Best December 2012

Best Issue 8 December 2012

Sherwood Forest Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust

News from King’s Mill, Newark, Mansfield and Ashfield hospitals

The people’s heroes!

Inside this edition:

New Interim Chairman

P2

David Johnson, Specialist Urology Nurse

of ell-deserving winners w e th to ns tio la tu ra Cong ard” our “2012 People’s Aw

New Interim Chief Executive

P2 Christmas on the Children’s ward

Ward 22, King’s Mill Hospital

Turn to page 11-13 for a special pull-out feature on the tenth anniversary presentation of the Trust’s annual Staff Excellence Awards.

P10

Contents

MRI Appeal update

News from Newark

p4-5

p6-7

King’s Mill Long Service Awards

p8

Star of the Month

p16

New emergency cancer care

p17

Pressure ulcer campaign

p24

Donations to the MRI Scanner appeal can be made by: • Visiting the Chad receptions • Visiting the customer services department at King’s Mill Hospital • Via our Just Giving webpage by specifying MRI appeal at www.sfh-tr.nhs.uk • Delivering a cheque to the customer services department at King’s Mill Hospital (located in the main entrance) or posting to Customer Services, King’s Mill Hospital, Mansfield Road, Sutton-in-Ashfield, Notts NG17 4JL. Cheques can be made payable to

“Sherwood Forest Hospitals Charitable Funds” • Credit or debit card (in person) by visiting the general office at King’s Mill Hospital, located in the King’s Treatment Centre

Change is in the air. Since the last edition of Best magazine, and whilst the services at King’s Mill, Newark, Mansfield Community and Ashfield hospitals continue to deliver the high quality standards that patients expect, the Foundation Trust that manages the hospitals has experienced some significant changes.

For some time now, the Trust Board has been working to secure a sustainable and long term future for the Trust in what has been, and continues to be a very challenging environment.

However, in late September the Board acknowledged the Trust was to be found in significant breach of its terms of authorisation as a Foundation Trust, and this status was confirmed by Monitor in early October.

The basis for this regulatory assessment is that the challenging size and scale of the PFI (the 2005 private finance initiative used to fund the hospital’s redevelopment) has been further impacted by changes in healthcare commissioning and funding.

The financial challenges were such that Monitor decided to become more closely involved in reviewing and addressing the governance and financial aspects of the Trust.

Quality Commission) have raised any concerns about the quality of patient care, neither does it mean that services will be interrupted or affected whilst new plans are formulated. So patients can be reassured about continuity of services.

During October the Trust Board welcomed new interim Chairman, Chris Mellor, and new interim Chief Executive, Eric Morton. Chris brings extensive management experience and has also been on Monitor’s Board for several years, latterly as Deputy Chairman. Eric has, until recently, been heavily involved with Chesterfield Royal Hospital, where he had been Chief Executive for over 10 years.

The new leadership at the Trust has already initiated three root and branch reviews covering finance, governance and quality. They acknowledge that the Trust has lived beyond its means for the last couple of years and have promised swift action to address the challenges. They will act on the findings of these reviews before the end of the year.

The announcement in no way suggested that either Monitor or the CQC (Care

In the meantime, they are seeking to work more closely with the service commissioners and other health and social care partners, and building the sort of reputation that encourages more patients to choose our hospitals.

Interim Chairman, Chris Mellor

Interim Chief Executive, Eric Morton

• Credit or debit card (by telephone) by calling 01623 622515 extension 3263 or 4041 Monday to Friday between the hours of 9.00am-5.00pm.

If you require further details or would like to fundraise regarding our appeal please telephone the customer services team on 01623 672222.

Every donation is valuable, whatever the size, and will make a difference 2 Best | December 2012

Trust embraces new leadership . . .

Reaching out into the community The Urology Outreach Team was set up in late September 2011 and has already cared for many patients with problematic urological conditions in their own home.

Pictured L to R - Carolyn White, Yvette Girvan, Debbi Clifford, Mr Bhojwani, Chris Bumstead and Ollie Hynd at the Staff Excellence Awards

Community LUTS clinic well received At the beginning of May the Trust launched the community Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms (LUTS) clinic for Newark and Sherwood Clinical Commissioning Group, and the clinic has already attracted attention from other clinical commissioning groups who are keen to replicate the service.

The community LUTS clinic is quite unique due to the range of services it offers. Held at Balderton Primary Care Centre and Bilsthorpe surgery, the clinic is run by Urologist, Mr Bhojwani and specialist nurses Debbi Clifford, Chris Bumstead and Yvette

Girvan. They carry out initial assessments of patients which include urine flow testing, bladder scans and working through a series of questions with the patient before deciding upon a treatment option. Patients are followed up within three months.

Very positive verbal feedback has been received about the clinic from both patients and GPs, and a patient survey is planned.

In addition to the positive patient feedback, this new service also received a Highly Commended award in the Improvement category of the Trust’s 2012 Staff Excellence Awards (see pages 12-13).

Next generation of green light laser treatment The Trust has introduced the next generation of laser treatment for men suffering from an enlarged prostate.

hospital after 16 hours and can return to normal non-strenuous activities within days.

King’s Mill Hospital was one of the first hospitals in the country to establish treatment using GreenLight laser therapy for benign prostatic hyperplasia. The Trust has continued to develop this service and now uses the GreenLight HPS system.

Patients are discharged to the Urology Outreach Team who perform bladder scans and follow ups in the patient’s home.

The new machine is more powerful and efficient than its predecessor, and operating time is reduced by 50 per cent. Patients have a quicker recovery – usually being discharged from

Mr Ashok Bhojwani, Consultant Urologist, said: “This revolutionary laser is an example of advanced treatment options our Trust provides to improve services for the local community.

“This treatment is safer and less painful, and patients go home with little or no discomfort.”

The team comprises two specialist nurses, Debbi Clifford and Chris Bumstead, who provide a 9am to 5pm service five days a week across the Trust’s catchment area. The outreach team was set up to help care for patients in their home environment with the aim of reducing hospital admissions and aiding early discharge.

The team carries a wide range of equipment which enables them to provide urology interventions at a patient’s home rather than in hospital. Patients benefit as they receive one to one nursing in their own environment.

Patients, carers and other professionals can access the service for help and support, avoiding unnecessary admissions. Length of stay has been reduced for these patients due to earlier discharges and care being continued at home by the outreach team. There is also a reduction in unnecessary hospital follow up appointments, as the team can determine if a follow up appointment is required at the hospital or if the patient can be followed up at home.

The team also provides education and training to primary and secondary care, therefore ensuring that urological conditions are dealt with competently and a high quality of care is delivered.

Excellent feedback has been received from a recent patient satisfaction survey . Comments included: “Fantastic personal care.” “Always at the end of a phone if needed.” “Totally stress free one to one nursing.” “This service is vital in our opinion.” “Long may this service continue I cannot praise the team enough.”

Turn to page 11 to see more about our 2012 People’s Hero, Specialist Urology Nurse, David Johnson December 2012 | Best 3

Donate to the Chad/King’s Mill We need your help! Can you help us to raise £750,000 for a state-of-the-art MRI Scanner?

Local newspaper the Chad teamed up with King’s Mill Hospital on 27 June to launch the ambitious appeal to purchase the scanner, which will provide faster, safer and more detailed diagnosis to thousands of patients over the next seven years?

The appeal has already taken a major leap forward – after overwhelming support from volunteers at King’s Mill Hospital, staff at the Chad, members of the public and local businesses. At the time of going to print, our grand total is now a staggering £140,000.

Here are just some of our kind-hearted fundraisers who have worked hard to help us make a difference so far.

American war veteran donates $1,000 A former American Army veteran who received treatment to war wounds at King’s Mill Hospital has pledged $1,000 to the appeal Lewis Boggs (88) donated the cash, which converts to around £620, as a thank you to the hospital, which he says will ‘forever hold a special place in his heart’.

Mr Boggs suffered shrapnel wounds and nearly lost his feet to trench foot in Southern France during the winter of 1944 as Gen George Patton’s Third Army battled the Nazis for control of war-torn Europe. The brave soldier was taken to King’s Mill Hospital, which was used as a US medical base at the time, for treatment where he was steadily nursed back to full health. During his memorable time in Mansfield, Lewis met the love of his life after a group of local carol singers, including Marold Dunlop, were sent to the hospital to cheer up the recovering soldiers.

Lewis, who now lives in Virginia, married Marold Dunlop of Mansfield in December 1945 after a one year courtship before the happy couple moved back to America.

Brian Meakin, a former chairman of Sherwood Forest Hospital’s Foundation Trust who presented the gift on behalf of Lewis, said it was a wonderful gesture.

“He wanted to show that he is willing to donate to the MRI appeal and hopefully encourage other people to do the same,” said Brian.

“This is a fantastic gesture by Lewis. He is forever thankful for what the staff at King’s Mill Hospital did for him and still holds a special place in his heart for the hospital even after all these years.”

Lewis told BEST magazine:”As far as I am concerned I will always consider the ground upon which King’s Mill Hospital stands to be sacred ground, due to the miraculous healing that took place there for me and many others.”

Former Trust Chairman, Brian Meakin, presents a cheque for $1,000 to Jayne Burkitt, Radiology Manager, on behalf of American Army veteran Lewis Boggs

Breast Care Support Group donates £5,000

Hardworking volunteers from the Amazon Breast Care Support group are urging the Mansfield and Ashfield community to back Chad’s MRI Scanner Appeal after handing over a bumper £5,000 donation.

The caring group raised the crucial cash through a series of fundraising events, including fashion shows, collections and race nights, as part of their tireless efforts to help current and future cancer sufferers beat the deadly disease.

The Amazon charity, which was founded in 1995, is based at King’s Mill Hospital and is made up of volunteers, survivors and carers 4 Best | December 2012

who have all been affected by cancer at some point in their life.

Beryl Perrin, charity chairman, said the ambitious £750,000 MRI campaign was the perfect way of allowing the hardworking group to ‘give something back’.

“We appreciate the hardwork and effort that goes into fundraising and we are delighted to be donating £5,000 to the MRI appeal.

“It has taken a lot of time and effort to get this money, but it is always worth that effort. We all want to give something back to the hospital and to help people affected by cancer.

“As a group we are all too aware of how important it is to have the most upto-date equipment possible,” she added.

“It is vital that everyone in the area has access to the best equipment and the fastest possible diagnosis.

“King’s Mill Hospital is a fantastic hospital and getting a new MRI scanner is vital as it helps detect many diseases and not just cancer.”

The Amazon group hold regular monthly meetings offering support and advice to new and old patients. All meetings on the second Tuesday of each month from 7.30pm to 9.00pm at the Welcome Treatment Centre, Kings Mill Hospital, Mansfield.

ll Hospital MRI Scanner Appeal A £25,000 boost from League of Hospital Friends!

The League of Hospital Friends, who support King’s Mill Hospital, Millbrook and Mansfield Community Hospital, handed over the bumper cashpot of £25,000 to boost the Appeal coffers in October, following months of fundraising events across the area.

And after making the generous donation, group chairman Barbara Joule vowed that more cash would be on its way next year.

“The League of Friends supports all three hospitals in this area and it is natural that we would raise cash for the MRI appeal,” she said.

“This is a very important appeal, it is vital that King’s Mill Hospital has the best possible equipment and we need to do all we can to offer them our support.

“We are very thankful for any donations that come our way,” she said. “Every penny that we raise goes towards purchasing new equipment and is put to good use.

The League of Friends currently have three charity shops, with one in Sutton and two in Forest Town, which sells a wide range of goods, including clothing, electrical items, books, children’s toys and other bric-a-brac.

Kind-hearted Barbara, who has been chairman of the League of Friends for 24 years, is now appealing to local folk to continue to dig deep with donations.

Mansfield businesses get on their bikes

In memory of Keith Robert Morris and Phil Brown recently completed the KG Challenge, cycling from Land’s End to John O’Groats to raise funds in memory of their friend Keith Gregory who died from cancer in May 2009.

They raised a fantastic £3,555.30 which they donated to the appeal.

Caring staff from some of Mansfiel d and Ashfield’s most high-profile compan ies got on their bikes to help raise cruc ial cash for our MRI Scanner Appeal.

Chad reporters Stephen Thirkill, Hele n Beighton and James Savage were joine d by workers from West Notts College, Man sfield 103.2, King’s Mill Hospital and players from Mansfield Town’s academy team for a sponsored spin-a-thon at the Oasis Heal th Centre on Quarry Lane on 19 October.

During the high-profile event the five teams cycled continuously between 9am and noon, with Mansfield 103.2 also providing regular broadcasts throughout the morning.

Competitors from all teams also cove red the event through social media sites to further boost awareness of the life-chang ing charity campaign.

Stewart Nicholson, 103.2 DJ, said they had been delighted to be involved in the charity morning: “We are fully behind the MRI Appeal and will support is as best we can.”

Colin Eley, sports development co-ordina tor at West Notts College, said the event was a great way to encourage people to get into sport and raise money for a good caus e.

The event was made possible thanks to Mansfield’s Oasis Health Centre, who offered their facilities free of charge for the even t.

Pictured are (L-R) Claire Morris, Tracy Doucet, Robert Morris, Phil Brown, Sue Gregory, Tom Gregory and Jackie Collingwood, Superintendent Radiographer.

Pedal power at the spin-a-thon.

Photo courtesy of the CHAD new spaper

Raffle raises £899.01

A raffle at King’s Mill Hospital has helped to raise nearly £900 for the life-changing campaign.

The raffle offered a variety of prizes donated by businesses and individuals and raised a grand total of £899.01.

Christmas carol service Christmas carol service will take place at the Community of Christ church, The Oval, Carsic Estate, Sutton-in-Ashfield, on 11 December at 7.30pm with all proceeds going to the appeal.

Hazel Holmes, a church member who has

helped organise the event, said: “We organise charity concerts every year and always look for a local charity to support. The MRI appeal fits the bill perfect.

“Hopefully we will get a good turnout for the event to help raise as much money as possible.”

December 2012 | Best 5

Festive prizes up for grabs!

A luxury Christmas hamper, £50 Asda shopping voucher and Mansfield Town match tickets are just some of the prizes up for grabs in our Christmas MRI raffle.

Other prizes include a Nottingham Panthers family pass for four, a £25 hair and beauty voucher at King’s Mill Salon, champagne and port. Raffle tickets cost £1 and are currently available from the King’s Mill Customer Services Department. The raffle will be drawn on 17 December.

Chow Oriental night raises £505

Newark Hospital

“excellent” Newark Hospital has been scored as “excellent” in all three areas of the annual Patient Environment Action Team (PEAT) assessment.

The hospital received top ratings by the PEAT programme, which assesses all inpatient units in the UK with 10 or more beds.

The PEAT assessments are carried out by Trust staff and governors, together with patients, patient representatives and members of the public.

Hospitals are given a rating of excellent, good, acceptable, poor or unacceptable in standards of privacy and dignity, environment and food within their buildings.

A rating of “excellent” was awarded for Newark Hospital’s achievements in privacy and dignity, for the patient

environment and for the choice, quality, and taste of food offered to its patients.

Tracey Wall, Newark Hospital Manager, said: “We are absolutely delighted that Newark Hospital has been rated as excellent in all three areas.

These fantastic results reflect the dedication and commitment of all of our staff.

“Staff strive to ensure that all our patients are cared for in a comfortable and dignified environment as we want patients to feel as contented as possible during their stay with us.

“It is obviously also vital that patients are offered an appealing and nutritious range of food, snacks and beverages, and so receiving an excellent rating for our food is equally important to us.”

More than £500 was raised by diners at Mansfield restaurant Chow Oriental for the appeal.

The Clerkson Street restaurant served up tasty food and live entertainment during the fundraising event in October.

The night included raffles, music and was supported by a host of local businesses, Mansfield Town Football Club and Mansfield mayor Tony Egginton.

Canine Partners visit Newark Trainee dog for the disabled, Heather, visited Newark Hospital on November 9 as part of her training with the Canine Partners charity.

The 13 month old labrador cross retriever is due to graduate as a guide dog.

From seven weeks old, the trainee dogs reside with their trainer for a period of 14 to 16 months. They then undertake advanced training and an assessment before being placed with an owner to take care of their individual needs. Dogs often choose their owners!

Canine Partner’s motto is “opening doors for independence”. Practical tasks which the dogs are trained to assist with include opening and closing doors/cupboards, retrieving items, pressing buttons and switches, raising an emergency alarm, unloading washing machines and tumble driers and helping their owners to get dressed. For more information visit www.caninepartners.org.uk 6 Best | December 2012

Extensive new menu steams into Newark Hospital An extensive brand new menu was introduced at Newark Hospital in early October, thanks to the roll-out of the Steamplicity food service.

Steamplicity is a ready-plated cooking system which enables meals to be steam cooked in a microwave in just four to six minutes. Each meal is individually plated and steamed in packing that contains a patented steam-release valve – like a mini pressure cooker – that regulates temperature through the cooking process, keeping the food in optimum condition. The valuable nutrients are retained and the food keeps its colour and texture.

Free from artificial additives and preservatives, Newark patients can now choose from a menu consisting of 25 delicious main meal options, including roast dinners, fish and pasta dishes,

just hours before they are served rather than the day before.

There are also five salads, seven different sandwiches and 15 desserts to choose from – together with a wide range of separate menus available for those people with special dietary requirements due to a medical condition or their religion. The menu can be provided in any language, including Braille.

The extensive new flexible menu enables patients to choose if they wish to eat a hot meal at lunchtime or in the evening, or both. It also means that patients will not miss their meal if they are not on the ward at mealtimes, as their food can be freshly prepared on their return.

‘Steamplicity’ is a service created and provided by the Compass Group’s healthcare arm Medirest – the Trust’s catering and cleaning supplier.

Newark Hospital volunteers rewarded The sterling work completed by 45 volunteers at Newark Hospital was recognised at the Trust’s Chairman’s Awards Ceremony at Newark Town Hall on 11 October.

The awards were in appreciation of service ranging from five to twenty five years and long service medals were presented to each volunteer by Bonnie Jones, Trust Vice Chair.

Bonnie said: “I am really

Presented with medals were: 5 years’ service Christopher Benoy

Mary Taylor coffee lounge

Marie Benoy

Mary Taylor coffee lounge

Gwen Birley

Podiatry

Charles Brown

Mary Taylor coffee lounge/Helpdesk

Melissa Dodd

Mary Taylor coffee lounge

Lorraine Felstead

Mercia Doughty Preoperative Assessment Centre

Barbara Green

Helpdesk

Pat Howell

Mary Taylor coffee lounge

Christine Light

Mary Taylor Coffee lounge/ outpatients tea bar

Jean Lyne

Mercia Doughty Preoperative Assessment Centre

Marlene Mallett

Podiatry

Anne Martin

Mary Taylor coffee lounge

Sue Nice

Helpdesk

Ivy Pedley

Mary Taylor coffee lounge

Marion Reid

Mary Taylor coffee lounge

Janet Swinscoe

Mary Taylor coffee lounge

Patricia Thornton

Chaplaincy

Gladys Warriner

Mary Taylor coffee lounge

Jean Whittaker

Mary Taylor coffee lounge/ Outpatients Tea bar

Lyn Woolmer

Mary Taylor coffee lounge

Ron Woolmer

Mary Taylor coffee lounge

proud that we have some of the longest serving and most dedicated volunteers in our hospitals. We are hugely indebted to them for all that they do - the giving of their time, skills and caring kindness”.

15 years’ service Joan Allsopp

Helpdesk

Maisie Baggaley

Mary Taylor coffee lounge

Christine Freeman

Mary Taylor coffee lounge/CT scanner unit

Jean Greenberry

Mary Taylor coffee lounge

Joan Miller

Mary Taylor coffee lounge

Mavis Pepper

Mary Taylor coffee lounge

Anne Pickering

Helpdesk

Marian Quant

Mary Taylor coffee lounge

Doreen Rogers

Mary Taylor coffee lounge

20 years’ service Lily Goodwin

Outpatients tea bar

Audrey Hazledine

Helpdesk

Valerie Runnette

Helpdesk

May Thompson

Mary Taylor coffee lounge

Helpdesk

Margaret Clay

Helpdesk

Joan Curtis

Helpdesk/flowers /Preoperative assessment

Val Merchant

Outpatients tea bar

Jennifer Pell

Mary Taylor coffee lounge

Marilyn Scott

Outpatients tea bar

Jean Smith

Mary Taylor coffee lounge

Norma Thorp

Helpdesk

Mark Wraith

Outpatients tea bar

Mary Heeley, Outpatients tea bar

A gathering of over 70 enthusiastic Trust members met recently in the newly refurbished outpatients department of Newark Hospital to meet with new interim Chief Executive, Eric Morton.

The early evening meeting offered an opportunity to hear about the approach being taken on service developments and the future use of the hospital facilities.

It was also a great opportunity for members to raise questions and have them answered in what all agreed was an honest, transparent and positive way.

Eric focused the attention of the audience by confirming there are no plans at all to close Newark Hospital, and that “the power to develop the services is in this room . . . not with the politicians.” He explained the significance of working closely with the GPs and with Newark & Sherwood Clinical Commissioning Group in developing and implementing services that are far more in line with what patients need. He also acknowledged the huge local support and belief in the valued role of a local hospital within the heart of a community.

The work to develop and implement these new services will involve many different audiences, including the ‘Say Yes’ campaign group, who were in attendance, as well as Trust staff, local people, public governors and the CCG. It was also noted that Patient Reference Groups will make a welcome return.

25 years’ service

10 years’ service Pauline Chambers

Members help shape the future of Newark Hospital

Isabel Lee, Outpatients tea bar

For more information about volunteering at Newark Hospital please contact Nadia Whitworth on 01636 685692 or email nadia.whitworth@sfh-tr.nhs.uk

Overall it was a very positive and energised exchange – so much so that a follow on meeting was immediately arranged! This is now a public debate, taking place on Wednesday 5 December at Holy Trinity Centre on Boundary Road, hosted by BBC Radio Nottingham. Doors open at 6pm and, as capacity is limited, seats will be available on the night on a first come first served basis.

December 2012 | Best 7

Three cheers for King’s Mill Hospital volunteers The Millside radio team doing a live broadcast in the King’s Treatment Centre

Tune in to Millside Radio Did you know that King’s Mill Hospital has its very own radio station?

Volunteers who give up their time to enhance our patients’ experience were rewarded for their efforts at a special ceremony at Mansfield Civic Centre on 16 October.

The King’s Mill Hospital volunteers celebrated lengths of service ranging from five to thirty

years. Long service medals were presented to each volunteer by Bonnie Jones, Trust Vice Chair.

Bonnie said: “Our volunteers are currently supporting the hospital’s £750,000 MRI Scanner Appeal.

They have already donated an amazing £55,000 to the appeal from funds raised in the Daffodil

Café and by the ward trolley service, and are also organising fundraising events including raffles, sales and tombolas.

“Collectively and individually, their commitment, compassion and contribution play a vital role in helping us to deliver the very best care for our patients”.

Presented with medals were: 5 years’ service

15 years’ service

Jackie Bower

Daffodil Café

Lynn Bilzon

Daffodil Café

Pauline Coggins

Library service

Richard Burgoyne

Millside Radio

Malcolm Coupe

Ward trolley

Evelyn Cossey

Flowers

Jean Crowder

Ward trolley

Dorothy Hallam

Wards

Sylvia Forman

Ward trolley

Launched in October 1989, the first programmes were broadcast from a cassette tape recorder from the attic of the Dukeries Centre to the wards below. Now Millside is located in custom-built studios at King’s Mill.

Cliff Kinsey

Buggy driver

Susan Groves

Wayfinder

Margaret Langrick

Library

Ray Hackett

Millside Radio

Olive Ottaway

Clinic support

Jessica Harrison

Clinic support and wards

Jennifer Redfern

Dukeries tea bar

June Hayes

Wards

Trevor White

Millside Radio

David Hopkinson

Wayfinder

Throughout its twenty three years, the station has been operated entirely by volunteers, some of whom have progressed to jobs in professional radio and television.

Walter Hunt

Storekeeper/Daffodil Café/buggy driver/ wayfinder

20 years’ service Martin Hoole

Millside Radio

Isabel Powney

Dukeries Tea Bar, Wayfinding and Daffodil Café

Mo Lacey

Wards

Eileen Massey

Patient experience & fundraising

Raymond Munks

Cardiac rehabilitation

25 years’ service

Margaret Osborne

Ward trolley

Dorothy Bradford

Headquarters

Colin Potts

Chaplaincy and clinic support

Linda Swann

Dukeries tea bar and wayfinding

Vicky Thomson

Wards

Annette Toon

Wayfinder

30 years’ service

Freephone: *800 on ‘Hospedia’

Laird Walker

Buggy driver

Sonia Tate

Telephone: 01623 737737

Mary Watling

Chaplaincy

Email: requests@millsideradio.co.uk or studio@millsideradio.co.uk

Brenda Sissons

Home discharge

Peter Toon

Home discharge

Programmes from Millside are currently available on channel 5 of the Hospedia system and online, twenty four hours a day – and best of all it is free to listen! Just press ‘Radio’ on the Hospedia system at your bedside.

You can also request a song or dedication by:

Website: www.millsideradio.co.uk You can even listen to Millside on Smartphones using the free App “Tunein” and on Smart TVs! It’s a very exciting time for the station, and new volunteers are always welcome. If you want to know more about Millside go to www.millsideradio.co.uk and if you are outside the hospital you can listen online to some of our programmes.

8 Best | December 2012

10 years’ service Sandra Coomber

Cardiac Rehabilitation

Barbara Davies

Cardiac rehabilitation

Joseph Holmes

Chaplaincy

Jenny Jeffrey

Wayfinder and flowers

Frank Kenney

Clinic support

Joseph Maddison

Wayfinder

Robert McMillan

Cardiac rehabilitation

Kim Kirby

Home discharge

Chaplaincy

King’s Mill Hospital has over 350 volunteers working in various sections within the hospital including outpatient clinics, wards, breastfeeding support, buggy service, Daffodil Café, Millside Radio, Chaplaincy, oncology, maternity unit, the MacMillan pod and the emergency department.

To find out more about becoming a volunteer at King’s Mill please contact the Voluntary Services Department on 01623 676011 for a chat and an information pack, or email voluntary.services.kmh@ sfh-tr.nhs.uk

Sonia Tate (right), 30 years’ service

Looking after our staff Cop Spot Hello again It hardly seems possible that Christmas is fast approaching.

Unfortunately this time of year doesn’t always bring Good Will.

The police receive many reports of thefts leading up to Christmas, so here are a few pointers to help prevent you from becoming another victim of crime over the festive period.

Don’t leave shopping in view; The Trust’s Health and Wellbeing Group organised an exhibition day for King’s Mill Hospital staff in the King’s Treatment Centre on 17 October, with no few than 39 stands. The positive response from staff more than justified the effort that went into organising it.

Stands at the event represented inhouse and external health and wellbeing services, offering a range of information, advice and support to staff in areas as diverse as tips on healthy eating to cycling to work. 138 staff also received a winter flu vaccination jab at the dedicated and discrete occupational health stand.

For further information, please see the ‘Employee Wellbeing’ section of the Staff Support and Benefits intranet site.

It is vital that the health and wellbeing of our employees is at the centre of our approach to employing, developing and utilising our staff, for the benefit of the patients they care for and

their own quality of life. It is for this reason that the joint management and trade union Health and Wellbeing Group, combining a wide range of expertise in this field, regularly meets to plan and review the best ways of promoting health and wellbeing in our workforce.

Reducing sickness absences levels in our staff is a key goal for the Trust at a time when demand for its services is high. A healthy and engaged workforce with good attendance levels improves the quality of services we provide to patients, and reduces the pressure on other staff when covering for colleagues who are absent from working owing to sickness. Improving staff awareness of the importance of maintaining their health and wellbeing is vitally important.

The range of exhibition stands provided for this event is an example of the work currently being undertaken at the Trust towards achieving this goal on a sustained basis.

always lock it in the boot of the car out of sight.

Don’t carry large amounts of

cash around with you. Keep your purse or wallet on your person rather than in a handbag or trouser pocket.

Don’t position your tree in a window with presents in view.

By taking a little extra time to think about security you can enjoy a happy and safe Christmas.

Until next time please stay safe and remember to call 101 for Non Emergencies to the Police, or 999 if life is in danger or a crime is in progress.

Interested in becoming a governor?

At some time or other, most of us will have toyed with the idea of getting more involved in something worthwhile. Well here’s a golden opportunity for you to consider. The hospitals Trust is looking to recruit 36 governors to make up a new Council of Governors to be in place by the Spring of 2013.

The Trust is currently encouraging local people to stand as a candidate and to play a valuable part in shaping healthcare in our community. It is also encouraging members to vote in the election.

Governors are volunteers and they don’t get paid. They do however receive expenses for travel to the meetings. To become a governor, you must first be a member of the Foundation Trust

What does a governor do?

Governors represent the views of local members to the board of directors, helping the Trust to provide the best care for our local communities.

Governors have a number of key responsibilities including: •H elping us plan for the future • E nsuring the Trust is accountable to local people •R ecruiting and developing the membership •A ppointing or removing the chairman and non-executive directors •A ppointing the external auditors and approving the appointment of the chief executive.

Governors should attend four meetings a year plus the annual general meeting. There are also regular events and briefings that you can participate in, and you can choose to join one of the governor sub-committees.

Interested? Here’s what to do . . .

Please contact us and request a ‘governor information pack’.

Contact the Company Secretary on 01623 622515 x 4007 or email governors@sfh-tr.nhs.uk

ATTENTION ALL MEMBERS It is important that you let us know of any change to your home address or email address. Please email membership. sherwoodforest@sfh-tr.nhs.uk or telephone 01623 622515 ext 3575 if your personal details have changed.

December 2012 | Best 9

Farewell to Membership Manager Colleagues have bid farewell to Marketing and Membership Manager, Sarah Elphick, who left the Trust in October 2012 to take up a new role, and wish her every success in her future career.

Sarah joined the Trust in 2004 and had been the Membership Manager since 2007 – during which time she enjoyed meeting many of our members and governors at the various member events.

If you have any membership enquiries, please contact the membership office at the usual number 01623 622515 ext 3575 or email membership. sherwoodforest@sfh-tr.nhs.uk

Christmas comes early for the children’s ward Santa Claus came to town early this year to make a special visit to King’s Mill children’s ward.

Armed with sacks of goodies, the jolly gent, joined by TV star Driver Dan from CBeebies fame, toured the ward and handed out selection boxes, donated by Asda, to young patients and their siblings.

Julia Smith, Play Leader on the children’s ward, said: “Christmas can be a really difficult time for children who are in hospital, but this extra special festive treat gave our young patients and their families something to look forward to.”

Little Millers Day Nursery now open to the public Little Millers, on the King’s Mill site, is now offering childcare places to nonNHS employees.

Places are available for children aged between six weeks and five years, Monday to Friday from 7.30am to 6pm, following the Early Years Foundation Stage Curriculum.

“It was great to see their beaming smiles when Santa Claus worked his magic.

“Our grateful thanks go to the Mansfield Christmas Light Committee and Mansfield Radio 103.2 for arranging this visit.

“There is never a good time to feel unwell, but no child wants to be in hospital at Christmas time. It’s been great to give the children an extra special festive treat.”

After spreading some well-deserved Christmas cheer, the duo headed off to participate in the Christmas light switch on in Mansfield Town Centre.

Support from the Men of Sherwood Local group ‘Men of Sherwood’ has kindly donated teaching equipment to the Diabetes Clinic for them to use in their patient education groups.

The Diabetes Clinic is the local fundraising group’s nominated charity for this year.

Events planned for later in the year include a quiz evening and race night.

Thanks very much for your support!

At its Ofsted inspection in January 2012, the nursery was praised for children making good progress in all areas of their learning and development.

The facility maintained its overall rating as “good”, with its partnership with parents rated as “outstanding”.

For further information, or to request a brochure, please contact Deborah Hall or Sarah Bown on telephone 01623 622515 ext 3885. The nursery also has its own website at www.littlemillersdaynursery.co.uk.

10 Best | December 2012

Diabetes Specialist Nurses with the ‘Men of Sherwood’

The People’s Award 2012 For the fifth year, patients and carers were invited to nominate their NHS hero – that special member of staff who they feel provides exceptional service above and beyond the call of duty. We were delighted to receive more than 70 nominations from members of public. A big thank you to everyone who took the time to tell us about their NHS hero.

Special VIP guest, European and Paralympic swimming champion, Ollie Hynd, announced the names of this year’s well-deserving award recipients at our ceremony, and presented their awards.

And the winners are…….

WINNER – Individual David received three separate nominations from members of the public. One of his nominators, Bob Clark, took the stage at the presentation ceremony to give a very touching personal account of the reasons for his nomination. Bob is Chairman of the North Nottinghamshire Prostate Cancer Support Group and he said: “David has not only had a massive impact on my life but also on the lives of many other members of our group. He is the main member of staff who we all remember and respect from our cancer journey. He is always fantastic when we have to go to clinic and consistently goes

way beyond the call of duty. He is the person we all look up to and turn to because we know that he will ALWAYS make time for his patients. We all owe him a huge debt of gratitude.”

Other nominators, Mr and Mrs Hague, who attended the evening to David Johnson, Specialist Urology endorse David’s award added: “David Nurse, King’s Mill Hospital goes above and beyond his duties as specialist nurse. He always takes his time to explain things and tries to solve any worries and problems you might be having. He is a joy to speak to – always pleasant, always there.”

Highly Commended

WINNER – Team

Ward 22, King’s Mill Hospital The team’s nominator, who lives on the Isle of Wight, was admitted to King’s Mill after becoming very ill when visiting family in the area. She was a long stay patient until January of this year and told us:

“I have been treated in several hospitals, both NHS and private, but I have never received such wonderful, kind and loving care as I did at King’s Mill – such tireless dedication and patience. Over the weeks I spent on this ward, I witnessed the entire staff’s tireless dedication.

The nature of the ward means they all work under very demanding circumstances, yet they all went that extra mile. I cannot thank them enough. It must be very reassuring for local people to have such an amazing hospital. If I could, I would transfer King’s Mill Hospital to the Isle of Wight. Thank you all for the treatment, kindness, care and loving dedication you gave me.”

Highly Commended The Intensive Therapy Unit’s two nominators told us: “I have nothing but praise for everyone in the unit. They have kept us fully informed, been compassionate and understanding at an extremely stressful time, and treated my mum with dignity and respect.”

“I arrived by ambulance with serious head and facial injuries and needed to go to resus. As I had a brain injury I was transferred to ITU. I would like to thank all the staff who did an excellent job

“Highly Commended, Intensive Therapy Unit looking after me. If it wasn’t for them, I wouldn’t be alive today.”

Sue Stringer, Macmillan Specialist Nurse “Sue has gone beyond exceptional service to provide us with support that we couldn’t have dreamt of. She has been a constant source of help, reassurance and support for us during some very scary and dark moments, even at evenings and weekends.

At no time does it feel like anything is too much trouble for her or that she has anyone but you as her main focus.”

Nominations are now being accepted for the 2013 People’s Award. See page 14 for details of how to vote for your hero.

December 2012 | Best 11

Celebrating excellence in The tenth anniversary presentation of the Trust’s annual Staff Excellence Awards was attended by 400 members of staff at the Civic Centre, Mansfield, on 11 October.

A surprise guest appearance by inspirational gold medal winning swimming champion, Ollie Hynd, added a great buzz of excitement to the evening. The event was compered by

Managing Director of Mansfield 103.2 radio, Tony Delahunty and the Trust’s Interim Chief Executive, Dr Mark Goldman.

Awards were presented at the ceremony in seven categories, with winners chosen from a record-breaking 170 entries for outstanding teams and individuals from across the Trust’s hospitals at King’s Mill, Newark, Mansfield

And the winners are…….

Community and Ashfield Health Village.

The event was funded entirely by sponsorship. A huge thank you to all our 2012 sponsors - Capitec, Unipart, Medirest, Central Nottinghamshire Hospitals plc, Accenture Health, SOLOS specialist recruitment, Agfa HealthCare and Auburn Ainsley

Chris McFarlane Award

Team of the Year “Since the introduction of the nurseled Rapid Access Chest Pain Clinic, the team has consistently been helpful beyond words and their commitment to their job is second to none. Always putting the patient first, they deserve recognition for their hard-work, professionalism and commitment to their role.”

Winner – Clinic 4 Reception staff

Improvement Award “Coming into hospital can be an anxious and scary time for children and their parents/guardians. The team has produced a colourful, interactive website that captures all the strengths of the Trust and paediatric services. It uses childcentred videos to show what’s in store and help to reduce anxiety.”

Winner - Amanda Woodhouse, Deputy Ward Leader, Emergency Assessment Unit

Winner – Children & Young People’s videos and website team

“Amanda has shown a passion for education and staff development. She was shortlisted for Mentor of the Year by her students, and the consistently positive feedback she receives is testament to her hard work.”

Patient First Award

nist Winner – Shane Hayes, Receptio l pita Hos ity at Mansfield Commun

12 Best | December 2012

“Shane is always happy and helpful, and creates an excellent first impression of the hospital. He always seems so well-prepared and aware of what is happening that day that he is always able to help anyone instantly. Nothing is too much trouble for him.”

Winner – Samantha Annis, Departm ent Manager of Mercia Doughty Pre-operative Assessment Unit, Newark Hospital

“Sam’s unwavering commitment to patient care means she frequently goes over and above the call of duty to put each patient’s individual needs and wishes first.

She ensures each patient receives the highest quality care and is an excellent ambassador for the department, hospital and the Trust.”

patient care!

Unsung Hero Award

Chairman’s Award

Hig hly

Team of the Year

com men ded

Bereavement Centre team

“The empathy and compassion of team members enables families and carers to begin dealing with their grief after the death of a loved one. They conduct their work with dignity and integrity in the most difficult of circumstances.”

Outpatients Department team at Newark “I would like to thank the whole team for maintaining our service over four months of major refurbishment and for remaining cheerful throughout the disruption. The team has worked around all the cordoning off by contractors with goodwill and grace.”

Porters

Winner – Ros Roddy, Admission ld and Discharge Facilitator, Mansfie l pita Hos ity mun Com

Winner - Jill Smallwood, Vice Cha ir of King’s Mill Volunteers

“Ros always gives 100% to her role and then some, constantly working tirelessly to ensure transfers to the community hospital are seamless and appropriate – even working on days off or bank holidays to ensure the flow is maintained.

She has a friendly manner and a wealth of knowledge.”

Dr Mark Goldman, Interim Chief Executive said: “The Staff Excellence Awards provide the perfect opportunity to reflect on and appreciate the efforts and commitment of all our staff in always putting the patient first.

“In particular, we celebrate those outstanding people who deserve special recognition for demonstrating

“Jill has spearheaded the Trust’s MRI scanner appeal. She attends presentations to accept donations and often speaks to community groups and businesses about the role of hospital volunteers. Jill is supportive, kind, caring, extremely hardworking and dedicated to supporting the best care for our community”.

extraordinary dedication to providing the very best care possible.

“With the highest number of nominations ever received, it was an immensely difficult task for our judging panel to choose the most deserving winners from more than 170 entries! The Trust Board is very proud of all our nominees.”

“Without these dedicated people 90% of the Trust’s services wouldn’t be able to run. The porters deserve recognition for ensuring that a wide variety of busy hospital services run smoothly, even at night.”

Customer Services, King’s Mill, Newark and Community Hospitals “This remarkable team not only deals with traditional PALS issues, but also manages a 700 strong team of volunteers, collect customer experience data daily and fundraise. The whole team pull together and support each other.”

Improvement Award Community LUTS clinic “Patients are seen within a week of referral, assessments and diagnostic tests are performed on the day and this excellent one to one service is provided in the community.”

Unsung Hero Award Alison Whitham, Head of Midwifery and Gynaecological Nursing

Nurses Winner – Lung Cancer Specialist

“June and Sue have worked tirelessly to maintain one of the best lung cancer services I know of. Their patients always come first and you couldn’t wish for a better team. They are completely dedicated to helping patients and relatives through all stages of their lung cancer journey.”

“Alison has taken on additional roles over the years to ensure the smooth-running of the Trust. No matter what pressures she is under, she always makes you feel important, takes an interest in your work, is consistent, reliable and has a smile.”

Dr Simon Stinchcombe, Consultant Radiologist “Dr Stinchcombe is totally committed to the training and education of junior doctors. He is extremely well-respected and has earned King’s Mill Hospital its reputation for producing excellent foundation trainees.”

December 2012 | Best 13

Annual Members’ Meeting success Almost 200 members attended the Annual Members’ Meeting on Tuesday 25 September – which was a huge success.

This year’s, Annual Members’ Meeting was bigger and better than previous years, with two popular health talks plus interactive displays all under one roof and all on one night.

Stands and displays at the event included: • Emergency Care • IT demonstrations • Children and Young People’s services – including the new website • Theatres – hip and knee replacement kit on display • Steamplicity – tasting sessions • Governor and membership information • Patient Services – a chance to find out more about patient co-ordinators • Free blood pressure checks • Infection Prevention and Control – members used the light box to see how clean their hands really are • MRI Scanner Appeal • Our hospitals – our successes over the past year • Clinical Commissioning Group In addition to the formal meeting where members quizzed the board of directors, two member events were held on dementia services at Sherwood Forest Hospitals and healthy eating with diabetes.

Who is your NHS Hero?

Nominations are now being accepted for the “People’s Award 2013”.

Please write and tell us about your hero by completing an on-line nomination at www.sfh-tr.nhs.uk select “Get involved” from the top menu bar, then “Staff Excellence Awards”.

14 Best | December 2012

Thank you very much to everyone who attended who made this event a success.

Did you attend? Did you complete a feedback form at the event? If not, don’t worry, you can submit your comments online by visiting: https://www.surveymonkey.com/s/5LPPF9H

Or

email: thepeoples.award@sfh-tr.nhs.uk

Or

write to: “The People’s Award”, c/o Jayne Morton, Communications Officer, King’s Mill Hospital, Mansfield Road, Sutton-inAshfield, Nottinghamshire NG17 4JL. All nominations should state the full name and department of the person being nominated and the hospital.

They should also include the name, address and telephone number of the nominator. Nominators’ details will not be retained or passed on to any third parties.

In memory of Pat

In memory of Sonja Erika Graham Almost a year ago the Sherwood Birthing Unit at King’s Mill Hospital suddenly lost a very dear friend and colleague – Sonja Graham.

Sonja was a very kind and caring person, and such a lovely colleague to work with. Always keen to support everyone in their day-to-day working life, she was hard working and took pride in a job that she had always loved.

Sonja also had a way of making everyone feel so special and part of her life. She had many friends and colleagues who have felt a Sonja tremendous loss. She was a social butterfly and loved nothing more than a shopping trip, along with lovely food and a glass of wine. She was kind and thoughtful, and loved to laugh.

Sonja leaves three daughters, Rachel, Emma and Georgia, and son Matt. They miss their mum so much but she remains their inspiration. She was very proud of her children.

The Pathology Department at King’s Mill Hospital would like to acknowledge, with great sadness, the passing of one of their much loved former colleagues, Pat Ragsdale. She died peacefully at the John Eastwood Hospice on 20th October after a long illness.

In June, close friends took part in Race for Life at Nottingham and raised approximately £1,200 in her memory.

The Sherwood Birthing Unit also held a fundraising evening at Forever Green raising £965.00, which was shared between Macmillan Cancer Research and Roadpeace.

Pat joined King’s Mill’s Pathology Department reception staff in 1974, then went on to be in charge of Pathology reception at Mansfield General Hospital.

We are sure former MGH staff will remember her well. After its closure, Pat returned to King’s Mill to take charge of Pathology reception. She retired in 2008 after 34 years of loyal service.

Roadpeace was chosen because Sue Britt, a midwife on the Sherwood Birthing Unit, tragically lost her son Aaron in a road traffic accident last October. Aaron was just 16 years old.

“As a department we have many lovely memories of Pat. She was a quiet person but had a lovely sense of humour and a great determination that everything in her area was performed properly. Pat had very high standards which could never be challenged - she was in charge and we all knew it!

Trust supports national bowel cancer campaign Sherwood Forest Hospitals is supporting the Government’s ‘Be Clear on Cancer’ bowel cancer campaign.

The high-profile campaign incorporates TV and radio advertising as well as face-to-face events around the country. It aims to raise awareness of the symptoms of bowel cancer and encourage people with those symptoms to see their doctor.

Bowel cancer is England’s third most common cancer, with around 34,000 new cases each year. It affects both men and women and is responsible for around 13,200 deaths a year.

Around nine out of ten people diagnosed with bowel cancer are aged over 55 and those with a family history are more at risk.

General awareness of the early symptoms is low, but early detection of bowel cancer improves the chances of successful treatment.

It is estimated that 1,700 additional lives could be saved each year if England’s bowel cancer survival rate matched the best in Europe.

“We missed her very much when she retired and she will be fondly remembered by those who were fortunate enough to be her work colleagues and friends, as well as by the many KMH staff who knew her.”

The key symptoms of bowel cancer are blood in poo or looser poo for three weeks or more.

Mr Dube, General Consultant and Colorectal Surgeon at the Trust said: “We believe that this campaign will play a key role in saving lives by encouraging people to see their GP if they experience symptoms of bowel cancer. It is very straightforward for them to examine you and determine whether to send you for further tests.

“If you are at all concerned then please see your GP.” For further information about the symptoms of bowel cancer, please visit www.nhs.uk/bowelcancer

Spotlight on the Surgical Assessment Unit The Trust’s Surgical Assessment Unit (SAU) is a busy department located on Ward 21 at King’s Mill Hospital.

The unit has 10 emergency beds and takes referrals from GPs, specialist nurses and the Emergency Department.

Patients who are admitted to SAU are cared for by the multi skilled nursing team, who also have extensive urology experience.

Patients are assessed by a doctor and then receive further investigations, before being moved to the appropriate wards for further treatment or discharged home.

SAU integrates well with Ward 21 which has 14 inpatient beds for both emergency and elective Urology, ENT and general surgical admissions.

Ward 21 staff work across both areas

which ensures that the surgical emergency patients are seen and assessed by a dedicated surgical nurse.

Kerry Smith, Ward Leader said: “There is a rapid flow of patients through SAU which at times can present challenges, but all the team are very committed and work incredibly well together to ensure our patients receive a high standard of care.”

December 2012 | Best 15

Star of the Month Congratulations to our latest ‘Star of the Month’ winners.

Star of the Month recognises and rewards those staff who regularly go that extra mile to provide the best service possible. Staff may nominate themselves or a colleague and all nominations are judged by the Chief Executive and the Executive Director of Human Resources. Each month’s winner receives a framed certificate and a High Street gift voucher, and is automatically entered into the “Unsung Hero” category of the annual Staff Excellence Awards.

July 2012 Ward 51 staff and Healthcare of the Older Person Medical Team Nominated by Christine Miles-Hammond, Resuscitation Training Manager “I would like to nominate the staff on ward 51 and the healthcare of the older person medical team.

June 2012 Night Clinical Support Workers Julie Adkin, Bridget Cunningham, Clare Durkin Nominated by Night Team Leaders & Donna Yates, Night Site Co-ordinator “This fantastic team covers most of the hospital overnight - taking bloods, cannulating, catherterising, doing ECGS and assisting wherever they can. They are certainly unsung heroes and help the hospital to run smoothly at night. They are a fantastic team and can cannulate the most difficult veins in the Trust!

They provide an invaluable service to patients overnight, ensuring they receive vital treatment promptly.”

August 2012 Matt Davy, Clinical Support Worker, GU Medicine Nominated by Josephine Morrell “Matt is an absolute pleasure to work with. His positive nature is unfailing. He is consistently sensitive and caring with all patients. He is hard working, the first to rise to a task no matter how challenging or apparently menial, and in the three years I have worked with him I have never heard him complain.”

“My 84 year old father was admitted quite unwell, resulting in a five week stay at King’s Mill. He spent the first couple of hours in the Emergency Department, two days on the Emergency Assessment Unit and the remainder of his admission on ward 51.

I would like to take this opportunity to thank all of the staff involved in his excellent care.

September 2012 Little Millers Day Nursery staff Nominated by Sarah Bown, Deputy Nursery Manager “For the second year running the whole team worked together to organise a fun day to raise funds for new nursery equipment. Staff organised and took part in the fun day in their own time, also getting local businesses and parents /carers involved.

“The event was a huge success, lots of parents/carers and staff from the hospital came along to support it and we raised over £1000 which will be spent on new home corner equipment for the children’s activity room.

16 Best | December 2012

“My father’s experience demonstrated that this Trust has a dynamic, dedicated team of people who genuinely feel that the quality of care an older person receives should be first class. All of the staff; the HCOP medical staff, nurses, physiotherapists and the housekeeping & catering team, were

extremely kind, respectful of my father’s dignity and considerate. Nothing seemed to be too much trouble for them. As a result he improved tremendously, something myself and my entire family are extremely grateful for. Dad is a precious commodity to all of us and his care matched expectations!”

“I believe the whole staff team at the nursery are stars. Through all their hard work and commitment we were able to have a really successful and enjoyable day whilst also raising lots of money. Thank you and well done.”

A day in the life of a... chaplain Hello and welcome to a day in the life of a Chaplain at King’s Mill Hospital.

My name is Edith Dawson. I have been with the Trust for just over two years and I really love my job. I am a Baptist Minister but I have previously worked in the NHS as a Pharmacy Technician and as a Nuclear Medicine Technician.

8.30am My day starts by visiting the Bereavement Centre to see how the day is planned for the staff there. Medical cause of death certificates for relatives of deceased patients need to be completed so I check these have been done. If there are any outstanding certificates then one of the chaplains will assist in getting them done. Today there is one outstanding.

Cancer patients who become suddenly unwell, as a result of their condition or during cancer treatment, are now being cared for locally at King’s Mill Hospital.

The introduction of a new Acute Oncology Service (AOS) at the hospital means that many of these patients can now be treated much closer to home, avoiding travel to a Nottingham hospital.

9.30am The chaplains have prayers each week-day morning with the chaplaincy volunteer. We remember all staff and volunteers as well as patients and carers – this is one way to show we care.

AOS staff are now alerted to the arrival of any cancer patient presenting at King’s Mill as an emergency. The patient is immediately assessed by the team, who liaise with the relevant health professionals already involved in that patient’s cancer care. An appropriate treatment plan is devised and implemented and the patient is transferred to the most appropriate place of care.

After prayers the volunteer will visit their ward and the chaplains will look at the day and what is happening.

10.00am I go to the Emergency Assessment Unit to look at the notes of the deceased patient.

The death will need reporting to the coroner as the patient had been in hospital less than 24 hours, so I go and find a doctor to do this.

Christmas will soon be with us and so a happy distraction in my day is to take a recently purchased, almost life sized, nativity scene to the children’s ward.

11.00am A call is received from ward 51 asking if a Roman Catholic priest can go to give the ‘sacrament of the sick’ (which most people know as ‘last rites’) to a dying patient. I call my colleague Father Malacky who will attend.

11.30am I check up on the progress of the death certificate. A doctor has agreed to call the coroner and I wait to hear the outcome.

12 noon Lunch – time for sustenance.

12.30pm The doctor informs me the coroner has agreed to the issuing of the death certificate.

A bereavement appointment for the family has been made for this afternoon.

1.00pm I have been trying to sort out a funeral for a person who has been separated from their family for many years. At last I’ve been able to trace the daughter and also other extended family members, which means I can pass on details of the recent death.

New emergency cancer care at King’s Mill

1.30pm Further plans for Christmas involve a conversation with our Infection Control Team. Each year we have a ceramic tray with models of the three wise men and their donkey, who journey around our wards before arriving at Christmas time. They carry messages to encourage and inspire our patients through Christmas. Good news – Infection Control say they pass the test and the wise men can visit the wards!

2.00pm I visit the Bereavement Centre to make sure everything is sorted out for the deceased patient.

2.15pm I now have a happy visit up to the Neonatal Unit to visit a wee baby and family. The baby is doing well and it is good to make contact with the family. I also speak to the staff on the unit as part of my on-going support.

3.00pm I return to my office to catch up on services that I need to prepare – including Remembrance Day. While doing that I spend some time talking to a relative who has come to light a candle for their loved one who is in hospital.

4.30pm Time to go home – I am not on call so I can put my feet up and relax!

Depending on the patient’s diagnosis and condition, some will continue to have their care supported by the Acute Oncology Service while in hospital.

Other patients, once stabilised, may have their care referred back to the appropriate cancer team.

Patients who are assessed by the AOS and do not require immediate admission to hospital, will be discharged home with an appointment to see their clinical specialist within seven days.

Funding to establish the new service has been provided by the national charity, Macmillan Cancer Support, to enable the appointment of a consultant oncologist and an acute oncology nurse.

It is anticipated that more than 200 patients will benefit from this new highquality local service each year.

The Acute Oncology Service teams at King’s Mill, Queen’s Medical Centre and Nottingham City Hospitals work in close liaison to ensure that all patients receive the best care at the most appropriate place depending on their individual circumstances. Some cancer patients requiring specialist cancer treatment may still be cared for at a Nottingham-based hospital.

December 2012 | Best 17

New airway valve device from Pulmonx gives former King’s Mill Hospital employee a new lease of life Former King’s Mill Hospital employee Annette Eiben has had her quality of life improved, after receiving endobronchial lung volume reduction (ELVR) treatment using the Pulmonx Zephyr® Endobronchial Valve, now available at the hospital. The procedure was carried out by Consultant Physician, Dr Samuel Kemp and Annette reports that the results have been nothing short of amazing.

Annette has been living with emphysema for many years and, prior to having her procedure, the simplest of tasks such as drying herself after a bath would leave her breathless, not to mention the daily struggle of walking up and down stairs.

Dr Kemp explains the reason behind suggesting the procedure: “Annette was already receiving the maximum level of therapy possible, combined with ongoing rehabilitation and was on the waiting list for a transplanAnnette was very keen to try something less invasive so with this in mind I felt that she would benefit greatly from the EBV valves.”

The endoscopic procedure is very straightforward and typically takes less than an hour to complete. Because it is non-invasive, patients do not require a long recovery period. Once the Zephyr® Endobronchial Valves are in place they act as one-way valves, preventing air from entering the most damaged areas of lung

Annette and Dr Kemp when Annette breathes in whilst allowing air out when she exhales. This causes airflow to be directed towards better functioning lung, together with deflation of the most damaged parts, leading to a reduction in the volume of trapped gas and improving breathing mechanics.

Dr Kemp said: “Immediately after the operation Annette could feel a marked improvement in her breathing and this has continued in the intervening weeks to the point

where her most recent tests have shown a loss of 1.3 litres of trapped gas.”

A final word from Annette: “The feeling of being unable to take a breath can be extremely scary and I was having more and more panic attacks both when at home and out and about – even the smallest hill or flight of stairs would cause me distress. However, since the operation I have not had one attack and the feelings of independence and confidence I now have really are life changing.”

Christmas Well prepared for winter is coming Christmas is just around the corner and we have festive events taking place to get everyone in the mood for Christmas:

Event

Date

Time

Christmas carol concerts by local schools

12-19 December

Mornings and afternoons

Carol concerts at King’s Mill Hospital

14 December

Carol concert at Newark Hospital

16 December

2pm 3.30pm

19 December

18 Best | December 2012

2.30pm

Sherwood Forest Hospitals are ready for the worst the winter weather can throw at them this year!

Each year as winter approaches, the Trust launches its Winter Plan to ensure its hospitals and staff are ready for the pressures that come with the cold weather.

Many staff have been involved in the development of this year’s plan, with a focus on further improving quality and patient experience this winter.

The plan will ensure that: • Quality of care and patient experience will not be compromised during the winter period • We have prepared and co-ordinated services to respond to increased demands • We have made the most economic use of available resources • We have a robust operational plan in place, particularly throughout the Christmas and New Year period.

Improvements from last year’s plan include:

• The commitment to avoid unnecessary admissions and reduce lengths of stay in an acute hospital by all health and social care partners locally • A broad range of new services which will all support patients to be assessed quickly and have care delivered in the most appropriate setting for their individual needs.

Carolyn White, Deputy Chief Executive of the Trust, said: “Local residents can rest assured our hospitals are ready when they need us.

“Based on our learning from previous years, plans have been improved so that our services and staff are ready, as always, to provide patients with the excellent care they have come to know and expect from Sherwood Forest Hospitals.”

December 2012 | Best 19

Welcome To Jubilee Healthcare aimed to support individuals to live more independently.

Furthermore, we do care about each individual by designing and providing an adequate support plan. Our priority is YOU! We are a private service provider specializing in the provision of quality home support for adults with specific needs and disabilities, and of other healthcare services within Nottingham and surrounding areas. We deliver a service of excellence,

For those who wish to stay in the comfort of their home, in a familiar environment and continue their daily routine, we do offer an affordable alternative to residential and nursing homes.

Whether you need 24 hour support or just a few hours during the week to help you to

keep on top of things generally (on a long term or short term basis), our specialised services provide continuous comfort, companionship and support. Our home support services include provision of domestic support, companionship, among others.

Our full-time home support service is available to individuals with a diverse range of needs and conditions. A one-to-one dedicated approach from our team and an individual support plan will enable us to meet your specific requirements, delivering a

We recognize and respect that our clients do have a range of cultural needs that can not be met via our generic mainstream service provision; therefore we aim to deliver a culturally specific service wherever necessary. We are committed to providing what our customers need and within our locality we have come to realize that there are considerable gaps in market provision for people needing a service that meets their cultural needs in Nottingham and Nottinghamshire. Based upon this we decided to recruit a diverse, multi-faith, multi-lingual workforce to cater for Nottingham’s growing BME communities and their needs. As part of our exit strategy plan Jubilee Health Care Ltd was established to deliver a wide range of home support services across Nottingham and surrounding areas. Working with the Elderly, those with Learning Disabilities, Physical Disabilities and Mental Health Illness, people living with HIV, individuals living with brain injuries, children and their families. Our typical services include: • Preparation of Meals • Cleaning and Domestic duties (ironing, washing up, etc) • Assistance with bathing, hoisting, and dressing • Shopping • Laundry • Medication ‘prepping’, fetching prescriptions from GP Surgery/Pharmacy • Sleep over service/Waking night services • Sitting service • Live-in care • Accompaniment to help get out-and-about

20 Best | December 2012

service that you want and expect from us. Our customers’ values and diversity are always taken into consideration. Your privacy and dignity are always respected.

Jubilee Health Care Ltd service prices are highly competitive and very affordable. We offer flexible packages, specifically designed according to the needs of our customers and with a range of solutions. For independent clients our prices are by far the most reasonable.

with Direct Payments.

Furthermore, the Government is currently piloting an Individual Budget initiative, which will enable individuals in need of support/ care to have more freedom of choice concerning the services provider, being also responsible for managing this budget.

Entitlement is assessed by your local authority.

In some cases costs may be met in full or part by the government

Jubilee Healthcare Ltd is a Care Quality Commission registered company, registered in England and Wales our number is 7928938. we can be found in Nottingham and Derby directory called Do What You Want managed by the disability direct, also we can be find in AGE UK Directory.

Our Contacts

Jubilee Health Care Ltd values the views and experiences of our customers, their family members or their friends in order to ensure that our service is of high standard. Please share your comments by email, phone or in writing.

Key Contact: Mr. Marie Claude Kabazo (Nottingham and surrounding areas) Telephone: 0115 941 4220 or 0845 474 9354 Mobile: 07852976835 Email: jubileehealthcare@qualityservice.com Webpage: www.jubileehealthcare.co.uk Office: 37a Gregory Boulevard, Hyson Green, Nottingham. NG7 6BE.

The Creator of Smiles

Ashfield Dental Laboratory Cosmetic Dentures Get the perfect smile with dentures hand crafted by Andrew Harrop Dip CDT RCS ENG. 40 years experience producing quality natural looking teeth.

• • • •

Replacement and alterations Fast and efficient denture repairs Comfort soft linings Free consultations*

01623 552682

20 Brook Street, Sutton-In-Ashfield NG17 1AL (Easy ground floor access) *Conditions apply

Every possible care has been taken to ensure that the information given in this publication is accurate. Whilst the publisher would be grateful to learn of any errors, it cannot accept any liability over and above the cost of the advertisement for loss there by caused. No reproduction by any method whatsoever of any part of this publication is permitted without written consent of the copyright owners.

Octagon Marketing Company Ltd. ©2012 Britannic Chambers, 8a Carlton Road, Worksop, Notts. S80 1PH. Tel: 01909 478822

Sherwood Forest Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, has not vetted the advertisers in this publication and accepts no liability for work done or goods supplied by any advertiser. Nor does Sherwood Forest Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust endorse any of the products or services.

Fundraising Hotline:

0115

941

2255

UNIT 2 CHASE PARK DALESIDE ROAD NOTTINGHAM NG2 4GT

MANSFIELD MANOR Dual Registered Care Home

Sherwood Healthcare

A prestigious purpose built care home offering luxurious standards of accommodation and facilities particularly for social services funded residents as well as private residents.

Distinctive Features: ❚ Highest quality nursing, residential and dementia (EMI) care ❚ Achieved high quality care rating by Social Services and the Care Commission ❚ 36 single en-suite and companion bedrooms ❚ 4 lounges/dining rooms

❚ Specially adapted shower ❚ E xcellent selection of and bathrooms home cooked meals and ❚ Tranquil and safe gardens family atmosphere ❚ Town centre location close ❚ A ccess to Internet café to all amenities including laptop to surf ❚ Highly trained staff with the web in the privacy of Registered General Nurse your room. as manager ❚R oom decorated and ❚ Active daily proprietor carpeted according to your involvement choice before you move in.

We warmly welcome visitors to come and enjoy a cup of tea/coffee with our staff and residents at any time.

30-32 Chesterfield Road South, Mansfield NG19 7AD

Tel: 01623 631163

Email: info@mansfieldmanor.co.uk ● Web: www.mansfieldmanor.co.uk December 2012 | Best 21

Lender

NCU

NatWest

Loan term 3years

£3000

£3000

Minimum Payment

£100pm

£111pm

Representative APR

19.6APR

20.9APR

Total amount to pay

£3,588

£3,967

Natwest rates sourced from their website as of November 2011.

we are now open in Mansfield on Regent Street opposite Marks and Spencer

22 Best | December 2012

December 2012 | Best 23

New catchphrase spreads through the hospitals • T he time and money spent treating pressure ulcers means some patients may not always get the care they need •G iving clear information on what to look for helps patients and carers avoid pressure ulcers • S imple steps can prevent pressure ulcers. The campaign uses a SSKIN acronym to help staff remember the key steps: o Surface: make sure your patients have the right support

launched by the Trust during the nationally recognised Pressure Ulcer Awareness Week 17-21 September. It has involved display stands and briefings in the King’s Treatment Centre to raise awareness, and a blitz of NO pressure lapel badges to spread the message throughout the hospitals.

Staff also regularly attend the Pressure Ulcer Collaborative – representatives from a group of multi professional organisations meet every month in Leicester to learn from each other, comparing and sharing and looking at next steps.

o Keep your patients moving

On a practical level staff now track their success by measuring daily and reporting monthly. The team leaders provide training to wards and have a plan of care tailored to them. They also look at compliance of the SSKINS tool.

o Incontinence/moisture: Patients need to be clean and dry

For more information please visit www.stopthepressure.com

o Nutrition/hydration: Help patients have the right diet and plenty of fluids

If you are at home and think you may have a pressure ulcer, please contact your practice nurse at your GP surgery.

o Skin inspection: Early inspection means early detection. Show patients & carers what to look for

The NO pressure programme was

Hospital staff get the point Julie Dixon, King’s Mill Hospital’s Head of Nursing for Emergency Care, is one of thousands of Trust staff who have joined the fight against seasonal flu by getting the flu vaccine.

The Trust’s staff vaccination programme has had a fantastic response, with a huge number of staff taking the opportunity to get protection from developing flu, enabling them to continue providing vital services and protect all those they come into contact with.

Vaccinations are important for protecting staff, their families and

their patients, many of whom are particularly vulnerable to flu.

Vaccinations also reduce sickness absence during the busy winter period and help reduce the costs associated with absence.

Julie said: “My main reasons for having the vaccine are not only to generally stay safe and well this winter, but to also protect patients, colleagues and my family.

“Flu is very contagious and can be spread from one person to another even before symptoms develop. We take patient safety very seriously and our patients can rest assured that having a high proportion of our staff vaccinated

will help limit transmission of the virus during flu season.”

Every year in the UK, flu kills hundreds of people who are elderly, very young or weakened by illness. The Trust is also encouraging local people to speak to their GP or other health professional about getting the vaccination. Some people can get this free of charge, including: • Pregnant women

Julie gets her jab treatment who may have a compromised immune system

• Anyone with a long term condition including diabetes, asthma, kidney disease or heart or chest problems

• People with a neurological condition such as multiple sclerosis (MS) or cerebral palsy

• People undergoing medical

• Everyone over the age of 65.

Celebrations for National Play in Hospital Week Young patients and staff at King’s Mill Hospital demonstrated how play helps the medicine go down in celebration of National Play in Hospital Week.

The annual initiative, which ran from 8 - 14 October, was founded by National Association of Health Play Specialists (NAHPS) and was organised for a second year by national children’s charity Starlight Children’s Foundation.

The aim of National Play in Hospital Week is to raise awareness of the benefits of play in the treatment of poorly children across the UK. It 24 Best | December 2012

is funded by Starlight, which grants wishes for seriously and terminally ill children and provides entertainment in hospitals and hospices across the UK. Patients on Ward 25, the children’s ward at the hospital, expressed how play can help them to cope with any pain and fear while they are in hospital. They took part in many enjoyable activities during the week including painting, drawing and sticking using a variety of materials. They also had the opportunity of taking part in a ‘Where’s Wally’ treasure hunt

sponsored by Talking Babies.

Nicola Armstrong, Play Specialist on Ward 25, said, “National Play in Hospital Week is an excellent opportunity for us to raise awareness of the benefits of play, while organising a really fun week of activities, games and entertainment for our patients.

“Being unwell can be very distressing and scary for children and play really does help to distract them from any pain and anxiety they might be feeling, which in turn can help them to better engage with their treatment.”

Designed and published by: Octagon Marketing Company Ltd, Britannic Chambers, 8a Carlton Road, Worksop, Notts S80 1PH. Tel: 01909 478822.

Pressure ulcers can cause serious pain and severe harm to patients. In the majority of cases they can be prevented if simple measures are followed. The Trust’s ambition is to achieve zero hospital acquired pressure ulcers by the end of 2012.

To achieve this a comprehensive training initiative and an impactful communications campaign has been introduced. This is a stafffacing, information-based communications programme. It has been created for staff whose prime concern is putting the patient first, and includes support and advice to help achieve this.

The campaign seeks to achieve zero tolerance on hospital acquired pressure ulcers based on the following striking facts: • 95% of pressure ulcers are preventable • Pressure ulcers cause patients long term pain and distress • Pressure ulcers can mean longer stays in hospital • Treating pressure ulcers costs the NHS more than £3.8 million every day