Best Decmber 2014

Best Issue 14 December 2014

Sherwood Forest Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust

@sfhft /sherwoodforesthospitals

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

Staff Excellence Awards 2014

Your NHS hero

Inside this edition:

Quality mark for Lindhurst Ward

P7

Restart a heart

P8

P15 Congratulations to Marc Abel, Healthcare Assistant in the Emergency Department, who scooped the prestigious ‘People’s Award’ at our 2014 Staff Excellence Awards.

Read more about Marc’s achievements on page 13

Text appointment reminders

Trust website: www.sfh-tr.nhs.uk, Children & Young People’s website: www.cyp.sfh-tr.nhs.uk

And the winner is…

In October we announced the winners of our annual Staff Excellence Awards.

The awards are our chance to celebrate success and shine a spotlight on those outstanding colleagues who consistently demonstrate extraordinary dedication to providing excellent care for our patients.

Nearly 300 colleagues and dignitaries attended the awards evening at the John Fretwell Centre in Mansfield, hosted by Stewart Nicholson from Mansfield 103.2.

Recognition of the work that colleagues do every day across our hospitals and the NHS is vitally important. It is easy to be distracted by the various headlines that the NHS receives on a daily basis, forgetting the millions of staff who dedicate their lives to serving others.

Our Staff Excellence Awards are just one of the many ways in which we say thank you to those colleagues who consistently go above and beyond for our patients and their families and display our Quality for all values.

The awards evening was a real showcase of everything that is good about our Trust and I know I speak for the Chairman as well when I say that to be able to celebrate that success with colleagues was a real privilege and honour.

I would also like to publicly thank all our sponsors, as without their generous support it would not have been possible to host this event.

You can read all about this year’s Staff Excellence Awards, as well as find out who the winners were, in a special supplement on pages 11-14.

Paul O’Connor Chief Executive

‘Bare below the elbows’ competition gives colleagues a nudge

Winning poster from Dr David Kellock

Macmillan nurse Sue Stringer and Dr David Kellock have seen their artwork displayed across all Sherwood Forest Hospitals sites, after winning a poster design competition reminding ward and clinic colleagues to go bare below the elbows to help reduce the spread of infections.

Sue’s poster appears in the Trust’s adult wards and clinics, and Dr Kellock’s design is being displayed in the Trust’s children’s wards and clinics. Both staff members received £25 shopping vouchers and copies of their winning poster designs.

Samantha Annis, Department Leader at Newark Hospital, set up the competition to promote the national Government driven ‘Bare below the elbows’ campaign, and personalise the message on a local level.

“People expect our staff to look professional and clean in their work uniforms or clothes” explained Samantha. “This gives them confidence that we are health professionals doing all we can to protect them from infections. I hope the winning posters inspire staff to remain bare below the elbows.

Macmillan nurse Sue Stringer’s winning poster

“Choosing a winner was very difficult as the standard was so high. Thank you to everyone who took part in the competition.”

Good hand hygiene can be achieved when skin is intact, nails remain short and unvarnished, hands and forearms are free of jewellery, and sleeves are short or rolled securely up to the elbow.

Delivering Quality for all Local residents were invited to a special conference to learn more about the Trust’s improved and revolutionised care on its wards.

the revolutionary VitalPac project that records patient observations and renders the traditional paper charts at the end of beds obsolete.

The ‘Quality for all’ event looked at how the Trust has embraced National campaigns such as #hellomynameis as well as driving forward many other improvements.

Ward boards designed by the Trust were also showcased. The boards are able to display a range of information including daily staffing levels and patient feedback. They have generated a lot of interest from other hospitals around the country who are keen to replicate the idea.

Staff talked about nursing handovers and discharge service improvements.

There was also a demonstration of

New Governors join the Trust Sherwood Forest Hospitals is pleased to announce the results of its latest election for public Governors. The election was held in the summer to fill the four vacancies for public Governors in the Mansfield, Ashfield (x2) and Newark and Sherwood constituencies. More than 3,700 votes were cast from Trust members across the three constituencies and the following candidates have been elected: • John Barsby, Public Governor for Mansfield • Kevin Stewart, Public Governor for Ashfield • Sue Holmes, Public Governor for Ashfield 2 Best | December 2014

• Sue Moss, Public Governor for Newark and Sherwood Sean Lyons, Chairman of Sherwood Forest Hospitals, said: “I am delighted to welcome our new Governors to the Trust and would like to thank all the candidates who put their name forward for this election.

“I look forward to working with John, Sue, Kevin, Sue and the rest of the Council of Governors in our efforts to champion and deliver the best care, service and wellbeing outcomes for each individual in the communities we serve.”

Trust Board Meetings The Trust’s Board Meetings are held every month and members of the public are welcome to attend. Please contact the Head of Corporate Services on 01623 622515 extension 4007 if you would like to attend.

The next four meetings will start at 9am on:

Thursday 18 December Thursday 29 January 2015 Thursday 26 February Thursday 26 March

Best PLACE for hospital care The Trust has again demonstrated its commitment to providing high standards for the quality of its patient environments.

Results recently published from the Patient-led Assessments of the Care Environment (PLACE), published by the Health and Social Care Information Centre, show the Trust scored an impressive 99.16% for cleanliness, 97.00% for food and hydration, 89.32% for privacy, dignity and wellbeing, and 95.85% for condition, appearance and maintenance.

These results, which are combined for King’s Mill, Mansfield Community and Newark hospitals, are well above the national averages of 97.25%, 88.79%, 88.73% and 91.97% respectively.

Paul O’Connor, Trust’s Chief Executive, said: “The hospital environment plays a critical part in ensuring our patients have a positive health experience when receiving treatment at our hospitals. I am delighted we have again this year received consistently excellent scores for

our patient environment. This is a tribute to the hard work, expertise and dedication which all our staff demonstrate to patients and their families every day at the Trust.

“We remain committed to a high level of excellence and are working closely in partnership with both Medirest and Skanska Facilities Services to provide a patient environment which is welcoming, safe and respectful. These results show we are on the right path to achieve that for all our patients.”

Trust Chief Executive Paul O’ Connor and Deputy Head of Communications Jack Adlam take part in the ALS Ice Bucket Challenge

Hospital chief leads ice bucket challenge The Trust’s Chief Executive and Deputy Head of Communications joined legions of people across the globe by taking part in the ALS Ice Bucket Challenge in September.

Paul O’Connor and Jack Adlam joined the likes of Sherlock star Benedict Cumberbatch and Mansfield Town Football Club Manager Paul Cox, by participating in this worldwide phenomenon to promote awareness of

amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), which is a debilitating motor neurone condition.

The pair wore t-shirts and shorts when colleagues dumped bucket after bucket of iced water on them in the courtyard at King’s Mill Hospital.

They were nominated by Trust staff Cheryl Hutchinson, Outpatients Housekeeper, and Andre Laverty, Outpatients Receptionist.

Cheryl, who has taken the ice bucket

challenge twice, said: “I urged everyone to come along and show their support to Paul and Jack.

“The challenge was for a worthy cause which has gripped the world and prompted many high profile people to take part and raise funds to encourage research into this debilitating condition.

“I thought if the Trust’s Chief Executive can do it, then anyone can do it!”

December 2014 | Best 3

Celebrating staff success King’s Mill surgeon celebrates two millionth NovaSure procedure Lee Radford

Flagship mentoring scheme for Lee Radford Lee Radford, Deputy Director of Training, Education and Development at the Trust, is on course to become tomorrow’s aspiring leader thanks to a national NHS flagship mentoring scheme.

Lee became one of six people from the East Midlands to acquire a place on the national Nye Bevan Leadership Programme, which he applied for through the East Midlands Leadership Academy.

He said: “Competition was fierce so I am honoured to have been chosen to attend this much coveted programme. I am looking forward to learning new skills and attending workshops hosted by leading experts in international healthcare and business development.

“All the knowledge and skills I acquire will then be applied to the workplace to improve the quality of patient care. The course will enable me to further develop the Trust’s leadership programme to enable leaders and managers to develop their potential.”

Lee said he will also work intensively with peers to challenge the existing systems of healthcare and seek innovative ways to deliver excellent patient care.

The Nye Bevan Programme was set up by internationally renowned business and academic experts: KPMG, Manchester Business School and University of Birmingham.

It was named after Nye Bevan who was a champion of social justice and assisted in the creation of the NHS. 4 Best | December 2014

A surgeon from King’s Mill Hospital has received world recognition for performing the two millionth NovaSure procedure – a life-changing treatment that helps women control abnormally heavy periods and provides an alternative to invasive hysterectomies.

Srini Vindla, Consultant Gynaecologist and Service Director for Medical Gynaecology at the Trust, has performed nearly 400 NovaSure procedures; 95 per cent of which have been carried out in the outpatient clinic at King’s Mill Hospital since 2010 with a 97 per cent success rate.

Mr Vindla urged women to seek help for abnormally heavy periods and not suffer in silence because NovaSure is safe, effective and quick; and ideal for women seeking to lighten or indefinitely block their periods.

He explained that the procedure is deemed safer than a hysterectomy (removal of the womb through surgery, where recovery can take weeks) and works by applying radio frequency energy to the endometrium (lining of the womb) to gently remove the lining of the uterus.

The NovaSure procedure takes less than two minutes to complete and patients can go home on the same day as recovery is marked in hours.

The mother of three said her heavy periods became unmanageable about a year ago.

She visited her GP who referred her to King’s Mill Hospital.

Lisa said: “I probably should have sought help sooner but I wasn’t ready to have a hysterectomy. The doctors at King’s Mill were very helpful and told me about alternative treatments to a hysterectomy.

“I opted for a procedure called NovaSure – which would produce similar effects to a hysterectomy without having a big operation. The treatment took minutes and I was able to go home half an hour later. I feel better already and am really looking forward to my new found freedom.”

Abnormally heavy and prolonged menstrual bleeding (or menorrhagia) is a common gynaecologic condition affecting one in five women in the UK, particularly in the 35 to 49 year age range.

For more information about the NovaSure procedure, visit: http://www.novasure.com/

Mr Vindla is now teaching surgeons from other NHS trusts, across the UK, how to perform the procedure. He said: “I am very pleased I can offer my patients a treatment which achieves similar results to a hysterectomy without the trauma of a big operation.

“Patients have told me that their lives were severely disrupted due to debilitating periods.

This treatment enables these women to get on with their lives without putting everything on hold for one to two weeks every month.

They no longer have to worry about bloating, painful cramps or fear social events – many are just happy to wear white again.”

Mrs Lisa Fearn, aged 46, from Selston, says she has benefited from the NovaSure procedure which was performed by Mr Vindla this year.

Srini Vindla

Senior nurse shortlisted for national award A senior nurse from Sherwood Forest Hospitals reached the final of a prestigious national award in October.

Adam Hayward, Assistant Director of Nursing, was shortlisted in the Rising Stars category at the coveted Health Service Journal awards 2014. This year’s awards saw over 1300 entries, with Adam one of 11 to make the final shortlist.

A qualified adult nurse, Adam was appointed to the role of Practice Development Matron for Dementia in October 2012 and, in recognition of his dynamic work, has recently been appointed to the position of Assistant Director of Nursing.

Adam Hayward

and its services and has a huge amount of energy. He is an inspirational leader and you sense that he wants to bring dementia and the care of the elderly to the very forefront, to being the core of our future at the Trust.”

Over the last 18 months Adam has led the Trust-wide Enhancing Patient Support initiative to improve care for some of the Trust’s most vulnerable patients. He re-wrote the Trust’s dementia care pathway and strategy, which led to improved working within the organisation and with partner agencies locally and nationally. He has showcased the Trust’s work at Westminster Hall and took part in a Cabinet Office Review of improvement work around dementia care.

Paul O’Connor, Chief Executive said: “The thing about Adam is his great enthusiasm.

You always see him, you always hear him and you often hear him before you see him!

Adam said: “I was thrilled to make the shortlist for this year’s HSJ awards and to receive recognition for doing a job that I love, in an organisation which I am so proud to work for.”

“You feel his input all around the Trust.

He is a great advocate for the organisation

The HSJ awards were created in 1981 to recognise, on a national platform,

the projects and initiatives that deliver healthcare excellence and innovation.

By shining a spotlight on cutting-edge innovations and best practice, the awards give impetus to improving the quality of health care in the UK. Alastair McLellan, Editor of the HSJ, said: “The HSJ Awards are the greatest celebration of one of the world’s finest healthcare systems. The excellence they recognise is the best example of why the NHS remains Britain’s best loved institution.”

Alys Potter celebrates national clinical training success Alys Potter has much to celebrate – she’s become one of two people in the country to secure a place on a new training scheme for clinical engineers.

Alys, a Clinical Engineer in the Medical Equipment Management Department (MEMD) at the Trust, has been awarded a place on the Higher Specialist Training Scheme for clinical engineers.

The five year scheme has been introduced as part of the Modernising Scientific Careers initiative and is aimed at developing Consultant Clinical Scientists.

The MEMD is responsible for ensuring that all risks associated with the acquisition and use of medical devices are minimised, thereby benefiting patient safety and effective clinical governance

throughout the Trust.

As part of her studies, Alys will be required to complete a doctorate and work on developing the range of services offered by the Medical Equipment Management Department. One of the areas she will be looking at is assistive technologies that could help patients live independently at home and minimise hospital admissions.

Alys Potter

Dr Richard Scott, Lead Scientist at the Trust, said: “I’m delighted we’ve got Alys on the programme, which places our Trust at the forefront of a new and exciting scheme. This is a huge success for Alys as there are only two trainees on the Clinical Biomedical Engineering programme nationally and we’ve got one of them!”

December 2014 | Best 5

Inspiring event at Newark Almost 40 colleagues from across Newark Hospital attended an engagement event on 5 November. The event was hosted by Jacqueline Totterdell, Director for Newark and facilitated by Claire Ward, Non Executive Director.

Participants spent time discussing which services worked well at Newark and why. They then looked at ideas for new or expanded services which could be provided at the hospital to further

improve patient services and experience at the hospital.

were aware of the services the hospital provides.

Included in the many ideas to be explored further were an increase in endoscopy services; children’s radiology; nurse led chemotherapy service and a new service to transport patients, pathology samples and case notes between hospitals.

Jacqueline Totterdell thanked everyone who attended for their time and ideas, saying that she was keen to keep up the momentum.

Participants were also keen that all services at Newark Hospital were promoted widely so that healthcare professionals, patients and relatives

Developing Newark Hospital Since February 2013 Newark Hospital has seen several new developments, including the Fernwood Community Unit, Bramley Children’s Unit, urological oncology clinic, cardio-respiratory clinic, CT colonography, sleep apnoea clinic, aortic abdominal aneurysm clinic, wheelchair services clinic and most recently the commitment to invest in a new CT scanner.

However, there is more work to be done to continue to make Newark a thriving hospital and ensure it is utilised to its fullest extent. A transformation programme has been established to ensure as many Newark and Sherwood patients as possible can receive care locally. The plans include offering more patients the opportunity to attend Newark Hospital by ensuring that all available free clinics and operating theatre sessions are filled, along with a plan to increase the number of services offered and explore what new services can be delivered from Newark.

The Trust has a communications plan to support the transformation to increase awareness of the programme; which includes a review of the directory of services and development of a brochure for Newark Hospital to increase understanding about what can be offered. There will also be public sessions promoting the Trust’s work including a stall in Newark market place on various days in December.

6 Best | December 2014

She said: “It was inspiring to see so many staff from the many different wards and departments working together with such passion to come up with ideas.

“More patients continue to

be seen and treated at Newark Hospital each year. Our most recent figures demonstrate that an additional 100 patients each month benefit from having their operation as a day case at Newark.

“Our job now will be to ensure we keep up this good progress, working together to a rigorous timetable, with deliverable actions that the Board of Directors can support and endorse – thereby ensuring even more patients are treated at Newark Hospital.”

Farewell to Frances Newark Hospital said a sad farewell to Occupational Therapy Team Leader, Frances Tweddle, in October, who retired after 29 years at the hospital.

Originally starting work at Newark Hospital’s Eastwood Centre in 1985 as an occupational therapist, Frances then worked her way through the ranks. She was appointed Head Hccupational Therapist in 2000, then became Therapy Team Leader in 2007.

Her role has been to manage a team of 20 staff at Newark Hospital and the Fernwood Community Centre, who primarily focus on hand injuries - looking at musculoskeletal and rheumatological conditions.

Frances said: “I have enjoyed a

wonderful time at the hospital, and will miss the interaction with both patients and staff.

I’ve been fortunate to work with a great team and I am happy with all the good work we have done for people.”

Frances’ plans to enjoy her retirement will start with a visit to see her eldest daughter in New Zealand.

Quality Mark for Lindhurst Ward

Eye care about you A child-friendly eye machine that makes it easier for doctors to examine the retinas of young patients has been donated by the League of Friends of Newark Hospital.

The charity raised £1,650 to purchase an Indirect Ophthalmoscope for use in the children’s eye department at Newark Hospital.

It uses low level light, which is gentler on babies’ eyes, and gives doctors a better view of the peripheral retina (back of the eye).

Lindhurst Ward at Mansfield Community Hospital, part of Sherwood Forest Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, has been awarded the Elder Friendly Quality Mark in recognition of the support provided by staff to older people.

The Quality Mark is run by the Royal College of Psychiatrists and was developed in partnership with organisations including Royal College of Physicians, Royal College of Nursing and British Geriatrics Society. It has been established to encourage hospital wards to become involved in improving the quality of essential care of older people and to recognise good care provision, as identified by patient feedback.

Patients over the age of 65 have been asked for their feedback about care, including their experiences of comfort, food and drink, support from staff, getting help when needed, and privacy and dignity. Patients have also been asked if they would be happy for a friend or family member to receive care on the ward.

In order to achieve the Quality Mark, Lindhurst Ward has taken part in a two stage assessment.

Stage I involves assessing quality of care, which includes identifying areas of achievement and areas for improvement. Stage II requires the ward to demonstrate continued focus on improving care for older people, and their progress.

They have collected information from patients, carers and visitors, ward staff and members of the multi-disciplinary team, the ward manager, a lead consultant working on the ward, hospital governors

and the Trust’s senior managers.

The Quality Mark is awarded to wards that have achieved high scores in stage II of the assessment.

Susan Bowler, Executive Director of Nursing and Quality said: “The Trust is committed to putting patients first, and our highest priority is providing the safest and highest quality care. Lindhurst Ward is to be congratulated for achieving this prestigious mark, which would not have been possible without the outstanding efforts of our staff. They are a prime example of solid commitment to excellence and proven results; delivering the safest, most compassionate care and best outcomes for patients and their families.”

Anita Donley, Clinical Vice President of the Royal College of Physicians, said: “The Elder Friendly Quality Ward Mark measures aspects of care, such as comfort, nutrition and support given by staff. Participating in a scheme such as this shows commitment to the quality of care provided to patients.

“Wards achieving this accreditation are places where we listen to patients, carers and staff; actively encourage feedback, and act on the information in order to drive improvement.”

The award is for three years with an interim review. Wards joining the Quality Ward Mark scheme commit to continuous focus on improving essential care based on feedback from patients.

Welcome to Jacqueline Totterdell Sherwood Forest Hospitals is pleased to welcome Jacqueline Totterdell, who joined the Trust in November as interim Director of Newark Hospital for a period of three to six months.

Jacqueline is an NHS chief executive and has joined the Trust on a part time secondment from Southend University NHS Foundation Trust to help accelerate the strategy for Newark Hospital. This is at no cost to the organisation.

June Howsam, Chairman of the League of Friends of Newark Hospital, said: “We have been running since 1957 and are very proud to support our local hospital and furnish it with vital equipment that enhances patients’ experiences, when possible.

“This new equipment is kinder to children’s eyes and gives mums and dads the opportunity to have their children examined in Newark rather than making the trip to King’s Mill Hospital.”

Dr Arun Lakshmanan, Consultant Ophthalmologist at the Trust, said: “Staff are very grateful to the League for raising vital funds for this equipment, and for all the help and support the charity has given the hospital over the years. The equipment will also benefit adult patients who cannot sit on the traditional slit-lamp machine, which is the standard method for examining adult eyes.”

The Trust continues to expand and improve its services at Newark Hospital to benefit patients in the Newark area.

Jacqueline Totterdell, new Interim Director of Newark Hospital

December 2014 | Best 7

Improving the hospital experience for people with learning disabilities People with learning disabilities are among the most vulnerable and socially excluded in our society. They have poorer health than the general population and use NHS services more regularly. Staff at Sherwood Forest Hospitals are working hard to identify and implement a range of improvements to ensure that patients with learning disabilities have a good hospital stay.

Schools learn to restart hearts To mark October’s European Restart a Heart Day, the Trust offered lifesaving resuscitation training to over 70 school children from the Ashfield, Mansfield, and Newark areas.

Children from six local primary schools visited King’s Mill and Newark hospital to learn and demonstrate resuscitation skills in the main entrances of the hospitals. Staff and visitors were able to see and hear the vital steps of call, pump, shock and smile.

“It was clear to see that all the children enjoyed the event and felt confident demonstrating their new skills.

“As most cardiac arrests happen outside of hospital it’s really important that people learn these skills and don’t feel intimidated by the thought of CPR. Your hands can save a loved one’s life!”

European Restart a Heart Day was launched in 2013 by the European Resuscitation Council.

It aims to improve the very low number of people surviving out-of-hospital cardiac arrests by teaching members of the public how to perform Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR).

Throughout the day, the Trust, taught youngsters how to perform CPR, and use an automated defibrillator which is usually found in public areas such as shopping and leisure centres. The children thoroughly enjoyed the event and many planned to teach their peers in assemblies and clubs at their schools.

Christine Miles-Hammond, Resuscitation Training Manager at the Trust said: “This event was all about raising awareness of how easy CPR is.

Learning Disability Steering Group Establishing a patient and carer focus is essential. The Trust aims to offer patients and carers a greater opportunity to participate in monitoring and managing care and to offer feedback.

A learning disability Steering group - chaired by the Deputy Director of Nursing and attended by people with learning disabilities, family carers, and hospital staff - meets four times a year.

Achievements to date include: • Updating the hospital Patient Advice & Liaison Service (PALS) easy read leaflet • Producing an easier read Quality Account (long report that explains what services the hospital offers, what they do well and what they need to do better) • Creating several easier read leaflets • Introducing an alert card across Nottinghamshire • Helping with planning an adult changing places toilet • Updating the mandatory learning disability training pack • Monitoring patient & carer feedback about the Trust’s services.

8 Best | December 2014

Students from Morven Park Primary School demonstrating CPR skills

Hospital hot seat

With Tracey Kurr, Practice Development Matron for Dementia Tracey lives with her partner Phil, their two cats and three chickens!. When she isn’t working, Tracey enjoys spinning wool and is secretary of Ashfield Guild of Spinners, Weavers and Dyers. She also likes baking, knitting, gardening and spending time with her family. She enjoys travelling and has toured extensively on her motorbike.

who look after patients with dementia. I am currently involved in a programme to make the Trust more dementia friendly by providing more signage, coloured equipment, reminiscent aids (old adverts and pictures which are part of a patient’s era). Dementia may not have the adrenalin rush of accident and emergency but there is a real feel-good factor when staff get it right.

When did you start your new role as practice development matron for dementia?

I started my post on 1 September 2014.

Before that I was deputy sister on ward 34, acute medicine and endocrinology, at King’s Mill Hospital.

What made you want to become a nurse?

I must confess that I wanted to be a radiographer but failed my physics exams! After doing some voluntary work in a care home for the elderly in Mansfield, I became curious about nursing and applied for my training. I started my career at Mansfield General Hospital where I worked on acute male medicine and coronary care. It was definitely the right decision because I’ve had a wonderful career spanning 30 years.

What will your new role involve?

I am part of a team that delivers dementia training across the Trust. I am also one of 11 practice development matrons, each of whom has a specialist remit. Our role involves supporting colleagues in wards and clinical areas - providing education, training and development, emotional, practical and professional support for staff and student nurses. We are all passionate about the Trust’s ‘quality for all’ ethos and are working hard to embed it into daily practice.

I’m really excited about my new role because there is so much scope to help colleagues

Has nursing changed over the years?

Nursing has become more multidisciplinary and holistic (focusing more on person-centred care). Staff are very attuned to patients’ needs and how to fulfil them. Nurses are now extremely skilled and are recognised as practitioners in their own right. What I miss about the old days is the ‘family feel’ amongst the staff. Back then we had nurses’ sitting rooms where we would meet up on our breaks, and the staff parties were notorious!

Chris’s charity rip-off !

Brave mental health nurse Chris Majid raised £474 for the Trust’s Dementia Care Appeal by bravely volunteering for an almost full body wax! He even allowed the most generous donator to rip off the first strip of wax.

Chris, a lead mental health nurse at King’s Mill Hospital, works on Ward 52 which specialises in dementia care. Meeting patients with dementia and their families inspired him to raise funds to enhance patient care at the Trust.

“I am pleased that I survived the pain and would do it again if it meant raising further money to make the Trust’s wards more dementia-friendly. Thank you to everyone who supported me, and to Claire Collier,

Tracey Kurr, Practice Development Matron for Dementia Why is raising awareness about dementia so important?

We know that at any given time a quarter of all hospital beds are occupied by patients with dementia. People are living longer due to healthier lifestyles and medical advancements. The increasing numbers of people living with dementia is a challenge to all health, social care, and voluntary organisations. There are certain medications now available to help to slow down the process, and therapies have advanced to improve the lives of people living with dementia. As yet, however, there is no cure.

Chris Majid bravely endures his charity wax!

beauty therapist at King’s Mill’s hair and beauty salon, for performing the wax.

“The identification of dementia in Nottinghamshire is on the rise because people are living longer and dementia awareness is increasing, so investing in dementia care is very important.”

The money raised from the Dementia Care Appeal will make it possible for the Trust to continue purchasing equipment to help patients with dementia, such as: • Dementia friendly clocks that are visible

from every bed space • Highly contrasting raised toilet seats • Brightly coloured cups/mugs to promote better hydration of people with dementia • Memory boxes (which are placed by a patient’s bedside and filled with personal belongings or memorabilia associated to a familiar era) • Dementia friendly signs on wards • Trial floor stickers to aid orientation on adult wards.

December 2014 | Best 9

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

July 2014

Patients are sometimes concerned about what happens to them upon discharge. Ward 36 and the discharge team have conveyed new information and professionally ensured that patients remain calm and are treated safely and with dignity at all times.

The team is working incredibly hard to maintain good working relationships and support the care of patients who attend the discharge lounge. They strive to ensure that patients continue to receive a seamless service until they leave.

There is now a pleasant eight chaired discharge lounge being successfully run on Ward 36 every day, and I would like to take this opportunity to say a huge thank you for all the team’s hard work and effort.”

Ward 36, Sarah Hardingham and the discharge lounge Team Nominated by Lucy Sitton-Kent, Service Improvement Manager “I would like to nominate the staff on Ward 36 along with Sarah Hardingham from the Discharge Lounge.

At quite short notice the discharge lounge relocated to Ward 36 from the Emergency Assessment Unit. A significant amount of work was required and the team on Ward 36 rose to the challenge. The whole team has provided an excellent standard of patient care during a time of change and disruption in their work area.

August 2014 Cheryl Heeley, Research Nurse Nominated by Terri-Ann Sewell Research Nurse “Cheryl has had two very serious lifethreatening illnesses and operations in the last two years, and returned to work sooner than advised. Her partner now has a serious life-long illness and she is a full time carer. I nominate Cheryl because she always goes above and beyond to help you.

Cheryl constantly stays late after work to ensure recruitment to trials is of a

September 2014 Philip Baker, Discharge Support Care Assistant Nominated by: S Slater, K Hewes, T Parsons, S Willams – Emergency Department Avoidance Support Service (EDASS) “We would like to nominate Phillip Baker of the EDASS team for the “Star of the Month” award September 2014.

Unfortunately we were too late to enter him for the “Unsung Hero” category in this year’s Staff Excellence Awards!

10 Best | December 2014

good standard and she picks up other people’s work when they are off sick or on leave. Cheryl will see patients at the drop of a hat when needed and often doesn’t get a break.

Cheryl always puts the needs of the service before her own health and she deserves the Star of the Month award.

Not only does she work over and above at work and is a full time carer, but also makes cakes for people in the Trust for birthdays, christenings and weddings!

Very rarely will she rest.”

Phil has been with the Trust for numerous years, and will be retiring in March 2015.

He is known within the team as “THE MAN WHO CAN”. He uses his knowledge and resourcefulness to support all of his team members, and the patients that are supported home to facilitate early discharges from the hospital.

Phil always has a cheery disposition, and is well known throughout the Trust. We thought it would be nice to give him some recognition.”

certificate and a High Street gift voucher, and is automatically entered into the “Unsung Hero” category of the annual Staff Excellence Awards.

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NHS Foundation Trust

Special winners’ supplement

Main sponsor

December 2014 | Best 11

Staff Excellence Awards 2014 The winners of this year’s Staff Excellence Awards were announced at a special awards ceremony on Thursday 23 October at the John Fretwell Sporting Complex.

Nearly 300 colleagues and dignitaries attended the awards evening, hosted by Stewart Nicholson from Mansfield 103.2.

Awards were presented on the evening by Paul O’Connor, Chief Executive and Sean Lyons, Chairman, in seven different categories.

Winners were chosen from a record-breaking 180 nominations of dedicated teams and individuals from across the Trust’s hospitals at King’s Mill, Newark, Mansfield Community and Ashfield Health Village.

A message from the Chairman Our Staff Excellence Awards are held to celebrate success and shine a spotlight on those outstanding colleagues who consistently demonstrate extraordinary dedication to providing excellent care to our patients.

Recognising those outstanding contributions and the dedication of colleagues is vitally important. These awards are just one of the many ways in which we say thank you to those colleagues who consistently display our Quality for all values, and go above and beyond for our patients and their families.

I was very impressed with the standard of entries this year and I congratulate everyone who was nominated, and in particular to those who have been chosen as our winners for 2014.

Sean Lyons, Chairman

Quality Care Award

SPONSORED BY

Kerry Smith, Ward Leader/Practice Development Matron, Ward 21, King’s Mill Hospital Kerry has proven herself to be one of our most influential and inspiring ward leaders during the years she led the team on ward 21. She led the way to creating a caring and effective team to provide high quality care for patients admitted as surgical emergencies. She demonstrated a real ‘can do’ attitude and her personal style was always warm and encouraging, which both staff and patients benefitted from. Her commitment to nursing has been further demonstrated by her decision to return to KMH after her retirement to continue her career as one of the Trust’s new Practice Development Nurses.

12 Best | December 2014

Chris McFarlane Award Chris Nash, Specialist Physiotherapist, Stroke Early Supported Discharge Team Physiotherapist Chris Nash was seconded as Team Leader of the Stroke Early Supported Discharge Team covering a period of maternity leave. He worked with team members to streamline their shift patterns so that therapists, nurses and care assistants were at work together at all times and able to treat patients whenever needed.

The number of return trips to ‘base’ was reduced, allowing staff more time out in the community delivering care.

Caseloads and journeys were also carefully planned to ensure minimal travel time

between patient visits. As a result, the average therapy session has been increased from 24 to 38 minutes. Chris was able to ensure the team delivered a better quality service to patients during a time of increased referrals to the service and a reduction in staffing levels.

SPONSORED BY

Improvement Award Stuart Shaw and Team, Ward 36, King’s Mill Hospital Stuart took on the role of acting ward leader at short notice to support and lead the team and Ward 36. He quickly established himself as a strong visible leader stabilising the ward and raising standards and quality within the ward. In addition Stuart put himself forward to set up, run and lead the discharge round within his ward.

Stuart’s enthusiasm and drive quickly made

the discharge lounge a success, with an ever increasing number of patients going through the service.

SPONSORED BY

Team of the Year Award Morgan Thanigasalam and the VitalPAC Training Team The VitalPAC team has provided support and training to staff on the wards and they have worked around the clock to ensure staff have received appropriate training.

Despite the challenges the team has ensured that all staff feel competent and that all the benefits of using the VitalPAC system are clear.

The system is now very popular with health care workers as it means there is less

paperwork and the appropriate escalation is automatically prompted. Without the VitalPAC team this project would not have been a success. The commitment and drive from the team has been proven by the effective roll-out of the system across all wards at King’s Mill Hospital to improve patient safety.

SPONSORED BY

SPONSORED BY

Unsung Hero Award Sue Widdison, Receptionist, Ward 35, King’s Mill Hospital This year Sue has again acted far beyond the specification of her role. She is such a valued member of staff and is thought of very highly by all who know her within the hospital. Sue is always quick to welcome people to the ward with a cheery hello and an offer of tea and biscuits.

She has even washed the clothes of patients who have no one to support them so they can go home in

something clean and warm. She has accompanied patients on transport to their new destination if they are alone and frightened, and represents the ward at funeral services of patients who have sadly passed away. This means so much to families and the feedback they have given about Sue is always exceptional.

She is quite simply one in a million and a whirlwind of efficiency.

SPONSORED BY

People’s Award For the seventh 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. The Trust was delighted to receive over 60 nominations from members of public in this category.

Volunteer of the Year Award Freda Jones, Volunteer, Maternity, King’s Mill Hospital Freda is a retired midwife who volunteers on the maternity ward once a week. She is very reliable and hard working. Freda uses her initiative and cheers the place up with her dry humour and stories of midwifery as she knew it.

Freda will come in to support the team at the drop of a hat if needed and the ward staff cannot thank her enough.

Marc Abel, Healthcare Assistant, Emergency Department, King’s Mill Hospital Marc received two nominations that really highlight the care and compassion he shows on a daily basis. He is a fantastic asset to the team, constantly going the extra mile to put the needs of his patients first.

One nomination said: “Mark has a fantastic way of communicating, he showed interest, compassion and warmth, and seeing my son wearing a football kit went on to talk about football and engaged at his level. Recognising my son’s age he changed his language so that my son could relate to him. His personality is not something that can easily be taught, his tone was warm and his talk interesting and he was able to take both our minds off the situation.”

Another nomination said:

Special Recognition Award The team at Millside Hospital Radio was presented with a special recognition award on the evening for their years of broadcasting at King’s Mill Hospital.

The station began back in 1989 with a daily cassette compilation - made up from requests taken by four dedicated

volunteers. A quarter of a century later the station now boasts its own studios at King’s Mill Hospital, which were officially opened in 1990 by the late Jeremy Beadle. In October they celebrated an impressive 25 years of broadcasting and helping patients through their ills.

“Marc looked after my little girl when she broke her elbow. The care towards her and the trust that he built with her meant she was calm and not too upset as she is only five years old. Marc made a traumatic experience for a little girl so much easier he really went out of his way and showed care to Jessica beyond his role. It just goes to show that Marc takes his role as a healthcare assistant very seriously and is a credit to the department.”

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THE SHORTLIST

AN AWARD WINNING EVENING

This year we introduced a shortlisting stage to the Staff Excellence Awards.

All entries were judged and whittled down to a shortlist, except the People’s Award. Congratulations to everyone who was shortlisted.

Chris McFarlane Award • Amanda Solomon • Chris Nash • Karen Ward

Improvement Award • Alison Greenwood • Bramley Children’s Unit • Elaine Higgins • Stuart Shaw and Team

Quality Care Award • Children’s Clinic 11 Staff • Kerry Smith • Leanne Beardsley • Phil Eardley

Team of the Year Award • Governance Support Unit • Minster Day Case, NWK • Morgan Thanigasalam and the VitalPAC Training Team • Ray Hackett and the Switchboard Team • Ward 35

Unsung Hero Award • Bob Holmes • Monica Chadwick • Sue Widdison All our Star of the Month winners from July 2013-June 2014 are automatically entered onto the Unsung Hero Award shortlist.

Volunteer of the Year Award • Barbara Joule • Freda Jones • Phil Langfield

Supporting our hospital charity As well as celebrating the success of colleagues across the Trust, the awards evening was an opportunity to raise money for the Sherwood Forest Hospitals Charity. The funds are used to enhance and improve patient care/facilities ensuring we provide the best possible experience for our patients. Thanks to the generosity of local businesses and attractions we raised nearly £900 for our hospital charity.

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Injecting more into patient care Staff at Sherwood Forest Hospitals have been rolling up their sleeves for a flu jab in a bid to arm themselves against catching and spreading the illness this winter.

The Trust has been actively encouraging all staff to be vaccinated. In just the first two weeks of this year’s staff flu vaccination campaign, more than 1,650 doctors, nurses and healthcare workers at King’s Mill, Newark and Mansfield Community hospitals took the opportunity to protect themselves, their patients, their colleagues and their families from the virus.

(L-R) Sean Lyons and Paul O’Connor arm themselves against flu Leading by example and joining in the fight against flu are Trust Chief Executive Paul O’Connor and Chairman Sean Lyons, who were both vaccinated in October.

Paul O’Connor said: “Vaccinating staff is an important part of the Trust’s winter preparations, helping to ensure staffing levels remain high at a time when pressures on hospital services and emergency care are known to increase.”

Sean Lyons added: “Flu is a highly contagious infection that anyone can catch and can be very serious for some people, especially the elderly, vulnerable patients in hospital and for

those in ‘at risk’ groups.”

Last year’s phenomenal response to the flu campaign saw 75.7% of staff who have patient contact being vaccinated – the national average was 55%. This also surpassed the ambitious Department of Health target of 75%.

Staff are able to get their flu vaccination on wards, or at a number of specially arranged clinics, without disrupting their daily routines and appointments. The Trust will continue to hold flu vaccine sessions for staff until the end of January 2014.

Aspiring to excellence through shared learning The learning from a number of leadership and development programmes was brought together and shared by leaders, managers and supervisors from across our hospitals at a recent Leadership and Management Development Learning Showcase event.

The group of 40 delegates shared their achievements made as a result of taking part in the Supervisor Development, Band 6 Clinical Leadership, and Leadership and Management Development programmes.

Chairman Sean Lyons, Chief Executive Paul O’Connor and Director of Human Resources Karen Fisher joined delegates taking part in

current learning programmes for a working lunch and conversation. Poster displays highlighted individuals’ key learning moments and service improvement projects.

Presentations on service improvements were also given: • Chris Nash, Specialist Physiotherapist and Team Lead for the Stroke Early Supported Discharge Team explained how he has increased the therapy time given to our patients, by reducing time lost in the team’s working week • Amanda Woodhouse, Deputy Ward Leader and Amanda Solomon, Ward Leader for

the Emergency Assessment Unit, described the improved measures they have put in to place to support, train and develop new starters and the whole team. Their new approach values all team members as individuals, proactively supports their learning at work through regular reviews and ensures all team members are confident to seek support when needed • Catherine Holland, Deputy Ward Leader for Oakham Ward described how, based on research, she has introduced the use of brightly coloured beakers for patients’ drinks.

This was effective in increasing the amount of fluids that patients drank, and improved their levels of hydration, which has many known benefits • Jill Jennison, Quality Control Section Leader, Pharmacy described her personal learning journey since working for the Trust. Jill explained the use of unlicensed medicines in our hospitals and the work she is undertaking to ensure a consistent and compliant approach to their approval and supply.

Launch of free text appointment reminder service A free new service reminding patients they have appointments through texts and voicemail messages has been launched by the Trust.

The two way text and interactive voice messaging reminder service will make it easier for patients to remember their appointments. A reminder message will be sent directly to each patient’s mobile

phone or landline a few days before their appointment.

Rebecca Adams, Service Improvement Facilitator at Sherwood Forest Hospitals said: “We have set up this service to reduce missed appointments which delay treatment and increase waiting times for all patients.

“If patients need to cancel or rearrange

their appointments, the advance notification gives them the opportunity to do so. Patients will automatically be added to the system so it is important that we have their current contact details.”

To update your contact details, or to opt out of the service, please contact the Appointments Office on 01623 672383.

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Third Age Suit – the mobility restrictor A suit that simulates mobility restriction recently made a visit to a radiography study day held at King’s Mill Hospital.

Helping to overcome cyberchondria

Developed by scientists at Loughborough University, the Third Age Suit restricts the mobility of the wearer to give an appreciation of what it is like for some patients getting around the hospital.

Reduced mobility can affect young and older people and can be due to clinical conditions like arthritis and multiple sclerosis, or when recovering from surgery or an accident.

The suit has splints and restrictors that limit the movement in key areas of the body such as hands, wrists, elbows, neck, back, knees and ankles, as well as gloves that reduce the sense of touch. Yellow goggles mimic declining vision.

Trust Chairman Sean Lyons took the opportunity to try out the simulation suit and said: “The experience really brought home to me how vulnerable people with mobility restrictions must feel every day.

“Apart from the physical restrictions, what struck me was the concentration I had to use, just to stay on my feet - it was a really intense experience.

Chairman Sean Lyons in the simulator suit

“I think the simulation suit is an ideal way for health professionals to really appreciate mobility restrictions and hopefully think about designing environments to help people to cope better.”

Professor Peter Tyrer showcases the work of Sharon (L) and Yvonne What is cyberchondria and how should we treat it? King’s Mill Hospital has the answer.

In the last 12 years a pioneering new treatment for this condition, also called health anxiety, has been developed in the hospital.

Sufferers worry too much about their health, consult the internet frequently and fear they have diseases that no one else can recognise.

They attend hospital repeatedly and have tests which are shown to be normal, but still worry and continue to consult their GPs. The new treatment, now being circulated internationally, is based on a modification of cognitive behaviour therapy introduced to King’s Mill Hospital in 2002. After a successful pilot trial, a large study was carried out across the country to compare this treatment with standard care in people attending medical clinics. The results were recently published in the prestigious medical journal, The Lancet, and showed that the treatment was not only highly effective but retained its benefit for over two years.

Most people delivering the treatment were psychologists but at King’s Mill Hospital two general nurses, Yvonne Lisseman-Stones and Sharon McAllister, were trained and supervised and gave the treatment to 70 patients. They demonstrated excellent results, which were more than twice as good as those obtained by psychologists in the four other centres in the study.

Yvonne and Sharon have recently been

presented with a special award for this outstanding achievement by Professor Peter Tyrer, from Imperial College in London and chief investigator of the project, and Dr Helen Tyrer, who first developed the treatment at the hospital. Professor Tyrer said: “These results show that general nurses can be trained to a high level of competence and can give this treatment in the clinics where they are based.

This is the way ahead for services.

“People who worry about their health need not be referred to psychologists at different centres away from the clinics where they attend. It is much better if they stay within the clinics and the personnel there are skilled and competent in dealing with this very important medical condition that has been unrecognised for too long.”

Yvonne said: “Health anxiety is more common than people think. It can manifest in, for example, people with heart problems who have a fear of exerting themselves even to the point of refusing to do daily activities such as shopping, or a cancer patient in remission who fears every ache and pain is the cancer coming back.

“These people will present to their GP with a number of aches and pains, but not mention their worries as they don’t recognise this as health anxiety. The pains are very real but in many cases this will be the fear making them extremely anxious, hence making them feel very ill.”

New and improved imaging system Patients will soon benefit from faster x-rays and other medical images delivered straight to their doctors’ computers, with an upgrade to the Picture Archiving and Communications System (PACS).

It will be rolled out over the next 12 months

by GE Healthcare across a consortium of seven NHS Trusts in the East Midlands, including Sherwood Forest Hospitals.

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The trusts have worked together to secure a replacement for the existing system, which has been in place locally since 2006.

The upgraded PACS will allow previous images to be easily compared, even if they were obtained at a radiology department in one of the other six trusts - which will be particularly useful for patients who visit more than one hospital as part of their treatment.

It will show reports and images to doctors

and nurses so that they can make diagnoses and plan treatment without needing to use specialised viewing workstations.

New features within the system will help radiologists to draw attention to urgent or critical findings. The system will support collaborative working across the region, such as the work of multi-disciplinary teams planning the care of cancer patients.

Health and wellbeing event Organisations specialising in health and wellbeing were invited to King’s Mill Hospital and Newark Hospital to share their knowledge and expertise with staff.

The annual Staff and Wellbeing Event held in October was an opportunity for local companies (including charities) to champion healthy lifestyles, mental wellbeing and personal development to staff, patients and visitors.

Karen Fisher, Executive Director of HR at the Trust, said: “This is a popular event where people can learn all about healthy living, emotional wellbeing and hobbies that support this.

“Studies have shown that a healthy balanced lifestyle boosts confidence, productivity and positivity in the home and workplace.”

Health & Wellbeing event at King’s Mill Hospital

The big poppy knit

Super knitter Julie Hawksworth, a staff nurse based in clinic 1 at King’s Mill Hospital, took up the challenge to knit poppies to raise funds for the British Legion Poppy Appeal.

Julie’s nimble fingers managed to make 25 beautiful poppies which were sold to her colleagues in clinic 1, resulting in raising a fantastic £80 for this worthwhile cause.

Julie with her stunning poppies

Trust launches new tinnitus support group Audiology clinicians at the Trust are providing additional support for adult audiology patients suffering with tinnitus by establishing a new support group. The first meeting was held on 8 October and featured guest speakers talking about the condition.

A direct access tinnitus clinic has been running for adults since 2009 at King’s Mill and Newark hospitals, which has proved extremely successful. The Audiology department has received UKAS accreditation

Michelle Booth, Clinical Lead for Adult Audiology at Sherwood Forest Hospitals said: “Our patients have always had access to tinnitus groups elsewhere, but we felt it was important that we offer this as part of our own service.

In the UK, around 6 million people (10% of the population) are thought to have mild tinnitus, with about 600,000 (1%) experiencing it to a severity where it affects their quality of life. Tinnitus is more common in people aged over 65, but it can affect people of all ages, including children.

“A dedicated support group provides an excellent opportunity for tinnitus sufferers to share their experiences with others and learn more about their condition.”

For more information about the tinnitus support group, please contact Michelle Booth or Cheryl Gamlin on 01623 622515 ext 3036 or ext 3341.

for all its services, including the tinnitus service.

December 2014 | Best 17

Denise retires after 45 years Orthopaedic Nurse Specialist, Denise Wragg, has dedicated her life to caring for people. This autumn she retired after almost 45 years of service to the NHS. She started her nurse training in 1970 at King’s Mill Hospital. After qualifying in 1972 she began her first job on Lister ward at the hospital before moving on to Harlow Wood, where she studied for her orthopaedic diploma.

Denise has seen a great many changes in nursing over the years. She said: “Everything has changed for the better - wards are more relaxed and there is a lot more communication. Heaven forbid if I even looked at a consultant in the old days!”

Moving back to King’s Mill in 1995 Denise qualified as a state registered nurse and in 2002 was instrumental in helping to set up the first orthopaedic outreach service.

This invaluable service allows patients to be discharged within a few days of hip or knee surgery, returning home for rehabilitation to regain independence with help from the orthopaedic outreach nurses.

Denise has been well-loved by her colleagues and patients alike. The service

won an award for best care in the Customer Service category in the Trust’s 2011 Staff Excellence Awards, and Denise herself was nominated by grateful patients for the Trust’s People’s Award in 2012.

Although looking forward to spending more time with her family, Denise will miss her friends, colleagues and patients with whom she has worked with for so many years. She said: “It has been such an honour and privilege to be a part of the nursing profession. Providing care and comfort to patients and helping them get through difficult times has been very important to me.

“I have also enjoyed watching King’s Mill grow into the excellent hospital it is today. Through all the advancements what hasn’t changed is the heart of nursing - the compassion for patients and the drive for quality care.”

Paul O’Connor, Chief Executive of the Trust, said: “Denise has made an incredible difference to many people’s lives. She cared deeply about her patients and ensured they all received the best quality care.”

Orthopaedic Nurse Specialist, Denise Wragg, retires after 45 years

National Eye Week

Beauty queen graces hospital

Simple lifestyle choices such as healthy eating, not smoking and wearing sunglasses to deflect the sun’s harmful rays can all help prevent eye deterioration.

Young patients at King’s Mill Hospital were recently treated to a surprise visit from reigning Miss Galaxy Nottinghamshire, Hollie Hughes.

being in hospital.

Hollie, from Blyth in Bassetlaw, won the much coveted title of Miss Galaxy Nottinghamshire 2014/15 earlier this year. She will compete for Miss Galaxy England in February 2015.

Hollie is also fundraising for The Christie charity, which raises funds to support NHS patients with cancer. To donate visit: www.justgiving.com/hollie-hughes

She said: “Hospitals can be quite daunting places for children, I know this from personal experience with my three-year-old daughter Ava Rose.

Nicola Armstrong, play leader at King’s Mill Hospital, said: “It’s not every day that a local beauty queen graces our wards. Everyone was excited about Hollie’s visit and patients were delighted with the gifts she brought.”

This message was promoted by the Trust during National Eye Week, which took place this autumn.

Sushma Dhar-Munshi, Consultant Ophthalmologist at the Trust, said: “It is important that people have regular eye tests so minor ailments can be treated early and don’t become serious later.”

Deborah Plunkett, Head Orthoptist at the Trust, added: ‘’It is important for children aged 4-5 years to have school entry vision screening which may detect uncorrected refractive error (need for glasses) and squints.

“National Eye Week is an important time for us to raise awareness about the things we do at the hospital to support patients with eye conditions.

“Everyday life can put a strain on your eyes, but regular sight testing and making the right lifestyle choices can help keep your eyes and vision healthy.”

18 Best | December 2014

“I hope my visit helped young patients focus on happy thoughts rather than the stress of

“I would like to thank Toymaster for donating new toys for me to give to the young patients during my visit.”

Miss Galaxy Nottinghamshire, Hollie Hughes, visits King’s Mill’s children’s ward

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December 2014 | Best 19

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December 2014 | Best 23

Millside Hospital Radio celebrates 25 years on air The station began life in 1989 with a daily cassette compilation recorded at Nottingham Hospitals’ Radio studios in the Queen’s Medical Centre and now boasts its own studios at King’s Mill Hospital. Originally based in the old Occupational Health offices, the studios were officially opened in 1990 by the late Jeremy Beadle, and then moved to King’s Mill’s TB3 building in 2007.

“Our station’s purpose is to always be the heart and soul of the hospital, and help cheer patients with good music and banter that nourishes the mind, body and soul. We hope to carry on going for many years to come.”

Peter Wilson-Neason (known to listeners as Peter Piper) has been Millside Radio’s Station Manager since 2011.

Programme Controller Trevor White has been with the station since 1990. He added: “Thank you to everyone who took part in our special anniversary broadcasts, including: Trust staff and volunteers, local celebrities and media, home grown athletes and artists, supportive businesses, local community groups and of course our fantastic presenters. We couldn’t have enjoyed our celebrations without all of these people.”

Peter told Best: “I would like to thank all our volunteers and fundraisers who have donated to keep the station up and running, and helped to produce our programmes. We are very proud of the obstacles we have overcome and with our achievements over the last 25 years.

Trevor said the radio station had helped to launch many broadcasting careers. He added: “We’ve had many presenters who volunteered with us and went on to become household names. Sarah Bailey, for example, joined BBC Radio Jersey only last year.

Ashfield MP, Gloria De Piero, at Millside Radio’s 25th Anniversary celebrations

Millside Radio is very proud to have given presenters like Sarah an opportunity to learn the ropes and achieve success.

Former Monday afternoon show presenter Alex Varley was one of Millside Radio’s youngest presenters. He recently gave up his radio slot to study at the University of Salford.

Alex said: “I loved being a radio presenter at Millside Radio and getting the chance to share my love of music with the people of Mansfield and Ashfield. Millside is always looking for new volunteers to produce or present shows, including a young crowd to keep the station fresh and listeners informed and entertained.”

Millside Radio broadcasts 24-hours for free on the Hospedia network at King’s Mill Hospital and Mansfield Hospital. To listen online visit: www.millsideradio.co.uk or download the Millside Radio app on your phone.

Millside Radio broadcasting live from the The original Millside Team in the early 1990’s main street of the King’s Treatment Centre, on their 25th Anniversary weekend

Millside and the Beeb King’s Mill Hospital’s very own Millside Radio recently had a visit from BBC East Midland’s TV “Inside Out” team.

They were filming in preparation for a programme about hospital radio in the region and Millside Radio presenters were delighted to have the opportunity to talk about the station’s twenty five years on the air.

The “Inside Out” team spent a whole afternoon finding out about Millside and their work in the hospital. In addition to filming within the studios, patients were also interviewed by the BBC’s Mark Dennison and asked about their views on the station’s programmes – all giving very positive feedback.

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Special broadcasts in October marked Millside Hospital Radio’s 25th anniversary.