A message from Janelle
Welcome to the winter edition of ‘In Touch’ magazine which showcases the good work going on in the Trust and reflects on what has been a busy year for all of us.
All of our staff deserve to be appreciated. The work you do changes lives, every day.
In this issue we celebrate the fantastic efforts of our staff, the exciting work that goes on in the Trust, and how you all go the extra mile. From the colleagues who won staff recognition awards or were celebrated for a lifetime of achievement to those who contributed to the positive feedback in our patient surveys. They deserve our thank you for their contribution to WUTH.
Reflecting on the past five years since we launched our vision, Together We Will, there has been lots of innovative work that has made the Trust a great place to work. As part of our Together We Did campaign we are taking the time to look at some of our amazing achievements which you can read about on page 4 of this edition.
Thank you once again for your continued support for our vaccination campaigns and if you haven’t had your flu or COVID-19 vaccination yet, please take the opportunity to have your jab as we head into winter. We must do all we can to keep each other and patients safe from the spread of viruses during the winter months.
Finally some of you will have noticed some exciting developments in the work we are doing in collaboration with local partner organisations. In November, Sir David Henshaw and I were announced as Joint Chief Executive and Joint Chair of both Wirral University Teaching Hospital and Wirral Community Health and Care.
This is an exciting time, and this collaboration provides us with great opportunities to make a considerable difference to the lives of our patients and the communities we serve.
So here is to you. We don’t say it often enough – but thank you. For all you do – and for the way you change lives every day you turn up for work.
In closing, I would just like to wish everyone all the best for the Christmas and festive holidays as well as a very happy new year.
Janelle Holmes, Chief Executive
Five years of transformation at WUTH
The Trust is celebrating five years since the launch of its transformative vision, Together We Will.
As part of our Together We Did campaign, we are reflecting on the achievements of the past five years. Our dedicated staff have embraced our vision and values, making WUTH an exceptional workplace, and prioritising quality patient care.
years of transformation
In 2019, we launched our vision, followed by the arrival of a strengthened leadership team in 2020. That year we also set up a quarantine site for repatriated guests from Wuhan and this was followed by the wider response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Since then we have worked together to save lives during the pandemic and set up one of the first COVID-19 vaccination centres.
Key milestones also include the introduction of a new Trust strategy in 2021 and the Leadership Qualities Framework in 2022, followed by our first ever Leadership Conference. Staff recognition formed an important part of our People Strategy with the Together Awards, Employee of the Month awards and CEO Star Award.
Major innovations, such as the Cheshire and Merseyside Surgical Centre and new diagnostics centres at Clatterbridge have transformed patient care. Our maternity services were rated as ‘Good’ with some areas ‘Outstanding’ by the Care Qualty Commission (CQC). Recognition as a finalist for HSJ Trust of the Year also reflects our commitment to excellence as we strive for a Trust rating of ‘Outstanding’ by the CQC.
Child prodigy inspires at WUTH Charity Golf Day
Seven-year-old Bobby Harry, a rising golf star from Bebington, opened the Ricketts Financial Planning’s Golf Day with a story that captured hearts. After receiving life-changing care provided by our Children’s Ward, Bobby, who once struggled to walk due to juvenile arthritis, now stands poised to compete in the Junior Golf World Championships in Ireland next year.
In 2022, severe pain left Bobby unable to walk. Through tailored treatment and physiotherapy, he regained his mobility and returned to the sport he loves. This year, Bobby wowed the golfing world by achieving a rare hole-in-one at the European Junior Golf Competition - a remarkable 135-yard shot that showcased his skill and determination.
Bobby teed off the Golf Day in aid of WUTH Charity at Lancaster Golf Club, a historic venue that brought together supporters to raise vital funds for patient care.
Janelle Holmes, Chief Executive, said: “He’s a remarkable young man, and we wish him the best at the World Championships.”
Proceeds from the event will enhance patient experiences across WUTH’s sites, with thanks extended to Ricketts Financial Planning and donors like Liverpool Private Signings.
New MP praise for patient-centred innovations
Matthew Patrick, newly elected MP for Wirral West, made his first visit to Arrowe Park Hospital, to see first-hand how staff are tackling challenges and prioritising patient care.
Hosted by Janelle Holmes, Chief Executive, Matthew toured the facility and learned about ground-breaking initiatives, including the Transfer of Care Hub. This innovative space has significantly streamlined the process of transitioning patients from hospital care back home or into the community. Ensuring patients are discharged quickly when they are fit and well, the hub frees up vital hospital beds for those in urgent need.
Matthew met with the dedicated team behind the Hub and was impressed by their collaborative approach with local health and care partners. “Public services are at the heart of the Wirral,” he said. “I know that the teams at Arrowe Park are doing all they can to ensure the best outcomes for patients, both in treatment and recovery. I look forward to working in partnership with the hospital’s team going forward, as the Government continues its efforts to build an NHS fit for the future.”
Janelle echoed the sentiment, highlighting the critical role of timely discharges and added: “When patients no longer need hospital care, the best place for them to continue their recovery is at home and we are working with our partners to make sure that happens as quickly as possible.”
The visit underscored our
Professor Simon Rogers receives lifetime achievement award
Professor Simon Rogers, a consultant oral and maxillofacial surgeon at Arrowe Park Hospital, has received the British Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons’ highest accolade: the Down Surgical Prize.
This lifetime achievement award, bestowed on individuals making extraordinary contributions to the field, marks a crowning moment in Simon’s 35-year career.
Maxillofacial surgery, a demanding specialty requiring dual qualifications in medicine and dentistry, addresses conditions from head and neck cancers to complex facial reconstructions. Simon has excelled in both clinical practice and academic research, with over 450 published papers and global recognition for his work on patient-reported outcomes and quality of life.
Dr Nikki Stevenson, Executive Medical Director at WUTH, praised Simon as a “hugely talented consultant whose tireless efforts have improved care both locally and internationally.”
Simon, whose current practice focuses on head and neck cancers and skin cancer surgeries, attributes his success to passion and perseverance. “If you find a job you enjoy, you’ll never work a day in your life,” he said.
Simon will formally accept his award at the association’s awards ceremony in June 2025.
Staff recognition thew
STAFF
RECOGNITION SCHEME
Welcome to the summer edition of In Touch magazine. I’d like to say that there is lots of whatever going on and a big thank you to everyone for all that you do. Our path of improvement continues at pace and we have seen many things to celebrate since the last issue.
AWARD
Congratulations to all our Staff Recognition Scheme winners in September, October and November 2024 (pictured). Thank you for your outstanding contributions.
To nominate a colleague, visit the Your WUTH/Rewards section of the staff intranet or please use the QR code below.
Use this QR code to nominate a colleague
Above (right): Gemma Bulmer, Clinical IT Systems Analyst, Training and Improvement
Above (centre): Gemma Smith, Medical Microbiologist
Right (centre): Alison Roberts, Digitally Supported Arthroplasty Nurse
Staff recognition continued
Welcome to the summer edition of In Touch magazine. I’d like to say that there is lots of whatever going on and a big thank you to everyone for all that you do. Our path of improvement continues at pace and we have seen many things to celebrate since the last issue.
Right (centre): Louise O’Connor, Tissue Viability Nurse/Lead
Above: Second Floor Therapy Team
Right (left): Liam Whitaker, Rotational Pharmacy Technician
Positive results in CQC patient surveys
Feedback from maternity service users has resulted in WUTH being ranked in the region’s top five trusts in four sections of the CQC Maternity Survey 2024.
WUTH was in the top five trusts for antenatal check-ups, triage assessment and evaluation, labour and birth, and care in the ward after birth.
Among the highest marks received were 9 out of 10 for whether midwives listened during antenatal check-ups; 9.6 out of 10 for being spoken to in a way the service user could understand; and 9.1 out of 10 for whether their partner or someone close was involved in their care as much as they wanted.
The feedback is a positive reflection of the Maternity Team’s emphasis on providing a family-centric approach to maternity care, and ensuring pregnant people and new mums feel listened to.
Also, in the CQC Urgent and Emergency Care patient survey results, our Trust scored ‘better’ than the majority of NHS Trusts for support and care for patients after leaving A&E.
We also scored ‘better’ than other Trusts for how well patients were kept informed about their wait and what would happen next, involvement in decisions around their care, and staff discussing with patients whether they needed health or social care services after leaving A&E.
Both sets of survey results are a reflection of the positive experience patients are having in our hospitals.
Celebrating Christmas across Cultures
Christmas and the holiday season is a time of unity and joy, and at our Trust, it’s also an opportunity to celebrate the rich diversity of our international staff. With a thriving Multicultural Staff Network, our team members bring unique traditions from around the world, adding a global sparkle to the festive season.
Colombia
In Colombia, Christmas is full of vibrant celebrations.
Nathalia Aguilera, Co-chair of WUTH’s Multicultural Staff Network, said: “One cherished tradition is La Novena de Aguinaldos, a nineday devotional before Christmas. Families gather nightly to pray, sing carols, and share treats like natilla and buñuelos. On Christmas Eve, we have a Nochebuena feast and exchange gifts at midnight.”
India
Jithu Nair, Clinical Support Worker at Arrowe Park Hospital, is excited for his first Christmas with family since moving here.
He said: “My parents are coming from Kerala and my sister from London. We have a tree, presents, and decorations. I’ll work Christmas Day, but we’ll celebrate on Ward 26 with dishes from Africa, Nepal, and beyond. I’ll bring chicken curry. At home, we’ll have curries and stews.”
Back in Kerala, Jithu celebrated Christmas alongside festivals like Diwali, Holi, and Onam – a local harvest festival celebrating the homecoming of King Mahabali, a benevolent figure in Hindu mythology.
Nepal
In Nepal, Durga Thapa celebrated Hindu festivals, but her children now love Christmas.
“Our main celebration back home is Diwali, the festival of lights, with candles and food,” said the Clinical Support Worker. “Here in Wirral, we celebrate both Diwali and Christmas. With two children, we have a tree and presents. Instead of turkey, we enjoy a chicken dinner.”
Thailand
For Ammorat Hercules from Thailand, Christmas combines local traditions with Christian celebrations. “We have a tree, decorations, and presents - but also Thai dancing and music.”
During a traditional British Christmas celebration, families typically gather to enjoy a festive roast dinner, exchange gifts and watch the King’s speech together.
By sharing these stories, our hospital celebrates not only the season but also the unique cultures that make us stronger together.
Pictured left to right: Durga Thapa, Amarrat Hercules, Stacey Potter, Jithu Nair, Ward
Jingle all the way at WUTH
The Christmas and holiday season has sleighed its way through WUTH, and what a cracker it’s been. We jingled all the way with Handbags and Harmonies at our charity Carol Concert at All Saints Parish Church, Thornton Hough.
The fun didn’t stop there - our calendars have been crammed with festive activities.
Staff have embraced the festivities by sporting jolly jumpers and creating dazzling ‘doorscapes’ for the Best Decorated Door Competition. The winners, announced on the 19th December, each received a bag of goodies.
Meanwhile, the Gingerbread House Competition showcased incredible creativity, with winners to be revealed on 23rd December.
Pop-up events offering treats, raffles, and wellbeing support, added to the festive feel. On the 19th, the Chapel at Arrowe Park Hospital hosted a nativity film screening, bringing us back to the true meaning of Christmas.
Looking ahead, the Chaplaincy Christmas Service, including Holy Communion, will take place at 10am on Christmas Day at the Arrowe Park Hospital Chapel, open to staff and patients alike.
A huge thank you to everyone who made this Christmas at WUTH one to remember. Wishing you all a fabulous festive season.
NHS Staff Survey
A massive thank you to everyone who took part in this year’s NHS Staff Survey – we smashed last year’s response rate of 38% to achieve a rate of 47%.
This year’s ‘It Starts With You’ campaign was all about showing how every change at WUTH starts with your voice. Your feedback helps shape the future of our Trust, making it an even better place to work and improving the care we provide for our patients.
The energy and enthusiasm from our staff this year have been incredible. From the buzz around the fantastic prizes, the new campaign messaging, or just the determination to make a difference, you’ve shown us how much you care about making your voice count.
We’ll be sharing the detailed results soon, but to have a final response rate of 47% is brilliant. Let’s celebrate this fantastic achievement together. Change really does start with you, and we’re excited to work on the improvements your feedback inspires. Watch this space for updates. Together, we’re shaping the future of WUTH.
Win an Amazon Kindle
Congratulations to Karen Harding, Senior Cashier, who won the prize from the last magazine competitiona family ticket to Brimstage Maze.
This issue’s fabulous prize is an Amazon Kindle. Go to page 19 to fill in the wordsearch and send your entry to the Communications Team. Good luck.
Widening participation for young people
WUTH has proudly played a key role in a work experience programme to support young people aged 16 to 25 from under-privileged backgrounds in gaining invaluable work experience and career opportunities.
The programme has seen participants complete placements across various deapartments at WUTH, equipping them with valuable skills and opening doors to potential employment. Notable success stories include two particpants securing permanent employment with the Trust. This reflects WUTH’s commitment to supporting employment opportunities for local people, and in particular, its support of care leavers and young people in the community.
To celebrate the programme’s success, a special event was hosted by the Liverpool FC Foundation at the iconic Anfield Stadium. The event highlighted the power of collaborative working, bringing together organisations across the Merseyside City Region, including Wirral Council, Liverpool FC Foundation and WUTH to create opportunities to positively change lives.
As an anchor institution, WUTH continues to provide support
RUN SMART:
Doctor’s tips to kickstart your fitness
As the new year nears, many set resolutions to improve health and fitness. Dr Martin Pritchard-Howarth, a WUTH consultant and avid runner, shares his top tips to help you begin and stay on track.
Start Small
“Begin with manageable goals, like walking 20 minutes a day,” he advises. “Gradually increase activity to avoid burnout or injury.”
Find Your Why
“Know why you want to get fit—be it improving health, boosting mood, or inspiring family. A clear purpose keeps you motivated.”
Create a Routine
“Consistency is crucial. Schedule workouts like appointments. Lay out your kit the night before if exercising in the morning. This helps make fitness a habit.”
Join a Club
“Local sports clubs provide a supportive, sociable environment to get fit and celebrate achievements together,” said Martin. “Also, consider getting friends and family involved - becoming fit is contagious.”
Finally…
“Be patient and have fun. Progress takes time, but any activity is better than none.”
WUTH Charity Update
Big changes are ahead at WUTH Charity as we welcome Ngozi Ikoku as our new Fundraising Manager. With extensive experience and a passion for making a difference, Ngozi is excited to work with you to raise vital funds for patients and staff at Arrowe Park and Clatterbridge hospitals.
Ngozi joins Phil Crawford, our longstanding charity champion, and the wider team, who are creating new ways for people to get involved with WUTH Charity.
Next year brings two major initiatives:
• The Patient Wish Fund: Grants of up to £2,000 for small projects directly benefiting patients and staff.
• Arrowe Park League of Friends Donation: A generous £204,000 will fund key projects at Arrowe Park Hospital.
Details on applying for these schemes will be shared in the New Year. You can also fundraise through BTR Liverpool’s spring events, including the Liverpool Half Marathon, 10 Miler, and Mersey Tunnel 10K. Register at the Charity Office or via wuth.charity@nhs.net.
Ngozi said: “We’re ready to make 2025 a fantastic year of fundraising with your support. Let’s make a difference together.”
Stay connected with the latest updates through the charity’s upcoming Fundraising Newsletter and the Facebook page.
Left to right: Brendan Meehan, Phil Crawford, Ngozi Ikoku, Adam Doyle, Sharon Landrum, Janet Jones, Hayley Rigby
Competition Rules
Complete the wordsearch and send your entry (this page) by email to wih-tr.communications@nhs.net, or by post to Communications Department, Arrowe Park Hospital. Please include your name and contact details. Entries must be received by Friday 17th January 2025. By sending your entry, you are agreeing to have your photo taken for publishing. The winner will be featured in the next issue of the In Touch Magazine.
To make a donation, go to the WUTH Charity Just Giving page via this QR code
Get involved to help make a difference by fundraising for one of our specific funds or the Patient Wish general fund supporting the other areas of the hospital. For more details, contact the Charity Team on wuth.charity@nhs.net.
Thank you to everyone who has supported WUTH Charity this year. A very merry Christmas and Happy New Year from the WUTH Charity Team.