Te Whatu Ora Waitaha Canterbury Pānui Monday 18 September 2023

In this issue

Kupu Arataki – Introduction... pg 3-5

QUIZ - The Rocky Horror Picture Show ... pg 6

Ā mātou tāngata – Our people

› Celebrating our speech language therapists... pg 7

› One minute with… Jessie Davison, Clinical Coordinator, Paediatric Speech Language Therapy team ... pg 8

› Akoranga reo Māori 32– lesson #32 Te petihana reo Māori – Māori language petition ... pg 9

› What is spring?... pg 10

Whakamihi – Bouquets... pg 11–12

Ā mātou korero – Our stories

› Canterbury charity appeal to create a better space for kids... pg 13

› Day Centre enjoys doggie visitor... pg 15

› Mental Health Awareness Week... pg 16

› New kitchen equipment a game-changer... pg 17

› Safety Check Bundle helping reduce falls in Older Persons Health wards... pg 19

› World Alzheimer’s Day – be aware of the risk factors... pg 20

› New Zealand Chinese Language Week.. pg 22

› Research studying community pharmacy-led advice and care for knee osteoarthritis... pg 23

Pānui – Notices... pg 24-27

Cover photo: From left, Canine Friends dog owner Kathleen Stringer, Elizabeth Street Day Centre Volunteer Jenny Jenkins, Canine Friends Therapy Dog Brigid and Elizabeth Street Day Centre members Wilma Wolfreys, Robyne Marshall and Marlene Crequer. Waiting for Brigid to leap and catch her toy in the air

Kupu Arataki – Introduction

Mental Health Awareness Week

This week (18 – 24 September) is Mental Health Awareness Week (MHAW) and an important reminder that we all go through ups and downs in life and that’s okay. The theme this year is 'Five Ways, Five Days' and focuses on simple things we can all do to help us cope when things become difficult or overwhelming.

We’re bombarded from all sides and increasingly face uncertainty and stresses that can leave us feeling anxious, distressed, and emotional. The Five Ways are designed to provide tools to boost our mental health and wellbeing.

You can read more about the 'Five Ways, Five Days' on page 16.

Mā te whakarongo, ka mōhio | through listening, comes knowledge

Mā te mōhio, ka mārama | through knowledge, comes understanding

Mā te mārama, ka matau | through understanding, comes wisdom

Mā te matau, ka ora | through wisdom, comes wellbeing

Emma Hickson appointed Interim National Chief Nursing Officer

A registered nurse and midwife with experience in primary, community, and hospital health services, Emma has worked extensively overseas, with the last 22 years living and working in Aotearoa New Zealand. She has now been appointed to the role of Interim National Chief Nursing Officer.

Emma has worked in nursing leadership roles, in operational management, nursing education and research for hospital and community services. She has been Director of Nursing for Primary and Community services and District Chief Nurse, working in executive and commissioning teams.

Puppy love in Ashburton

Brigid, a two-and-a-half-year-old Spoodle from Canine Friends Pet Therapy made a big impression at the Elizabeth Street Day Centre in Ashburton last week. The members of the Day Centre were thrilled to meet Brigid and she received a lot of attention and pats from the group.

You can read more about Brigid’s visit and the Day Centre on page 15

More recently, Emma has worked in Manatū Hauora as a Clinical Chief Advisor, supporting the response to COVID-19, and in Te Whatu Ora, assisting the implementation of Pae Ora through contributing to the development and early implementation of Te Pae Tata through the Early Action Programme.

Chinese Language Week 17 – 23 September 2023

Nǐ hǎo 你好 (hello) and welcome to Chinese Language Week. This week not only recognises the Chinese New Zealanders for whom this is their first language, but also the other Kiwi who are learning the Chinese language. Language is an important part of someone’s culture and identity and connects people to their homeland, past, present, and future.

Learning the Chinese language also serves to help bridge the cultural and linguistic knowledge gap between China and New Zealand. Read more on page 22 Xiè xiè 谢谢 (thank you).

New Interim National Chief Nursing Officer Emma Hickson

Canine Friends Therapy Dog Brigid enjoyed lots of pats during her visit to the Elizabeth Street Day Centre in Ashburton last week.

Online events of interest

The Auckland Climate Festival is currently happening and as part of the event, there are some online presentations that people can participate in from anywhere in the country. Some are facilitated by Te Whatu Ora kaimahi.

You need to sign up to join. Click on the links below to learn more:

Psychology for a Better World

19 September, 12.30-13.00 Online – register here

Lunch time session presented by Niki Harré, hosted by Helen Polley, Te Whatu Ora.

Doing Good in our Community

28 September, 12.00-13.00 Online – register here

The goal is to demonstrate how easy it is to get involved in existing community groups or start your own.

Your Health and Climate Change

29 September, 11.30-12.00 Online – register here

Lunch time session presented by Summer Wright, Co-convenor of Ora Taiao: NZ Climate and Health Council, hosted by Helen Polley, Te Whatu Ora.

State-of-the-art kitchen equipment making a difference

A recent refurbishment of the Ashburton Hospital kitchen has been a game-changer for the team that produces hundreds of tasty and nutritious meals every day.

The new equipment has made meal preparation easier and faster, and the general consensus is that the quality is better too. Now fitted with multipurpose, user-friendly cooking gear, the small team is operating with greater efficiency.

You can read more on page 17.

Cafeteria Assistant and Cook Leab Nou using the new equipment to cook a stir fry in the Ashburton Hospital kitchen

QUIZ - The Rocky Horror Picture Show

An independent, musical comedy horror movie released in 1975, The Rocky Horror Picture Show has become a cult classic celebrated by multiple generations and with one of the most recognised soundtracks of all time. Test what you know!

1. Brad and Janet were heading to see their old friend Dr Scott when what happened to cause them to end up at Frank N. Furter’s castle?

a. Their car broke down

b. They got the address wrong

c. They had a tyre blow out

d. They heard there was a party and decided to pop in

2. England-born and New Zealand-raised, Richard O’Brien wrote The Rocky Horror Picture Show. He also starred in the movie, as well as the original stage production. What was his character’s name?

a. Rocky

b. Riff Raff

c. Frank

d. Eddie

3. What does Janet hold over her head in the rain?

a. An umbrella

b. Her handbag

c. Brad’s jacket

d. A newspaper

4. What was Dr Scott’s relationship to Eddie?

a. He was his father

b. He was his brother

c. He was his uncle

d. He was his cousin

5. What ex-New Zealand Prime Minister performed in a stage production of the Rocky Horror?

a. Rob Muldoon

b. Jim Bolger

c. Helen Clark

d. John Key

6. Complete this lyric: “It’s just a jump to the left…”

a. And then a skip to the right

b. And then a step to the right

c. And then a slide to the right

d. And then a stomp to the right

7. How long does it take Dr Fank N Furter to “make you a man”?

a. 10 days

b. A month

c. Just seven days

d. Just a few days

8. What is Brad’s surname?

a. Weiss

b. Majors

c. Waters

d. Hapschatt

9. True or false. The Rocky Horror Picture Show is still in limited theatre release, 48 years after it premiered.

a. True

b. False

10. Put these classic Rocky Horror songs in the order they appear in the film.

a. Time Warp

b. Dammit Janet

c. Hot Patootie – Bless my Soul

d. Over at the Frankenstein Place

Check your answers on page 21

mātou tāngata – Our people

Celebrating our speech language therapists

September 18 to 24 is Speech Language Therapy Awareness Week.

This is the time of year when we take a moment to celebrate and recognise the skilled and integral work of our hardworking team of Speech Language Therapists (SLTs) who work across many different areas such as health, community, education, justice, private practice, and policy development. SLTs support people with their swallowing, speech, language, literacy, communication, and voice issues. The theme for this year's awareness week is kotahitanga (the concept of togetherness and working together in partnership towards a common goal) and is about SLTs working together for people who have speech, language, and swallowing needs.

This is especially relevant in a health setting. Waitaha Canterbury’s SLT team works across acute, rehabilitation, and community services. They support a wide variety of circumstances, from establishing infant feeding in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, to supporting safe oral intake and effective communication following a stroke.

Keep your eye out for what is happening during Speech Language Therapy Awareness Week in your area.

The daily staff email will have some interesting information about SLTs and what they do. If you work on the Christchurch Hospital campus, look out for a quiz with the opportunity to win a food hamper. See page 8 to discover more about one of our SLTs, Jessie Davison in her ‘One minute with’.

Some of the Speech Language Therapists who work at Christchurch Hospital, back row from left, Brittany Craythorne, Astra Robinson-Millen, and Sachi Summerlee. Front row from left, Stephanie Lee, Alysha Manson, and Jade Raemaki

Left: Some of the Speech Language Therapy team working in the community, from left, 4th year SLT Student Sophia Murphy, SLTs Laura Jones, Sasha Adams, Annette Rotherham, and Kate Hedworth, Ashleigh Farr, 4th year SLT Student Maia Entwistle and SLT Rachel Haley

Some members of the Burwood Hospital Speech Language Therapy team, SLTs Susan Helmore, Kirstie Koller, Keri Darrock, and Nicola Clark

One minute with… Jessie Davison, Clinical Coordinator, Paediatric Speech Language Therapy team

What does your job involve?

I’m responsible for coordinating the workload of the Paediatric Speech Language Therapy team. We support babies and children who are at risk of or show clinical signs of dysphagia (swallowing difficulties). We provide an inpatient service to Maternity, the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, Wards A7 and B7, Children’s High Care, and the Intensive Care Unit. We also carry an outpatient caseload and are kept extra busy providing a regional paediatric videofluoroscopy service (that’s an X-ray of your swallow!).

Not only do we support safe and effective feeding in the paediatric population, but we also support communication development in children when their ability to understand or express themselves has been impaired.

Part of my role is building the profile of speech language therapy in paediatrics. Feel free to stop and ask me questions about how my team can help.

What pathway got you to this job?

I always wanted a career that led me to help people. When I was a teenager, I worked in a rest home, helping to serve dinner and cups of tea. In the school holidays, I helped staff run activity days. I enjoyed supporting people to access the world around them but also saw how challenging it was when communication was impaired.

What advice would you give someone keen to enter your field?

A speech language therapist’s scope is diverse. You can work within medical or educational settings and across people’s lifespan. Somewhere in there, you’ll find your favourite place to make a difference. Who inspires you and why?

My children. They inspire me to work hard and strive towards advancing my career. They also inspire me through their millions of ‘who, what, where, and why’ questions. They really do stretch my brain sometimes!

What do Waitaha Canterbury’s values (Care and respect for others, Integrity in all we do and Responsibility for outcomes) mean to you in your role?

Every day I come to work ready to make a difference. I strive to work with families the way that my husband and I would appreciate if we turned up with one of our children. It’s important to me that the assessment and intervention I provide is evidence-based and tailored to support the family in front of me. Sometimes that means taking extra time to connect before advising or suggesting.

If you could be anywhere in the world right now where would you be?

My family and I recently visited Fiji for the third time. It’s my favourite place to soak up the sun and unwind. Who would you want to play you if there was a movie made about your life?

I’m thinking Catherine Reitman. If you’re a mother who’s also juggling a career, it’s definitely worth watching Catherine in ‘Workin’ Moms’. Catherine does a realistic but humorous job of balancing motherhood and work – something I relate to. I have two beautiful children: Hamish (9) and Sophie (6). Between school pickups/drop-offs, football, hockey, swimming, and park runs, I somehow fit in my amazing career. The rest is overrated right?!

What are some of the ways you and your whānau show their aroha/love for our planet?’

My family and I love exploring New Zealand. My husband is a photographer, so we make sure to take loads of photographs and leave only our footprints.

What are your hobbies/interests outside of work?

I enjoy playing hockey. My team recently made the finals (but we lost following a penalty shoot-out). On rare moments of ‘Jessie-time’, I like to read a book or bake up a storm!

Akoranga reo Māori 32 – Lesson #32

Te petihana reo Māori – Māori language petition

E kore te puna o mihi e mimiti ki a rātou mā kua parahia te ara mā tātou katoa. The pool of thanks will never diminish to all those who have cleared the pathway for us all.

This week we are going to learn about a very important petition that was delivered to the steps of parliament on 14 Hepetema (September) 1972.

On the back of the near loss of the indigenous language of Aotearoa New Zealand, te petihana reo Māori (the Māori language petition) was the culmination of efforts from University-based rōpū (groups) Ngā Tamatoa, Te Reo Māori Society and Huinga Rangatahi (the New Zealand Māori Students’ Association). This collaborative rōpū sought to have te reo Māori taught in schools and the petition carried the signatures of 30,000 kaitautoko (supporters). To mark the historic event, 14 Hepetema 1972 was subsequently declared Māori Language Day. Three years later, that became Māori Language Week, which we continue to celebrate annually.

He whakapātaritari – A challenge

https://nzhistory.govt.nz/media/photo/maori-language-

Not so much a challenge, but an acknowledgement that every time you use whatever reo Māori that you have, you are doing your part to ensure that our unique language continues to thrive. Ahakoa he iti, he pounamu – although it may be small, it is precious.

Ka mua, ka muri, kei mate moa te reo Māori. Let us learn from our past to inform our future, lest the Māori language becomes extinct.

If you have any questions or feedback, please make contact via the email below. Hauora.Maori@cdhb. health.nz

What is spring?

Spring is sheer happiness. It brings brightness and uplifts moods with its cool breeze and warm sun. I've made it a ritual to stroll through Hagley Park, where I relish lunchtime walks amidst vibrant spring flowers and lush greenery.

What is spring to you? Share your favourite thing about the season, what you’re looking forward to or what defines spring in Canterbury for you. Just a few words and a photo (if you have one) will help us all get excited about the upcoming change in season. you can contribute by clicking here or on this URL: https://forms.office.com/r/7aGbwjdy36

Senior Communications Advisor Ruchita Bharbhari

Te Awakura North and Adult Community Services, Hillmorton

Early this year I was admitted to this unit following a mental breakdown. I needed your help but didn’t want it. Thanks to the staff and to Case Manager Jasmine Tait. She has helped me turn my life completely around. I have recently gained NZQA Health and Safety qualifications, am now an advocate for mental health within my workplace, and life has just opened up for me again. I’m doing things I would never have contemplated doing before. So, to all of you from my heart, thank you.

Urology, Christchurch Women’s Hospital

I had a nephrectomy to donate my kidney. The care I received was nothing short of perfect. Nurse Anastasia took beautiful care of me in the mornings, then Nurses Brittany and Michaela went above and beyond in the afternoons. They were so patient, caring and even made me laugh each day. They were just so kind and wonderful to me and I am so grateful. Catering Assistant Anne-Maree was an absolute delight. Emma-Daisy was also so very kind and empathetic. Again, thank you so much Brittany for cheering me up each day with your positivity and beautiful personality and empathy.

Christchurch Hospital

I came into the hospital by ambulance. Thank you to all the caring staff and for the medical attention I received, you are amazing.

Victoria, Orthopaedic Acute Care, Christchurch Hospital

I recently spent a few hours in the Orthopaedic Acute Care portion of the Emergency Department and had the pleasure of having Victoria as my nurse. While I was in immense pain, Victoria always came into the room cheerful, and nothing was an issue for her. While I could tell the staff were busy and understaffed, she answered my call bell incredibly quickly and when I asked for pain relief, she came back with meds in tow within five minutes. It was an absolute pleasure having her as my nurse. She’s an amazing human and was made to be a nurse.

Gynaecology, Christchurch Women’s Hospital

Though very apprehensive about having this procedure I was immediately put at ease. Everything was well explained with patience and kindness. I felt safe and supported and so did my husband as my support person. Thank you.

Evenjaline, WellFood, Christchurch Hospital

Catering Assistant Evenjaline gives the best service. She goes above and beyond her role and makes me (patient) feel comfortable. I will never forget her kind words and service.

Orthopaedics, Christchurch Hospital

All staff were 100 percent in their attitude, efficiency, and professionalism.

Emergency Department (ED), Christchurch Hospital

I would like to thank the triage nurse who offered to talk privately while explaining why my teenage daughter was here when he realised it was about mental health and self-harm. I don’t know his name but thank you for your sensitivity.

Ward B8, Christchurch Hospital

A special thank you to the kind staff of Ward B8 – Dagmar, and Janine, for their caring and professionalism; Cleaner Kamala, for her kind interest; Colin for taking the time to chat with us; Srey, for referring us to resources and the chat; Natasha, for doing the operation and chatting to us as a family; Annie, the physiotherapist; and Steve, for his dedication.

Ward 18, Christchurch Hospital

Thank you all so much for taking care of my partner. We really appreciate everything you have done. To Vicky, thank you so much for teaching my partner breathing techniques and being there for him when I couldn’t be. I can’t thank you enough. From the bottom of our hearts, thank you so much.

Ward B4, Christchurch Hospital

I appreciated the care and support I received, including that from the healthcare assistants, doctors, nurses, and catering assistants. The food was enjoyable. Thank you for the care. I never felt ‘unwanted’, everyone was very positive towards me.

Steve, Ward B8, Christchurch Hospital

A special thank you to Steve for taking such good care of [patient name] while he was in Ward B8. Keep up the good work Steve!

Ward 24, Christchurch Hospital

Thank you for caring for our mother. The nursing staff have been very kind and caring. With us being overseas, we appreciated the communication.

Wards A7 and B7, Christchurch Hospital

We would like to extend our sincerest thanks to Hemal Kodikara, Rachel Clarke, Rosie Lane, Richard Collins and all the amazing paediatric nurses and support staff for looking after our daughter and her sister. We were blown away by the amazing care we received during a stressful time. Words can't describe how impressed we were with all the staff involved in their care. It was world class! Thank you so much!

Kennedy Detox Unit, Hillmorton

An unexpectedly pleasant experience, everyone is very helpful and experienced in this support. Thank you sincerely.

Francesca and Vicky, Christchurch Opioid Recovery Service, Hillmorton

I’d just like to say that Francesca Hayes and Vicky Chaplin are the most amazing, awesome, caring staff I know, Thank you so much.

Canterbury charity appeal to create a better space for kids

The unveiling of a sculpture in central Christchurch has marked the beginning of a major public appeal to raise $1 million for a better outpatient space for Canterbury children and young people needing mental health support.

Every month around 400 children and youth are referred for specialist support for their mental health. Current outpatient facilities where they are cared for are old, cramped and not fit-for-purpose.

Spearheaded by Māia Health Foundation, the Better Space Appeal is part of Māia’s commitment to raise $6 million for a new outpatient space in Canterbury, which will be called Kahurangi meaning “blue skies”.

It will be home to Canterbury’s Child, Adolescent and Family (CAF) outpatient service, which provides mental health services for children and young people up to 18 years of age.

The $16 million facility is being jointly funded and developed by Māia Health Foundation and Te Whatu Ora Waitaha Canterbury. So far Māia has raised $4.2 million – the Better Space Appeal is part of the final push to reach the $6 million goal.

“Our kids are in crisis, with huge demand for our mental health services. We urgently need a better space for our kids to receive the help they so desperately need. By supporting Māia’s Better Space Appeal together, as a community, we can build that space,” says Māia Health Foundation CEO Michael Flatman.

The work being done on the frontline daily at the current CAF facilities to change lives and give hope to our young people and their whānau is incredible, despite battling old, outdated buildings, says Rātā Foundation Chief Executive Leighton Evans.

“Kahurangi will take how staff give, and rangatahi receive and experience, that care to another level.”

All donations to the Better Space Appeal will be doubled thanks to Rātā Foundation, which has promised to match every dollar donated up to $500,000.

Leighton says it was a no-brainer to join forces again with Māia for this appeal.

“We encourage the public to get behind it, knowing the Rātā contribution will be directly at the level of community support.”

Around 70 Canterbury primary and high school students gathered by the Bridge of Remembrance for the launch last week, during which a sculpture, carved by acclaimed Māori artist Fayne Robinson, was unveiled. The 2.1 metre high by 2.3 metre wide steel and tōtara sculpture, supported by Westpac, will be on display by the Bridge of Remembrance for four weeks. It will eventually be installed at the new outpatient space.

The unveiling of a sculpture by Māori artist Faye Robinson in Cashel Mall last week

Attending the launch were Kathryn and Jack Robinson, a mother and son who are bravely sharing their story in support of the Better Space Appeal. Jack was treated by the Child, Adolescent and Family mental health team during 2020 when his mind was “taken over” by obsessive compulsive disorder.

“I was lost, and I didn’t know if I was ever going to get back to the normal me. I owe the CAF team everything. To put it lightly, they’ve saved me,” says Jack.

Kathryn says there were times she just couldn’t see how Jack was ever going to get better.

“I was absolutely broken with a completely broken son. Now I have a son who is happy, healthy, whole, and working towards his dreams at university. I’m so grateful to CAF and all they’ve done for Jack and our family, to give him a future he deserves.”

Kathryn says a new outpatient space will give more families hope while Jack says he’s excited to know there will be a brand new space where young people can feel comfortable and where they can get well.

Over the last 10 years, the number of children and young people seen by specialist mental health teams in Canterbury has increased 121 percent, compared to a 34 percent increase for adult mental health. In the 12 months to the end of June 2023, 4,638 children and young people were referred to the CAF service in addition to the service’s current caseload.

“We’re seeing more young people than ever before needing help with their mental health, and the complexity and severity of their troubles has increased. The young people we see are very unwell,” says Child, Adolescent and Family Service Manager Deborah Selwood.

Because of the complexity, they are needing to be seen more often to help them recover, with the CAF service having a 157 percent increase in clinical interactions over the last decade.

There has also been a 36 percent increase in CAF emergency assessments from 2020 to 2023, with the service seeing an average of 72 emergency presentations each month. These are young people who are high risk, extremely unwell and many need to be seen urgently.

CAF Clinical Psychologist Amy Edwards says many young people she works with are being robbed of their childhood.

“Their mental health is taking over their days. I’ve had many young people tell me they just don’t want to be alive. It’s heart-breaking for the young person and their family.

“Being able to welcome them into a beautiful new space made with young people in mind, where we can offer modern treatments in a cohesive way, it’s going to be a game-changer. I know it will make a true difference to so many lives,” Amy says.

Michael says our mental health workforce is doing all it can to respond to the increasing demand, but they are hamstrung by the outdated facilities. Supporting Māia’s Better Space Appeal will change that.

“Please donate to the Better Space Appeal. Invest in the future of our young people and our city by giving our most vulnerable young people a welcoming, purpose-designed, world-class space where we can support their wellbeing and recovery.”

Fit out works at the new outpatient space start this month with the new Child, Adolescent and Family outpatient facility due to be complete in mid-2024. For further information or to give to Māia’s Better Space Appeal go to www.betterspace.org.nz.

Day Centre enjoys doggie visitor

A four-legged fluffball was warmly welcomed at the Elizabeth Street Day Centre in Ashburton last Thursday.

Brigid, a two-and-a-half-year-old Spoodle (Cocker Spaniel cross Poodle) who is part of the Canine Friends Pet Therapy organisation, attended the afternoon gathering with her human, Kathleen Stringer.

With only women at the centre on the day, Brigid was showered with pats and cuddles from the ladies and enjoyed the attention, but wasn’t too keen to relinquish her hold on a pink fabric bone toy. She only dropped it long enough to have a willing playmate throw it back up in the air for her to catch again.

Several of the ladies, who regularly attend the Day Centre, are dog owners themselves, either now or in the past, and were eager to have a cuddle with Brigid and learn more about her breed and what therapy dogs do.

Brigid certainly charmed her audience and there were smiles all round.

The Elizabeth Street Day Centre on the Ashburton Hospital campus aims to provide opportunities for seniors to maximise their abilities, which enables them to live in their own home for as long as possible. All the members of the centre currently live independently but have complex health needs. These may include varying degrees of dementia, mobility issues, stroke, or other health problems. They are referred to the centre by their general practice or health practitioner and may attend one or more days per week.

The centre is open Monday to Friday, between 10am and 3pm and offers a range of services including:

› Socialisation

› Relative/caregiver relief

› Arts, crafts, and handiwork

› Assistance with skills for daily living

› Recreational activities and outings

› Individualised care

Members are transported to and from the centre and are provided morning and afternoon tea, as well as a hot, nutritious lunch.

The team working at the centre are passionate about what they do and the care of their elderly members. From the bus driver who transports the members, to the team on site coordinating the Day Centre, they all look out for the seniors and observe and report any changes of concern to their health providers.

Day Care Coordinator Sue Hopkins says that the Day Centre has a positive impact on the seniors who attend. Not only do the activities and interactions provide important mental stimulation and physical movement, but they bring joy and create wonderful memories.

Elizabeth Street Day Centre member Raynor Adams pats Brigid who is in the lap of her owner Kathleen Stringer

Elizabeth Street Day Centre member Mary Morris has a cuddle with Therapy Dog Brigid

Mental Health Awareness Week

Mental Health Awareness Week (MHAW) has been run annually by the Mental Health Foundation since 1993. It’s marked in over 150 countries and this year, in New Zealand is held between 18 and 24 September.

In recent years our attitude to mental health has evolved. Although we still have a long way to go, there is more discussion and awareness about issues such as depression, loneliness, stress, and anxiety and how they affect our personal and professional lives. There is more understanding and empathy for people experiencing mental illness and distress, but still much to be done to provide appropriate support and care to those who need it.

This year’s Mental Health Awareness Week theme is ‘Five Ways, Five Days’.

With so many people experiencing uncertainty and feeling overwhelmed, the five ways for five days provide a set of proven tools to boost our mental health when we need it.

Take Notice | Me Aro Tonu – Monday

Take notice refers to the practice of mindfulness. Mindfulness can be thought of as open and receptive attention to, and awareness of, what is occurring in the present moment.

Give | Tukua – Tuesday

Give refers to actions based on kindness, altruism, or generosity. Carrying out acts of kindness boosts our happiness, life satisfaction, and overall wellbeing.

Be Active | Me Kori Tonu – Wednesday

Widely recognised as being crucial for physical health and fitness, being active is also a powerful mood booster. Being active can not only make us feel good, but it also enhances our thinking and learning abilities.

Connect | Me Whakawhanaunga – Thursday

Connection is the ngākau/heart of our wellbeing. It weaves us together, making us feel seen, heard, and understood. When we nurture meaningful connections with others, we fuel our own happiness.

Keep Learning | Me Ako Tonu – Friday

Keep learning refers to ‘exercising our mind’ –almost like taking our brain to the gym. Any activity that challenges our thinking and expands our consciousness improves our ability to think.

Learn more about the five ways and Mental Health Awareness Week here.

New kitchen equipment a game-changer

After almost 20 years at Ashburton Hospital, Hospitality Services Manager Steph Radford had become accustomed to the equipment she and her team had to work with in the kitchen.

Steam-powered by the old coal furnace, the staff had to deal with what Steph describes as “ancient equipment” and an unreliable heat source. In preparation for the transfer to power generated by the new energy centre, which is scheduled for completion in mid-2024, the Ashburton Hospital kitchen undertook a major refurbishment. In June of this year the kitchen converted to electricity and installed new, state-of-the-art cooking appliances.

Watching Café Assistant and Cook Leab Nou whip up a delicious noodle stir fry for the cafeteria in the new iVario Pro, she told us what a difference the new equipment has made.

“It’s faster, easier and the food is so much better.”

The iVario Pro is a multi-function cooking appliance that serves as a pan, boiler, and pressure cooker, all operated with touch screen technology. With a tilting function, built in tap and drain, it is also safer

for the staff who do not need to do any heavy lifting or moving of the gear to clean it.

Self-stirring kettles and high-tech multi-functional ovens have also eased the physical workload of the small team which produces hundreds of meals daily.

Steph, along with Kitchen Supervisor Viv Leis, was part of a committee who visited comparable

Cafeteria Assistant and Cook Leab Nou with the new iVario Pro

The new multi-functional ovens have settings that cook food to perfection

Self-stirring kettles have made the preparation of soups, custard, and other sauces much easier

kitchens that generate a high volume of quality meals, to research what would best suit their needs.

The removal of the old kitchen equipment and the installation of the new, along with a new switchboard, took a team of installers, plumbers, builders, electricians, and floorers six days to complete. During this process, the kitchen team had to use all their ingenuity to cook tasty meals using minimal appliances. They managed to do it and received positive feedback from the consumers too.

“It was hard work to produce meals during the installation process, but the team did a great job. It was worth it because we’re thrilled with the result,” says Steph.

“The new equipment produces food twice as fast and with so much more flavour.”

Viv agrees and says that the more automated cooking process is much more user-friendly.

“We are also future proofing because it is safer, and we can cope so much better if we have any staff shortages.”

The Ashburton Hospital kitchen operates seven days a week and produces meals for the hospital patients, Meals on Wheels, the Elizabeth Street Day Centre, Turangi House (aged residential care home) and the hospital cafeteria.

The iVario Pro serves as a pan, boiler and a pressure cooker - all with touchscreen technology

Safety Check Bundle helping reduce falls in Older Persons Health wards

Safe Mobility September is a good opportunity to celebrate some of the improvement initiatives which are helping to reduce falls in our hospitals –and the Safety Check Bundle is a great example. In 2018 Ward CG at Burwood Hospital developed the ‘Never Alone Project’ as an initiative to reduce the number of falls occurring in their ward. The project was re-evaluated and re-launched in 2020 as the Safety Check Bundle – a combination of safe mobility strategies that aim to reduce the incidence of falls in high-risk patients.

In the last three months this has been rolled out to Ward DG (Stroke Rehabilitation) and is about to be modified before being made available to other Older Persons Health and Rehabilitation (OPH&R) inpatient wards. Ward D1 (Orthopaedic Rehabilitation) has a similar model in place but plans to use parts of the Safety Check Bundle to support their processes.

Ward DG Charge Nurse Manager Robert Jennings says there are some challenges with using the bundle, but there have been fewer falls in the time since it has been in place.

“The nursing team all feel that it’s a really good idea and are recording in TrendCare to demonstrate the time required for improved safety. It needs to be everyone’s responsibility.”

Data shows that the first 24 hours is the riskiest time for patients admitted to a new environment and most of the falls in OPH&R happen in bathrooms. Strategies for patients include:

› Not left alone in the ensuite for the first 24 hours following admission, and then review after this time for continuation or cessation of the strategy

› Use of a room sensor/and or sensor mat for the first 24 hours for all patients after admission, then reviewed for continuation/cessation

› Placing a Red Card outside a patient’s room to provide a visual prompt identifying the high-risk times for that patient. This lets staff see when someone last checked in with the patient to see if they were comfortable or needed anything

SAFETY CHECKS

› Close observation for the first 24 hours if close observation was in place before transfer to the ward, then reviewed for continuation/cessation

› Occupational Therapy assessment and labelling of ensuite equipment with patient details to ensure the right equipment is used for the right person, rather than what was there from previous patient.

› Patient and whānau education around falls risk and how they can help.

The Safety Check Bundle is different from intentional rounding (purposeful hourly communication by a healthcare team member) because it can be done more frequently than hourly and has more direct interventions attached.

The Safety Check Bundle is expected to be completed by all members of the interdisciplinary team during working hours as well as the nursing staff.

Patients and families are provided education around what is expected and how they can help.

What has been obvious for the teams is that it is not a ‘one size fits all’ process, says Nursing Director, Older Person’s Health, Caroline McCullough.

Example of a red card used for a patient who required checks at 15-minute intervals. The nurse will write an ‘O’ or a ‘T’ on the card to show if the patient is (O) out of the room at the check or in (T) therapy

“Strategies still need to be individualised and patient specific, but it works well if completed by the team.”

Staff participation, consumer engagement and inpatient fall rates are being closely monitored by the local Safe Mobility Group as part of the evaluation of this initiative.

To find out more about the Safety Check Bundle you can view the presentation used in the Ward DG roll out here, or get in touch with Clinical Nurse Specialist, Older Persons Health and Rehabilitation, Jane Foster.

World Alzheimer’s Day – be aware of the risk factors

September 21 is World Alzheimer’s Day, part of World Alzheimer’s Month, an international campaign to raise dementia awareness and challenge stigma.

Each year, Alzheimer’s and dementia associations, alongside all those involved in the treatment, care, and support of people living with dementia, from around the world unite to organise advocacy and information provision events.

Local events for the day will include an information display in the Burwood Hospital foyer on Thursday and a one-day Alzheimer’s New Zealand conference “Repositioning Dementia: Let’s get real”.

The focus of this year’s World Alzheimer’s Month is “Never too early, never too late”.

It’s never too early or too late for people to be proactive and take action to reduce their likelihood of developing dementia (mate wareware in te reo Māori), says Burwood Hospital’s Psychiatrist of Old Age Matthew Croucher.

“Although we can’t change our genes or stop ageing there are changes that we can make to reduce our own risk of dementia, and to encourage awareness in those we support”.

There is a growing body of research evidence for 12 potentially modifiable risk factors.

“We might prevent or delay up to 40-50 percent of cases of dementia mate wareware in Aotearoa New Zealand, if we were able to modify all of these risk factors.”

Many of the risk factors are also shared with other non-communicable diseases such as heart disease, cancer, diabetes, and chronic respiratory diseases. Continuing to be aware of these factors after a diagnosis of dementia might also have a positive benefit, he says.

“Keeping active, eating well, and engaging in social activities all promote good brain health and may reduce your risk of developing dementia. What’s good for the heart is good for the brain. So, for example, avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol can lower your risk of both dementia and heart disease.

“There are two really positive messages in this. The first is that little things that you do can make a difference. The second is that there are so many things that can make a difference that it means there are lots of options,” Matthew says.

More information about the 12 key risk factors can be found on the New Zealand Dementia Foundation website: here

QUIZ ANSWERS – The Rocky Horror Picture Show

1. c. They had a tyre blow out

2. b. Riff Raff

3. d. A newspaper

4. c. He was his uncle

5. a. Rob Muldoon

6. b. And then a step to the right

7. c. Just seven days

8. b. Majors

9. a. True. Right now, somewhere in the world, a movie theatre is still screening The Rocky Horror Picture Show

10. b. Dammit Janet, d. Over at the Frankenstein Place, a. Time Warp and c. Hot Patootie – Bless my Soul

New Zealand Chinese Language Week

New Zealand Chinese Language Week (NZCLW) 17 – 23 September is an initiative launched in 2014 to empower Chinese language learning in this country.

The aim of the week is to help bridge the gap and create cultural and linguistic relationships between China and New Zealand by promoting practical and engaging activities to support Kiwis to learn Chinese.

According to the 2018 New Zealand census nearly five percent of the population identify as Chinese and 36 percent speak Northern Chinese Mandarin, 20 percent speak Cantonese, just under seven percent speak other varieties of Chinese and just under a quarter of all Chinese New Zealanders do not speak any form of Chinese language.

Language is an important part of someone’s culture and identity and connects people to their homeland, past, present and future. The diversity of language is what makes our multicultural society rich and interesting. With so many people migrating, living abroad and travelling the world, knowing another language, even just a few words or phrases, can create that sense of manaakitanga (hospitality) and whanaungatanga (connection).

There is no doubt that learning a foreign language can be difficult, it takes time and practice, and we only learn by trying and getting things wrong. When we are being positively curious and empowering people to teach and share with us something that is important to them, whether that is their language, culture, faith or diverse identity, we open doors to learning and a shared journey of discovery.

It is proven that shared learning can have a positive impact on any skill development so, if possible, find someone to learn with.

There are some great resources available to download including NZCLW Poster | NZCLW Phrases Poster | NZCLW National Dumplings Day Poster

For more information visit the official New Zealand Chinese Language Week website: https://www. nzclw.com/

Research studying community pharmacy-led advice and care for knee osteoarthritis

A Health Research Council funded study is trialling the effectiveness of providing evidence-based information and pathways through their community pharmacy to care for those with knee osteoarthritis.

Lead researcher Associate Professor Ben Darlow of the University of Otago, Wellington, says knee osteoarthritis (OA) affects one in four New Zealand adults.

“Surgery is an option for some, but there is a gap in the provision of accessible, ongoing care and advice for most people living with knee OA.”

Ben and his colleagues have partnered with Canterbury Community Pharmacy Group, the Midland Community Pharmacy Group, and community clinicians to trial the Knee Care for Arthritis through Community Pharmacy Service (KneeCAPS).

The initiative identifies people with knee OA in a community pharmacy setting and provides them with an information booklet (developed by the research team and guided by research with consumers, clinicians, arthritis advocates and pharmacists); access to a dedicated website; and pathways to ongoing care. Care includes access to physiotherapists, dietitians, and pharmacists reviewing medications.

The four-year Health Research Council (HRC) project began in 2022. The programme is being trialled at 24 pharmacies across the Waitaha Canterbury and Waikato regions. More than 230 people have so far joined the study. Initial results are expected in early 2025.

“We will test whether KneeCAPS reduces pain, impairment, and costs. We aimed recruit equal numbers of Māori and nonMāori participants to ensure that KneeCAPS advances Māori health,”Ben says.

The KneeCAPS trial phase follows years of research that explored consumer understanding and needs, and the role of community pharmacy in delivering this type of healthcare. Findings from these studies, published from 2018 onwards, include:

› Patients with knee OA interviewed believed (incorrectly) the condition was a result of ‘wear and tear’ and they had little ability to influence the rate of decline and surgery was the only effective solution. Improved information could help guide positive health behaviour

› Consumers, clinicians and arthritis advocates positively rated an information booklet developed by the interdisciplinary research team.

› A feasibility study of the KneeCAPS programme found community pharmacies worked well as a setting for identifying people with knee OA (using pre-determined clinical criteria) and providing access to evidence-based resources and ongoing care.

Canterbury Community Pharmacy Group General Manager Aarti Patel says that KneeCAPS is an example of the growing role of community pharmacy in delivering care to maintain New Zealanders’ health and wellbeing. Pharmacists and their staff are trusted members of communities and invested in delivering evidence-based, accessible care.

To find out more about the initiative or see research papers contact ben.darlow@otago.ac.nz or aarti.patel@ccpg.org.nz

Lead researcher Associate Professor Ben Darlow of the University of Otago, Wellington

Pānui – Notices

Something For You

Something for You is the Te Whatu Ora - Waitaha Canterbury employee benefits programme. The deals offered are from the New Zealand business community to say thank you for all that you do. Please see below offers for you.

GREENROOTS JUICERY - www.greenrootsjuicery. co.nz

Offering cold-pressed, local, organic juice cleanses juice packs and wellness shots. Get 20 percent off all products online. See discount code here.

MOLE CHECK - 1143 Aikmans Road, Merivale

Get 22 percent off the standard full mole check rate ($230 per patient, usually $295 per patient). Show your staff ID to redeem.

AIRPARK CANTERBURY – 17-25 Logistics Drive, Harewood

Receive 10 percent off all services. Show your staff ID to redeem.

KŌRURE PETS - www.korurepets.com

Receive 15 percent off the entire product range (excluding subscriptions and bundles). Use the discount code here when ordering online

CCN’s latest newsletter is out now.

Read Jane Cartwright’s first introduction in the role of CCN Executive Director; a recent general practice survey; an update on the Kia Kotahi Partnership in Design framework and much more here

SPECIALIST DEMENTIA EDUCATION SERIES

Topic: For Adult Children/Relatives of People with Dementia

The direct link for the Zoom meeting is in the email sent with this invite Meeting ID: 898 6596 4317

Passcode: 902 292

PleasPlease ensure you register for this popular session, as space is limited. Ph (03) 379 2590 ext 212 or 0800 444 776 or email donna@dementiacanterbury org nz e ensure you register for this popular session, as space is limited.

Please note: because this is an Online Only event there is no need to register. If you have any questions please contact donna@dementiacanterbury.org.nz or call 03 379 2590 ext. 212

Please ensure you register for this popular session, as space is limited. Ph (03) 379 2590 ext 212 or 0800 44Please ensure you register for this popular session, as space is limited. Ph (03) 379 2590 ext. 212 or 0800 444 776 or email donna@dementiacanterbury org nz

Ph (03) 379 2590 ext 212 or 0800 444 776 or email donna@dementiacanterbury org nz

presents B7 FEST

Sweatember is back for 2023!

Join us for SWEAT FEST- bring your whānau, friends and wider community to come and walk, run, skate or dance laps of the park!

When: Saturday 23rd September 10am-2pm

Where: South Hagley Park - opposite Waipapa Hospital

B7 is the paediatric Cystic Fibrosis ward for young people living with CF in Canterbury and the West Coast. This year we have challenged ourselves to complete the 3,000km Te Araroa trail!

Spot prizes, baking, sausage sizzle

To find out more or to donate to this awesome causeplease follow the QR code