The pulse of community health, Leasowes, Rowley Regis, City Hospital, Sandwell General and the Midland Metropolitan University Hospital
From L-R: Karen, Donna and Steve wishing Rowley Regis Hospital a Happy 30th Birthday!
HELLO FROM THE CHAIR
Welcome to the 2024 autumn version of Heartbeat.
We hope you will join us in wishing Rowley Regis Hospital a happy 30th birthday!
This issue also features the Trust becoming a pioneer in AI, modernising medication at SWB with Omnicell and the success of Mock Move Week.
Enjoy J
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Lesley Talks about... Moving to MMUH on Sunday 6 October
Lesley Writtle, Deputy Chair
Now that we have a confirmed move date into our brand-new hospital (Sunday 6 October for first move from Sandwell) I would like to take this opportunity thank everyone for all their hard work, I realise it takes tremendous effort from everyone even if you are not moving yourself. Thanks to our staff and all the external contractors and volunteers, you are all integral to making the move a successful one. I appreciate that this is an incredibly busy (and probably stressful) time, getting ready for MMUH to open and welcome staff and patients later this year. There is still a very intense period of work to go before opening and I appreciate many of you are working hard for the move on top of your day job and this takes considerable resilience.
I am delighted to be judging and presenting the ARC Star awards. ARC is the new employee recognition scheme, which replaced Star of the Week. I was honoured to hand over the recent awards to Sophie Whiles and Crystal Campbell, both very worthy winners. The ARC Star is presented to someone who consistently lives our Trust values of Ambition, Respect, and Compassion, someone who goes above and beyond to make a difference to both their colleagues and patients. They display our values and behaviours in everything they do.
I would encourage you to nominate. There is a simple, online form which opens from the first Monday of each month, closing on the 24th of each month. I am always really excited to see the nominations and it is sometimes difficult to choose! All of the ARC Star winners throughout the year will then go forward to a special category within the Star Awards, where we will crown our
ARC Star of the Year.
I would also like to highlight that there is also significant work being undertaken as part of the delivery of our Trust People Plan and EDI plan to support our staff improve experience and to create a positive culture of compassion and inclusion. This includes enhancing and strengthening the role of Staff Networks and advancing work on our Trust FTSU programme through joint work on enhancing psychological safety through the FTSU strategy and our Just and Learning Culture programme.
I was very encouraged by colleagues who have put their names forward for Chairing or Vice chairing of Staff Networks which have been recently established. Staff networks comprise employees coming together around a shared purpose to improve staff experience within their organisation and across the NHS. Not only do they provide a supportive and welcoming space for NHS colleagues, but they also offer expertise on matters related to equality, diversity, and inclusion. As a Trust we pleased to announce that following on from staff voting, we have now successfully appointed some new chairs and vice chairs to our staff networks. More to be announced later but I would like to offer the new Chairs and Vice Chairs my very best wishes in their new very vital role.
Finally, MMUH will not be the success we expect it to be without the valuable work we do as an integrated care organisation, something we do very well and are proud of, an area of work that will be our focus moving into 2025. So, thank you to all our staff not just those of you moving this year. This is an incredibly exciting and transformative year for all of us.
ARC Star winner, Sophie Whiles
ARC Leadership training programme
Last year the Trust launched its new values Ambition, Respect and Compassion and since the development of these values and the feedback from a recent Pulse Survey, we have now introduced the ‘ARC Leadership Programme’.
The programme is also in line our People Plan for 2022 – 2027 which sets out our commitment to cultivate and sustain happy, productive and engaged staff ensuring the best possible experience for our staff and patients.
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We asked some of our colleagues who have completed the first module of the ARC leadership programme on what their thoughts were?
Nazeem Bibi, Community Team Manager said: “I leant key stills such as how to manage staff more compassionately and it has allowed me to adapt the way I work by making more time to engage with my team members. I would highly recommend anyone undertaking the course as it enabled me to learn new management techniques that I can implement into my management style.”
Mark Taylor, Head of IT for MMUH said: “The course allowed me to focus on myself both physically and mentally and to learn how to improve your management style. The module provided me with a different and new perspective, to accept new ideas from my fellow colleagues. I would highly recommend for anyone to do the training, slightly uncomfortable as it’s something new, but worth it.”
Essie Li, Head of Transformation said: “I was given the opportunity to expand my perception of ambition, respect and compassion. I was able to expand my approach on reflection being a human being, not just a manage and to live the Trust values more empathetically in reality. I would say to those looking to undergo the training, be prepared for the emotional rollercoaster – but in a good way, the course really makes you stop and think, what can I do better, to be better.”
Florence BurgundyBenders said: “ The ARC leadership program provided me with valuable insights into effective leadership strategies, communication skills, conflict resolution, and team building. I learned the importance of selfawareness, emotional intelligence, and adaptability in a leadership role. The training also emphasized the significance of setting clear goals, providing constructive feedback, and fostering a positive work culture.”
The compassionate and inclusive leadership module is available now for both line managers and team members to book on to. We warmly encourage all staff and managers to join the programme and support the organisation on its journey towards developing and nurturing a compassionate and inclusive culture.
If you would like to enrol onto the ARC leadership training programme please contact Learning and Development Team via email swbh.landd@nhs.net
SWB becomes trailblazer in artificial intelligence
The Trust recently hosted an event to highlight the possibilities that the use of artificial intelligence will bring to the NHS in coming years –and why the use of ‘Deepracer’ has been seen across multiple industries and platforms.
Partnering with Amazon Web Services, SWB adopted Deepracer AI as a training tool to make machine and reinforcement learning accessible to staff over the last twelve months. The platform powers a fully automated 1/16th ratio RC car, using sensors and cameras to perceive its environment.
Krupa Soneji, Senior Application Support Analyst and SWB Deepracer Lead said: “We have collaborated with the NHS Cloud Centre for Excellence to share
our ways of working with other NHS trusts. We believe in innovation and are proud to have paved the way for more meaningful collaborations, learning through play, and making technology more equitable and accessible to other NHS organisations.”
The event was hosted at our Sandwell site, where individuals from across the country were invited to take part in a race between the RC cars, programmed by themselves. The event provided opportunity for like-minded individuals to share their thoughts and ideas on how AI can be further implemented into healthcare in the future.
Krupa said: “There is evidence of AI and machine learning proving a success thus far, in diagnostic research, for example, it has been used to successfully diagnose cancer, glaucoma, and diagnose dementia earlier for patients. The radiology department here at the Trust has been using it for diagnostic research since 2020.”
With the charter signed between NHSE and The Incubator for Artificial Intelligence to support the use of AI in NHS services, the possibility for a more efficient future of patient care delivery is an exciting prospect.
Doctor joins teachers to raise funds for Your Trust Charity
“The funds donated to Your Trust Charity go towards providing additional facilities and supporting innovative projects such as play areas for young patients.” He said.
Dr Mike Blaber and local teachers from Bristnall Hall Academy completed the arduously Birmingham Half Marathon earlier this year to raise money for Your Trust Charity.
Taking part in the challenge on 5 May, the Palliative Care Specialist explained running for the charity will contribute to our brand state-of-the art Midland Metropolitan University Hospital which is set to open its doors later this year.
“Running is a passion of mine along with being a doctor for the local patients of Sandwell and West Birmingham. Raising money for the Trust’s charity is very rewarding. I’ve seen firsthand how the funding has enhanced the experience of not only our patients, but also the staff working here.”
The teachers have supported the hospital charity over the years including supporting the commissioning of painting on a maternity ward to cake sales and Christmas jumper competitions.
Jamie Grainger said: “We’ve previously ran the half marathon in aid of Your Trust Charity and donated over £500.This year we are determined to double our target. We would like to thank those who have supported us already, a small donation can go a long way to ensure the charity supports those in the hospital.”
All four runners raised over £600 towards Your Trust Charity; however, they still need your help to reach their target. To donate - https://www.justgiving.com/page/ mike-blaber-1712583559367?utm_ medium=fundraising&utm_ content=page%2Fmikeblaber-1712583559367&utm_ source=copyLink&utm_campaign=pfpshare
The Amazon Web Services Deepracer AI event was hosted at the Sandwell Education Centre
Bristnall Hall Academy teachers ahead of the Birmingham Half Marathon
Empowering Researchers: The impact of the #WeResearch Competition
We are thrilled to announce the winners of the first #WeResearch poster contest, partnered with our colleagues from The Dudley Group NHS Foundation Trust.
The event and judges were impressed by the incredible entries we received from colleagues across the organisations.
The competition focuses on how working collaboratively across the Black Country to use research to improve and enhance our services and to understand the incredible potential of change that can be achieved through teamwork and dedication.
We received over 80 submissions from colleagues across the two organisations, covering topics such as 'changing service delivery through research, engaging with our communities, improving the lifecycle of research, 'impact through research, as well as the 'NMAHPPS (nurses, midwives, AHPs, pharmacy professionals, psychologists and healthcare scientists award)', 'people’s choice award', 'executive award' and the 'chairman’s award'.
The entries were evaluated by a panel of judges, who had the challenging task of selecting the winners from among an outstanding selection of posters.
After much deliberation, the winner of the People’s Choice was awarded to V Atkins,
M Perrins, D Griffith, N Crump, A Pierson from Dudley for their ‘Optimising Perioperative Care: Digital Health Coaching Reduces Hospital Stays and Enhances Patient Health’. Colleagues across the Trusts were invited to vote for their favourite shortlisted poster, to the judge’s surprise, we had over 400 colleagues vote in total.
After a tough decision and back and forward deliberation from the other 26 shortlisted posters, Nicola Taylor, Associate Deputy Chief Nurse at the Trust and Helen Bromage, Deputy Chief Nurse chose Olivia Platt’s poster as the winner for The NMAHHPS Award which is about Understanding MSK Physiotherapists Confidence and Awareness of the Menopause and its Management’ was a clear favourite from the judges. Oliva’s poster focuses on an important topic in many women and how our physiotherapy team can support our patients who experience the almenopause and how to manage it.
Kelly Hard, Head of Research and Development added: “ I have been overwhelmed with the poster entries this year. Working with our colleagues from Dudley to highlight the importance of research within healthcare and the future possibilities we can create to improve patient care.”
Finally, colleagues eagerly waited for the final two awards – the Executive Award and
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the Chairman’s Award. Firstly, Dr Mark Anderson, Chief Medical Officer and Julian Chief Medical Officer from Dudley awarded the executive award to Shelia Lowe – ‘Prostate MRI Audit and Remote Triage GIRFT’ whose poster focused on the importance of prostate cancer and how we can get it right first time with remote diagnoses.
Sir David said: “This was a real opportunity for me to see the great work that both Sandwell and Dudley colleagues are doing in terms of Research and Development.
“The services in the Black Country are fantastic and provide outstanding care to our patients.
“Innovation is one of the ways we are going to develop new ways in treatment, care and patient outcomes in the next few years.”
If you would like to be a part in a future #WeResearch competition or would like to know more about Research and Development, please email kellyhard@nhs.net
Congratulations to Shelia Lowe, Prostate MRI Audit and Remote Triage GIRFT on
Fitness app could transform care of rheumatoid arthritis patients
Researchers at SWB aim to transform the care of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients by developing an app which links to the Fitbit – a popular activity tracker.
The rheumatology medical team and researchers at the Trust are leading the groundbreaking clinical trial to create the app which they hope will ease the pain of patients suffering from the crippling disease and provide extra support.
It’s called MISSION-RA which stands for MovIng to Support Sustained Improvement of Outcomes iN Rheumatoid Arthritis.
Sally Fenton, Chief Investigator for the study, said: “The app will be specifically designed for and by people with RA.
“This will be done in two ways. Firstly,
a series of interviews, co-design studies and workshops will be carried out to develop the app. Then, artificial intelligence will be used within the app to provide personalised support for people living with RA, based on symptoms such as pain, fatigue and mobility. It is expected the app will be available to download for free so it can be used on a Fitbit in the future.”
RA leads to inflammation of the joints and surrounding tissues which causes flare ups –this is when symptoms become worse. One of the ways to help ease these episodes of pain can be through exercise, physiotherapy and occupational therapy.
Dr Sangeetha Baskar, Clinical Specialty Lead for Rheumatology and Principal Investigator for MISSION-RA explained: “Rheumatoid arthritis is an extremely painful, tiring, psychological and physically debilitating disease. Patients face countless challenges while doing basic daily activities such as dressing, cooking and walking and often become dependent on family members to
perform some of their daily tasks. Through this innovative study and the mobile app, we are hoping to help patients increase their physical activity tailored for them and improve their quality of life.”
The first patient from the Trust has already been recruited into the study.
Ana Duarte, Clinical Research Practitioner (CRP) and also Associate Principal Investigator, said: “Overall, the MISSION-RA study has overcome our initial expectations. Patients are very keen and have enjoyed their experience so far. This has also been a great opportunity for the study staff which has led to progression in their careers. Most importantly, this we hope will place SWB’s R&D department and rheumatology team as international leaders in healthcare AI and machine learning.”
MISSION-RA is being delivered in partnership with the National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR) and National Rheumatoid Arthritis Society (NRAS).
From L-R: Dr Sangeetha Baskar, Clinical Specialty Lead for Rheumatology and Ana Duarte, Clinical Research Practitioner
NEWS
Live A&E waiting times featured on Trust website
Your patients can now find live A&E department waiting times featured on our website.
The rolling updates for three A&Es operated by the organisation are featured on the newly designed website.
They are for City Hospital, Birmingham and Midland Eye Centre emergency department, and Sandwell Hospital.
A&E matron Michael Brennan said: “By including this information on our new website we are giving patients the ability to see waiting times within all our A&E departments, so they have a clearer idea of what to expect before they arrive and whilst they are in the department. It also reminds them to consider other options regarding whether it is emergency care they need or if they could be seen at an urgent treatment centre, by their GP or at a pharmacy.”
He added: “We aim to triage (be seen by a clinician to assess the severity of their condition) all patients within 15 minutes of arrival in the department. The waiting times displayed relates to the length of time a patient will wait for treatment or admission. Generally, patients accept there is a wait for treatment after they are assessed, however it is a fact that many could be seen by other services and receive advice or treatment in a shorter time.”
Vanya Rogers, Head of External Communications at SWB, said: “Waiting times in A&E can sometimes be longer than we expect, so in developing our new website to provide the most up to date information for patients, we took the
opportunity to be as transparent as possible, setting expectations about how long patients might have to wait.
“We want to ensure our patients have the best possible experience when using our website and this is one of many features we included in the specifications.
“The live A&E wait times button is easy to find on the home page, only a click away from where the information is displayed in an easyto-understand format.
“Once there, patients are able to refresh
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the page. With each A&E site, users can click a link to view further details about that hospital which includes travel information.”
The new website has been designed by Bromsgrove company Platform81 and it’s the first time they have installed this feature on an NHS portal.
Have you got an idea that could help improve our financial performance?
As you are aware, SWB currently has a £44million financial improvement target it needs reach by Monday 31 March 2025.
As a Trust we need to get this figure down to become more financially sustainable long term.
Anja De Vos, Head of the Project Management Office for the Financial Improvement Programme has been brought into SWB to help with this vital piece of work.
She said: “This is a Trust priority for SWB
which is why we are reaching out to colleagues to suggest any ideas where they believe we can save money for the Trust.
“Whether you have an idea that could help improve our financial performance, some thoughts on how we can improve our productivity or even a idea for a cost improvement project – we want to hear from you.”
Often people working on the front line have the best ideas and this an opportunity for staff to have their voice heard.
She added: “I’m urging all to come forward as no idea is a bad idea!”
If you have any ideas, you can submit them via this online form: https:// www.surveymonkey.com/r/ financialimprovement
For more information, please email swbh.recoverypmo@nhs.net
Live A&E waiting times will allow us to be more transparent with our patient care
Join Our SWB Family on Facebook
A place for you to keep up to date with important Trust information, share good news and get to know your colleagues.
How to join Search SWB Family and click join or scan the QR code You will be asked three simple questions to help verify your identity.
SCORE proves to be a striking success!
Our SCORE programme has been proving itself to be a huge hit throughout the year with four participants recently landing roles as HCAs at SWB.
SCORE (supporting career opportunities, recruitment and employment) is our unique work experience pathway to employment programme specifically designed, jointly funded by the Trust and the Prince’s Trust to inspire young people from a variety of different and diverse backgrounds to enter the health and social care sector. The programme is aimed at job seekers or unemployed people between ages 16 – 30 years of age who live within the Sandwell and West Birmingham catchment and meet the Department of Work & Pensions (DWP) referral criteria and looking for employment within the health care sector.
Alisha Gulfraz, Aisha Shafqat, Anita Marin and Wanessa Bebenek all completed the progrmame and following completion of the programme, are now working on clinical wards across the Trust.
Alisha joined the SCORE programme through Halesowen College, where she is currently pursuing her Level 3 Health and Social Care qualification. The volunteer service and nursing and midwifery team visited various colleges,
including Halesowen, to introduce SCORE. The programs unique approach of offering practical training during the 6 - 8 weeks, provided a ‘try before you buy’ opportunity, resonated with many students like Alisha who sought real-life healthcare experience alongside their studies.
“I was aspiring to become a registered nurse and recognised that starting the SCORE programme was her initial step toward achieving my career goal,” said Alisha.
My primary motivation was to gain handson experience, enhance my knowledge, and improve my chances of securing employment in the healthcare sector which it ultimately did when I started my role as HCA working shifts on Newton 4.”
Aisha also joined the programme through college however but unlike Alisha, she has worked on array of wards including AMU, AMSSU, D15 as well multiple wards at Rowley.
“All my roles have helped me get experience of working in a hospital whilst earning an income at the same time and my experiences will only help me in a find a career in the health care system in the future.” said Alisha.
Anita, 19 years old from Oldbury joined the SCORE programme in a similar fashion, being a volunteer at SWB, then become a
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participant on the SCORE programme and eventually landing full time employment on our stroke rehabilitation ward, Newton 4. Although initially it was challenging, she believes it joining SCORE was worthwhile.
Anita said: “Initially I found joining the programme tough however I was always supported throughout the programme and whilst working on Newton 4 and over time it became easier and more fulfilling.”
Wanessa echoes the other participants thoughts and said: “I decided to join SCORE to gain experience in working at a hospital as this was something I always wanted to get into plus I was studying Health and Social Care.”
She added: “Since starting the programme, I have enjoyed working alongside others and meeting new people and have always felt fully supported by those around me. For anyone wanting to get into working in healthcare, I would highly recommend the SCORE programme.”
Modernising medication management with Omnicell
With improved patient care at the heart of our move to Midland Met, SWB is working with Omnicell to modernise our medication management processes.
The Omnicell Automatic Dispensing Cabinets (ADCs) and Alphatron Smart Carts are set to help us make the most of the latest technology to enhance patient care and safety.
This equipment will be deployed to most wards across Sandwell and City sites and used at Midland Met. To prepare for our moves this October and November, we are readying our colleagues now with super user and end user training.
Marsha Jones, Associate Deputy Chief Nurse, explains: “We are moving towards this way of working as this technology will help us to reduce drug wastage and incidences of mismedication.
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“In recent years, we have seen a quicker turnaround of patients, which also has an impact on doing timely drug rounds. Omnicell’s equipment allows for more efficient drug rounds, releasing more time to focus on our patients.”
Marsha added: “The new Omnicell super user training teaches colleagues the functionality of the smart carts and ADCs. It includes what the workflows are and the steps that you need to take when using the technology.
“To make the switch to Omnicell as easy as possible for colleagues we have introduced the cabinets to Sandwell and City to get them up to speed with using them ahead of us moving into Midland Met in October.”
Mock move week hailed a success
In June, we delivered a successful mock move week to test run the moving protocols ahead of us moving to Midland Met this October and November.
Jayne Dunn, Director of Commissioning, is a team member remarkably close to the project, with a vast insight into mock move week and was delighted with the outcomes of the week.
Jayne commented: “It was a brilliant opportunity to test our proposed timings and processes for safely moving patients from Sandwell and City sites into Midland Met in the autumn.
“We tested several variations of the patient journey where each journey was tested from a bed space on an existing ward or department to a bed space at Midland Met. This included the patient journey of an adult ward patient from Sandwell; City, an adult critical care patient, a paediatric patient from Sandwell, a paediatric high dependency patient, a maternity patient, and a neonatal baby.”
With so many moving pieces and different patients to move, Jayne noted the level of engagement from the teams involved. “The engagement throughout the week was fantastic. The clinical teams, departments and our stakeholders were brilliant.”
Paul Hazle, Senior Commissioning Manager, is another team member at the heart of this project. He remarked: “Our patient moves from City and Sandwell into Midland Met followed the whole patient journey for a range of different patients across several departments. This gave us the opportunity to evaluate the resources and timings required for the real move.”
Paul added: “Testing the routes, including how the lifts and exits would work, gave us an opportunity to tweak where necessary to focus on what would be best for our patients.
“It was also useful to review the roads on the route to Midland Met. With West Midlands Ambulance Service’s support, we were able to navigate what route would be best to get us to there.”
Overall, valuable discussions took place with lots of reflection, confirmation of planned times and processes, and ways to improve plans. As October draws closer, this important practice run has given teams an opportunity to prepare ahead of the moves that begin on 6 October.
Omnicel cabinets have been rolled out across out Trust sites
Mock move week in full swing at Sandwell Hospital
Midland Met general induction programme is now live
NEWS
We are excited to announce the launch of the Midland Metropolitan University Hospital general induction programme. As we gear up for our big moves in October and November, it is crucial that all colleagues—both clinical and non-clinical—complete this induction to ensure a smooth transition into our new state-of-theart facility.
Highlighting the importance of the induction programme, Mel Roberts, Chief Nursing Officer said: “Midland Met isn’t just a hospital; it’s part of the community, it’s innovative, state-of-theart, and also very big. We need to ensure that you, as staff, know where you're going, what you're doing, and how to use the equipment. The induction programme is designed to cover every aspect of working at Midland Met, from CORPORATE AND GENERAL
navigating the site to understanding how our hospital’s design supports safe and effective patient care.
“I want to see you provide the best quality care possible for all our patients. I want you, as staff, to feel valued and supported.”
By completing the induction, you will be equipped to navigate our new facilities, use the new equipment, and understand the layout of the hospital, all of which are essential for delivering high-quality care.
So far over 1,000 colleagues have completed the induction but we need colleagues to make the time to Get Set for Midland Met by completing it.
All colleagues moving to or working at Midland Met are required to complete the online general induction. This includes everyone from frontline healthcare colleagues to administrative and support staff. By completing the induction, you will be well-prepared and informed, ensuring that our team operates cohesively and efficiently from day one.
So how do you enrol on to the induction programme?
The general induction programme will be delivered online via Centric Cortex. If you are new to Centric Cortex, don’t worry you can easily self-register for an account.
Steps to Ensure Successful Completion
• Schedule Time: Block out time in your diary to complete the induction. While the general induction takes approximately an hour and a half, it is divided into modules, so you can complete it in segments at your convenience.
• Check Your Login: Use the provided link to log in and confirm you have access to Centric Cortex. https://bit. ly/MMUHinduction
• Need Help?: If you encounter issues logging in, use the 'Forgotten Password' link or email swbh. informaticsbookings@nhs.net for assistance.
After completing the general induction, keep an eye out for updates on the AreaBased Online Induction, which will be available in August.
Mel Roberts, Chief Nursing Officer
My part in Midland Met
Max Newbould
How long have you been at SWB and what is your current role?
Having joined the Trust five years ago, I started as an apprentice in business administration. With a desire to work on projects, I took on a role in the improvement team for the Midland Met project, and I am now the MMUH Programme Delivery Manager for the Fundamentals of Care Programme.
What part does your role contribute to the Midland Met project?
I support the 16 main project areas within the Fundamentals of Care programme. This involves assisting the triumvirate leads in achieving the agreed objectives before we move into Midland Met. I also work on mitigating risks, hospital standardisation, Rhythm of the Day and implementing digital dashboards to display ward-level metrics.
How are you preparing for the opening of Midland Met in your team?
We want to ensure we are all aligned with working towards shared common goals and prioritising the right work at the right time. In addition to the hard work of our comms team and induction team, I have shared my knowledge with colleagues to spread the word about the new hospital, to reassure and ready people for the new ways of working.
In what ways will our new hospital help to shape your role for the better?
As the Fundamentals of Care Programme is a five-year plan, my role is shaped through working on the many different areas it covers. This includes environments that are clinically optimised, delivering harm-free care and digitally transforming the current way of working so it is more technologically advanced.
The biggest benefit that Midland Met will bring in your opinion is...
Collaboration and synergy are essential for the wealth of experience and talent within our organisation. Merging our emergency services and teams under one roof, will allow us to work together to care for our local community, break any outstanding cultural divide, align towards achieving the Trust’s strategy, and become the best-integrated care organisation for both our patients and colleagues.
Have you been on a site tour?
Yes, I have been lucky enough to visit Midland Met a handful of times and I’m massively impressed with the progress. Midland Met provides so much potential for our Trust. It will most definitely be an inspiring workplace.
Meet our staff induction guru –Holly Burns
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As we approach the opening of Midland Met, we're excited to bring you stories from our induction leads. Meet Holly Burns, the dynamic Project Coordinator for the Midland Met Induction Programme. Holly’s pivotal role in this project is helping to make the move to our new hospital effortless for our colleagues.
After working at the QE Hospital as a safeguarding compliance manager for seven years, Holly’s love and passion for projects led her to the path of Midland Met. Holly explained: “I always find myself wanting to know the answer to things and having a drive to learn. This is an exciting project to be part of.”
Since joining in March 2023, a big part of Holly’s role has involved supporting the induction leads in collating information into their documents and supporting the development of the induction programme. She adds: “I’m one of the key contacts for the induction leads across the Trust. I keep them informed on the processes for launching the induction and the areas to be completed, to feed back to wider teams.”
Naturally, colleagues will wonder what is involved in the staff inductions. Holly outlines the process: “The induction contains a few components. The first is a general induction which is mandatory for all colleagues working at our new hospital. It involves interactive video modules and an area-based induction where colleagues can watch departmental walkthrough films and learn about the new processes at Midland Met. They’ll also be information about new equipment training and, of course, site induction tours.”
To ensure a safe transition, Holly stresses the importance of all parts of the induction programme. Ahead of the induction launch, please keep a look out for more staff comms and don’t hesitate to contact the team if you need any information via swbh.mmuhinduction@nhs.net
A year in the life of the Midland Met bus
Over the past year, our vibrant Midland Met engagement bus has been visiting towns across Sandwell and West Birmingham spreading the word about Midland Met.
It has had one clear mission from the start –to inform, engage, and unite our colleagues and communities ahead of Midland Met opening on Sunday 6 October.
From bustling city streets to community organisations, the Midland Met bus has reached over 5,500 people from September 2023 – September 2024, solidifying its role as an integral part of our engagement strategy.
The Midland Met bus has had a regular presence at SWB events and has stopped off at our sites to speak with colleagues’ numerous times over the past 12 months. At Sandwell Hospital, the bus made eight stops, each time offering colleagues the opportunity to ask any questions or share any concerns. City Hospital was another key destination, where the bus engaged with an impressive 1,652 people. Plus, it stopped off at Rowley Regis Hospital and Leasowes Intermediate Care Centre too.
Our engagement bus has reached into our communities, visiting 26 libraries across
Sandwell and West Birmingham. These visits have provided a perfect opportunity to connect with residents, answer questions, and spread the word about our new hospital.
Jayne Salter Scott, Head of Public and Community Engagement, said: “Since launching our engagement bus over the past 12 months our engagement efforts have extended far and wide. We’ve attended Sandwell Council meetings and events, where we connected with 166 people. Mal and I have found these interactions have been vital in building strong ties with local leaders and ensuring that the broader communities we serve are ready to embrace Midland Met.”
Jayne added: “The summer of 2024 was particularly eventful for the Midland Met bus. In July alone, the bus engaged with a staggering 929 people, reflecting the growing anticipation as we get closer to opening in October.”
With just a few weeks to go until the grand opening, the bus will continue its journey, making sure that when Midland Met opens its doors, everyone will feel like a part of this historic moment.
• The Midland Met bus has reached over 5,500 people from September 2023 –September 2024.
• Stopped at Sandwell Hospital eight times.
• Engaged with 1,652 people across City Hospital.
• Met with 929 people in July 2024.
• Connected with 166 people at Sandwell Council meetings and events
Holly Burns, Project Coordinator
Are you using Shared Care Record?
One Health and Care Shared Care Record (OHC SCR), is a digital platform which provides easy access to GP records, allergies and hospital appointment data for patients across Birmingham, the Black Country and West Midlands.
The Shared Care Record has been implemented across SWB and is a one stop shop for all your patient records.
Mark Haynes, Senior IT Support Officer, is championing the One Health and Care software and a real advocate of the Shared Care Record.
He said: “Have you ever wondered when you as a patient visit the GP or a hospital you find yourself having to answer the same old questions? This is because different health and care providers use different computer systems to record your details and these systems don’t talk to each other however that is now a thing of the past with the introduction of One Health and Care!”
“One of the biggest challenges when managing our patients has been our ability to access information on our patients from
all the different organisations that we work with but that is something we will no longer struggle with thanks to OHC SCR.”
The joining up of data from multiple partner organisations will help SWB improve the care we provide patients, e.g. reducing duplication of tests already carried out elsewhere; ensuring that multi agency safeguarding hubs have access to a comprehensive view of information from across health and social care; future development include providing access to advanced care plans and resuscitation decisions.
When asked about the future of the Shared Care Record, Mark added: “OHC SCR will be expanded upon in the future with an expansion planned for services such as blood results, radiology, clinical correspondence and care plans provided by a wide range of health and social care organisations so I’m urging all clinical colleagues to start using the platform.”
For more information about OHC SCR including training resources and video tutorials, please email markhaynes@nhs.net
MEDICINE AND EMERGENCY CARE
We recently hosted an awareness event for One Health and Care Shared Care Record
Cancer patients pampered at annual event
More than 300 cancer patients enjoyed being pampered and entertained at a major event held by our cancer wellbeing team earlier this month.
The annual Cancer Wellbeing Fair saw patients treated to massages, haircuts, makeovers, pedicures, reiki and yoga sessions – all delivered by kindhearted volunteers.
Held at the West Bromwich Albion Football Club, Jo Harvey, Lead Cancer Nurse, said: “It was an amazing day for our patients who really enjoy all the pampering they receive. We’ve had great feedback from them and of course we couldn’t do it without all the staff and members of the public who volunteer their time on the day.
“I am so proud of them and their efforts which made it a truly remarkable day.”
The event saw more than 100 volunteers made up of staff at the Trust and members of the public, provide their services for free.
Councillor Steve Melia, the Deputy Mayor of Sandwell opened the event which was held on Saturday 6 July.
Some of our cancer patients enjoying a hair treatments
Agile working: What you need to know
Why are we moving to agile working?
The opening of Midland Met and the closure of the emergency departments at City and Sandwell Hospitals has allowed SWB to review working preferences across the SWB estate.
Where can I get support with my agile working query?
There is lots of support available:
• There are FAQs and resources on the Connect agile working pages.
• You can speak with your line manager.
• Email swbh.agileworking@nhs.net to ask any questions.
My consultation has now closed but I still have a concern or query. What should I do?
You should speak with your line manager who will explore any concerns with you. Your line manager will also be able to seek HR advice if needed. If you are a member of a Trade Union, you will also be able to seek advice from your representative.
If I agree with my manager to work from home on a regular basis and need specialist equipment, what equipment will I be provided with?
Where possible you would be provided with the specialist equipment you need to be able to do your role. All colleagues need to complete the DSE online assessment and discuss the outcomes with your line manager.
If you have a specific need due to a health condition, you will be referred to occupational health by your line manager. Next steps will be decided based on up-to-date occupational health advice.
If I am working in an agile workspace how can documents that I am working on be kept confidential?
PCs within the agile workspaces will be equipped with privacy screens. This means you will only be able to see the information being displayed if you are directly looking at the screen.
If you would like a privacy screen for your laptop, you can obtain one from IT. manager you. seek member to
Michael Brennan’s journey overseeing two emergency departments
MEDICINE AND EMERGENCY CARE
Michael Brennan is the A&E Matron who oversees the seamless operation of two accident and emergency units here at the Trust.
But Michael Brennan is also the face of videos across our social media channels which have received millions of views from across the world.
From highlighting the different ways to get treatment – whether that’s in A&E, your local pharmacy or an urgent treatment centre – to promoting our Trust as a place to work by fronting a recruitment campaign, Michael has become quite the star.
“I get recognised walking down the street,” he laughed. “I’ve even been shopping in the supermarket and people have stopped me to say they’ve seen me on TikTok. I didn’t realise my videos would be viewed so widely but it’s great to know that they are making a difference.
Michael Brennan, A&E Matron and social media superstar
“The recruitment video has been very successful and we’ve had more than 100 people sign up to attend an event at the end of the month where we will share details of the Midland Metropolitan University Hospital.”
Initially stumbling into nursing, he found unexpected fulfilment first as a student and has since risen through the ranks to his current role. Originally from Belfast, Michael has spent the last two decades in the nursing profession. He said: “I never thought I’d finish the course, but I ended up
really liking it. I believe that healthcare is a right, not a privilege. Every patient entering our hospitals deserves the highest level of care that we can provide and deliver.”
He added: “My career journey started as an acute medicine nurse practitioner. Over the past six years, I progressed from senior charge nurse in A&E at Sandwell Hospital to stroke matron during the COVID pandemic, to then becoming City Hospital’s A&E matron. Eventually, I took up leadership of the two A&Es which will be combining into one at the Midland Met. It’s a really exciting time, as the hospital will provide care for some of our sickest patients in a state-ofthe-art environment.”
“No two days are ever the same and there have certainly been challenges over the years, particularly during the COVID pandemic. The collaborative effort across the two A&E departments stands out as a testament to the remarkable teamwork within the Trust. There have also been some more light-hearted stand out experiences, such as working with the communications team on campaigns and becoming the face of some viral TikTok videos.”
ED welcomes 45 new recruits!
Recently we welcomed over 45 new emergency healthcare heroes to SWB as we gear up to open our stunning new Midland Metropolitan University Hospital (MMUH).
The new starters will find themselves working on the frontline at the state-ofthe-art MMUH.
Behind the creation of this incredible new healthcare facility, the Trust additionally runs Sandwell, City and Rowley Regis Hospitals as well as several community sites and GP services.
To give potential hires a sneak peek of their future workplace, the Trust hosted a recruitment event at Sandwell Hospital. Attendees were blown away by the virtual reality tour of the new hospital and couldn’t wait to be part of the action.
Beyond the exciting new hospital, the Trust is committed to supporting its staff. They’re offering fantastic opportunities for career growth and a host of benefits to help employees thrive.
Annabel Bottrill, Deputy Director of Nursing for Emergency Care for the organisation, said: “Job seekers who came along to the event were really impressed with the new hospital and how we will provide emergency care to our population.
“The facilities at MMUH are second to none –the accident and emergency departments at Sandwell and City Hospitals will be combined to form one large A&E where we will see and treat people using the latest equipment and facilities.
“We will also house a Same Day Emergency Care (SDEC) unit in an ultra modern setting.
Candidates attending the event were able to get a real flavour of what to expect in the new hospital by taking a virtual reality tour.”
The recruitment drive was held at Sandwell Hospital, in West Bromwich and also shared information on how healthcare workers joining the Trust can expect to develop professionally and the support they will receive from their peers.
Michael Brennan, A&E Matron, added: “We are keen to offer people joining us plenty of opportunities to develop as well as a raft of great benefits which focuses on their health and wellbeing.”
And he concluded: “The calibre of candidates we saw at the event was really high and it was evident that they were very much in tune with the Trust’s values which are ambition, respect and compassion.
“It’s important that we continue to deliver high standards of care at our current hospital sites and in the autumn when we move into MMUH.
“It’s a really exciting time to join the Trust with the new hospital opening on the horizon.”
Attendees at our recruitment event hosted in the Sandwell Education Centre
Trust introduces rapid review initiative
The Trust has become one of 143 pilot sites picked to roll out Martha's Rule, an initiative giving seriously ill patients and their families easy access to a second opinion if their condition worsens.
The initiative named Call For Concern, is run by the Critical Care Outreach team. It is in response to the death of 13-yearold Martha Mills who died in 2021 after developing sepsis in hospital, where she had been admitted with a pancreatic injury after falling off her bike.
Martha's family's concerns about her deteriorating condition were not responded to promptly, and in 2023 a coroner ruled that Martha would probably have survived had she been moved to intensive care earlier.
NHS England committed to implement "Martha's Rule" to ensure the vitally important concerns of the patient and those who know the patient best are listened to and acted upon.
Patients and their families can directly ask the Critical Care Outreach Team for a "rapid review" of treatment if they feel they need an urgent second opinion or that their concerns aren't being acted on.
The Critical Care Outreach Team specialise in the care of patients who are deteriorating and will respond promptly, assess the situation, and coordinate with the medical team and other healthcare professionals as needed.
Mel Roberts, Chief Nursing Officer at the Trust, which runs Sandwell, City and Rowley Regis Hospitals, said: “We are pleased to be part of the roll out of Martha’s Rule.
“Ensuring that patients have the right to a second opinion if their condition deteriorates is really important and Call For Concern will give them and their families access to a rapid review should they request it.”
A leaflet containing all the information and
MEDICINE AND EMERGENCY CARE
posters advertising the service and telephone numbers are now in place across the hospitals. Patients who don’t have access to a mobile phone are able to ask a member of the ward team to bleep the Critical Care Outreach team.
Mel added: “We are trying to make it as accessible as possible for patients and their families and so have put in place various ways to advertise the service to those staying in our hospitals.
“It’s important to remember that this is a service for urgent clinical matters. General issues related to things like food, parking or other non-medical matters can be dealt with the ward team or via other routes such as PALs and complaints.”
Sophie O’Sullivan, a Critical Care Outreach team member
Sikh bereavement packs donated by local community
WOMENS AND CHILD HEALTH
Members of the Sikh community have come together to donate religious bereavement packs for families suffering the loss of a baby.
The bereavement midwives, alongside members of the chaplaincy team at the Trust received the items which will make up the boxes for grieving families.
Satnam Kaur, Sikh Chaplain, said: “I feel like the least we could do as a community is to help families who have suffered a bereavement like this.
“If this one, small gesture can have a
positive impact on their emotional wellbeing, we’re doing something right.”
The packs included a patka, for protection of the baby; a chunni, the headscarf used by women during prayer, a Kara/Simran, with rosary beads as a symbol to touch for a stronger prayer connection, baby blankets and Sikh prayer cards for families to understand the meaning of life and death in the religion.
Victoria Weaver, Lead Bereavement Midwife said: “Culture and religion plays a huge part in how a family will process the loss of a baby. These packs aim to provide comfort and acknowledge the importance of their beliefs on their grief journey.”
All items within the bereavement packs are either lovingly donated or handmade by members of the local Sikh community.
Senior neonatal sister leads wellbeing initiative for neonatal unit staff
Our Trust has introduced a new role that supports the wellbeing of neonatal staff.
Sonia Dhesi, Senior Neonatal Sister has taken on the additional role of Professional Nurse Advocate (PNA) for the Neonatal Unit (NNU).
In the high-pressure NNU, where staff care for the tiniest and most vulnerable patients, this support is essential. Sonia, who qualified as a PNA in May, is already promoting her role and reducing the stigma around accessing wellbeing support. She said: “I am committed to fostering a positive working environment where staff wellbeing is a top priority. My new role focuses on self-care and wellbeing for staff, making them feel seen and heard. This is crucial for helping staff feel safe and valued at work.
“Good health and wellbeing are key to employee engagement and better patient outcomes. However, many still view wellbeing support negatively, but it's crucial to help staff build personal resilience and identify signs of burnout quickly.”
Research shows that fostering a supportive environment improves morale, reduces sickness rates, and enhances patient care. The PNA training
programme was introduced to help the NHS recover post-COVID-19 by creating a more resilient and valued nursing workforce.
"My role isn't designed to solve problems, but to support and empower staff through oneon-one or group sessions - helping them find solutions to issues" Sonia explained.
The benefits of PNA support include better wellbeing, retention, confidence, and job satisfaction for staff, along with lower stress and burnout - all contributing to improved patient care.
Neonatal Matron Stacey Shaw praised the initiative, she said: "We feel very lucky to have our first PNA, providing emotional and psychological support to our staff. This makes their work and home life lighter and brighter, positively impacting their focus, confidence, morale, job satisfaction, and attendance."
Sonia's dedication and early successes have already positively impacted the staff, setting a promising precedent for the future. The Trust looks forward to the continued benefits of this important initiative for both staff and patients.
Bereavement midwives alongside members of the Trust chaplaincy team
Sonia Dhesi alongside her neonatal colleagues
New heated chemo will prolong life of patients
The Trust has become the first in the Midlands to use the heated chemotherapy technique which will prolong the life of ovarian cancer patients.
The new form of treatment is delivered by a special HIPEC (hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy) machine which directly bathes the abdomen in a chemotherapy solution to kill any remaining cancer cells after the surgical removal of all visible tumours.
Mr Janos Balega, Consultant Gynaecological Oncologist, said: “This revolutionary new treatment has the ability to extend life for some of our sickest patients. This extra time they have is extremely precious to women and their loved ones. It’s a real privilege for us to be able to offer patients this treatment.”
Mr Balega explained more about the procedure: “Chemotherapy after surgical removal has been proved to improve the survival and outcomes of patients with ovarian cancer with minimal additional side effects, and we are extremely pleased to be able to now offer this treatment to our patients.
“As the leading ovarian cancer surgical centre, we are the first in the Midlands to have this machine and will see our first cohort of patients benefiting directly from the treatment throughout this month, which also happens to be Ovarian Cancer Awareness month.
“Our centre has a great reputation and track record of performing cytoreductive (debulking) surgery. We established this service in 2008 and has been mastering it since. Only built on strong surgical foundations you can establish the HIPEC practice.”
WOMENS AND CHILD HEALTH
Patients will be seen from across Greater Birmingham, Sandwell, Solihull, Sutton Coldfield and Walsall.
Dr Mark Anderson, Chief Medical Officer, added: “This is a great example of something moving from innovation and research to an actual clinical service for our patients. And I’m really pleased that our team have been able to facilitate this here at the Trust.”
The machine was fully funded by a grant of £99,580 from Birmingham Women’s and Children’s Hospital Charity, as part of the Birmingham Women’s Global Health Research Programme.
Mr Janos Balega, Consultant Gynaecological Oncologist, with the new heated chemotherapy machine
Kaley helping SWB see the bigger picture
IMAGING
Here at SWB, radiography is a core part of what we do with our imaging department carrying out a number of tests across our sites including X-ray, Ultrasound, MRI, and CT scans and Kaley will play a huge part in that going forward.
With imaging workloads remaining a significant challenge across the NHS, radiographer reporting has proven to relieve pressure on radiologists whilst being a safe and effective way to increase reporting capacity and decrease turnaround times for patients.
Kaley has recently joined the Trust as a Consultant Reporting Radiographer and has been employed to coordinate and lead the plain film reporting service in radiology, to embed best practice for radiographer reporting and reduce our reliance on outsourcing and its associated expenditure.
“I will provide leadership to the radiographer reporting team and ensure we collectively provide high quality diagnostic reports,” said Kaley.
“As a team we will provide expert advice to our radiographers, apprentices and students, ensuring they provide high quality images and further develop their skills in image evaluation to spot and appropriately escalate urgent findings.
“The future potential to increase our reporting workforce will provide structured career progression within the general x-ray and hopefully improve radiographer staff retention.”
She added: “We are planning to develop and deliver regular image interpretation teaching sessions across the trust, aimed at healthcare professionals whose roles require them to interpret or offer clinical evaluations on radiographs. X-ray hot reporting is something I am eager to be able to provide, primarily for minor injuries.”
Kaley qualified as a radiographer in 2009 from the City University of London, securing her first job as a radiographer in Birmingham at
Heartlands Hospital. She is now qualified to report radiographs from a variety of referral sources and age ranges, covering MSK, chest and abdominal imaging.
In addition to this, Kaley had been at the University of Keele as a lecturer in Radiography across their undergraduate and apprenticeship BSc programmes and retains an honorary lecturer title with Keele University.
There will be numerous benefits of Kaley joining SWB, as it will mean our team of reporting radiographers can provide safe, cost effective and high-quality care for our patients, which in turn will enhance the quality of the patient experience, shorten the time to diagnosis and have the ability to improve/streamline patient pathways.
When asked about her new role, Kaley is very much looking forward to the challenge ahead.
She said: “I’m excited to be moving to MMUH and as the first Consultant Radiographer at the Trust I hope to bring the vision, direction and governance required to create a high-quality radiographer reporting service.”
Kaley Potts, Consultant Reporting Radiographer
Dedicated nurses complete swim challenge in memory of Tony Hinton
Two critical care nurses from the Trust have raised nearly £2,000 by swimming two miles in memory of their late colleague.
Lead Nurse Becky O’Dwyer and Matron Vanessa Taylor participated in the Great North Swim in Lake Windermere to mark Tony Hinton’s love of the sport.
Vanessa said: “We were both a little anxious - swimming two miles in a pool is different to swimming two miles in open water, but there were so many people who came to support us, and we wanted to make them proud. There was a safety crew in the water and people encouraging us all the way through. Surrounded by the mountains, it was a lovely place to swim.”
Becky added: “The atmosphere at Lake Windermere was lively and it was very well
organised, which made all the difference. Despite this, the day did not come without its challenges. I had the flu the week prior to the swim so I felt a little rough. I didn’t decide until that day whether I was going to swim or not. The first lap was slow due to my coughing – it's hard to swim front crawl when you cough! I settled down after half a mile though. We had trained a lot over the winter, and neither of us wanted to let the other down.”
For both nurses, a particular highlight was Tony’s wife and sister making the journey to Lake Windermere to cheer them on. “It was really moving because we completed the swim for him, we were so grateful that they came all the way to support us,” they explained.
Becky and Vanessa described feeling ‘elated’ after completing the swim and are incredibly
SURGICAL SERVICES
proud of their achievement and the impressive £1,895 they have raised so far. The money will go towards a memorial for Tony at the Midland Metropolitan University Hospital, due to open later this year.
“Everyone has been so supportive. We are overwhelmed by the love from people donating, and the lovely messages that people have put on the donation page,” said Vanessa. Becky added: “It felt like an honour to do this for Tony, and I hope our colleagues felt this too.”
From L-R: Becky O’Dwyer, Francesa Minchella and Vanessa Taylor
Is there a British jiu-jitsu champion in the house?!
SURGICAL SERVICES
By day, Dr Khalid Haiba plays a vital role at SWB as a consultant in intensive care medicine and anaesthesia but away from work among his hobbies is the combat sport of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.
And that’s because, for the second successive year, Khalid was crowned as a jiu-jitsu British champion!
It’s a fantastic achievement, and one which has its roots in the legacy of the pandemic.
Khalid has always enjoyed regular workouts at the gym as an escape from the stresses of his role within intensive care, but, after the pandemic, was experiencing a different feeling which saw him searching for fresh inspiration.
“As ICU consultants, we had to work extraordinarily hard during the Covid-19 pandemic,” he explains.
“It was emotionally and physically a very challenging time, and I have always tried to keep myself fit and going to the gym has always been a stress reliever.
“But after the pandemic I felt different, I think burnout is the word that most people would use to describe what I was experiencing.
“As a result, I started looking for something else, a new challenge, because I always find that taking on new challenges is an excellent way of coping with difficult times.”
And the challenge Khalid found was Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, a combat sport which involves trying to pin and submit your training partner or opponent by grappling and using choke holds.
“It has been described as human chess,” Khalid continues.
“You cannot think about anything else when someone is trying to choke you out – you have to stay in the moment!
“I am so glad that I found Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. It’s an excellent way of keeping fit but is also a very ‘mindfulness promoting’ sport.
“It has all had a very positive impact on both my mental and physical wellbeing.”
Khalid has been training in the sport for two-and-a-half years, usually two or three times a week, and has risen to the rank of blue belt.
He competes - at the very least - once every six months, and that included those two British Open titles, firstly in the heavyweight division in the Gi section and then, last month, in the no Gi heavyweight section for his age category, Master 4 for 46 to 50year olds.
“I am very proud of these achievements for sure,” he says. “It has taken a lot of hard work and several injuries!”
Khalid is also very proud of his work and that of the whole SWBH ICU team.
He has worked within the NHS for over 20 years, for the last five years in his current role with the SWB Trust.
“It is such a privilege to be able to care for patients when they are critically ill and to support both them and their families through that time,” he says.
“I am proud to be part of the SWBH ICU team, a group of hard-working and compassionate professionals who work incredibly hard in a challenging but highly rewarding speciality.
“It is a fantastic job!”
Dr Khalid Haiba crowned British jiu-jitsu champion
Collaborative working to tackle diabetes
A collaborative diabetes improvement project between General Practice Nurses (GPNs) and district nursing has been introduced to better improve the care of our patients who suffer with diabetes.
Here at SWB we are always looking to collaborate to improve patient care, and this is no different with the District Nursing service.
Our GPNs have recently introduced an improvement project which aims to share knowledge of diabetes.
“The initiative is a new collaborative diabetes educational pathway between Trust employed community nurses and GPNs which offers individual mentorship with a GPNs with specialist diabetes qualification,” said Davinia George, Head of Nursing and Planned Clinical Care at Your Health Partnership.
“The project will allow the opportunity for specialists in diabetes to be shadowed and at the end, those community nurses who take part will get a diabetes qualification.”
The programme is funded by the Black Country ICB to transform diabetes after GPNs nurses wanted better collaboration with community teams to improve care for patients who suffer with diabetes.
“The collaboration, was formed just over 12 months ago and initially started with a number of pharmacists undertaking a similar pathway however the first cohort of community nurses started their course in May 2024,” added Davinia.
Prior to the collaborative diabetes improvement project, there was very little collaboration.
Emily Hobbs, Practice Education Lead Nurse has played a massive role in supporting the project and facilitating conversation on the community nursing side and believes it will be hugely beneficial for our patients.
She said: “GPNs and community nurses care for the same group of patients and at times work is duplicated and requests for changes in medication regimes are required so by increasingly nurses with specialist skills and qualifications it will only improve patient care.
PRIMARY CARE, COMMUNITY AND THERAPIES
“We know that care improves when nurses have increased confidence in knowledge and skills in the areas in which they work so the more skilled nurses we have who can effectively manage long term conditions will only aid to reduce hospital admissions and enable more people to be cared for safely at home. Also improved knowledge and skills also brings increased job satisfaction, reduces anxiety and can help to reduce staff burn out and improve retention.”
She added: “Working collaboratively to share skills and resources for the benefit of our patients and colleagues is at the heart of this venture, as we know there will be a reciprocation of skills and learning that the GPNs will receive from working more closely together with community colleagues.”
From L-R: Gurjit Bhupla, Emily Hobbs and Davinia George
Zafreen Khaliq delivering life-saving care at home
PRIMARY CARE, COMMUNITY AND THERAPIES
She’s a former paramedic who delivers life-saving hospital care to patients in their own homes.
Zafreen, Trainee Advanced Clinical Practitioner (ACP has been praised by patients like 78-year-old Pamela Edwards, who said she “wouldn’t be here now” if it wasn’t for the Virtual Ward service.
“I live by the golden rule of treating others as I’d want to be treated, I use this in my everyday practice and strive to provide the best patient care as if it was my own family,” said Zafreen.
“My role revolves around delivering hospital-level care right in the comfort
of patients’ homes and avoiding unnecessary hospital admission. This includes remote monitoring, telephone consultations and faceto-face reviews.”
Her journey began as a paramedic which she really enjoyed but was keen to progress and I jumped at the chance to delve into a more specialised role here at the Trust.
“I’ve had a few standout moments; one of them is working as part of the EPICENTRE team alongside registrars. My experience of working in the community, paired with their clinical knowledge and decision-making skills makes us a great team.
“Another highlight of my job is having the opportunity to work as part of a team which looks after our frail patients. They are an inspiring team to work with and not only that, but I can also assess and manage the patients that would have previously been bought into hospital via ambulance.
“The support I receive here at the Trust is phenomenal, especially with my studies, allowing me to develop even further. Completing my studies, including the qualification which allows me to prescribe medicines whilst working alongside consultants, is a dream come true.
“Few paramedics can say they have experience of working on the front line in a busy city centre environment, within primary care, and in a hospital setting. In every role I have been in I have had the most amazing mentors who have shaped me into the clinician I am today and this Trust is no exception, so I would like to say a big thank you to my mentor Grace Shorthouse and the Frailty Intervention Team for everything they have taught me so far.”
We have launched a five-day clinic at the newly opened Richard Nugent Centre, where district nurses can see patients who are mobile and independent.
This new service, introduced by the Trust, allows patients to receive nursing care at convenient times, offering them greater freedom and flexibility.
James Jenkins was the first patient to be seen
PRIMARY CARE, COMMUNITY AND THERAPIES
at the clinic. He said: “I have attended the clinic three times a week since it opened to have my leg wound dressed by the nurses who do an absolutely wonderful job.
“It’s far easier for me to come to the Richard Nugent Centre than to have the nurses chase me and come to my home. The nursing team have been marvellous in every single way and it’s quite possible that had it not been for their care, I would not be here today.”
Beverley Callaghan, District Nurse Team Leader, said: “The new clinic was needed to give more options to patients who weren’t housebound and wanted set agreed times for their care - something that we could not guarantee before.
“This service ensures patients can now receive nursing care at a time suited to them, which gives them more freedom. The clinic is well equipped with facilities such as a couch and dressing trolley as well as clean and dirty utilities.
“The nursing team have been very positive about the new clinic space since moving as it means they are able to see more patients. This means less travelling time whilst this has in turn reduced travel costs.”
SWB focuses on community care
The Trust is working with Birmingham and Solihull Integrated Care Board to deliver a system which triages patients directly to community services.
The recently launched Locality Care Co-ordination Centre (CCC) is based at Summerfield Primary Care Centre in Winson Green.
It will support residents in the West Birmingham area who would normally be taken to hospital unnecessarily.
Patients may be referred to a Virtual Ward, the Urgent Community Response team (UCR) which provides up to two hours of urgent care for people in their own home or receive remote monitoring – all services provided by the community arm of the Trust.
Emily Freer, Service Integration Manager, for the Birmingham Community Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust, said: “This locality focussed approach will help local citizens to stay as independent as possible for longer, recover more quickly than they would in hospital in their own surroundings and receive the treatment they need in the community.
“The two teams co-locating to the Hub has been a hugely positive step forward in creating a big knowledge bank of expertise with which to provide a better joined up health and care service for local residents. We have already found that both teams often know the same resident and hold joint multi-disciplinary meetings to agree the best approach to meet their health and care needs.”
Findings show that by introducing the hub model across Birmingham and Solihull, over a 12-month period, the system could:
• Reduce 33,000 hours of ED attendance for high intensity users
• Save over 15,000 ambulance conveyances to ED
• Save over 9,000 hospital bed days
The West Birmingham CCC is the third care coordination centre to mobilise across Birmingham and Solihull.
The first is collocated between Heartlands Hospital and Washwood Heath Health Centre and the second is based at Solihull Hospital.
James Jenkins, patient really pleased with his care at the Richard Nugent Centre
SWB marks Rowley 30th anniversary
PRIMARY CARE, COMMUNITY AND THERAPIES
Meet Karen Beaumont, Donna Wells and Steve Willetts who have all worked at Rowley Regis Hospital since the first day it opened.
Rowley was officially opened in 1994 by the Duchess of Kent – a moment Karen, a Senior Ward Services Officer, remembers well.
She said: “The atmosphere was just electric. So many people were waiting outside just to get a glimpse of her and inside you couldn’t move for people. She was such a lovely lady and spoke to so many people, spending quite a lot of time here. It really cemented the fact that the hospital was here, and it was here to stay.
“Since then we’ve had so many lovely patients with some amazing stories to tell. It will always be a hospital. And it provides a lifeline to the local community.”
As part of the celebrations staff and patients gathered at the hospital to mark the occasion and Dr Mark Anderson, Chief Medical Officer delivered a speech. Anniversary cards were given to all featuring a message from Richard Beeken Chief Executive.
Donna, a Receptionist, was touched by the appreciation. She said: “It was lovely to have everyone celebrating with us and looking back on fond memories that we have built over the years.”
Recalling her first day 30 years ago, Donna added: “The first patient came through the doors and was given a bouquet of flowers. There were about 12 patients admitted on that day and they all had a card to say welcome to the new hospital. It was very nice and welcoming.
“I was just 20 when I started working here and I have worked in different departments. I do really love my job. Even today, 30 years on, both staff and patients tell us how lovely the hospital still is.”
Steve Willetts, aged 63, added: “I have made so many new friends throughout my time at the hospital. Teamwork and loyalty has kept me here for so long, and I am more than happy to work here until my retirement day arrives.”
Richard said: “It is a great pleasure to mark 30 years of Rowley Regis Hospital today as we celebrate all those connected with this hospital.
“We opened our doors to the first patient on 1 August 1994 and in that time have become known for our compassion and care of our patients. We want to thank patients, staff and visitors for being part of our story.”
Happy 30th Birthday Rowley Regis Hospital!
Doctor warns the life-changing dangers of having bariatric surgery overseas
Dr David Nicholl, leading neurologist at SWB has revealed how he’s treated patients with serious complications in the last month following weight loss surgery abroad.
David is now warning people of the dangers and urging them to do their research before going under the knife in another country.
An increasing number of people are flying to Turkey to undergo the operation that is commonly known as a gastric sleeve or band, in pursuit of a quick and cheaper option.
Speaking in a video on our Trust’s TikTok account, Dr Nicholl, said: “This month I have seen three patients admitted to hospital with serious neurological complications directly as a result of undergoing bariatric surgery in Turkey.
“The patients have presented with very painful nerve damage so they’re unable to walk which has led to dysaesthesia in the feet – which is an abnormal unpleasant sensation felt when touched. It’s exquisitely
painful and we’ve had to prescribe opiates as pain relief. I’ve had people who have suffered with double vision and unsteadiness.
“These symptoms are due to the surgeon making the stomach too small during gastric sleeve surgery. Patients have lost huge amounts of weight, sometimes over 25kg
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in a matter of weeks. They can also develop nutritional nerve damage and a condition called Wernicke’s encephalopathy, which is lifethreatening illness affecting the central nervous system.”
Dr Nicholl said overseas surgeons were targeting people through social media, advertising a fast fix for those too impatient to pursue nonsurgical alternatives to achieving and maintaining a healthy weight, and highlighting how much cheaper it can be than pursuing it privately in the UK.
But he warned: “I’ve seen advertising material and it’s very obvious they are not regulated or on the General Medical Council register, so people should be aware of what they could be getting into.”
We will soon be welcoming Berenice to her role of within the Performance and Insight team at SWB.
You may be thinking to yourself, Berenice Lufton, I recognise that name and you are right – Berenice has been at the Trust since 1997 and has successfully achieved a promotion to Associate Director of Performance and Insight at the Trust.
In her 27 plus year career at the Trust, Berenice has held many pivotal roles from Senior Information Officer and Information and Data Quality Manager to Information Corporate Business Partner.
Berenice also has a vast amount of knowledge and expertise she has gained from outside the organisation.
“My Career in the NHS started as a buyer in the Supplies Department at another hospital in 1993,” said Berenice.
“Then data and Information started to become a new and growing service, I applied for a role within information services, where I worked as an analyst for four years before moving to City Hospital in 1997.”
Berenice will face an array of challenges leading her team in her new role with an everincreasing demand for data and information.
“I will try to ensure my team move towards producing more intelligent and insightful information to help guide improvements across the Trust.”
She added: "I’m very much looking forward to the challenge ahead when I officially start my role in autumn and hope I am able to continue to encourage the team to reach their full potential like my predecessor, Matthew Maguire did for numerous years.”
If you see Berenice around SWB be sure to give her a big wave and congratulate her on her new role at SWB!
Dr David Nicholl, Leading Neurologist
Berenice Lufton
Berenice Lufton, Associate Director of Performance and Insight
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To – Michael Boachie
Outstanding work done by Michael who went over and above to fix VPN issues I was experiencing for almost two weeks. Now my VPN is working smoothly, with zero downtime. Great job done!
From – Ruby Kitcher
To – Andrea Odulate
Recognition for your exceptional work ethic and professionalism during low staffing period. For working in busy backto-back clinics and still giving excellent care and support to our mums and babies.
Also, for outstanding quality of neonatal blood spot samples and completion of screening cards, documentation. Thank you. Your hard work and dedication does not go unnoticed.
From – Charlene Manners
To – Cheryl Hudson-Smith
Cheryl has had 40 years continued service for the NHS and we would like to thank and congratulate her on this amazing achievement.
Her Best Start colleagues would like to say a huge well done and we enjoyed celebrating with you.
Cheryl is a valued member of the team, and we thank her for her commitment and support and appreciate her dedication to the vulnerable families we work with on the Best Start programme.
From – Katrina O'Connell
To – Elliott Smock
Mr Smock went over and above his role as a plastic surgeon to ensure that a gentleman who needed cancer surgery attending his appointment. The team were having difficulties getting him to have day surgery due to his confusion and reluctance to attend the hospital.
Mr Smock went to his care home to visit him and make an assessment. Thank you, Mr Smock, for your persistence to get treatment for this man and thank you to everyone in the team who was involved in making this difficult situation work.
From – Anne Rutland
Shout out has been a regular feature in Heartbeat and it is fantastic to see colleagues regularly taking the time to give positive feedback to each other.
To nominate a colleague, visit connect2. swbh.nhs.uk/communications/shout-out/, or search 'shout out' on Connect and fill in the form.
To – Edward Fogden
He has been so supportive in allowing the Unity Configuration Team to develop a number of digital changes that will have a massive impact on savibg clinical time.
He always has time to provide clinical guidance to the configuration team allowing us to deliver the best digital solutions. He is true digital leader and is truly dedicated to improving the IT systems alongside Unity Configuration Team.
From – Kyle Day
To – James Morrissey
Always being supportive of staff at BMEC theatres and their individual needs. He encourages staff to take on new roles and fully supports them.
From – Kerrie Muldoon
To – Keturah Gardner
Keturah has been excellent in developing the HV service system one training and rolling it out. Thank you Keturah for your commitment and dedication to improve our service record keeping.
From – Yvonne Copeland
To – Lilian Ghobrial
Lilian is our inpatient matron, when we are short of midwives and when the activity was very high on Sunday, she came into the delivery suite to support her staff and helped the team clinically.
She goes beyond her time and comes from home to support her team.
People like Lilian keeps maternity going.
Many thanks for all your hardwork and support Lilian.
From – Maheswari Srinivasan
To – Sarabjeet Thind
For amazing Support in Sterile Services and Theatre stores over the past few months. Giving 100% in every task. Learning new skills and working to the best of her ability.
From – Lewis Moloney
To – Mary Packer
Thank you SO MUCH for helping me with two patients who attended pre-assessment on Monday 1 July.
From – Anna Milford
A massive well done to Matt for your patience, hard work and determination over the past 5 years with the Wheelchair System data cleanse that you have worked extremely hard on.
Both the admin and the clinical team are very grateful, and it is great to know that the info and data our system holds is so accurate and up to date. Thank you Matt!
From – Priya Johal
To – Angela Nyanni
Angela has been a valuable member of Oldbury HV team since April 2024. She is always smiling and has worked hard during her first few months with the team.
From – Maxine Duffield
To – Ranj Bains
Big massive thank you to Ranj at A&E Sandwell, for helping in the triage department when triage became busy with lists of bloods and ECG's.
Really appreciate it, thank you!
From – Jessica Attikey
To – Gina Ebanks
Going above and beyond again to help patients suffering with anxiety access MRI.
You are a star, Gina.
From – Tifffany Jones
To – Sandy Randhawa
I am proud that you are part of our team. Keep up the good work.
From – Marlene Owens
To – Matt Whitehead
Matthew Maguire: 33 years of success
After well over three decades at SWB, Matthew Maguire, Associate Director of Performance and Strategic Insight will be waving goodbye to SWB.
Matthew first joined the Trust in November 1990 as part of our IT department. Things were a whole lot different in the 90s as back then Matthew would have to share a PC with his then manager in role his as an Analyst Programmer. As a programmer one of his main duties was writing clinical systems for departments such as radiology, neurophysiology, cardiology and every medical secretary who used to use the clinical letters system.
Following on from this role, Matthew would go on to become an IT Development Manager where during this period the team won awards from BT, HSJ and E-Health Insider for developments including the clinicians home page, which went on to become the clinical data archive (CDA) and now is Clinical System Support (CSS).
“In 2007 I went on to become the Head of Information where led the Information, Data Quality and Clinical Coding team,” said Matthew.
“As a team we used our skills to develop an automated clinical coding algorithm that clinically codes any missing coding into a patients record. This is due to the clinicians not documenting something on every admission a patient has. These complexities and comorbidities have the ability to increase the SWBs income as well as increase the Charlston Index which is used
to calculate the patients mortality risk, this has then helped in reducing the number of clinical alerts to the trust due to the increased expected deaths when using Hospital Standardised Mortality Rate (HSMR).”
Just a couple of years ago in 2022 Mathew was appointed the Associate Director of Performance and Strategic Insight where he has played a pivotal role in implementing board/committee level metrics that align to the organisational Strategic Planning Framework (SPF).
Though 2022 was a great year for Matthew professional, in the summer of that year he also faced a life-threatening condition as unbeknownst to him, he would suffer a pulmonary embolism, a condition which occurs when a blood clot gets stuck in an artery in the lung, blocking blood flow to part of the lung. Fortunately for Matthew, as he works at SWB, he was surrounded by quick thinking colleagues who were able to spot that something was not quite right and call for urgent help.
“To this day I’m still thankful to all the staff who supported me as I know close I came to death. Simply put, going to work that day saved my life!”
Other challenges Matthew has faced in his time at SWB include Working through the COVID-19 pandemic being a part of two PAS go-lives, one EPR go-live and implementing the first Trust Integration Engine (Rhapsody).
Matthew has left a lasting impact on many of his colleagues and is highly regarded amongst
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many of his peers across the Trust.
Craig Watkins, Business Partner for PCCT and Place said: “Matthew has been an inspiration since I joined SWB in February 2023. At a personal and professional level, I could not have hoped for a better manager.”
Farooq Mohammed, Senior Information Officer has worked alongside Matthew for many years and said: Your dedication, wisdom, and unwavering support has made a significant impact on all of us. Working under your direction has been a truly rewarding experience and your ability to lead with both strength and compassion is something I deeply admire and strive to emulate.
Mujahid Sabir, Deputy Information Manager from Performance and Insight echoes these thoughts and said: Matthew’s wealth of knowledge, unwavering commitment, and exceptional leadership have been truly inspiring.”
As part of his retirement, Matthew plans to spend more time with his family and friends and embrace his newfound passion of cruise ship holidays.
Happy retirement Matthew!
Richard talks about: MMUH, the financial improvement programme and workforce control
Richard Beeken, Chief Executive
RICHARD'S LAST WORD
In my message in this edition of Heartbeat I want to focus on three things – in fact – these three things will be the focus of everyone at SWB for the coming few months. They are:
• Ensuring we are ready to move to Midland Met in October this year.
• Our financial improvement programme
• Workforce control
Midland Met
On Monday 19 August, the Midland Metropolitan University Hospital building was officially handed over from Balfour Beatty, this means the site is officially ours and allows us full access to the site to get ready for the first patient arriving. Two days later Wednesday 21st August the Trust Board received extensive information about all aspects of the programme to safely open our new hospital. As a Board we were assured of the clinical safety, patient, and staff experience case for opening and transferring patients. The Board was sufficiently confident and gave their full support the first patient move to go ahead and take place (from our Sandwell site) on 6th October. Personally, I felt incredibly proud listening to the different presentations given at the Board meeting – for most of us, opening a new hospital is a once in a career opportunity, and it is a chance to leave something behind that will make a real difference to the people of Sandwell and West Birmingham for generations to come. To be part of this is special, and something that we should all be proud of.
Financial improvement programme
As an organisation, we have a £40m deficit plan that we must deliver against. If we don’t start to deliver it ourselves, we will be in the unwanted position of it being overseen by NHS England – this is not where we want to be at all. We want to do it our way, so please engage in the financial improvement programme – if you are asked for ideas, please put them forward. This isn’t a problem that is going to be solved by the finance team – this is all of our problem – and we all have a part to play in improving it.
We are now into the second (nearly third) quarter of the year, and we still have to deliver £40.6m of savings – hopefully, you are now starting to understand why we have to be so focussed.
We have identified £33.3m – a lot of which has come from your ideas and your hard work – and remember – it’s not just about cuts –for example – the clinical coding team have improved working practices, which we think will generate circa £6m.
We know that some of the best ideas for efficiency and improvement come from you, so I encourage you again to please engage in the financial improvement programme and come forward and share your ideas with the recovery team swbh.recoverypmo@nhs.net
Workforce control
As part of the system wide financial improvement, there is an ask of each Trust to
reduce their workforce by approximately 5 per cent. Now I appreciate that this could sound worrying – and I don’t want to cause any level of alarm – but I also don’t want to hide away from the reality of the situation that the system and we as a Trust are facing. However, let me make one thing clear – we are not talking about making redundancies here – but we must reduce our establishment, be that via not recruiting to some of our current vacancies, or reducing our reliance on bank and agency.
So, what does this mean in reality?
After accounting for the positions we need for MMUH, we need to reduce our establishment by 158 full time equivalents (FTE) – that’s approximately by 2 per cent.
If I can give you some perspective, we currently have over 1,000 more FTE people than we did a few years ago – however, we have not increased the amount of activity that we are doing – so effectively, we have more people, but are doing less work. Now I know it doesn’t feel that way, when we are all working incredibly hard – but that’s the reality that people outside of the organisation are seeing.
Finally, I want to take this opportunity to say how proud I am of each and everyone of you, this year, has been particularly challenging, balancing the day job with getting ready for the move to Midland Met in October. As I said earlier in my message, we are nearly over the finish line, I ask for just one final push to get us there.
