Bremner, MBE been nothing short of incredible and I want to personally thank you for your efforts this last year. You have consistently gone above and beyond for our patents and their families and your genuine care and compassion is something that they will remember for years to come.

By now you should have all received your custom-made #TeamSTSFT print which has been exclusively designed for the Trust, along with a pin badge and window sticker which I hope you will wear and display with great #TeamSTSFT Thank You pride.

COVID-19

#TeamSTSFT

Thank You

#TeamSTSFT

Whether you work in our community teams, in our hospital teams or in our many support services and corporate functions, I do hope you all feel very proud to work alongside each other and appreciate everything that you have achieved as an individual and a part of #TeamSTSFT. You can read more in this edition about how we have responded to COVID-19 in a special eight page pull-out.

I am delighted to announce our exciting plans for a new, state-of-the-art eye hospital in Sunderland. In these uncertain times and especially as we continue to manage the impact of COVID-19, this is an extremely positive and welcome development that will benefit patients across the whole region.

Our COVID-19 vaccination programme continues to be extremely successful and we are now delivering second doses. I know how much work has gone into this process and I am grateful to everyone involved. I would encourage all colleagues who have not yet had their first dose of the vaccine to call our appointment line and book this ASAP. We have now restarted our work on Phase Two of Path to Excellence which will focus on surgical services and you can read more about the next steps on pages 14 and 15.

The next round of my Chief Executive Roadshows have been scheduled for April, details of which can be found on the back page of the magazine. As we are still unable to meet face to face these sessions will take place via MS Teams and Facebook Live. I do hope that you will be able to attend one of these sessions and I look forward to your comments and questions.

Finally I’d just like to say another very big thank you for your continued support during the global pandemic. It has been a year like no other, but one that will make us much stronger for the future.

If you have some news that you would like us to consider for future issues, or if you have a question, email: stsft.trustcomms@nhs.net

3

NEWS for YOU

T F S T S #Team

T U O SH to...

OUT

Whether you work in a clinical role or a non-clinical role, in one of our acute hospitals or in the community, everyone has played a significant role in supporting out Trustwide response to COVID-19.

“

“

Chloe Dent

ating ate Chloe Dent Oper in m no to e lik ld ou Iw e was ner at Sunderland. Sh Department Practitio 19. Chloe to help with COVIDCU IC to d rre fe ns tra and this fied for 18 months has only been quali to-day t of her normal dayou lly ta to as w e ov m ssionate ry caring and compa duties. Chloe is a ve . s goes that extra mile colleague who alway she re ca e recognition for th She really deserves and their families. provides to patients

“

Throughout the COVID-19 pandem ic, Mark, Advanced Practitioner Pharmacist, has regular ly worked over and above his usual contracted hours, including weekends to make sure there were pharmacy staff available in the hospital to help with patient care.

I think he’s done an incredible job and has given up so much of his own free time to contrib ute to the team effort. He’s a great example of how our staff have gone above and beyond during this difficult time.

Mark Learmouth

“

If you would like to give a ‘SHOUT OUT’ to a colleague or team let us know on the Staff Facebook Group or via stsft.trustcomms@nhs.net 4

THANK

Spring 2021

“

I would like to nominate the wonderful Jess Parkinson. She has gone above and beyond since the 1st of January 2020. Jess was a newly appointed manager just as COVID-19 hit and her ward was turned into a COVID ward. She is an amazing nurse, manager and friend. She deserves all the praise she gets for getting through all this in such challenging times, so very proud of you girl.

Jess Parkins on

“

“

“

Abbie Chadderton

ds what arise in a few wor m m su to le ib ss It is impo the time I have Chadderton is. In ie bb A e rs nu of kind beyond gone above and s ha e sh r, he ith worked w and kindness passion, optimism m co er H b. jo r the NHS in he here the service of W . ed tic no un doesn’t go g COVID-19, she d to its limit durin he tc re st en be s strain ha help minimise the to s ift sh a tr ex d has has worke on the team. She ng vi ha en be s and impact it ha a valued HS and has been N e th to f el rs he devoted am. member of the te

“

ling, Ward Manager of the I would like to nominate Carol Job rmary. She went above Haygarth Ward, Sunderland Eye Infi Coronavirus pandemic. and beyond for her staff over the reased as surgeries During this time SEI’s work load dec her team was sent to were cancelled. As a result, half of t. A group chat was Sunderland Royal Hospital to suppor e okay and supported. created to make sure her staff wer them and finally when Weekly calls happened if we needed virus, she delivered staff went off sick after catching the t. She is such a caring flowers to them to show her suppor manager.

Carol Jobling

“

“

n our I would like to nominate Fiona Gle n Ward Manager. Fiona has always bee y need there for all her staff whenever the as rk her and she is dedicated to her wo w well as her patients. We do not kno w she what is going to happen but I kno n. will be the rock she has always bee

“

YOU

Fiona Glen 5

NEWS for YOU

Katherine Jones – breaking down barriers

and

Katherine Jones, one of our Clinical Engineering Apprentices, is blazing a trail for women as she becomes the FIRST ever female to complete the NHS Biomedical Engineering Apprenticeship in the North East!

In the UK only 12 per cent of engineers are female and even in the NHS, engineering is still a maledominated industry. So we love to see women like Katherine challenging stereotypes and breaking down barriers, showing that engineering can be an exciting, rewarding and welcoming industry for women.

Katherine, 21 from Gateshead, joined the Trust aged 17 and is the first woman in the North East to complete this regional apprenticeship programme.

“

It’s a huge privilege to be the first woman to complete this training and to be named the first female Clinical Engineering Apprentice in the North East.

It’s an amazing job!

“

6

Now, four other female Clinical Engineers in the region are following in her footsteps. Katherine said: “It’s a huge privilege to be the first

woman to complete this training and to be named the first female Clinical Engineering Apprentice in the North East. It’s an amazing job! I’m so happy to be here and show that other girls can come in and do it too.”

As an apprentice at the Trust Katherine gained critical on-the-job experience whilst building up an impressive bank of knowledge. Although she specialised in infusion systems, she is also qualified to repair and maintain other medical devices including anaesthetics and life support equipment and maternity and monitoring equipment.

Katherine said: “Clinical Engineering is such a

vital part of the NHS. When you think about all of the equipment that is used in hospitals, everything must be checked and verified before it can be used to ensure that there will be no harm to the patient and also help them in their recovery.

“I enjoy working at the Trust, there have been a few small struggles along the way but that comes with being a female in a maledominated role. This has only helped me to grow my own confidence to be able to explain who I am and what I’m doing.”

Since completing the apprenticeship Katherine has developed excellent professional relationships with the Trust’s community teams and has been managing their medical device repair and maintenance service.

Spring 2021

blazing a trail for others Mike Cox, Head of Biomedical Engineering said: “Traditionally,

Biomedical Engineering has been a maledominated industry and women have not entered the field in Mike Cox great numbers. We are proud to say that Katherine is blazing a trail for others and there are four women in the region who have followed in her footsteps and are embarking on the same career path.

“We are exceptionally proud of Katherine and what she has achieved. When she joined us in 2016 she was a shy and anxious young woman. Over the course of her training we have seen great personal growth and the 21-year-old woman we see today is a highly skilled and highly confident engineer who is greatly respected across the Trust. She is an asset to our team.”

Katherine Jones, Clinical Engineering Apprentice

7

NEWS for YOU

Plans unveiled for new £36 million Eye Hospital We are delighted to unveil plans to build an iconic new Eye Hospital in the centre of Sunderland as part of the City’s ambitious Riverside Sunderland masterplan.

Sunderland Eye Infirmary is one of very few specialist standalone eye hospitals in the whole country and the region’s only dedicated centre for ophthalmology care. It is home to the Regional Cataract Treatment Centre and widely regarded across the NHS, both regionally and nationally, as a centre of excellence for eye services, caring for patients from across the North East, Cumbria and beyond.

The current facilities on Queen Alexandra Road are now over 75 years old with a costly and aging infrastructure. Building a brand new, fit-for-purpose Eye Hospital has long been part of our ambitions and has now been made possible thanks to partnership working with Sunderland City Council.

All clinical services currently provided from Sunderland Eye Infirmary will transfer to the new state-of-the-art facility to be delivered from a new modern, purpose-built environment in a much more accessible City centre location.

As part of our plans, we are also keen to continue expanding our specialist ophthalmology services in the community through our satellite hubs across South Tyneside, Sunderland and Durham, including the introduction of a new clinic at Cleadon Park Primary Care Centre in South Shields.

Staff at eye infirmary have welcomed the plans.

Clinical Director and Consultant Ophthalmologist Mr Jean-Pierre Danjoux said: “Staff at the eye infirmary are absolutely thrilled at the prospect of a brand new hospital as there is no doubt that our current building is dated and no longer fit for purpose. The services we offer are nothing short of world class with outstanding patient feedback and they deserve an environment to match. The news is testament to the perseverance and ingenuity of our leadership team, who, by working in partnership with the Council, are now turning our dream of a new facility into reality for patients.”

Funding for the development has been provided by the local authority and will be repaid by the Trust to allow the relocation of the hospital to a much improved City centre location on the former Vaux site.

The proposed site for a new Eye Hospital in Sunderland Artists impression of the new Eye Hospital

8

Spring 2021

in Sunderland Our Chief Executive, Ken Bremner said: “Our ambitions for a new eye hospital in Sunderland have been a long time in the making.

Announcing our development plans is a historic moment for the Trust and represents a major investment into the local NHS thanks to our collaboration with Sunderland City Council.

“In these uncertain times and especially as we continue to battle the COVID-19 pandemic, this is an extremely positive and welcome development and demonstrates our commitment to working with local partners to deliver the very best healthcare for the people we serve. We now look forward to involving patients, staff and the wider public in the design process ahead and as we work together to progress plans to the next stage.”

Over the coming weeks a series of virtual public engagement sessions will take place as follows and people can book onto the sessions via www.stsft.nhs.uk/ neweyehospital: • Thursday 15 April

2pm – 3pm

• Tuesday 20 April

6pm – 7pm

• Tuesday 27 April

• Thursday 29 April • Tuesday 4 May

10am – 11am 2pm – 3pm

1pm – 2pm

Please share this information with your patients, family and friends and encourage them to get involved and share their views on our plans.

Plans for a new Eye Hospital in Sunderland have been fully supported by the region’s NHS. Sir Liam Donaldson, Chairman of the Integrated Care System across the North East and North Cumbria said: “This exciting development builds on Sunderland’s great tradition in eye surgery. It also shows how, in the midst of the extraordinary pressures of the pandemic, the NHS is still innovating and looking to the future needs of patients. The new Sunderland Eye Infirmary will shine as a beacon of excellence in the North East’s NHS for years to come.”

Councillor Graeme Miller, Leader of Sunderland City Council said: “We are delighted to work with the Trust on this exciting development for the City and help deliver a new world class facility for Sunderland Eye Infirmary as part of our Riverside Sunderland plans. We look forward to working with the NHS in the weeks and months ahead as plans progress.”

We will use the feedback gathered over the next few months to shape our plans for a new Eye Hospital before submitting a formal planning application at the end of May. We hope to start building work in 2022 (subject to planning approval) and are aiming for the new Eye Hospital to open in 2024. For more information visit: www. stsft.nhs.uk/neweyehospital or email stsft.SEI@nhs.net.

Artists impression inside - ground floor welcome desk

We are keen to hear from as many people as possible to ensure the design of the new Eye Hospital provides the optimal experience for patients, staff and visitors. Work is also taking place with The Royal National Institute of Blind People (RNIB) to ensure the new hospital design is built around the needs of those with sight impairments.

9

NEWS for YOU

Our NHS Staff Survey 2020 results #HadYourSay At the end of last year we invited all colleagues across the Trust to complete the annual NHS Staff Survey. The results are now in. Whilst it has been a challenging year for the Trust and wider NHS, we continue to show improvements in a number of key areas.

Almost 4,000 colleagues completed the 2020 survey, an increase in the number of staff who completed the survey in 2019.

It’s great to see that, despite the unprecedented challenges that we have had to face over the last 12 months, more of you have taken the time to share your views and help to make our Trust and the wider NHS a better place to work. This is extremely positive and a testament to your ongoing commitment to provide excellent patient care.

Highlights

71%

64%

74%

10

When compared with other similar trusts, we compared most favourably in relation to the number of staff who said they: Do not work additional unpaid hours Do not work any additional paid hours Feel that the organisation acts fairly with career progression Have enough staff within organisation to do my job properly Have adequate materials, supplies and equipment to do my work

In relation to 10 ‘Key Themes’ included in the survey, we are above average in relation to: Equality, diversity and inclusion Quality of care Safe environment – bullying and harassment

The percentage of colleagues who would recommend the Trust as a place to receive care / be treated remained high at 71%.

The percentage of colleagues who would recommend the Trust as a place to work increased by 2% from 62% to 64%.

The percentage of colleagues who think that the Trust acts on concerns raised by patients / service users remained the same at 74%.

Clearly there are areas where we must continue to improve and build on the work we already have underway, including involving staff in important decision making and acting on staff feedback.

The survey also highlighted the need for more action on health and wellbeing and whilst we put extra resources and services in place throughout the pandemic, we are now formalising some of these going forward e.g. Psychological Support Services for staff.

Thanks to everyone who took part in the survey. Your feedback plays a vital role in ensuring that the work we are doing is leading us in the right direction to become an ‘outstanding organisation’.

Spring 2021

ALL IN A DAY’S WORK

Mrs Deepali Varma is our Director of Research and a Consultant Ophthalmologist based at Sunderland Eye Infirmary. She is a retinal specialist, who besides clinical work, is actively involved in clinical research and works closely with National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) Clinical Research Network North East and North Cumbria as an executive member and specialty group lead for ophthalmology.

My day starts… by doing Yoga and meditation early in the morning followed by clinical work.

My typical day… is usually hectic filled with clinical work and often a working lunch involving research meetings. However, I always find time to have a good laugh with colleagues. At the eye infirmary we have always worked as a family and strive to give the patients their best experience when visiting STSFT. During the week, besides conducting clinical trials, I do a combination of outpatient clinics and macular procedures at Sunderland Eye Infirmary.

I also do outreach clinics at Durham Treatment Centre and Palmer Hospital. Many of my patients are long-term and elderly. I enjoy talking to them and listening to their life lessons. The other day I casually asked a patient how her baby grandchild was and she said “Mrs Varma, the baby is now seven years old!”

I got my job… in 2008. Over the years I have taken up various additional roles within and outside the Trust including; Clinical Lead Macular Service, Deputy Director of Innovation and a council member for the Sunderland and North Durham Royal Society for the blind. These have been extremely fulfilling and have given me the opportunity to make a difference to patient’s lives by introducing innovative ways of service delivery.

The hardest part of my job… is to tell my patients with dry macular degeneration that currently there is no treatment available, though I always give them hope that there are several treatments expected to be available in the coming years, thanks to medical research.

The best part of my job… as a Consultant Ophthalmologist is to improve vision for my patients so that they can maintain their independence and thus have a better quality of life. I am excited to see the future pipeline of research involving ground-breaking treatments both within and outside ophthalmology. As the Director of Research I feel privileged to be in a leadership role, working with dedicated teams across various specialities conducting world-class research within STSFT.

Outside of work you will find me…

Trying to fulfil my duties as a mum, taking long walks and keeping in touch with family and friends.

Something most people don’t know about me…

My friends say I am a good cook.

My most memorable moment…was when our team received the Sunderland Echo Best of Health Award due to the highest number of nominations by patients.

11

NEWS for YOU

Civility Saves Lives

- Respect Not Rudeness

Have you ever witnessed bad behaviour, eye rolling or being ignored? All of these things are examples of incivility.

We’re launching a programme of work to tackle such behaviours and enable our amazing staff to be supported at work.

We want staff, patients and visitors to be safe, respected and cared for so we are launching the ‘Respect not Rudeness’ campaign to promote civility for all our people.

Civility is about promoting a culture of being respectful, kind and compassionate, especially in challenging times.

Play your part, let’s create a positive culture for all. Find out more about civility here www.civilitysaveslives.com If you have an interest in learning more about the project why not get in touch with us by emailing Phillipa.poole@chsft.nhs.uk or Carol.

Thatcher@stft.nhs.uk

#everydayinclusion #respectnotrudeness

Spring 2021

inclusive organisation

Staff Networks We want to make our Trust as inclusive as possible and we want to hear from colleagues about how we do this. Our new staff networks provide the opportunity to raise awareness of the importance of every day inclusion – how it will make our organisation stronger and enable our colleagues to come to work, be themselves, work in a way that suits them and deliver on our business needs.

Our staff networks aim to: • Promote inclusivity in the workplace by encouraging all of our staff members to speak up • Listen to you • Discuss your values to ultimately ensure complete acceptance and respect • Ensure there is a safe space to do so Our networks meet regularly and you can be involved as little or as much as you like. These forums are for colleagues to share experiences and provide mutual support and discuss issues affecting them with key decision makers.

We have three staff network groups which you might be interested in joining: Please share the details of the meetings with any colleagues who may wish to attend:

“

• Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic (BAME) Staff Network The BAME Staff Network provides a forum for colleagues to talk confidentially about their work experiences and identity.

It also gives them an opportunity to respond to matters that affect BAME staff and contribute to improving the work experience of BAME colleagues. Please email stsft.bame.staffnetwork@nhs.net to join.

• Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Trans + (LGBT+) Staff Network Do you have ideas that could help us make improvements for our workforce?

Are there areas of fantastic work that you want to tell us about?

Then why not join our LGBT+ staff network please email stsft.lgbtplus. staffnetwork@nhs.net • Positive Health Staff Network If you are a member of staff with a mental health or physical health condition then you might want to consider joining this network. This group is in its developmental stage – by getting involved you can help shape its future email stsft.postivehealth. staffnetwork@nhs.net To find out more about our staff networks, including dates of meetings, what’s happened so far and how to join, visit the dedicated intranet pages.

“

STSFT an

I would like to wear a badge because I feel that everyone should be treated equally. I would wear this badge to show that staff/patients can confide in me for support in relation to anything LGBTQ.

STSFT Staff Pledge

13

NEWS for YOU

Plans to improve surgical services across South We are now restarting work to create outstanding future hospital services as part of our Path to Excellence clinical transformation programme.

Almost a year ago, Phase Two of the programme was paused to enable frontline staff to focus on the COVID-19 response. Now, as the second wave subsides, our clinical teams in South Tyneside and Sunderland are restarting their work to improve surgical services.

To help explain why the transformation of services must now restart, the programme has published an updated Draft Case for Change (February 2021) available via www.pathtoexcellence.org.uk

How will Phase Two of the programme now progress?

Our surgical teams have been discussing the best way to arrange future surgical services since 2016. The ‘working ideas’ outline a clear ambition to separate emergency operations from planned operations with multiple benefits for both patients and staff.

The impact of the pandemic and need for stringent infection control measures and separate pathways of care for nonCOVID-19 patients, has made the need for changing surgical services even more urgent.

Staff health and wellbeing is now even more of a concern for us and we know that the pandemic has increased the pressures on staff even more. Maintaining safe staffing levels has relied on everyone being flexible both with working patterns and their areas of work and we greatly appreciate the heroic efforts of our teams. All staff have had to adapt quickly to a rapidly changing situation to keep everyone safe.

The national decision to postpone all non-urgent operations at the start of the pandemic has also left the NHS with a backlog of patients waiting for surgery.

We want to ensure surgical services are arranged in a way that minimises any such disruption in future and helps us reduce waiting lists and avoid further delays or cancellations for people who need planned operations.

What about the other services in Phase Two? • The pressures on our Emergency Departments and acute medical wards have not gone away but our clinical teams need more time to debate and discuss the impact of COVID-19. Any future planned changes to Emergency Care and Acute Medicine would be subject to the same rigorous process and a separate public consultation in due course.

• We are also planning on opening a new Integrated Diagnostic and Imaging Centre to increase our capacity to do more tests and scans. This work will continue as part of our routine business planning.

You can contact us any time via: Email: stsft.trustcomms@nhs.net 14

Spring 2021

Tyneside and Sunderland What are the ‘working ideas’ for surgery?

The path to

excellence

The surgical services covered by Phase Two of the programme include:

By organising surgery in this way there are many benefits. It is a tried and tested model. Many other parts of the NHS have already done this with great success. The benefits are:

• Trauma and orthopaedics - This type

• Less cancellations or delays to planned operations for patients

of surgery is to do with bones, joints and muscles. Trauma is the word we use to describe emergency operations to fix badly broken bones or injuries. For example, a broken hip.

Orthopaedics is the word we use to describe planned operations on bones joints or muscles.

For example, a new hip or knee replacement.

• Protected care pathways supporting infection control • Improved care pathways for common injuries and conditions leading to better individual care • Better use of our theatre resources • Our staff have a better experience and improved training opportunities

• General surgery - This type of surgery covers many parts of the body. Patients with cancer will often undergo general surgery as part of their planned treatment. The main operations we do are on the stomach, colorectal (bowels) and surgery to fix hernias. We also provide a specialist bariatric surgery service to help people with obesity. Some common emergency operations include gallbladder removal or removing a swollen or painful appendix. Most of our general surgery is now ‘keyhole’ surgery, which means a shorter stay in hospital and a quicker return to normal activities.

Our ‘working ideas’ would mean: • Emergency operations taking place at Sunderland Royal Hospital • South Tyneside District Hospital focusing solely on elective ‘planned’ care • Some planned care continuing at Sunderland Royal Hospital • Outpatient care and diagnostic tests and scans would continue on both hospital sites.

We will also need to consider how clinical support services such as physiotherapy and occupational therapy may also need to adapt.

www.facebook.com/nhsexcellence

• Creating services that attract and retain more staff and newly qualified staff.

What happens next?

Over the next few months we will do further work to refine the ‘working ideas’ for surgical services.

We hope to launch a formal public consultation later this year.

How to get involved Following our first staff Facebook Live sessions in February, further staff engagement sessions were held via MS Teams in March for any colleagues who wanted to find out more about the ‘working idea’s for surgical services. These were led by our Clinical Directors, Paul Dixon (top), Neil Jennings (middle) and Programme Manager Ceri Bentham (bottom). You can watch the recordings of these sessions on the staff intranet.

There are many ways to get involved and give your views.

Further virtual meetings will be scheduled and advertised on the intranet and via the staff e-bulletin. Please get involved and have your say.

@NHSexcellence

www.pathtoexcellence.org.uk 15

NEWS for YOU

News round up Student nurse joins the fight

to combat COVID-19

When first-year adult nursing student and former Healthcare Assistant Ali Henty was told that she would be carrying out her first university placement on a COVID-19 ward, she was unsure what to expect. However, she rose to the challenge sharing that her time on the ward was ‘absolutely amazing.’

Describing her experience Ali said: “The ward was incredibly busy but my lovely colleagues still found the time to provide me with a wealth of opportunities to learn and grow such as helping with medication rounds, taking samples, checking observations and observing procedures.

“Working on Ward 5 in South Tyneside has made me aware of the importance of team work and to be open minded to learn from every member of staff, as everyone on the ward can teach you something new.

“Ward Manager Viv Cockburn should be very proud of her staff, especially during these times.”

Kayleigh Studholme

steps up to the challenge

Congratulations to Occupational Therapist, Kayleigh Studholme, who is now the proud owner of a Fitbit, after completing 321,458 steps for our Step into Health challenge.

Well done to our runners up who will also receive a special prize: 2nd place: Ruth Marsh, 0-19 Service 3rd place: Evelyn Adams, Admin Assistant

NEWS

Emma recognised as

a shining star

Congratulations to Matron Emma Gray who is now the proud holder of a Cavell Star Award after she was nominated by Head of Nursing for Medicine and Urgent and Emergency Care, Barbara Goodfellow.

Emma, who has worked in the NHS for 24 years, was nominated for showing exceptional leadership and support to her colleagues throughout the pandemic.

Barbara said: “Emma always has a smile and a positive outlook. She has led her teams with professionalism, always leading by example, and is a real credit to the Trust.”

Commenting on her award, Emma added: “I feel very honoured and privileged to have been nominated for this award. The teams I work with are very dedicated and talented and I am lucky to work alongside a very supportive team of matrons who are always on hand to offer guidance.”

Cancer services team invite staff to

walk all over cancer

Our cancer services team has provided invaluable support to patients during the COVID-19 pandemic and is asking staff to walk all over cancer by walking a million steps to raise money for their Rise Above Cancer charity.

ABOVE

CANCER

During the pandemic the team delivered over 400 care packages to our patients who were shielding and monies raised from the challenge will allow our colleagues to continue the fantastic work that they do.

Find out how you can get involved on our website: www.stsft.nhs.uk

16

South Tyneside and Sunderland

NHS Foundation Trust

A year like no other

#

– one year on from COVID-19

m ST SF a T Te

One year on 9 from COVID-1 8 page pull-out

NEWS for YOU

Combatting COVID-19

...behind the frontline Whilst our clinical colleagues battle on the frontline in the fight against COVID-19, there are many people behind the scenes working hard to help us to respond to the pressures of the pandemic.

Whether you are a clinical or a non-clinical member of staff, everyone has a vital role to play in the Trust’s response to COVID-19. Here are just a few of our teams who have completely changed the way in which they work and in some cases, the services that they provide…

Domestics Domestics, the unsung COVID-19 heroes, have played a vital role in our response to COVID-19.

By ensuring the cleanliness of our hospitals, they have played a huge part in helping to keep our staff and patients safe.

As well as cleaning COVID-19 affected areas, our domestics are still undertaking routine cleans covering the entire hospital. This includes wards, outpatient areas, theatres, staff rooms, kitchens and offices – to name a few!

They play a key role in the day-to-day running of our hospitals and are reducing the spread of infection through deep cleans and regular upkeep of all areas.

Our domestics have also supported our Linen Team with out of hours staff scrubs distribution as well as the distribution of comfort packs for staff.

Since the outbreak of COVID-19 their workload has dramatically increased and they are working twofold to ensure a high level of cleanliness is maintained in our hospitals.

Without domestics, our hospitals would not be able to run as smoothly or efficiently. It is down to their support that the spread of the virus can be contained and that beds and equipment are turned around so rapidly.

They now provide 24 hour cover and have completely changed the way in which they work.

CHoICE domestics

South Tyne side domestics

Spring 2021

Occupational Health

Procurement

Like many teams, our colleagues in Occupational Health have been helping us respond to the outbreak of COVID-19 since the beginning of February 2020.

CHoICE Procurement Services has worked nonstop to ensure that there is continuous supply of vital Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and other clinical consumables, in the continuing battle against COVID-19.

Since then, the service has constantly had to adapt to the needs of the Trust and has gone from a Monday to Friday, nine to five service to, at one point, a 24 hours a day, seven days a week service.

The team continues to manage our dedicated COVID-19 support line, manning nine telephone lines and handling 100s of calls per day.

It was clear from the start of the COVID-19 crisis that PPE would be of paramount importance and so far the team as secured and delivered over 10.5 million items of PPE. This includes; 5.85 million plastic aprons, 4.2 million surgical masks, 146,500 nitrile gloves and 130,000 FFP3 masks.

They have also responded to numerous requests for mutual aid across the region and have helped to ensure staff in neighbouring Trusts and community settings have had adequate PPE to carry out their roles in a clinically safe environment.

In addition, Occupational Health works closely with our colleagues in HR supporting managers and staff and providing advice and guidance around shielding, risk assessments, childcare, positive lateral flow test results, as well as being involved in COVID-19 outbreak work with clinical teams.

From materials management to purchasing, oracle and contracts and also our colleagues across CHoICE within Facilities, Pharmacy and Finance, everyone has played a vital part in supporting the fight against COVID-19 and ensuring that supplies get to our frontline colleagues; helping them feel protected and ensuring that patient care isn’t compromised.

alth Occupational He

“

“

Everyone has a vital role to play in the Trust’s response to COVID-19.

CHoICE P rocurement

We made the difficult decision to suspend all visiting to adult inpatients.

We admitted our first patient with confirmed COVID-19, to South Tyneside District Hospital.

May

We welcomed our first March cohort of fast tracked student nurses and junior doctors.

May

June

March

June

April

We set up a drive through testing centre and began swabbing symptomatic staff.

FREE

July

September

June June

November November We tested 8,242 members

June

October

And introduced free car parking for our colleagues.

August

October

December

November

December

December

A 24/7 emergency phone line October for Sunderland Eye Infirmary was launched.

September Our COVID-19 Psychological September Support service was established.

April

July

August

August December November December November December November

February

July

Virtual appointments were introduced, with over 131,800 appointments taking place virtually.

24/7 September October April P September October April September October

self-isolation.

Our colleagues began Our COVID-19 advice line sourcing Personal became a Protective Equipment 24/7 service.

(PPE) for staff and so far have delivered over 10.5million items of PPE.

February

May June April

January

May

January

its first national lockdown on March 23rd.

May March

COVID-19 ward.

February

March March April

March The UK went into January And opened our first

And virtual visiting and our Sending Love scheme was introduced to allow patients to stay connected to their loved ones.

We started issuing daily COVID-19 updates to staff – to date there have been over 200!

The UK’s first two patients with confirmed COVID-19 were taken to the Royal Victoria Infirmary.

August August

NHS Foundation Trust

South Tyneside and Sunderland

January February July January February July January We launched ourJuly COVID-19 advice line, providing February August staff with advice and guidance around travel and

A year like no other – one year on from COVID-19

July July July

With a new year came a new national lockdown for the rest of England and Scotland.

March

January

July

April

July August

October

September

The Government outlined a 4 step roadmap out of lockdown as infection rates continue to fall.

February

The UK became the first country in the world to approve a COVID-19 vaccine and the Pfizer/ BioNTech vaccine was rolled out from December 8th 2020. On December 30th the Oxford/AstraZeneca vaccine was approved by UK regulators.

February

December December December

December December

The past year has been one like Aprilno other. September March We are so very proud of how everyone at #TeamSTSFT has responded.

Our community teams have supported vaccinating people in their own homes and care homes and these efforts were praised by the Prime Minister.

January

November June We introduced Lateral Flow November June Testing for asymptomatic staff.

November June

November November

June June

On Monday 12th October 2020, Prime Minister, Boris Johnson outlined the new three-tiered December scheme.

October October October

May May

September September September November

We began our staff vaccination programme and have now vaccinated over 85% of #TeamSTSFT with second vaccinations well underway.

August August August

of staff for antibodies.

August Our Chief Executive Ken unveiled our ITU team’s August Tree of Life at South Tyneside District Hospital.

August September October September October September October

July July July

June

April April April

launched across the UK.

April April The NHS TestApril and Trace App

February February February

February February February

May

May The UK was put into a May national 4 week lockdown.

May

March March March

May

The Nightingale Hospital North East was officially opened (May 5).

On the 2nd July 2020 we discharged our longest staying ITU patient Mr Abul Azad. He spent 56 days in intensive care.

March March March

January January January

January January January

We welcomed our first cohort of midwifery student nurses to support staffing across the Trust.

October

August

NEWS for YOU

ankY h T # o

u

Caring for our communities

...throughout COVID-19 Community services are at the heart of our Trust and our community teams have had to completely transform the way we deliver many of our essential services, to ensure that patients continued to get the care and support they needed during the pandemic.

From delivering complex care within our patients own home settings, using technology to support patients virtually to providing care from community hubs and our intermediate care facilities at ICAR in Houghton.

Here’s just a snippet of what some of our community Teams have been up to over the past year: Sunderland Community Nursing Team Our Community Nursing Team in Sunderland has been integral in the success of the roll out of COVID-19 vaccine in care homes in Sunderland - which was praised by the Prime Minister himself.

They vaccinated an incredible 1,690 residents across 48 care homes in just nine working days.

Over 2,500 housebound patients in Sunderland were also vaccinated in their own homes by our teams in just 21 days.

South Tyneside Planned Care Team - including District Nursing and Community Matrons.

Our colleagues in South Tyneside have had increased activity. The teams have supported patient discharge and prevention of admission during the pandemic.

Care home support has been really important to the teams, ensuring the residents and staff felt supported during this challenging time.

Recovery at Home Palliative Care Teams In South Tyneside activity increased for our Palliative Care colleagues as they continued to maintain a business as usual service.

In Sunderland, our Specialist Palliative Care Team went to a seven day service and found themselves supporting colleagues on the wards.

They also provided virtual outpatient appointments for patients with lymphoedema, psychology appointments, implemented electronically generated prescriptions and rolled out new guidance for the care of the dying patient.

Since April 2020, our Recovery at Home Team in Sunderland has; been part of the COVID community swabbing team, supported the setup of the COVID-19 Pulse Oximetry at Home virtual Monitoring Service and developed a new Integrated Discharge Team, which provides rapid assessment and rehabilitation to patients leaving hospital. Since April 2020 the team has received 4,620 referrals.

The Nursing and GP Urgent Assessment Service provided a COVID-19 home visiting service and continued to provide assessment and treatment to patients with long term conditions throughout the pandemic.

Spring 2021

Sexual Health Services

5-19 (School Nursing) – South Tyneside

Sexual Health services in South Tyneside, Gateshead and Sunderland implemented a telephone triage/ consultation system to reduce face-to-face appointment time and patient footfall. The service also expanded its use of online testing kits via SH:24 which has been a great success.

During the initial outbreak of COVID-19 the team was redeployed to support the School Based Immunisation Team in the delivery of diabetic care to residents in care homes. Once schools reopened the team was able to deliver emotional support sessions for children.

Learning Disability Service

Gateshead Equipment Service Gateshead Equipment Service continued to provide vital equipment to patients at home and in care homes, including the provision of specialist wheelchairs. They also transported COVID-19 swabs from care homes in Sunderland and South Tyneside to the testing facility at the QE Hospital in Gateshead.

Community Mental Health Services Our community mental health teams in South Tyneside and Sunderland have introduced digital offers to supplement face-to-face appointments, providing assessments and treatment to all patients in our local communities. Support also continued to be delivered to teachers, students, parents and carers.

Throughout COVID-19 the team has continued to provide face-to-face appointments and interventions, as well as virtual appointments and doorstep visits.

Bladder and Bowel Service In April a number of colleagues in the Bladder and Bowel Team at South Tyneside were redeployed to support their District Nursing colleagues. Throughout COVID-19 a reduced Bladder and Bowel service has been maintained across South Tyneside and Sunderland.

Intermediate Care Assessment and Rehabilitation (ICAR) – Houghton Primary Care Centre Colleagues at ICAR saw a big change in the acuity of the patients being transferred and adapted to care for more acutely unwell patients.

Steps to Health – Sunderland Steps to Health delivered cardiac and pulmonary rehab classes virtually and exercise practitioners were redeployed to support other community services. Virtual clinics, telephone and video conferencing was initiated for patients with diabetes, respiratory and cardiology problems.

0-5 (Health Visiting) – South Tyneside Health visiting continued throughout the pandemic and the team has provided face-toface visits and virtual support for our patients.

Baby clinics continued on an appointment only basis. The team also developed an online breast feeding group for parents which has been a huge success and will continue.

School Immunisation Teams During the first wave of COVID-19 our School Immunisation teams supported colleagues in planned care by treating diabetic residents in care homes. They assessed blood sugar levels and administered insulin. The team then went into action delivering childhood vaccinations, including flu, HPV and MenACWY. Community Dental Team Even though 50 percent of the Community Dental Team was redeployed to support our COVID-19 advice line, emergency dental care was still provided via dental hubs across South Tyneside, Gateshead and Sunderland.

Let us know what your team has been up to during COVID-19 for publication in the next edition of News for You.

k n You a h #T

Spring 2021

Ask the executives...

Peter Sutton Director of Planning & Business Development What is your role?

Director of Planning & Business Development and Accountable Emergency Officer, which means that I am the Lead for the Trust response to COVID-19.

What are the most important qualities you need to do your job?

Ability to look ahead and having a plan on how to get there. You also need to have a pragmatic approach as often you have to compromise and be flexible, particularly when working with so many people, teams and organisations.

Why did you choose to do it?

Too often in the NHS we are constantly dealing with the ‘here and now’ so the fact this role was aimed at planning, thinking ahead and working across so many different areas (both inside and outside the Trust) made it really attractive to me.

It was a real privilege to get this job. The role is so varied including working with teams on their plans for the future and trying to turn them into reality.

What do you most like about it?

The people, the variety and making a difference. Our staff and teams are our greatest asset and getting to work with so many different teams and departments is a real pleasure. When we are able to develop a service and new ways of working, or invest in new kit and technology which leads to genuine improvements for our patients and makes a difference to our staff, that aspect of the job is particularly rewarding.

What is your favourite film?

Can’t say I have one favourite film but I must admit to enjoying sci-fi – films like the Matrix, Blade Runner, Inception and Interstellar.

What music do you like to listen to?

Really difficult to say one particular type and it changes over the years. Artists and groups such as Plan B, Massive Attack, Daft Punk and Coldplay are some of my favourites.

What are your hobbies and interests?

Sport (both playing and watching) and travel are probably my two main interests and even better when I can combine the two. I have been I have been a Sunderland season ticket holder for approx. 20 years, which can be quite painful at times.

I learned to ski a couple of years ago, after snowboarding for 20 years and have started to play golf (very badly) as my days of playing football are coming to an end.

What is your most prized possession?

Can I class my dog as a prized possession? A couple of years ago we got a Pomspitz, which is cross between a Japanese Spitz and a Pomeranian (think small fox).

Coco (I did not name her) thinks everything should revolve around her, but she is now part of the family and brings alot of fun to the house.

25

NEWS for YOU

#TeamSTSFT scoops silver award for better health at work

Better Health at Work is a regional award scheme which recognises the efforts of employers in the North East and Cumbria in addressing health issues within the workplace.

The Trust runs a number of campaigns and initiatives to help improve your health and wellbeing at work including: • stopping smoking service • stress management and mental health support • healthy eating and weight management groups • fitness classes and challenges.

Most recently we have launched our Psychological Support Service, which provides 24 hour telephone support as well as face-to-face sessions, team check-ins and mindfulness sessions.

“

Kath Griffin, Director of Human Resources and Organisational Development, said:

“We are absolutely delighted to receive this Silver Better Health at Work Award.

“The past year has been one of the toughest years for the Trust and our wider NHS, but despite the challenges of COVID-19, we have remained committed to ensuring that appropriate support is available to our staff through a comprehensive package of health and wellbeing resources.

“Our staff are the most important part of our organisation and now, more than ever, the way we look after them and how we develop our health and wellbeing offer in the future is of paramount importance. Our staff demonstrate their commitment to providing high quality care to our patients – and we are committed to looking after them.”

We’re now looking forward to working towards a Gold award, so if you have any ideas on how we can improve the health and wellbeing of our teams at work please email: stsft.prevention@nhs.net

“

We’re proud to announce that we have been recognised for our efforts to improve the health and wellbeing of our colleagues, with a Silver Better Health at Work Award.

We know that our staff are the most important part of our organisation.

26

Spring 2021

Health & Wellbeing

– our new strategy

Welcome to our four page health and wellbeing special.

If 2020 has highlighted anything, it’s that nothing is more important than our health and wellbeing. For many of us, after a year of uncertainty, this year will be about finding new ways to take care of ourselves.

That’s why our new Health and Wellbeing Strategy aims to improve health and wellbeing for you, your colleagues and people living in the local community.

We will focus more than ever on making it easier for staff and patients to get the support they need in hospital and in the community. We want to help you and our patients to make positive choices about your own health and wellbeing. This might include stopping smoking, cutting down on the alcohol we drink or being more physically active.

All of which will help to prevent ill health and keep us all safe and well.

The strategy sets out key health and wellbeing goals and focuses on six key themes:

Workforce Health Best Start in Life Smokefree NHS Patient Engagement Healthy Environment Reducing Alcohol Harms

27

NEWS for YOU

STSFT Health and Wellbeing Priorities Here are some frightening facts that we want to change...

Did you know?

Commu

Ev alu at ion

There are more people coming into our hospitals due to alcohol related illnesses and injuries than almost anywhere else in the country

Did you know?

4 out of 10 adults locally don’t manage to do the recommended daily amount of physical activity

Embed routine identification and support offer to all patients

Further develop strong links between STSFT, Community Service providers and the wider system for adults and Play a leading role

young people regionally and nationally through the development of the regions first alcohol care team and a strong advocacy role

Did you know?

In the UK around 6 out of 10 adults are above a healthy weight, and of these half are living with obesity

Partnerships

Make the most of the Trust estate as a place which promotes both physical and mental wellbeing

Reducing Alcohol Harm

Continue to embed healthy eating into the food options available across the Trust estate working with our partners and their healthy weight plans

Healthy Environment

Build on the smokefree estate to position our estate and staff as role models for healthy behaviours

Hea Inequ

Patient Engagement

Explore ways to hear from a diverse range of our communities effectively and inclusively

Did you know?

The average reading age of our local population is between 9-11 years 28

Ch am pio ns

Further empower patients and promote appropriate self care / self management

Optimise our patient interactions as opportunities to make every contact count

Spring 2021

Did you know?

unications and engag eme nt

To support staff in embedding prevention in our ‘business as usual’

Best Start in Life

1 in 3 children leaving primary school are overweight

To improve uptake of support services such as vaccination, smoking cessation and mental health services through evidence based interventions and effective referrals

Did you know?

Breastfeeding can have long term benefits for babies such as reducing the risk of obesity in later life

To improve outcomes for families through promoting health and wellbeing and preventative actions

KEY

circle = enabl er ter s ou ircle = obje ec c l d cle = th cir

es tiv

emes

tion ebra l e c and Recognition

Adv oca cy

Embed treatment of nicotine addiction as a priority within standard care across all inpatient and outpatient Support all interactions and all patients who patient pathways smoke with a referral to an on-site specialist stop smoking service by 2023/24

mid

Smokefree NHS

Offer Nicotine Replacement Therapy (NRT) to all patients who smoke to reduce symptoms of Nicotine withdrawal and promote smoking cessation by 2023/24

Did you know?

To reduce risk taking behaviours including smoking, alcohol consumption, excess weight in the family environment through greater identification and support

Workforce Health

alth ualities

ce igen tell d in an ta Da

To make improvements on key workforce health metrics including selfreported wellbeing, sickness absence and engagement

inner

To meet and exceed the expectations of the NHS People Plan

Around 1 in 4 people in the UK will experience a mental health problem each year

Did you know?

Almost 80,000 people in the UK die from a smoking related illness every year 29

NEWS for YOU

Accessing support

Staff support is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week from a range of places.

Onsite counselling support

Priority access to psychological (IAPT) services

Did you know that you can now access face-toface counselling sessions across our Trust sites?

These sessions provide a safe space for you to reflect on any difficulties or challenges you are experiencing and explore potential ways forward.

You can book a session by contacting 07425636905 (Monday to Friday 9am until 4pm) or email the team at: stsft.staffcounselling@nhs.net If you would like any sessions to be based on your local site, such as a ward or community base and have access to a suitable room, this can also be arranged.

This includes support for a range of mental health concerns including stress, anxiety, depression and bereavement.

To access support call the team on 0191 283 2541 or 0191 283 2937 and let them know you work for the Trust.

Team support sessions The past year has brought many new challenges and pressures and now more than ever it’s important that we work together to strengthen #OurTeamOurTrust.

Location

Day

Time

STDH Training Centre Meeting Room 2/ Training Room 2

Tuesday Wednesday Thursday

12noon 1pm 2pm 3pm

Clarendon Interview Room 2, Ground floor

Tuesday Wednesday Thursday

1pm 2pm 3pm 4pm

Springwell Health Centre L1-44 Health Education Room

Tuesday Wednesday

1pm 2pm 3pm 4pm

Washington Primary Care Centre L1-005 Interview Room 5

Tuesday Wednesday

1pm 2pm 3pm 4pm

These sessions provide an introduction to mindfulness techniques and how to build them into day-to-day life.

Chester Lodge, Level 4

Tuesday Wednesday Thursday

1pm 2pm 3pm 4pm

Freedom to Speak Up

24/7 Carefirst helpline 0800174319 If you need to talk, call our confidential staff health and mental wellbeing support line.

The team can provide psychological and emotional support, as well as practical information and advice on a range of things that may be worrying you and affecting your daily life.

30

As a member of #TeamSTSFT, did you know that you have priority access to our psychological therapy services?

We can offer bespoke team support sessions to help you and your colleagues reflect on your experiences and explore ways to build resilience.

Email us at: stsft.teamsupport@nhs.net

Mindfulness sessions Given how busy our services are, learning new ways to help slow your mind and be in the present moment is important.

Email us at: stsft.staffmindfulness@nhs.net

Our freedom to speak up ambassadors are here to support you at any time with any worries or concerns you have, whether or not they are related to COVID-19. We appreciate this is a very difficult time for staff and we want to help and support everyone – if you are worried about anything and feel you cannot talk to your line manager – please speak to one of our Freedom To Speak Up Ambassadors. Visit the intranet for more information.

Spring 2021

Andy’s Man Club

– It’s ok to talk

We know that societal expectations and traditional gender roles contribute to why men are less likely to discuss or seek help for mental health problems.

In England, around one in eight men have a common mental health problem such as depression, anxiety, panic disorder or obsessive compulsive disorder.

According to research from men’s health charity, Movember, almost one fifth of men say their mental health has got worse since the start of the pandemic. Worryingly, nearly half say that nobody has checked to find out how they’re coping, suggesting that many men are suffering in silence…

Remember, it’s okay not to be okay and it’s okay to talk. There is lots of support out there that is available to you.

Andy’s Man Club supports men with their mental health and was formed in early 2016 by Halifax rugby league player, Luke Ambler, after his brother-in-law took his own life. The club provides a judgement-free space for men aged 18 and over to speak openly and seek support from likeminded peers.

Steve Bell, Theatre Manager at Sunderland Royal Hospital, attended an Andy’s Man Club session for the first time in September 2020.

He said: “I admitted to myself that I needed to

talk, I was keeping all of my issues to myself and didn’t like the fact that it was affecting relationships at home and my work life. I needed to stop bottling things up.

“The hardest part of attending is walking through the door, once you do that you’ve made a massive step.”

Steve Bell, Theatre Manager at Sunderland Royal Hospital

For many people, the outbreak of COVID-19 has completely turned their lives upside down and feeling stressed or worried is an experience that a lot of people will go through. This doesn’t mean you are weak in any way, or not good at your job, just that you are doing your best in what is a very challenging situation.

Steve said: “Please open up, find that courage

to speak to someone, it does make a difference. If it wasn’t for Andy’s Man Club I dread to think what path I would have taken.”

Steve has been attending Andy’s Man Club for over six months and is now helping to facilitate group sessions at the Sunderland branch of the club. He said: “The group I facilitate on a

Monday night is growing steadily and the feedback we receive is all positive.”

A small conversation about mental health has the power to make a big difference. To find out more about Andy’s Man Club and how you can join a group visit: https://andysmanclub.co.uk/ or email info@andysmanclub.co.uk

31

NEWS for YOU

We’ve achieved a digital first

Hot on the heels of becoming the first hospital in the country to gain Global Digital Exemplar status, Sunderland Royal Hospital has officially been crowned as one the most digitally advanced organisations in the whole of the NHS and the only hospital in the North of England to be awarded Level 7 status from the Healthcare Information Management and Systems Society (HIMSS).

Following a two day virtual assessment at the end of last year, HIMSS assessors have awarded Sunderland Royal the highest attainable accreditation, Level 7, after observing clinical and operational teams in action from across the hospital.

The digital accolade means Sunderland Royal Hospital now joins an elite few organisations around the world to achieve the internationally recognised HIMSS Level 7 standard. It follows major long-term investment in technology and is

for the North! a credit to the Trust’s leadership team who, for many years, have recognised the pivotal role of technology in the effective and safe delivery of modern day NHS care.

Dr Kevin Joisce, Consultant in Emergency Medicine and Chief Clinical Information Officer at the Trust, said: “This is fantastic news for our patients and testament to the hard work and dedication of all clinical colleagues who have truly embraced our digital ambitions to make them a reality.

“Technology is embedded in everything we do, in all clinical processes and our nursing workflows to an extent where we have successfully eliminated our reliance on historic paper-based systems at Sunderland Royal Hospital.”

Andy Hart, our Director of Information Management and Technology said: “Our key priority now is making sure our South Tyneside District Hospital site can reach the same Level 7 HIMSS quality standard as soon as possible.”

The Trust is moving all email services to a

mail

email system

Go-live date – end April 2021 In order for this to happen as smoothly as possible we need everyone to do the following: • log on to NHSmail • update your password and security questions • accept the user access policy If you haven’t already done this, you need to do so as soon as possible.

NHSmail is a national email system for the whole of the NHS. Some of you may already be using NHSmail - if you are, this will become your only email address.

Everyone should have their own NHSmail login details. Anyone who doesn’t have this needs to contact their IT ServiceDesk to obtain this information.

Please remember that email is a communication tool and not a document storage facility – please ensure that you keep the size of your mailbox to within the limit. The mailbox size limit within NHSmail is 4GB

32

Spring 2021

Long Service Awards

...congratulations Ann McWhirter - 50 years

Debbie Carr - 30 years

Ann began her nursing career as a cadet nurse on her 16th birthday in 1971. She has since worked as a staff nurse in A&E, cardiac medicine, orthopaedics and surgery before joining the team at St Benedict’s Hospice 23 years ago.

Debbie has had an incredibly varied career, from working as a Registered Nurse in ICCU, to an Alcohol Liaison Specialist Nurse, before joining the team on E54.

Ann McWhirter

50

From delivering a baby in a car, to supporting our patients and their families at the end of their lives, Ann has seen it all during her time in the NHS and has passed on her knowledge to numerous nurses over the years.

Her advice to future nurses is ‘to always have the patient at the centre of everything they do and always give their best.’

Shaun Duffy & Lesley Dacres - 30 years 30 Our fantastic 0 3 Healthcare Shaun Duffy Assistants Lesley Dacres Shaun Duffy and Lesley Dacres are celebrating 30 years of service at STSFT. Shaun said: “It’s been a long journey but an enjoyable one. I’ve seen so many changes over the years and love building a bond with our older patients.” Lesley said: “I have really enjoyed the last 30 years. I have made some friends for life and love meeting a wide variety of people, in particular hearing our patients’ life stories and experiences.”

30 She said: “My Debbie Carr experience working through COVID-19 has been of mixed emotions and without the team I work with I would never have coped. The resilience of staff on E54 is phenomenal and we as a team have supported each other throughout the good and the bad.”

Andrea Hood 30 years Andrea has spent 25 of her 30 years NHS service caring for patients in our Urology Treatment Centre, which she described as ‘an amazing place to work.’

30 Andrea Ho od

Andrea has often gone above and beyond for our patients and the local community, hosting various charity nights and working alongside Wearside Women in Need - which she won an award for.

She said: “We are one big family on the unit it’s fabulous. I can honestly say I would not wish to work anywhere else as the 25 years spent here have been absolutely amazing.”

As we went to print a number of our colleagues retired after many years of service: • Head of Biomedical Engineering, Mike Cox • Hospital Chaplain Rev. Peter Webb • • F63 Ward Manager, Maria Lynn • Patient Flow Co-ordinator, Jim Simpson • • PA to Clinical Services, Liz Nicholson • Matron, Denise Johnson • Nurse Consultant, Paul Johnson • Good luck and enjoy your well deserved retirement 33

In the

spotlight... spotlig ht...

Urology team

What does the team do?

We are a team of nearly 150 staff including 15 consultants and 13 cancer nurse specialists. We provide a range of urological services for patients in South Tyneside, Sunderland and County Durham.

The majority of our work is cancer based including: • Prostate • Bladder • Kidney • Penile • Testicular Other work includes; management and treatment of kidney stones, surgery for urine symptoms and surgery for sexual dysfunction.

Where are you based?

Sunderland Royal Hospital, South Tyneside District Hospital and Durham Treatment Centre.

What does an average day look like in your team?

We have three operating theatres running every day with elective urology cases. Typically this will be a mixture of robotic cancer cases, innovative surgeries such as focal cryotherapy to prostate gland, kidney stones and other benign cases.

A dedicated on-call team deals with the many emergencies that attend our hospital.

What is special about your team?

We are a very close-knit team with a family atmosphere. People genuinely want to work here.

We have a truly inclusive culture which generates an environment where everyone feels they have a voice.

The team consistently rises to challenges with highly innovative thinking and initiatives, for example the Prostate Assessment Service, which has led to much improved cancer pathways for patients.

We are always striving to move forward and continuously improve our services. We’re ambitious and aim to be regarded as one of the very best urology departments in the country.

34

What’s the team’s proudest moment?

The speed and efficacy of how we have responded to the COVID-19 crisis. This pace of change was key to maintaining our activity levels and providing cancer and emergency care to a standard as high as pre-COVID. Our cancer performance continues to improve and we have achieved every cancer target in the most recently published national data for November 2020.

The introduction of the Prostate Rapid Assessment Clinic has reduced waiting times and dramatically improved patient experience.

Finally the introduction of a second surgical robot has allowed us to perform even more cancer operations – quicker than we ever have before.

What qualities do your team members have so they can do their job well?

Everyone supports each other and pull together creating a culture where innovation thrives.

Everyone is treated with respect and has a voice and there is visible leadership at all levels.

Our surgeons are extremely approachable and supportive and work with staff at all levels to achieve common goals.

Our solution-focussed (rather than problemorientated) thinking has led to numerous and rapid improvements within our directorate.

Tell us something about a team member that most people don’t know?

One of our consultants Mr Bryant represented England in two Lacrosse World Championships in 2002 and 2006.

Spring 2021

Welcome to our social circle…

At South Tyneside and Sunderland we have over 26,000 followers on our social media channels who we love to get social with!

Here’s just a small sample of what people have been saying over the last few months…

Louise Thompson LLB, MSc @louise3thompson

Nice one Dr Wahid! Your team helped my mum survive, she was on ward 5. She is now in a care home and today she has gained weight! Three weeks ago this seemed entirely impossible.

Thank you all @STSFTrust, you rock!!!

Amy Dowling us out Big Thank You to The Eye Infirmary for helping this line y genc emer today. Needed to ring their 24/7 was who r itione pract morning. Spoke to a male nurse thing every in expla to really caring and took the time mative I needed to know over the phone. Really infor and useful service. Thank You

Carole @Bekindalways59 Had to have a procedure done at Sunderland Royal Hospital today. First class service, fantastic kind staff and I felt totally safe re Covid.

Well done you wonderful people

Tabitha Bonallie I would highly recommend South Tyneside’s midwifery led centre. My partner and I were made to feel comfortable and well looked after from start to finish. I was able to have the water birth I had hoped for, where I gave birth to this little the chunky monkey Jasper. A special thank you to ort student midwife Chloe who was amazing supp e hom throughout the whole journey. Definitely the for! away from home experience we had hoped

Join the conversation…

nes

Celia Jones @Celia_E_Jo

by the kindness of the I’ve been blown away ma for covid at nurses treating my grand helped my grandma use @STSFTrust. Someone y to my grandad for nearl the ward iPad to speak week half an hour earlier this

Dawn Garrett @NurseDawnG Feeling appreciated @STSFTrust thank you! (and having a little cry )

Melanie @JohnsonMelm Always good to highlight the fantastic work of District Nurses. Thank you to all our DN teams @STSFTrust for everything you do @MilburnMelanie

Danielle Hunt ital in Our little boy Theo was born at Sunderland hosp atal Neon d erlan Sund The .

October at 28 weeks pregnant s week 7 the in finish to team were incredible from start a at s week 2 final his we spent there before doing one different unit. We couldn’t thank each and every being also and care their of the nurses and doctors for ut them there to listen to us when needed to chat, witho the all rve dese staff the all he wouldn’t even be here, x ing! recognition as they are amaz

glaura

Laura Denning @dennin

so much to everyone at @STSFTrust thank you for making my first day South Tyneside hospital ve! enjoyable and informati on placement today so cs eti iet #d NS dies! @NclB Loving my first year stu

@STSFTrust

Lisa LR @lisaEMHP

www.facebook.com/STSFTrust

Thank you @STSFTrust! I feel so proud to be part of the team

@STSFTrust You can still join our staff Facebook page, search ‘STSFT Staff’ 35

‘Facebook live’ and ‘Microsoft (MS) Teams’ sessions with Ken The next Chief Executive Roadshows will take place in April.

2 ‘Facebook Live’ sessions • Monday 12th April at 6pm • Thursday 22nd April at 6pm (via the staff Facebook Group) You can start submitting your questions for Ken now via stsft.trustcomms@nhs.net

4 ‘MS Teams’ sessions • Tuesday 13th April at 12noon • Wednesday 14th April at 12noon • Monday 19th April at 12.30pm • Wednesday April 21st at 12noon (Visit the intranet for links to these sessions)

Our vision for a new Eye Hospital in Sunderland

Visit the intranet for more information

@STSFTrust

www.facebook.com/STSFTrust

@STSFTrust