Issue 3 April 2013
One &All Royal Cornwall Hospitals
NHS Trust
VI
NG W OR KIN
G
Governors
Meet our New Win Theatre tickets
I M P RO
Celebrating 21 years of RCHT
LIVES
NEWS / TRUST PEOPLE / GRAPEVINE / MEMBERS / VOLUNTEERS / patient story
An Extra 5% off sale prices to NHS staff and Foundation Trust members, on Furniture, Sofas and Beds**.
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CONTENTS www.rcht.nhs.uk
One &All Royal Cornwall Hospitals NHS Trust
One and All is published quarterly every January, April, July and October. Copy date for each issue is approximately six weeks before publication.
TRUST VIEW 4
My View 7
Trust People News & Views
9
In Focus RCHT’s 21 years
12
Grapevine Improving Working Lives news and initiatives
19
Volunteering Working Together, Long Service Awards
22
Membership News Your Governors
24
Charitable Funds Phoenix Appeal update and donations
26
Did You Know? Down’s syndrome Screening Service is 21
30
Patient Story Making the transition
32
INSIDE OUT Marathon, Fencing support, Gaza training news
Advertsing Zara Media 01392 201227 grant@zaramedia.co.uk
Happy Birthday to One & All!
CONTENTS
Karen Watkins: Confidence in Maternity Services
Design Edgemoor Design 01837 659224 simon@edgemoordesign.co.uk
PRINTING FourwayPrinting 01566 771950 info@fourwayprint.com
DISCLAIMER Whilst every effort has been made to ensure that adverts and articles appear correctly. Edgemoor Publishing cannot accept responsibility for any loss or damage caused directly or indirectly by the contents of this publication. The views expressed in this magazine are not necessarily those of its publisher or editor.
Chairman Martin Watts & Chief Executive Lezli Boswell
Editorial Communications, Bedruthan House 01872 253216 oneandall@cornwall.nhs.uk
35
RCHT is 21 years old and over the next six months we will be holding a series of events to celebrate and recognise the vital work of our NHS hospitals. A programme of events can be found on page 5 and I hope you will be able to join us and support us in the year ahead. In this edition of ‘One & All’ we look back at 21 years of serving the people of Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly. The NHS has changed significantly over the years and RCHT has had its fair share of ups and downs. The magazine is packed full of memories and views of the Trust as we look back and forward to RCHT in the 21st century. We also have a feature on our new 21 Governors – 16 of whom have been elected by you – our staff and public members. This marks a significant change in the way RCHT operates and I hope much more say for our patients, staff and stakeholders on the services we provide. I hope you enjoy reading our quarterly magazine and welcome all feedback. Thank you for your continued support. Garth Davies Associate Director, Communications at RCHT. oneandall@cornwall.nhs.uk
OUR PARTNERS RNAS Culdrose SAR 60, Healthwatch Cornwall
36
WHAT’S ON Diary Dates, Spot the Difference
38
One and All 3
TRUST VIEW
A joint message from Chairman Martin Watts and Chief Executive Lezli Boswell The 1st April marks the start of not only a new financial year but also what will be a very significant milestone in the Trust’s history. • •
RCHT Board 2013: Martin, front row (left) & Lezli front row (centre)
2013 is the 21st Anniversary of the founding of RCHT which we want to celebrate with our local community in the appropriate manner – to include a public open day and a Thanksgiving Service at Truro Cathedral (details of our 21st anniversary events can be found on page 5). With the Trust remaining resolutely focused on further improving the quality of the care and services provided to our patients, it will also be the year that we confidently anticipate achieving our long held ambition of becoming an NHS Foundation Trust (FT). That successful result when it comes, has only been made possible through the outstanding efforts and dedicated
4 One and All
hard work of everyone working at RCHT, and on behalf of all our Board colleagues may we thank you all. As we should not lose the importance of becoming an FT amidst the many activities and pressures that we all deal with on a day to day basis, we would wish to underline the key reasons why this is such an important next step in the Trust’s long term development and ambition. • •
Cornwall needs to have its own ‘Acute’ Hospitals Foundation Trust provider. It ensures the opportunity that integrated care can be provided by the NHS.
It gives confidence and clarity to our staff about the Trust’s long terms plans. It allows the Trust to re-invest its financial surpluses back into the organisation through its development of its staff, its medical equipment, its information technology and its buildings.
As we move forward to meeting and hopefully exceeding the 2013/14 targets of our five year Strategic Plan published last year, we will be working ever closer with our two key partner stakeholders, NHS Kernow, the new GP led commissioning body that has replaced the former Primary Care Trust, and Cornwall Council. It is clear to us all that the required improvement to patient care can only be achieved throughout the county if significant progress is made to better integrate patient pathways and manage ‘unscheduled’ care across the whole health and social care system. That is the number one priority for 2013/14. In conclusion, with the continuing support of our hugely talented and dedicated clinicians and supporting workforce, together with that of our new, twenty-one strong ‘shadow’ Council of Governors and our stakeholders, we are confident and excited that 2013 is going to be a particularly memorable year for the Trust for many very good and different reasons. Thank you all for making that possible. n
Pathology
Cardiology Emergency department
Join us in celebration and support your local NHS hospitals in our 21st year.
More info: www.rcht.nhs.uk or
Paediatric Inpatient Endoscopy
Gastroenterology Endocrine
Orthopaedics Paediatrics Neurology
Surgery Trauma Psychiatric liaison
Medical admissions Oncology Inpatient
Theatres
Maternity Emergency
Haematology Hip Critical care Ophthalmology Surgical admissions Renal
Anaesthetics
Respiratory
Ear Nose Throat
Orthopaedics X-ray Bariatrics
Acute stroke
Rheumatology X-ray Urology Emergency theatres
Sexual Health Medical Physics
Critical care
Outpatient clinics Dermatology Skin
Gynaecology
Neonatal Endoscopy
Pharmacy Gastroenterology
Cancer Care Orthodontics
Inpatient Imaging and diagnostics
Acute pain
Respiratory
Medicine Immunology
Therapy audiology
Vascular
Radiology
Diabetes Gastrointestinal
Eldercare
Acute pain services
Physiotherapy Obstetrics
Physiotherapy
JUN
30
RCHT Open Day: 21st Century Healthcare
JUL
04
Long Service Awards: Celebrating 21 years service
JUL
tbc
Family Fun Day
SEP
26
Annual General Meeting: RCHT at 21
OCT
13
Thanksgiving Service in Truro Cathedral at 2pm
NOV
07
‘Extra Mile’ Excellence & Innovation Awards
DEC
07
Christmas Dinner Dance
Royal Cornwall Hospitals Trust
COMING SOON
at Hall for Cornwall Tue 7 to Sat 11 May
Birdsong A mesmerising story of love, courage and sacrifice is now brought to the stage in this critically acclaimed version of Sebastian Faulks’ bestselling novel.
Win tickets to see
Fri 17 & Sat 18 May
Birmingham Royal Ballet Birmingham Royal Ballet returns with a brilliant programme of world-class dance. Featuring: Pineapple Poll, Lyric Pieces & Bitesized Ballet.
Mon 20 to Sat 25 May
The Mousetrap First ever UK tour A classic. A landmark. A legend. “The cleverest murder mystery of British Theatre” The Telegraph
EP TO KEDATE O UP-T H HFC WIT OUR JOIN ING MAIL T LIS
Box Office 01872 262466 www.hallforcornwall.co.uk Hall for Cornwall, Lemon Quay, Truro, TR1 2LL
James and the Giant Peach Tue 28 May – Sat 1 June James lives with Aunt Sponge and Aunt Spiker, the most revolting Aunts in England. They make him work and slave and never let him play with other children. Then one day he meets a mystical old man who gives him a bag that contains the strongest magic the world has ever known. When James accidentally spills the bag near an old peach tree, the most incredible things start to happen – and James embarks on the adventure of a lifetime with the most amazing group of characters you could ever meet! The Birmingham Stage Company proudly presents Roald Dahl’s amazing story, following its acclaimed productions of George’s Marvellous Medicine and Horrible Histories. If you’re looking for fruitfilled fun and wizzpopping wonders, then don’t miss James and his Giant Peach! For a chance to win Two tickets to see James and the Giant peach just answer this simple question: What are the names of the two Aunts that James lives with?
To enter, please send your answer along with your name, home address, or Department and extension number to oneandall@cornwall.nhs.uk or send it to: One & All Magazine, c/o Press Office, Bedruthan House, RCH There will be just one winner, no cash equivalent prizes. The competition is open to RCHT staff only, excluding those associated with the competition. The prize is non-transferable and is available to entrants aged 18 and above. Al entries must be made by 21st May 2013. The decision of the Press Office is final and no correspondence will be entered into.
MY VIEW www.rcht.nhs.uk
Karen Watkins, Consultant Obstetrician says women can have confidence in high performing maternity services
Karen Watkins at a BBC Radio Cornwall phone-in with presenter Julie Skentelbery
I
n recent weeks the Obstetric and Gynaecology service at RCHT has come under intense public scrutiny with news that concerns about a former Consultant should have been dealt with firmer and faster. The Trust has apologised unreservedly to all those affected and current Chief Executive, Lezli Boswell has thanked all those patients and staff who spoke out and raised the concerns. Today, RCHT has stronger governance and a daily focus on the quality of care with recognition locally and nationally that the organisation is already in a different place to just a few years ago. Consultant Obstetrician, Karen Watkins has been at the trust for just over five years and is part of a maternity service that is one of the safest and best performing in the country – a fact that may surprise some given the recent headlines. Karen says: “Nationally, RCHT performs very well compared to other maternity services in terms of safe births and good outcomes. We also receive excellent feedback from women.” In response to recent media reports she says: “Our focus is the women in our care who need our support and need to have confidence in the team. I know that some women will be more anxious and that is sad when actually the team as a whole has a very good track record.” The team has just achieved the highest level of certification from the NHS Litigation Authority for its clinical standards, putting
the Trust in the top 10% in the country. In 2012, Cornwall became the first UNICEF Baby Friendly county in the UK in recognition of support for families and promoting breastfeeding. This is alongside accolades such as local hero award, a national MUMS Award, becoming the first unit in the UK to get a ‘Green Flag’ for the first trimester Down’s syndrome screening service and international recognition for their work on cell salvage. Karen says: “Our ethos is to keep things as normal as possible for the mums-to-be and not medically intervene unless needed. We have a low number of caesareans and a relatively high number of home births – another reason why the service is held in high esteem.” Karen does say there is a rising birth rate in Cornwall. In 2011/12, 4,801 babies were delivered by the team – a 20% increase since 2000. Karen also says there are increasing complexities in Obstetrics such as women with a high Body Mass Index, multiple pregnancies and more demand by women for their labours to be induced. Karen’s main message is that women can have confidence to talk to the RCHT team. She talks of their vast experience: “I encourage all our women just to talk to us throughout and be open about their fears and expectations. We are here to listen and support our mums and dads so they can have the very best experience.” Karen is optimistic about the future and the plans for a new birth centre and bigger neo-natal unit at RCHT - increasing capacity and the options available to women in addition to the birth centres at Penrice and Helston. Karen is totally committed to her work and providing the very best care. She admits that at times the role is demanding and challenging emotionally but that the good days far outweigh the bad: “It is just such a privilege to do my job. We have a good close team who work tirelessly to support new mums and dads and it is a wonderful experience to be a part of bringing a new baby into the world. I never forget how lucky we are or the thanks from the families we help.” n One and All 7
Getting you to the
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escape for the day or stay a while
BIS UR
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Isles of Scilly
AT L A N D ’ S
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Located just 28 miles off the Cornish Coast it’s perfect for a day trip or longer. Cruise to the islands onboard the newly refurbished Scillonian III or take a short Skybus flight from Land’s End, Newquay or Exeter Airports. Whichever route you choose, you’ll enjoy the remote beauty of the islands.
Cruise from Penzance or Fly from Land’s End · Newquay · Exeter Call 0845
710 5555 or visit www.ios-travel.co.uk
IOSTravel
Isles of Scilly Travel
Burlesque dinner Time well spent
Slinky Minksy come to Trelissick with their classic burlesque show! Three course meal with entertainment At Trelissick Gardens on: Saturday 29 June £25 per person
e ic ne pr ial y o alf ent Bu h ss ne ng e t o oki ge Bo
Bar opens at 7pm, sit down 7.30pm Booking essential though Alice Watts on 01872 861032 alice.watts@nationaltrust.org.uk The National Trust is an independent charity, number 205846
Your business could benefit from advertising in One & All call 01392 201227
TRUST PEOPLE www.rcht.nhs.uk
new starters Staff Emily Haynes – Dietician Hannah James – Physiotherapist Emma Weir – Clerical Worker Lloyd Gray – Helper/Assistant Shaun Richards – Healthcare Assistant Sarah Howie – Clerical Worker Sarah Jones – Clerical Worker Tamsyn Retallack – Occupational Therapist Dr. Patrick Farrell – Specialty Doctor Dr. Dinuka Kuruppu - Consultant Dr. Richard Morse – Consultant Wen Jia Woo - Pharmacist Mathew Arnold - Assistant Higino Da Palma Lopes - Assistant Alec Sprague - Porter Samantha Broughton - Midwife Ruth Naunton - Midwife Lorraine Rouffignac - Midwife Natalie Martin - Midwife Anna Leaman - Midwife Laura Rogers - Midwife Kathryn Moreton - Midwife Sarah Hadfield - Midwife Tamara Thirlby - Midwife Dr. Xavier Boland – Specialty Registrar Merril Emberson – Sister/Charge Nurse Dr. Rosemund Travell – Specialty Doctor Christopher Burgess – Clerical Worker Dr. Denzil May - Consultant Laura McGarry – Staff Nurse Rebecca McGarry – Staff Nurse Barry Hamblin – Helper/Assistant Helen Wenger – Senior Manager Dr. Andrew Hopper – Consultant Michael Bibb - Assistant Nichola Moy - Assistant
Jonathan Kessell – Healthcare Assistant Christine Clements - Helper/Assistant Jacqueline Riley – Clerical Worker Tara Keat – Technical Instructor Dr. Tamas Ungvari - Consultant Dr. Benjamin Ivory – Specialty Registrar Dr. Joanna Devlin – Specialty Registrar Dr. Kate Northridge – Specialty Registrar Dr. Fiona Hickey – Specialty Registrar Dr. Ian Buchanan – Specialty Registrar Dr. William Fullick – Specialty Registrar Dr. James Eagle – Specialty Registrar Dr. Suzanne Kitson – Specialty Registrar Dr. Samantha Champkins – Specialty Registrar Dr. Sally Edmonds – Specialty Registrar Dr. Rachel Southall - Specialty Registrar Dr. Steve Derry - Specialty Registrar Dr. Tamara Curnow - Specialty Registrar Dr. Dipak Adhikari - Specialty Registrar Dr. Catherine Wolstencroft - Specialty Registrar Louise Simon – Biomedical Scientist Joanne Merrifield – Clerical Worker Stephanie Hancock – Clerical Worker Dr. Nevine Nassif – SHO Victoria Thomason – Clerical Worker Emma Sparks – Clerical Worker Edward Burrows - Assistant Stuart Graves – Helper/Assistant Stephanie Bray – Staff Nurse Russell Tyrie – Healthcare Assistant Dr. Stephanie Gapper –Specialist Registrar Susan Benfield – Clerical Worker Elizabeth Anderson – Midwife Emma Toms - Phlebotomist
Rachael Pollock – Healthcare Assistant
RCHT consultant radiologist named President elect of Royal College of Radiologists
Dr Giles Maskell is currently the Director of Cancer Services at the Royal Cornwall Hospitals NHS Trust and has worked in Cornwall since 1991. He said: “It is a great honour to be elected and my aim is to ensure patients receive the best care clinical radiology and
A Consultant Radiologist from Feock has been elected as the next President of the Royal College of Radiologists.
Lindsey Frost – Healthcare Assistant Felicity Kelly – Clerical Worker Marcel Kelly – Clerical Worker Chloe Tucker – Staff Nurse Tressa Lauder - Technician Deborah Common – Staff Nurse Annette Bishop - Midwife Darren Dunn – Clerical Worker Morwenna Stevens – Healthcare Assistant
Farewell to Dr John Barnes One of our longest serving clinicians, physician Dr John Barnes, has said farewell to RCHT following his retirement in March. John made an impact almost as soon as he arrived as the driving force behind the creation of a renal service for patients in Cornwall and the opening of the Duchess of Cornwall Renal Unit
Voluntary Services RCH:
in 1988.
Meghan Barlow, October Rose Brown,
He was among our first
Florence Martin, Jenny Molden, Barbara
clinical directors, playing a major
Howcroft, Chris Pascoe, Susan Parr,
role in the Trust’s development
Anna Burton, Paul Charnock, Michael
and in more recent years John
Cross, Ian Dunn, Andrew Hesser, Karen
focussed his expertise on the
Matijasevic, Richard Sidney, Monica Thomas, Angela Williams, Jennifer Woodford, Holly Streeter, Stephanie Towan, Simon Taylor, Lauren Taylor-King, Jean Cooke, Andrea Howe, Annabel Coot, Amanda Dickson, Sarah Chaplin, Sue Gidney, Harry Haward, Christine
care of medical emergencies and setting up of the Medical Admissions Unit. A well-known face at RCHT for 27 years, John will be greatly missed by colleagues and patients alike.
Martindale, Paul Graham, Sarah Ingle, Jodie Huntriss, Olwyn Sedgeman.
Voluntary Services WCH: Christine Martindale, Paul Graham, Sarah Ingle, Jodie Huntriss, Olwyn Sedgeman. WCH: Trevor Hogben, Wendy Osborne, Ann Jeffery, Annette McDonald.
clinical oncology can offer. I look forward to serving the college and representing the Fellows and members over the next three years.” Dr Maskell will take over from the current president, Dr Jane Barrett, at the college’s Annual General Meeting which will be held in September.
One and All 9
TRUST PEOPLE
Awareness Weeks Cervical Cancer Awareness Week Cervical Cancer Awareness Week was marked at the Royal Cornwall Hospital in January by Clinical Nurse Specialists in Gynaecology/ Oncology Emma Kent and Zoe McCollough who provided information for staff and visitors. All week, there were leaflets, fliers and posters in Trelawny entrance giving advice on signs and symptoms and advice on what to do. Emma says: “Last year 23 women in Cornwall were diagnosed with cervical cancer. We are keen to make sure everyone knows the signs and symptoms of cervical cancer and if they have concerns to see their GP. A GP can refer to the colposcopy service here at the Royal Cornwall Hospital where further tests can be carried out.” Emma and Zoe are keen to emphasis the need for women to have smear tests if invited for one and for teenagers to have the HPV vaccination. “The HPV vaccination for teenage girls will hopefully have a positive impact on the numbers of women being diagnosed with cervical cancer in the future. We can’t make it more clear how important these services are.” Symptoms of Cervical Cancer include: Unusual bleeding, pain during sex, unpleasant discharge, pain when passing urine.
Support group marks Endometriosis Awareness Week A group of Cornish women with endometriosis spent three days at RCHT to raise awareness of the condition - where cells like the ones in the lining of the womb are found elsewhere in the body, usually the pelvic region.
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The women, all members of Cornwall Endometriosis Support Group, were marking national Endometriosis Awareness Week with a stall giving information about the condition, the support available and raising funds for their group. In total £500 was raised. Endometriosis Nurse Specialist Cathy Dean was also on hand to provide support. Sara Gadd from Constantine has undergone treatment for the condition. She set up the support group a year ago. She said: “I feel it so important to raise awareness. We are very lucky to have a centre of excellence here in Cornwall and people need to know about it. I don’t know where I’d be without Cornwall Endometriosis centre.” Cathy Dean, Endometriosis Nurse Specialist, said: “We see around 300 women a year at the centre. Most have confirmed endometriosis but we also accept referrals for women who have suspected endometriosis.” For more information on the support group and its meetings or fund raising activities, please contact Sara Gadd via cornwallendometriosis@yahoo.co.uk
Prostate Awareness Week In March to mark Prostate Awareness Week, the Trust’s UroOncology Clinical Nurse Specialists Wendy Myers and Debbie Victor ran a stall in Trelawny entrance providing information and advice. In Cornwall an average of 25 men are diagnosed with prostate cancer each month, the youngest being in their early 40s and the oldest nearly 100. Prostate Cancer is the most common cancer found in men and second leading type of cancer death in men after lung cancer. The disease is treatable if found in its early stages, although there are unlikely to be symptoms at this point. Wendy says: “Having regular checks is vital particularly if you are in a high risk group – whether that’s due to age, nationality or diet. There are simple checks which can be carried out by a GP so don’t delay. “It would be wrong to think of Prostate Cancer as an old man’s disease. 30 per cent of cases are in men under 65 and very often the younger the man, the more aggressive the tumour. This week is a chance for us to get people talking and thinking about prostate cancer.”
TRUST PEOPLE
First of two high spec laminar flow theatres now in action Theatre 11 in Trelawny Wing is now open to for patients as part of a dedicated centre at RCH for complex orthopaedic surgery, taking advantage of the latest spec in laminar flow (clean air) technology. The theatre is also the first in the Trust to have a new form of LED theatre lighting installed. It will provide clearer, shadow-free lighting with a greater range of light intensity and colour spectrum. The smaller size of the light fittings also reduces their impact on the laminar flow system which will change the air in theatre 400 times an hour.
Biomedical Student
Gina Collins, one of RCHT’s Biomedical Scientists has been featured in MyCornwall magazine’s April edition for an article entitled 30 under 30 - recognising talented individuals in the county. Gina, 24, from Redruth has worked at the Trust for the last 18 months and now divides her time between the Royal Cornwall Hospital and St Michael’s Hospital in Hayle.
EPMA Electronic Prescribing and Medicines Administration (EPMA) Project
a safe and accurate way to prescribe medicines. It could also help to speed up discharge prescriptions, meaning patients will be able to leave promptly when discharged as well as reducing missed doses of medications.” Maia O’Neill, Electronic The Royal Cornwall Hospitals Trust Prescribing Nurse Facilitator, said: has become the first in the South “Patient safety is the most important West to introduce an electronic factor and by having the prescription system for prescribing and recording log for each patient on computer, the administration of inpatients’ staff can be sure that what they are medications. seeing is the most accurate up-toThe Electronic Prescribing and date information available as the Medicines Administration (EPMA) system is in real time. The system also project was launched on the children’s reports who has prescribed, what wards at the Royal Cornwall Hospital in they prescribed, and when it was December and a roll out programme given, thereby reducing the chances is now underway across all three of the of someone missing a dose. This is Trust’s sites. obviously good news for patients but Pharmacist Ian Nicholls, who it also means staff can feel confident is leading the project, said: “The in what they are giving. And of course, introduction of e-prescribing will take there will be no more illegible and the Trust one step closer to having full unsigned prescriptions!” electronic records. It’s a very efficient Full training is being provided by way of doing things and will provide the EPMA Project team supported by
the Trust’s IT trainers prior to wards being switched to the system and regular reviews will be carried out throughout the process to address any issues The EPMA team can be contacted via email at Electronic.Prescribing@ cornwall.nhs.uk or for staff requiring more information log on to the EPMA intranet page: http://intra.cornwall.nhs. uk/Intranet/AZServices/E/ ElectronicPrescribing/ ElectronicPrescribing.aspx
EPMA has been a welcome arrival on the children’s wards One and All 11
IN FOCUS
Celebrating
Years
T
he Royal Cornwall Hospitals NHS Trust has seen considerable change since it was founded twenty-one years ago. From a team of 3,000 staff to around 5,000 today and a budget that has grown from £75 million to around £300 million, the advances in technology and medicines, changes in services and the way care is provided are remarkable. Alongside the challenges over the years, there is no denying the improvements in care and treatments on offer. Over 75 percent of patients now have their treatment as day cases, many benefiting from keyhole techniques Physios together in Trelawny that speed up recovery and mean patients need to spend less time in hospital. Waiting times for routine treatments have plummeted from over 18 months to no more than 18 weeks and for many patients often less than this. Consequently the pace of life in our hospitals is faster and with an ageing population the numbers being treated are ever growing. Many more services are offered in community locations, close to or even at home, whilst our hospitals concentrate ever more on the most specialist and complex care. One & All takes a look back with some of our staff who were here at the ‘birth’ of RCHT and shares some of their memories…
12 One and All
Heather Newton RCHT’s first Nurse Consultant, Heather Newton, was one of those whose RCHT careers began at Falmouth Hospital and recalls its hand over to the community trust after the specialist services - including the eye ward and children’s ward - as well as her own dermatology specialty, moved to the Royal Cornwall Hospital site. “The change in the size of the organisation is huge,” says Heather. It was just the Tower Block and maternity wing when I first started. It’s a much busier hospital now and the throughput of patients is much faster. The way services are delivered has changed. Patients stayed in much longer and there were far fewer day cases. That can be quite difficult for some people to come to terms with but overall it’s far better for patients.” “Care has changed a great deal. We never used to have infusion pumps for example, we used to have to count the drips when we were giving intravenous drugs. Ward sisters were more like matrons and its good to see that we are now going back to focus on fundamental clinical care. We do need the monitoring of standards and audits but it is about making sure we get the balance right between clinical care and achieving the quality targets.” TOP Celebrating Nurses day at West Cornwall Hospital 1994 ABOVE Heather Newton marking the arrival of a new era of pressure relieving hospital beds
IN FOCUS
Responsible for the development of the tissue viability service, Heather has been on the front-line of advances in the nursing profession. “There has been fantastic development in specialist nursing posts. Looking at my own area in tissue viability it has really grown. After the ‘Health of the Nation’ document was published in 1995 making a directive to reduce the incidence of pressure ulcers by 5 to 10 percent, tissue viability nurses were employed all over the country,” explains Heather. “Apart from stoma care it was one of the first recognised specialist nursing roles, and many others have since followed.” Heather says she feels lucky to have had opportunities for personal and professional development throughout her career at RCHT. “It’s great to have recognition from medical colleagues who acknowledge nurses as being part of the medical team in complex care. We now have the authority and skill to make decisions on patient care and treatment and to be involved in strategic planning. Just because we’re in Cornwall it doesn’t have to limit our careers but we do have to take the opportunities; they don’t always come to you.”
Mike Regan For consultant orthopaedic surgeon, Mr Mike Regan, his early career at RCHT began at Royal Cornwall Hospital (City) where in 1991 he became the sixth orthopaedic surgeon to be appointed. Winner of an Extra Mile award in 2011, today Mike is one of an 18-strong team. “I do look back with a lot of fondness for my time at City hospital (including the many stories of ghosts in the attic of the old building now on sale as apartments!). I have an enduring vision of beds rolled out into the rose garden, the fountain trickling away and patients having cups of tea and meals outside,” recalls Mike. “There were
TOP St Michael’s Hospital theatres opening 2009 ABOVE The Mermaid Centre
ABOVE After an exhausting move as Dermatology transfer from Falmouth Hospital to their new department at RCH 1994
also the Hip Walks at Trewithen where we raised money for the Wishbone Appeal for orthopaedic research. All the consultants took part and after the patients had walked for a mile we’d have a fayre where the consultants were put in the stocks and other fun activities.” (see Mike pictured left). Those memories of City were in the days when patients routinely spent two weeks in hospital after a hip replacement and commonly waited over 18 months for their operation. Today that same procedure sees most patients home after just four days and their wait for surgery will have been no more than 18 weeks. “The department is much bigger and waiting times have come down,” says Mike. “Surgeons have become more ‘super-specialist’. Everybody used to do a bit of everything but now we focus on a particular joint or procedure. People’s indepth knowledge is better and that helps to move things forward.” There have been major advances in orthopaedic surgery. Far fewer young
trauma patients need endless weeks of traction as modern techniques allow better fixation and pinning of bones. It’s also possible to get joint replacement patients back on their feet much sooner and with a rapid-access service for suitable patients, the whole process, including recovery, is faster. “The numbers of patients have increased dramatically and people’s expectations have gone up. The joint replacements themselves have changed a lot and patients are keen to have them at a much younger age,” says Mike. As RCHT’s centre of excellence for planned orthopaedic surgery, St Michael’s Hospital has been a familiar place of work for Mike. “The nuns used to run the hospital with a rod of iron! It was a big loss when they left the wards but the feeling hasn’t been lost. The new theatre development was great and the wards down there are probably the best in the Trust with their spacious corridors, big windows and lovely views. Patients love going there.”
One and All 13
IN FOCUS
Julie Folkard Like surgeon Mike, Head of the Audiology Service Julie, also started her RCHT career at City Hospital. Her team was among the last to move to the Treliske site before City Hospital shut its doors for the last time at the end of 1999. “Back in 1992 we were a team of just four with a service very much focused on only adult audiology. Now we are a much bigger, multi-disciplinary team, including colleagues from social services, which reflects the numbers of people we are now reaching,” explains Julie. “Back in those days waiting times were routinely over 52 weeks, particularly for patients who already had hearing aids and were waiting for upgrades.” Now the same waits are less than 20 days with some patients able to be fitted with their hearing aid on the same day as assessment. Patients also have access to the same hi-tech digital technology offered by high street retailers but with the added advantage of experienced audiology professionals backed up by specialist consultants and a full ear, nose and throat service. 14 One and All
“Moving to our new department at Treliske in 1999 was a big turning point for audiology,” says Julie. For the first time we had a true sense of being part of the Trust. The new department paved the way for development, with IT playing a major part. At City we had just one computer, now we have about 40! We were also among the first 10 NHS centres in the UK to introduce digital hearing aids which means we have built up a huge amount of expertise.” In 2004 the newborn hearing screening service was established, transforming the whole paediatric audiology service. “We now provide a comprehensive service from cradle to old age,” explains Julie. “There are clear pathways for children so that hearing problems are identified early and followed through for life. The sooner we diagnose a problem the better. It has such a dramatic impact on a child’s development. Babies as young as 10 weeks have had hearing aids fitted and even a cochlear implant assessment at four months.” The team also looks after community clinics for adults and children and took on management of the Hearing Support Workers, a team of about 15 volunteers who go out to adult patients newly fitted with aids to give them support and encouragement in the early days as they adjust to life with hearing aids. “The latest generation of digital hearing aids are very clever,” says Julie. “They are much smaller and NHS patients do have access to cutting edge technology. We look after thousands of patients and see ourselves as providing a service for life.”
Dr Giles Maskell Giles Maskell was part of the team of consultant radiologists when RCHT was founded in 1992. He is a former clinical director of radiology services and has recently been appointed President Elect of the Royal College of Radiologists. “Many patients coming into Treliske think we’re still using the first CT scanner we bought thanks to a charitable appeal 21 years ago,” says Giles. “Then we had one CT and one MRI. Now we have 3 CT’s at Treliske and one at West Cornwall and 2 MRI scanners backed up by a mobile unit. Even now we could still do with more capacity!” Giles reveals that back then ultrasound scanning took place in the small room in which he is being interviewed, just off the main corridor in the Tower Block x-ray suite. This has long been replaced by a purpose-built department in the Trelawny Wing with four scanning rooms as well as outreach services at several locations around the county. Long gone are the 12 month plus waits for scans. “Everything is done within 6 weeks, in many cases much less,” says Giles. “I think a lot of people still don’t realise that you don’t have to go private for a quick service.” One of the biggest changes in the world of radiology has been the advent of digital technology. Lost x-ray films are a thing of
IN FOCUS
TOP LEFT TO RIGHT The ‘Treliske’ to ‘City’ charity bed push 1993. On the move. The law on child safety seats comes into being. Celebrity birth - Steve McFaddn’s daughter arrives unexpectedly early. Fundraising for the Mermaid Appeal at Falmouth Hospital 1995.
the past and now x-rays and scans can be viewed from any networked computer, with clearer pictures and the ability for them to be seen in more than one place at a time. Other areas have also developed. “Interventional radiology has progressed enormously,” explains Giles. “Lots of conditions treated by surgery are now treated in a minimally invasive fashion and possibilities continue to increase. This is extending into the treatment of cancers as well as vascular disease.” “There have also been huge developments for staff. Our advanced practitioner radiographers do some of the reporting and have a much more important role. Ultra-sonographers are no longer limited to obstetrics and now cover a wide range of different applications supported by the radiologists.”
Sue Duncan Sue Duncan is one of the team at St Michael’s Hospital, running the preoperative assessment clinic for all patients coming for day case and inpatient procedures. It’s a key role, setting the first impressions that can determine how patients feel about their whole experience. “When I first came to St Michael’s 28 years ago I was on the nurse bank before being offered a permanent position. I worked on St Michael’s Ward and in those days we did carry out a wider range of surgery,” says Sue. “The mix of patients has changed over the years and we now focus mainly on orthopaedic and breast surgery. Many procedures are now done
as day cases and still require pre-op assessment.” The pre-assessment team was the first to be set up 15 years ago and provides a mix of telephone and face to face consultations, depending on the type of surgery and whether it requires an inpatient stay. The team plays a big part in the accelerated (fast-track) hip and knee service, taking part in the one-stop assessment clinic each Tuesday. “That involves the consultant, occupational therapist, x-ray and the pre-assessment nurses,” Sue explains. “It’s something patients really appreciate. Being given all the information on-the-spot and a decision there and then as to when to expect their operation.” Sue is sure pre-operative assessment is a very cost effective development. She adds, “For example, as part of our multidisciplinary team our OT colleagues can get arrangements in place for when patients go home. Equipment can be ordered and delivered in advance, giving patients a chance to get used to it beforehand.” One big change Sue has noticed is how much better informed patients are by the time they come for their assessment. “They have access to the media and websites and are familiar with the terminology. The majority of patients will do their homework and our role is very much about going over the finer details, giving them reassurance and allaying any fears, as well as ensuring they are fit for surgery.” says Sue.
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IN FOCUS
Barbara Anderson and Julie Oliver Barbara and Julie have both worked at West Cornwall Hospital since before RCHT came into being and now have key roles as emergency nurse practitioners in the recently established Urgent Care Centre. “Since becoming emergency nurse practitioners in 2000 ours is a much more professional role,” says Julie. “We’re now working alongside the doctors as opposed to supporting them. The change to an urgent care centre has improved the service. Patients are getting quicker and better treatment and it’s a more efficient and safer environment than it was. A few years back it could take 2 hours to get an x-ray, now it takes 2 minutes!” Barbara highlights how the nursing profession has changed from the one she came into. “The training was more similar to today’s healthcare assistant, focused on basic nursing tasks, not even administering IV drugs for example, which is common place now,” she says. Julie adds, “The role has changed
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completely for us. It has meant a lot of study and there’s always on-going training which we do jointly with the doctors. Basically we manage the department over-night and have to deal with whatever comes through. Our experience enables us to manage patients safely and refer onto the doctors as necessary.” Looking back at changes at West Cornwall Hospital Barbara talks about the old nightingale-style wards and the days before greater specialisation allowed children’s and high dependency services to be provided outside of a district general hospital setting. Julie also remembers the regular appearance of a hospital float in the local carnival and the doctors nipping down to the ‘local’ in their white coats. Both laugh when they recall that it was as late as 1994, before the current department opened, when the only access to the casualty service at the hospital was up a flight of 10 steps! Julie and Barbara agree that the Urgent Care Centre has been a positive step forward. “It has made us feel more secure,” says Julie. “Now we have the funding the staffing is better and it’s better for local people. The size of the department is a challenge but we have to move with the times, we have to look forward. The types of patients we see are different and their expectations are different. We have to educate them into choosing the right service for their needs.” Barbara sums up, “It is still a wonderful hospital to work in. I never wanted to do
anything else.” That too is echoed by Julie, “From the age of eleven I wanted to be a nurse – I’ve been nursing now for 36 years!”
Helen Eady Renal Unit technician Helen started out as a domestic services assistant and never imagined she’d still be at the hospital 21 years later. Seizing the opportunities that have come her way, Helen has forged a career that’s kept her fulfilled. “When the chance came up for a ward assistant role on the children’s ward I took it and was there for about 3 years,” says Helen. “Then I chose to move to Medical Ward 2 by which time the role had changed to healthcare assistant. I did all my training at West Cornwall. It was when the new wards opened so everybody was in the same boat because they hadn’t worked there before, we all started together. It made a good atmosphere and formed a strong team.” Helen spent 9 years on Medical Ward 2. “Then the challenge presented itself to go for renal. You had to be a healthcare
IN FOCUS
TOP LEFT TO RIGHT David & Samanatha Cameron pay a return visit on the 1st birthday. Digital X-ray installation at St Michael’s Hospital. Opening the refurbished Medical Ward at WCH. Hi-tech Intervention Radiology Suite opens 2011. Critical Care Unit opening. Local MP Andrew George gets a blood pressure check. Ben Ainslie & the radiotherapy team at the opening of the Su. A robot to dispense drugs demonstrates one example of IT playi
Brief History:
assistant to apply, you needed that experience. I applied and that was it!” Helen continues, “The renal technician role has developed since I’ve been on the unit. It was very different, I had to learn lots of new skills. You need to know about the machines. I’d not done that before. It’s quite a challenge even for nursing staff coming to renal for the first time.” “The extension and refurbishment of the renal unit made it much roomier and lighter. It is a nicer environment and more patients from the area can come here,” says Helen. “It is very different because you really get to know the patients. They come in 3 times a week. We see more of them than we do our families. If they have a transplant their lives are totally changed for the better. They have got their life back.” Helen believes its fate she ended up working for the NHS. She recalls, “My dad was a physio at City Hospital. When Treliske first opened I went in as a child when it was still empty. Dad’s department was one of the first to open at Treliske and my niece was born there in 1968. Opportunities have presented themselves throughout my time at West Cornwall Hospital. As long as you have the right attitude you can get the training. Most of all, it is important to enjoy it!”
1st April 1992 The Royal Cornwall Hospitals NHS Trust is founded. It includes: Royal Cornwall Hospital (Treliske) Royal Cornwall Hospital (City) Falmouth Hospital West Cornwall Hospital March 1997 Ophthalmology services are the last to transfer from Falmouth Hospital and its management is handed over to community services. 1998 RCHT takes over the management of St Michael’s Hospital as the Order of the Daughter’s of the Cross of Liege decide to withdraw from the running of the hospital. 1999 RCHT takes ownership of St Michael’s Hospital to secure its future. 1999 The Royal Cornwall Hospital (City) – or the Royal Cornwall Infirmary as it was also known - takes a bow as its closes after 200 years of serving the people of Cornwall. The remaining services transfer to new accommodation at the Royal Cornwall Hospital (Treliske). 2000 RCHT becomes a teaching hospitals NHS Trust as part of the Peninsula Medical School – the first new medical school to be created in the UK for 30 years. 2012 RCHT embarks on its journey to become a top performing NHS Foundation Trust.
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ARE YOU GOING THROUGH A RELATIONSHIP BREAKDOWN
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MEDIATION SERVICES FOR DIVORCE & SEPARATION CO-HABITATION CIVIL PARTNERSHIPS PROPERTY & FINANCE CHILDRENS RESIDENCE CHILDRENS CONTRACT
CALL 01872 225022 or 01752 226800 for an initial appointment Truro Plymouth www.accordmediation.co.uk
Cornwall Health Services Retirement Fellowship Enjoy your retirement join our Fellowship
Welcome
Retired or about to retire from the NHS or any of its related services, as a member of staff or a volunteer? There’s no need to be bored or lonely, Join the Fellowship and come along on our visits, lunches and meetings. You will be very welcome. Get in touch with our Secretary for details of the CHSRF and our varied programme for 2013. Our Fellowship is Cornwallwide and all our money is spent for our members. We do not pay a fee from your subscriptions to a National body.
Tel: 01872 863987
●
Contact: Margaret Herbert Hon.Sec margirvinherbert@tiscali.co.uk ● Roseleigh Frogpool Truro TR4 8RS Tawanroath Engine House Chapel Porth, Photo by Terry Thomas
Your business could benefit from advertising in One & All call 01392 201227
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Grapevine Sell out crowd for two nights of panto A cast of ‘stars’, a comic script and score, hours of rehearsal and behind the scenes preparation proved to be a recipe for two great nights of fun as staff took to the stage for Alice in Wonderland.
LIVES
IWL – Sign up now!! If you are interested in finding out more about Improving Working Lives (IWL) and taking part in the group please contact IWL via Groupwise - iwl@ rcht.cornwall.nhs.uk IWL organise and run lots of initiatives for RCHT staff – lottery, photography competition, thank you awards, reading group, sports classes, cyclescheme and much more…. We meet every month and always welcome new members!
Proceeds from the performances will help the children’s unit as well as the Phoenix Stroke Appeal as it continues its final push towards its £500,000 goal. The Appeal has already been making a huge difference to stroke patients with additional equipment at RCHT as well as for community hospitals and for patients to use at home.
IWL Thank You IWL Staff Lottery Would you like to join the Improving Working Lives Staff Lottery? The top prize is £3,800 with four runners up prizes of £950. To have a chance at winning, join the IWL Staff Lottery by emailing iwl@ rcht.cornwall.nhs.uk for an application form. Every month the IWL staff lottery draw takes place in the Payroll Department when the winning numbers are randomly generated. Following the draw the winners are contacted by telephone by the payroll team. Sign up now, it could be you!!
The IWL group introduced this initiative five years ago as a way for colleagues to reward other colleagues for going that extra mile. Any nominations received are reviewed at a monthly meeting and the group decides who the lucky person will be. They are then presented with a bouquet or gift voucher (to the value of £15) and are photographed with their colleagues. Many find themselves on the pages of the staff magazine ‘One & All’. If you would like to nominate someone for going over and above their duty then IWL would love to hear from you. Please email iwl@rcht.cornwall.nhs. uk and tell us why we should award them.
In January 2013, Andree Trethewy, Patient Facilities Co-ordinator, RCHT nominated Gary Palmer, Environmental Services, RCHT. “Nothing is too much trouble for Gary. You always know that if Gary is doing a job it will be done well, without any fuss and consequently he makes the working lives of others so much easier. Gary has been involved in varying ways with our department from demolishing old lockers to lifting very heavy IWL raffle prizes into a car. We would very much like Gary to know how much he is appreciated.”
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Grapevine www.rcht.nhs.uk
Improving Working Lives Here are some of the benefits that IWL have on offer:
The RCHT IWL Staff Benefit Group was formed in 2001 as part of the IWL government initiative with the purpose to improve the working lives of staff. The aim of the group is to provide commitment to the development of a healthy and competent staff enabling them to fulfill their roles and responsibilities to the NHS, patients, their families and themselves. IWL aims to provide the “extras” for staff, introduce new staff benefits and help create a healthy work/ life balance.
Lottery – Staff (must be on a substantive salary) can purchase up to ten numbers £1 per number per month. The money is then deducted from the employees’ salary. Every month the draw takes place in the payroll department when the winning numbers are randomly generated. Following the draw the winners are contacted via telephone by the payroll team. The jackpot prize currently stands at £3,800 with four runner-up prizes of £950 each. If you haven’t already joined and would like an application form, please email iwl@rcht.cornwall. nhs.uk or call extension 2297. Remember it could be you!!
Cycle Scheme – Any RCHT staff member who receives a regular (substantive) salary and a minimum
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12 month contract can benefit from obtaining a tax-free bike and safety equipment up to the value of £1,000. The benefits are you can save up to 40 per cent on the cost of a bike and equipment. Pay monthly and save tax and national insurance. If you are interested in purchasing a new bike and would like more information then please email iwl@rcht. cornwall.nhs.uk or call extension 2297.
Fitness Classes – We’re currently running a variety of exercise classes for staff ranging from: l Pilates with John Horner (teacher), ideal for those who want to reduce or prevent back pain as well as toning the abdominal muscles and strengthen core stability. l Lyengar Yoga with Jane Lane (teacher) is known for its attention to detail, including correct alignment, careful sequencing and use of props to make accessible to all. l Tai Chi with Charlie Schwab (teacher) is an ancient art of health and movement which has a number of health benefits, such as lowering stress levels, loosening stiff muscles and helping to lower high blood pressure. l Zumba with Frances Carter (teacher) is a must for all dance enthusiasts. The exercises include music with fast and slow rhythms, as well as resistance training.
Grapevine
Boxfit with Nick Cuming (teacher) is our most recent class, it is based on the training concepts of boxing, with the use of gloves and pads, combining cardio, abs and combination work for a great fun workout.
l
Staff Requests – the group has granted many purchases over the last few years for departments wanting to purchase a microwave or fridge or similar. If you feel your department would benefit why not send a request to the IWL group. For further information please email iwl@rcht.cornwall.nhs.uk or call extension 2297 and ask for an IWL staff request form.
Staff Photography Competition – this popular competition has been an annual event since 2003 with the number of entries increasing every year. Look out for the winners in the next edition of ‘For One & All’ and details of how to enter for 2014.
IWL Website – Make sure you visit the IWL website for all the latest news on local staff discounts, competitions and events that are currently taking place. http://intra.cornwall.nhs. uk/Intranet/AZServices/I/ improvingworkinglives/blogbox/ default.asp
It’s a Knockout – held and organised in partnership with Charitable Funds and IWL is looking to fund and organise it this year – look out for further details. Thank you Gift – see separate article. Hall for Cornwall – discounted tickets and annual Friends membership. For further information please contact IWL on extension 2297 or email iwl@rcht. cornwall.nhs.uk.
We are looking for new initiatives all the time – if you have an idea you would like explored please contact Rachel Harcom, Acting IWL Administrator on extension 2297or email us on iwl@rcht. cornwall.nhs.uk Christmas Dinner & Dance – IWL organises an annual Dinner Dance which for the last five years has been held at Tregenna Castle, St Ives. The capacity has increased year by year and definitely gets everyone in the Christmas spirit! We also hold a raffle for the event and over the years have received many fantastic prizes which are donated from local companies – look out for further details.
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Volunteer
Volunteer
profile Suzie Woodier, RCH Friends Refreshments Service
There may be many of you now sitting and reading this magazine with a Friends’ cuppa in your hand. You are enjoying one of over 71,000 drinks served to patients and their families over the course of a year. A large amount of planning and work goes on behind the scenes to get this service up and running. This is mostly thanks to the enthusiasm, hard work and organization of Suzie Woodier. She has been a Friend of the Royal Cornwall Hospital in Truro for the last 11 years and has been coordinating the group’s Hostess Refreshment service for most of that. Suzie, from Ponsanooth, says: “My husband was on the committee of the Friends and felt I could have a role here. When I felt I had the time to provide, I decided it would be in the NHS because I think it’s a fantastic service.” Suzie had spent her career in fashion design and had taught City and Guilds so had no catering background to draw on or inspire her. “Most of my career was in that industry. I had worked abroad as a special advisor and have qualifications in industry and teaching. I’m almost a perpetual student and like to keep my mind active which is why I did a history degree with the Open University. “But then ten years ago the Sunrise Hostess Service started and there was no one to run it. I set to work there and soon we were getting more and more requests for similar services in other areas. So I gave myself an unpaid promotion! I became the hostess coordinator and used my skills from industry to build up a management structure for the refreshments service. “We now have coordinators for each of the areas where the service runs. I help to get it off the ground in a practical way and then I step back and let the coordinator for that area run it with other volunteers.” The service is now a huge success with hostess facilities available in the Sunrise Centre, Mermaid Centre, Headland Unit, Haematology, ENT, Critical Care and now Rheumatology and there are more departments coming forward to enquire about it. Suzie says: “We only go into areas where we are invited.” Suzie would certainly recommend volunteering. “I think it’s a role you should only take on if you enjoy doing it because there is no other reward. If it is for you, then you certainly get a tremendous amount out of it. It is very rewarding. If an area is interested in having a service then it can get in touch with Suzie and the Friends via the Volunteers Office on Ext 3737. n 22 One and All
Friends of Royal Cornwall Hospital welcome members of the League of Friends from West Cornwall Hospital
Working together Three charities who support the Royal Cornwall Hospitals Trust through voluntary work have strengthened their friendships with exchange visits. The Friends of the Royal Cornwall Hospital opened their doors to the League of Friends of West Cornwall Hospital in March and provided a tour before returning the visit to West Cornwall Hospital in Penzance and St Michael’s Hospital in Hayle. Beatrice Dyer, Chairman of the Friends of Royal Cornwall Hospital, said: “The three groups were collectively nominated for a Queens Award and we felt it was important to understand what the other groups did and possibly learn from each other so we invited first the
Contacts
West Cornwall committee and then the St Michael’s Committee to visit us in Truro and we then returned the visit to them.” The link up has proved successful. Mrs Dyer added: “We have been able to get a better understand of the difficulties and the opportunities that the other sites offer for working with Friends, and we have shared conversations and above all friendships. While we are three separate charities we all work under the umbrella of RCHT.” In March, representatives from all three groups were invited to County Hall, Truro to receive certificates marking their nomination for the Queen’s Award. They will find out in June if they have been successful.
For more information or advice about volunteering at the Royal Cornwall Hospitals Trust, or to get in touch with the Friends of Royal Cornwall Hospital, St Michael’s Hospital or West Cornwall Hospital please contact the Volunteer Services Office on 01872 253737 or email RCHT. voluntaryservices@rcht.cornwall.nhs.uk
Volunteer Friends of St Michael’s Hospital news After a brief period of rest, the Friends of St Michael’s Hospital have sprung back into action with the appointment of a new committee. Mike Rowe has been appointed as Chairman of the Friends of St Michael’s with Beryl Womack, a longtime supporter of the hospital, named as vice chair. Eileen Lewis has been chosen as treasurer and Yvonne Bates has taken on the role of secretary. There is also the opportunity for two individuals to join the Friends as Trustees. The Trustees oversee the work of the committee and ensure the committee fulfils its aims. The position will involve attending four meetings a year. Anyone wanting more information on the Friends or the trustee positions can contact Mike Rowe on 01736 758854.
challenge or other event, why not consider doing it in aid of the Friends?
Legacy and Bequests: A legacy or bequest is a tax free gift left to a charity in a Will. Charitable bequests are of enormous importance to our work. Mike says: “Remembering us in your Will is an opportunity to make a real difference to others via the work of the Friends.”
New Beginnings - Treasurer Eileen Lewis, Chairman Mike Rowe, Secretary Yvonne Bates
The Friends have already organised events to raise funds and look forward to publicising more and their donations in the months to come.
Donations and Fundraising: Putting your best foot forward: The Friends are looking for people willing to fund raise on their behalf. If you are taking part in a sporting
Book Donations: The Friends are looking for anyone able to donate books for their stall. Books can be delivered to reception at St Michael’s or contact Mike Rowe on the above number to arrange collection.
Items for auction The Friends are looking for donated, good quality items suitable for auction. If you have any such items, please contact Mike Rowe on the above number to arrange collection, if you are unable to deliver to the Hospital.
Annual General Meeting Awards
Friends President Michael Galsworthy with representatives from the different services provided by the Friends and copies of the Queens Award certificates
Sixteen Friends of the Royal Cornwall Trust received awards at their Annual General Meeting in April. The AGM, which took place in the knowledge spa at Treliske hospital, was held by the Chairman and President of the RCH Friends, Beatrice Dyer and Michael Galsworthy who later went on to present the awards. The Friends were awarded for their ten and fifteen years of dedication
and commitment to the trust in their assigned areas of the hospital. Maureen Stephens hit an exceptional milestone as she achieved an award for twenty years of service in the Trelawny reception. Up until December 2012, the volunteers have generated 825 years combined of what Beatrice described as “tremendous service”.
Maureen Stevens and she was picking up her 20 years certificate
Friends of RCH In 2012: 35,000 Voluntary Hours 71,553 drinks served
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Membership News
IN THE NEWS
www.rcht.nhs.uk
The new Shadow Council of Governors As part of becoming an NHS Foundation Trust our membership have recently elected the Shadow Council of Governors, comprising of 21 governors; 11 elected public governors; 5 staff governors and 5 appointed partner governors. Public, staff and service user/carer governors have been elected by members of their own constituency. For appointed governors: our partner
Max Hailey
Mike Nicholls
Name
Constituency
Andy Cole
organisations, as defined in our constitution, were asked to nominate a representative. The Shadow Council of Governors is chaired by Trust Chairman, Martin Watts. If you would like to contact the governors please email rcht.membership@cornwall.nhs.uk or call 01872 252858.
Tracey Collins
Dr Roland Fox
Jane Adams
Beatrice Dyer
Constituency Type Supporting text
Max Hailey East Cornwall Public Mike Nicholls East Cornwall Public Andy Cole Central East Cornwall Public Tracey Collins Central East Cornwall Public Dr Roland Fox Central East Cornwall Public Jane Adams Central West Cornwall Public Beatrice Dyer Central West Cornwall Public
I am passionate about our community and the health services in East Cornwall. My experience as a Managing Director will bring skills to this highly important role to put our voice forward. It is clear that older people do not thrive in hospital, even with the highest standards of care. It is essential that a comprehensive service can be developed. I hope to contribute to the wellbeing of all patients. Tending to my daughter with Leukaemia has given me an insight into the running of hospitals. My knowledge will assist me in ensuring the wellbeing of patients, visitors and staff are held in the highest regard. There will be many benefits in becoming an Foundation Trust, which will positively improve our local hospitals and the services they provide. I strongly believe excellent patient care should be the driving force to success. I want support the Trust through my academic and personal experience as I understand the importance of personal relationships and treating patients as people, not numbers. I have a background in research specifically disease diagnosis and control. I have helped open the Friends of Royal Cornwall Hospital coffee shop at Treliske and welcome the current dynamics of change. Recently I have been an out-patient receiving radiotherapy at the Sunrise Centre where I had excellent care. I am the Chairman of the Friends of Royal Cornwall Hospital which gives me contact with staff, volunteers and patients. I enjoy and will do my best to represent members to ensure the Trust develops, considering the views of all patients, carers and staff.
Keith Hughes
Steve Manning
Chris Goninan
Graham Webster
Keith Hughes Central West Cornwall Public Chris Goninan West Cornwall Public Graham Webster West Cornwall Public One and All 25
Nick Hollings
Jeremy Gilbert
Susan Hawkins
My NHS career includes a role as an ENT surgeon during which I held administrative roles including Director of Clinical Audit and Clinical Director of Special Surgery. I remain passionately interested in the delivery of healthcare when there are serious difficulties for isolated communities. I am passionate about people receiving good health services and trying to ensure that elders have all the help they are entitled to. I want to ensure all people I represent, especially those in villages, hamlets and those in deprived areas get the best services possible. I worked for the NHS for 26 years and am a passionate supporter of the NHS believing it is vital that RCHT achieves Foundation Trust status. I seek to improve communication, make the Trust transparent, listening to patients to protect and improve services.
Membership News IN THE NEWS
www.rcht.nhs.uk
Name
Constituency
Constituency Type Supporting text
Steve Manning The Isles of Scilly Public Nick Hollings Registered Medical Practitioner Staff Jeremy Gilbert Registered Nurse Staff Susan Hawkins Allied Healthcare Professional Staff
I have an interest in seeing that the NHS is fit to serve us in the way in which we require, not solely in the interest of the islanders, but for the public at large. This is a time of change and we must all take an interest in what is happening. I have worked as a doctor at RCHT for over 10 years, having worked at many other hospitals during my training, I know how good RCHT is. Yes, times are hard and yes, there are big challenges ahead but with your guidance I hope I can reflect on the broad canvas of what actually happens at RCHT, good and bad. Throughout my 18 year career I have learned that Nursing is not only about the hands on care, but challenge decisions and help change the future. Being a local lad, I will be able to help shape services that reflect the needs of the local community and support staff with having their ideas heard to shape the future of patient care. I have worked at RCHT for 15 years as a Physiotherapist and as a manager in Physiotherapy, Clinical Imaging, Medicine and Pathology. I have a large network of connections and will commit to speaking with all staff and patients, using their opinions and concerns to influence the direction and decisions that the Trust takes.
Kevin Bolt
Carolyn Rule
Rachel Newman
Richard McCarthy
Kevin Bolt Support staff Staff Rachel Newman Next High Vote Staff Councillor Richard McCarthy Isles of Scilly Council Appointed
Councillor Carolyn Rule Cornwall Council Appointed Chris Blong Kernow Clinical Commissioning Group Appointed Professor Steve Thornton University of Exeter Appointed Professor Elizabeth Kay Plymouth University Appointed
Chris Blong
Steve Thornton
Elizabeth Kay
I have worked for RCHT since 1992 with a diverse career experience having worked across the local health economy. There will be many opportunities and challenges for our hospitals and services as a Foundation Trust, but I will work with other Governors to ensure staff views are fairly represented. My clinical practice is in palliative care, but the ambition of providing best possible care, tailored to individual circumstance, carries across all areas, and should remain the central focus of RCHT as an organisation. I want the future Foundation Trust to be an organisation I am proud to be part of. Richard, who spent 25 years at BBC World Service, has represented St Agnes on the Isles of Scilly Council since 2005. He sits on the islands’ shadow Health and Wellbeing Board and as Community Services chair his remit includes Adult Social Care. He is grateful to RCHT staff for restoring him to good health in 1999, having been airlifted to Truro after tumbling from a local quay. Carolyn Rule, is a Councillor for Mullion, joined Cornwall Council in 2009. Carolyn is the Cabinet Member for Health and Wellbeing and People, her responsibilities contained in this portfolio include Human Resources and Organisational Development, Equality and Diversity, Health and Wellbeing. Chris Blong spent 30 years in the Armed Forces, now is the governance and audit lead and vice-chairman of KCCG. His role for the governing body focuses on providing strategic and impartial advice, whilst offering an external view of the organisations work. Steve qualified from the University of Southampton in 1983 and since had many senior positions in both Hospital and Universities. Steve became Dean of Peninsula College of Medicine and Dentistry in 2010 and in 2012 inaugural Dean of the University of Exeter Medical School. He has a keen interest in Research and is also a member of the Medical Research Council PSMB Board. Professor Liz Kay is the Foundation Dean of Peninsula Dental School and Honorary Academic Director of Dental Public Health. She is author of 137 academic papers and 5 books. She leads an MSc programme in Healthcare Strategy and Performance in Plymouth University Peninsula Schools of Medicine and Dentistry. Liz was recently voted to be the most influential woman in dentistry in a poll conducted by Dentistry Magazine. One and All 25
CHARITABLE FUNDS
Pink Wigs donate £3,500 to St Michael’s Hospital
A donation of £3,500 has been given to the breast cancer team at St Michael’s Hospital in Hayle. The money was raised by the Pink Wigs group in Falmouth during their annual Pink Wig TOP The cheque presentation made by Sally HicksWood (founder of Pink Wiggers Falmouth) to Breast parade and a Pink Care Surgeons Mr Iain Brown and Prof Drew along Wig night during with Breast Care Nurses Jo Brand and Sarah Zee Falmouth Week 2012. Emma Kent, Clinical Nurse Specialist in Gynaecology/ Oncology, at the Royal Cornwall Hospital, and also a Pink Wigger, said: “In 2009 our friend Sally Hicks-Wood was diagnosed with breast cancer. A group of us, including Sally, decided to have a girls’ gathering (night out) in Falmouth and all wore pink wigs. People were asking what it was all about and when we told them they wanted to give us money for breast cancer. That gave us the idea for fundraising.” In 2010, during another evening out £1,000 was collected. This was given to a national breast cancer charity. In 2011, the event raised £2,500. Emma said: “That gave us the spur we needed to organise something even bigger and last year we kicked off Falmouth Week in Events Square with a band, DJ, our own Champagne bar and with over 500 flocking to it, we managed to raise £7,700. Although we have always supported national breast cancer campaigns, we decided we wanted to keep some of it locally and so chose St Michael’s Hospital because that is where a lot of the breast cancer operations are done now.” And despite their success the group aren’t stopping there. There are high hopes for this year. Pink Wig night is on August 9. Emma said: “We will be holding our pink wig parade from Falmouth Moor through the town and then there is the main event in Events Square. Throughout the year there will be other activities and events including some charity bike rides.” For more details about the group check out www.pinkwigevent.org.uk or go to the group’s Facebook page: pinkwignight-falmouth 26 One and All
Mermaid Centre receives £3,400 from St Agnes community The Mermaid Centre at the Royal Cornwall Hospital in Truro has received a £3,400 donation from the St Agnes community. Over the course of a weekend in October, National Breast Cancer Awareness Month, a series of events were held in St Agnes parish to raise awareness and funds. Organised by Louise Treseder, Glinys Low, Celia Julian, Trish Canavan, Helen Bennitt and Jill Flack, the events which mainly took place at the Driftwood Spars included Car Washing, Wine Tasting and a Punch and Judy show for children. Breast Care Nurses Jane Gray and Carole Williams also gave a talk about the work of the centre. There was also a Lunar Walk which involved the whole Parish of St Agnes. Starting from the Blue Bar in Porthtowan, a group of over 50 dropped in at the Chiverton Arms, where sandwiches and cakes were provided, the Miners Arms in Mithian and the Taphouse in St Agnes were the participants were kindly fed and ended at the Driftwood Spars in St Agnes. Support for the event was provided by St Austell Brewery, Ikonika and ASP. Louise said: “We are a group of ladies from St Agnes and there have been quite a few people in the village who have had treatment at the centre. We thought it would be a good thing to raise awareness and money for Breast Cancer and we wanted the money to go locally. We are grateful to everyone who supported us, both individual and company.” Jill added: “This was really a big community effort. It has proved so successful we’ve decided it’s something we’d like to do every year so look out for more information later in the year.”
Louise Treseder, Glinys Low, Celia Julian and Jill Flack hand over the cheque to Breast Care Nurses Jane Gray and Carole Williams at the Mermaid Centre
CHARITABLE FUNDS www.rcht.nhs.uk
Children’s Wards receive Easter Egg donation
Chris Towell, Oakley (6) from Redruth with his Moshi Monsters egg, and Paul Hopkinson
Youngsters at the Royal Cornwall Hospital enjoyed an egg-stra special treat over Easter with a donation of more than 60 chocolate eggs. Paul Hopkinson and Chris Towell from GE Money in Truro visited the wards to hand over the eggs to Trust play specialist Gill Caddy and young patients on Sennen ward. Chris said: “Our Volunteers Group organised a dress down day and people either brought in an Easter Egg or donated £1. We were able to give 60 eggs to the hospital and 20 eggs to a women’s refuge. Gill Caddy said: “We are thrilled that GE Money have donated these eggs to our children’s wards. It’s important for youngsters in hospital to still be able to enjoy the normal routines and things like this can make all the difference.”
Easter Fun The children’s wards were hopping with fun with the Easter Bunny paying a visit and donations of eggs and ice cream from Kelly’s of Cornwall and GE Money in Truro.
PC Juliet Davey, the Easter Bunny and Gill Caddy, Senior Play Specialist
Kelly’s Donation
Donations of ice cream and chocolate eggs have helped brighten the Easter stay for young patients at the Royal Cornwall Hospital this week. Keith Gilbert and Steve Bennetts from Kelly’s of Cornwall in Bodmin handed over more than 60 eggs to the children’s wards and brought Kelly’s ice creams with them during a visit on Wednesday afternoon. Steve said: “This is the third time LEFT TO RIGHT Keith Gilbert (Kelly’s), Oliver (4) from Fraddon, Gill Caddy, play specialist, Shannon Kelly’s have made this donation. We’ve (8) from Bodmin and Steve Bennetts from Kelly’s all had kids in the hospital at one point or another and we appreciate it’s never nice particularly when its holiday time and all their friends are out playing. We hope our donation helps to make it a little better for them.” The company raised the money to provide the eggs through staff raffles and some eggs were donated. Steve added: “We always seem to be popular!” Gill Caddy, senior play specialist at RCHT, said: “We want to thank Kelly’s for their gifts. The donations are very much appreciated and you only have to see the children’s faces when they see the eggs to know the difference it makes.”
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abies in the Neonatal Unit at the Royal Cornwall Hospital in Truro are all warm and snuggly after a large donation of hand knitted cardigans, jumpers, booties and hats. Members of the Gylly Girls WI in Falmouth, along
LEFT TO RIGHT Gylly Girls Wendy Gilyott-Brown, Sarah Bourghignon, Cynthia Bradley and Sue Bradshaw hand over the knitted outfits to Neonatal Staff Nurse Karen Pooley
with friends from Penryn Job Centre, have been furiously knitting for three months to create the large haul and in March made the trip to the Unit to hand over the box loads of outfits to Neonatal Staff Nurse Karen Pooley. Gylly Girl Sue Bradshaw encouraged members of the WI and Jobcentre staff to get those needles clicking - the knitters included Lizzie Charnock, Alison Nicholls, Wendy Gilyott-Brown, Sarah Bourghignon, Cynthia Bradley and Helen Craik who works with Sue at Penryn Job Centre. While there the group were given a talk on the work of the unit and were able to see the facilities. The Gylly Girls is a new WI in Falmouth and has just marked its first anniversary. Boasting a membership of around 30, they are looking to attract more ladies to their meetings, which are held at the Emmanuel Baptist Church, Falmouth, on the second Monday of the month at 7.45pm. It is hoped the later start time will encourage more working age people to come along.
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CHARITABLE FUNDS
This year started off with a bang for the Phoenix Stroke Appeal, with live radio broadcasts from the Phoenix Ward on BBC Radio Cornwall, and also a special report from Bodmin Community Hospital. In the first quarter, the Appeal passed the £425,000 mark, and is now in the throes of raising the final amount needed to meet its half a million target. “We are so impressed with everything that people have done, now they just need to do one more thing,” said chairman Rik Evans. Staff joined in the fundraising fun with the Baked With Love event, held on Valentine’s Day. Staff from wards and departments across the hospital brought in cakes, biscuits, cupcakes, and “wild card” entries – everything from tarts to macaroons. The 39 entries were judged by a panel of experts: Stuart Pate, the patisserie chef for Rick Stein; Tom Hazzledine of Baker Tom; Beatrice Dyer, WI stalwart, Friends chairman and hospital governor; and Daphne Skinnard from Radio Cornwall. “We were really impressed with the number and standard of the entries,” said co-organiser Gillian Molesworth. “People made a great effort and it was fun on the day.” Gillian and Tamsin Stickland from the Camborne Redruth Community Hospital went to a St Austell Brewery presentation evening, to collect a generous £5,000 cheque. Many other volunteer groups also contributed in this period, including Falmouth and Newquay Rotary Clubs, and many others to whom the appeal is very grateful. Money from the Appeal is building an “equipment library” for the Phoenix Ward which will help stroke sufferers, including: physical therapy equipment, moving and handling equipment, breathing and swallow aids. “Sometimes when the boxes come in it’s like Christmas,” said ward clerk Emma Cuthbert. The Phoenix Stroke Appeal also received part of the raffle money from the staff pantomime of Alice in Wonderland, held in Truro College on March 8 and 9. On May 11, there will be a charity cycle ride across the Coast to Coast Mineral Tramways Trail, and there is room for more entrants. For more information, stop by the Voluntary Services Office (in the Tower Block next to the chapel), call 3737, or email phoenix.appeal@cornwall.nhs.uk. n
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Liz Childs contributes some beautiful cupcakes to the Baked With Love fundraiser
BBC Radio Cornwall live broadcast from Phoenix Ward
Physios help a patient exercise his arm with a new giant “connect four” tool donated by the Appeal
Jazz Dinner Three course dinner with entertainment from the fantastic “Atlantic View Jazz Trio”
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DID YOU KNOW?
Down’s syndrome Screening Service LEFT TO RIGHT Anthea Patterson, Angela Mallard, Sue Hewett, Anna Barton
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he Trust shares its anniversary with some of its services as well. The first Down’s syndrome Screening service began in December 1992 and, as a result of subsequent improvements over the last 21 years, more pregnant women are now offered testing, while less have to endure stressful waits for results or undergo more invasive procedures. Pre 1992, only expectant mothers over the age of 35 were offered any form of screening and this was mainly for Spina Bifida. The Down’s syndrome test at that time involved having amniocentesis, an invasive procedure which carries a small risk of miscarriage. As a result only half the women would take up the offer and the detection rate was only 22 per cent. Clinical Biochemist, Dr Angela Mallard, who currently leads the laboratory aspect of the service, says: “At the time only 13 per cent of women were in the over 35s age group so the vast majority of pregnancies were not included and only 30 per cent of those having Down’s syndrome pregnancies are in the over 35 age group.” In December 1992, the Second Trimester Double Test was introduced, a blood test that was offered to all pregnant women, whatever their age, unless they were known to be having twins or triplets. This was undertaken at 15-20 weeks of pregnancy. Angela said: “The double test was offered to everyone. It gave us a 75 per cent detection rate meaning we could identify 75 per cent of the Down’s syndrome babies. However, 7-8 per cent of those screened were identified as being in the “Higher Risk” group and needed to be offered amniocentesis which obviously caused a lot of anxiety for the women as only around 1 in 8 of them actually had an affected baby.” It was the Solar Eclipse in 1999 that brought the next major change. Angela
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said: “At that time only around 25 per cent of women had a first trimester scan done between 8 and 13 weeks gestation. This is used to date the pregnancy and ensure the blood sample was taken at the right time in the second trimester. With the eclipse, there were concerns that an influx of visitors would create traffic chaos and “higher risk” women who hadn’t had a dating scan wouldn’t be able to get to a scanning centre, which at that point were done in various locations around the county. The Antenatal Department therefore decided to run a small study bringing all the women who would require the screening to the Truro hospital to have a first trimester ultrasound scan. This proved so successful the service was extended to all pregnant women and helped to reduce the number of women initially thought to be at higher risk.”
“I’m grateful to Treliske. Everyone was fantastic” The next significant change to the Down’s screening service was in 2008 with the move from second trimester to first trimester screening. The new Combined Test now means patients have a first trimester scan, during which a measurement of the nuchal fold at the back of the foetal neck is taken. A blood sample is also taken from the mother at the same appointment. The NT measurement and the results from the blood sample and other patient information (such as age, weight, smoking status and ethnicity) are then used to identify “higher risk” pregnancies. This advance has also meant the screening test can now also be used to screen twin pregnancies. Angela said: “The Combined Test is the gold standard and the vast majority of women now take up this option. This picks
up 85 to 90 per cent of babies with Down’s syndrome but, more importantly, our screen positive rate has fallen to between 2.5 and 3 per cent. This has saved a lot of women the stress and worry of having to be offered, and undergo, an invasive test. We produce a risk for Down’s syndrome within three working days of receiving the blood; any women deemed at “higher risk” are quickly referred to the Screening Midwife Co-ordinator and then offered CVS (chorionic villus sampling) or amniocentesis. Changes to the way CVS and amniocentesis samples are now processed means results are available in days rather than weeks. The service is faster and it all takes place much earlier in pregnancy.” While the number of women now being screened has increased hugely, the numbers working in the service have remained steady. Angela said: “We had slightly more laboratory staff in 1992 but advances in technology over the last 21 years has meant we have been able to keep up with the increased workload because our analysers do a large part of the work and are generally faster. There are around 12 Biomedical Scientists on the rota to run the screening analyser that we use, and there are three Clinical Biochemists who interpret the results and produce the final risk calculations.” National standards state that the Down’s syndrome screening results have to be reported within three working days, so the Clinical Biochemist team has to have constant cover. Every six months they send their ultrasound and biochemistry data to the Down’s Screening Quality Assurance Support Service (DQASS), who then assess it to ensure the service is performing within the national standards. The Fetal Medicine ultrasonography team who carry out the first trimester scans and nuchal translucency measurement were the first in the country to receive the highest ultrasound rating by DQASS; a “Green Flag” was awarded in 2010 and this has been maintained in all subsequent assessments. Anna Barton, Clinical Biochemist, said: “Today – 2013, the Down’s syndrome Screening Service provides the gold standard (nationally recommended) Combined Test. Along with our colleagues in Fetal Medicine, with whom we work very closely, we have created a service that we, and the Trust, can be proud of and more importantly, the public can benefit from.” n
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PATIENT STORY
my
story Bethany is a typical 21-yearold. She goes to concerts, has an eye for the boys, loves going to college, enjoys a drive and like the Royal Cornwall Hospitals Trust (RCHT) has reached the important milestone of 21-years-old. But Bethany is also remarkable in that she does it all while living with cerebral palsy, epilepsy, osteoporosis, scoliosis, learning disabilities and still manages to keep an almost permanent smile on her face. Bethany’s mum Michelle, with help from Bethany, tells her patient story.
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ethany was born in Plymouth on December 1, 1991 to parents Michelle and Nigel. The family moved to Cornwall when Bethany was eight months old and her first contact with RCHT came via twice weekly visits to City Hospital in Truro for Physiotherapy. Then there was the child development team, speech and language therapy and hydrotherapy. Michelle remembers input was quite intense for the family in the early days. “All Beth’s health needs were dealt with by the Paediatric team and we got to know them well. There was one paediatrician central to all the care who we could go to and they would deal with the majority of our issues and concerns. As a parent of a child with multiple, complex needs we would work as a team with them and they would listen to our opinions, views and ideas when discussing Bethany’s care and treatment. When Bethany got ill there was open access to the children’s wards meaning we didn’t have the stress of having to come via the Emergency Department. “But the 18th birthday changes that. Suddenly care is spread out across the hospital with no one person coordinating it. It was a difficult experience for us. You have to start your story all over again with each new person – Bethany’s medical history, her needs. It’s building up that relationship and trust all over again on both sides.” In October 2012, Bethany and her family had their first experience of RCHT as an adult in-patient. Michelle said: “We were on new wards without the right facilities for someone like Beth or us. As the parent of a young person with complex health needs, you spend long periods of time in the hospital. On the children’s wards, there are kitchen facilities for parents and the family rooms if you need to stay on site. But on the adult wards there is nothing. “That’s one of the things I’d like to see improved. Beth’s actual long term health needs haven’t changed, but we don’t get the same help anymore. Beth was in for six weeks and she couldn’t be left alone. Fortunately good communication between the ward, family and the learning disability nurses, ensured a comprehensive care package was put in place, giving us the chance to get home for a wash or to grab some sleep. Whoever stayed with Bethany slept in a reclining chair next to her bed and had to leave the ward to use a toilet. We had support but what about other people?” Michelle says the family’s experience was transformed by the three-strong Acute Liaison Nurse Service for Children and Adults with a Learning Disability and Autistic Spectrum Disorder Team. “They were magnificent and it made it so much better for us. They arranged for Beth to have a side room and organised the care package. They acted as the lead role and if we felt we weren’t being listened to, Zoe and Ruth were there. They were true advocates for Bethany.” “The Poldark Ward team worked out who Bethany liked and made sure they provided her care. Some of the junior doctors admitted Beth was their first complex needs patient and they were really superb with her, flirting with her. They and the nurses really helped to make it bearable. “It has been scary moving to adult services but overall the first stay was 90 per cent ok, mostly thanks to the Learning Disabilities Team. They are a constant support and I think there
PATIENT VIEWS www.rcht.nhs.uk
should be more of them. They have improved the life of our whole family. “There were issues that stopped it being a perfect stay. Things like pain relief. Beth was fitted with a patient controlled device to give pain relief after her op but she isn’t able to administer herself and I wasn’t allowed to do it even though I deal with all her other “controlled” medications. It wasn’t a suitable method for Bethany and I really felt it disempowered me as her mum and main carer. “Then there are stimulation issues. Because our youngsters can be in for so long, an adult play specialist or sensory resources would make all the difference. For outpatient appointments, the use of changing facilities with a hoist, changing table and shower area is vital when you have an adult with those kinds of needs. “There are things that could be done better for adults with long term health needs and their families. Some of these young adults will have more surgery in their 20-year life spans than most people have in their whole lives. It’s a lot of time spent in hospital for them and their families and it would make it a better experience if more thought was given to the wider picture.” n
We said: Zoe Mclean, Learning Disabilities Nurse at RCHT, said: “We are pleased that through our close links with colleagues and teams across the Trust we were able to make Bethany and her family’s stay a better experience. “I think the family highlighted some important areas where we as a Trust could do better and there are issues such as the adult changing area, which we have already identified as being in need of review. Our team will continue to highlight these needs where possible alongside our work to ensure reasonable adjustments are made to provide equal access to care. “On a personal level, I have known Bethany since she was a child and seen her grow into the remarkable woman she is today. No one who has met her can be left in any doubt as to her bravery and patience. Even through the times when she was unwell, she was always smiling and an inspiration to us all.”
Thank you
Letters Wheal Prosper Thank you for the care and kindness shown to my mum who ended up on Wheal Prosper with a nasty bug. Whilst her stay was nearly a month long, the standard of care never altered. Wheal Prosper To all the staff who cared for my mum or did their bit in some way, even the agency staff. What a great ward Wheal Prosper is. From the Trust’s Social Media sites: Trauma One All we seem to hear is bad press about our hospital and staff. After spending four days on Trauma One I would like to say I only have positive thoughts of the staff and the care I received. From the doctors and nurses, right down to the lovely tea lady, nothing was too much bother, be it midday or three in the morning. As soon as I am fit enough, I will be on the way up with some chocolates as a small thank you to them all. Hopefully they will find five minutes to have one with a cuppa, they never seemed to stop when I was there! A very grateful ex-patient x Teresa Coronary Care Unit My Dad was on coronary care unit and A&E where the staff were brilliant. Nothing was too much trouble and were happy to explain everything to you. I would like to say a big thank you to all the staff who cared for him. Helen General When I was in Treliske the nurses were brilliant and nothing was too much trouble. Sue I’ve just been in hospital and I have to say the staff were all excellent and I couldn’t have asked more. Jeffery Polkerris My son was in the Polkerris ward and although we had to wait a while to see the Dr due to it being extremely busy, the Drs and nurses was amazing. Patient, kind, great with my son who is nervous of Dr and so friendly. Thank you for all your help! Natasha The Trust has social media sites: Click to like us on facebook at Royal Cornwall Hospitals Trust And you can follow us on Twitter: @RCHT2013
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INSIDE OUT www.rcht.nhs.uk
Marathon runners
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wo of the Trust’s staff headed to London in April to take on the London Marathon in aid of FLEET. Jurg Ehmann, an Associate Specialist on the Medical Admissions Unit, and Hayley Barnes, a senior staff nurse on Critical Care and Paediatrics, tackled the 26.2 mile distance to try and raise £2,000 each for the charity. Speaking before the marathon, Hayley said: “I’ve supported FLEET for about 15 years and I just thought it’s now or never. It’s my first
Donations sought for Jerusalem surgical skills equipment Robin and Magdalena Kincaid, two of RCHT’s surgical staff, are heading back to East Jerusalem in May to help provide the Basic
RCHT staff help grow Cornish Olympic hopes A number of staff at the Trust have children who are in the Great Britain fencing squads training at Truro
marathon and I just want to complete it!” Jurg and Hayley, who also both teach resuscitation at the Trust, were part of a team of about 25 running for FLEET, a registered charity that was formed by Cornish Ambulance Staff in 1990 with the aim of upgrading and standardising the equipment carried on all of Cornwall’s ambulances. To sponsor Hayley or Jurg or the FLEET team go to www.justgiving.com and then search for either jurgsweat, Hayley Barnes or FLEET. Surgical Skills (BSS) course for trainee surgeons as part of a team of seven. This year the team are looking for sponsors to help them provide equipment to take for the course. A new laparoscopic trainer and around £2,000 is needed to buy dissecting sets and perishable materials for the course. Robin, who last year
Fencing Club. With expenses annually exceeding £4,000 per player, the club is seeking sponsorship for its future young stars to ensure they are able to stay competitive at the top level. Cathy Dean, mum to
fashioned dissecting boards from wooden kitchen cutting boards, said: “It is things like dissecting kits which are needed. It makes so much difference to how we can train them and how they can work. It is just essential equipment you cannot get there.” The aim of the course is to empower Palestinian surgeons from the West Bank GB U17s fencer Charlie (15) and an Endometriosis Nurse Specialist at the Royal Cornwall Hospitals Trust, says: “I am very proud of Charlie and what he has achieved. There can be a lot of expense involved when they reach this level of competition and it can be quite difficult for some families to cover all the costs. We are keen to find organisations and individuals who are able to help support Cornwall’s Olympic future by sponsoring the club’s youngsters.” To discuss sponsorship opportunities with Truro Fencing club, contact Jon Salfield on info@ trurofencing.com
and Gaza to tackle emergency cases which would otherwise be delayed in transit to larger hospitals due to roadblocks and checkpoints. For more information or to find out how to make a donation contact Natasha Photiou on 01872 255017 or email Natasha.photiou@rcht. cornwall.nhs.uk
Staff from the Trust have been helping to inspire medics of the future during a series of talks taking place at Truro College. Students have been able to learn about a wide variety of roles and experiences during the hour long sessions, which were organised by the Communications Team at RCHT and Michael Cudlipp, Truro College lecturer. The talks have included a varied range of specialties but more are always needed and welcome. Should you or any of your colleagues be interested in motivating youngsters into their chosen field of work, please get in contact with the Communications department on ext 3216 or email Kelly. rowe@rcht.cornwall.nhs.uk
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OUR PARTNERS
RNAS Culdrose is marking 60 years of the Royal Navy helicopter Search and Rescue (SAR) this year The service was born on January 31, 1953, when 12 Dragonfly HR1/HR3 helicopters from 705 Naval Air Squadron based at RNAS Gosport and HMS Siskin responded to urgent requests for help following extensive flooding in East Anglia and the Netherlands. Those crews helped to save over 840 people with one pilot in seven hours of flying accounting for 111 rescues while another saved 102 people. For their efforts, the Commanding Officer of the 705 Squadron, Lt Cdr HR Spedding received the MBE and Aircrewman IS Craig received the BEM. From these humble beginnings the Royal Navy swiftly introduced the first SAR helicopter to 7 bases around the UK including RNAS Culdrose/HMS Seahawk in Cornwall. The Royal Navy Search and Rescue Service at 60 will be the main theme for Culdrose Air Day 2013 in July. A big thank you from all at RCHT for the extraordinary service the team has provided in our 21 years of operation.
Healthwatch Cornwall
We spoke to Jayne Zito, acting director of Healthwatch Cornwall Our healthcare partners are integral to the success of RCHT. In each edition we bring you their news and an in-depth interview. This time we focus on Healthwatch Cornwall which officially started work on 2nd April 2013 as the new consumer champion of adult and children’s health and social care in the county. We will include information about the Isles of Scilly Healthwatch in a future edition. Interview with Jayne Zito for One and All Magazine: What are the aims and ambitions of Healthwatch Cornwall? Healthwatch Cornwall aims to ensure that every voice counts by putting people at the heart of health and social care. It will work to ensure that the collective experiences of people in the county will be used as evidence to inform and influence the decisions commissioners and providers make when looking at the services offered. The organisation will do what it takes to ensure people’s voices are heard and acted on. What do you think are the priorities for the NHS in Cornwall in the next five years? Ensuring patient opinions effectively influence the care provided is of paramount importance. All businesses need to listen to feedback from consumers and staff to help give people what they want and to build trust and loyalty. The NHS is, on the whole, a wellloved institution and by listening to people’s views it can remain so. How will you measure success and ensure the views of patients improve care?
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Healthwatch Cornwall’s success will be based on how representative it is of the experiences of the people of Cornwall; the collation of those experiences and the transfer of this information into data. With a volume of data we can undertake our influencing role with confidence, and gain the respect of people in Cornwall and the statutory services. Healthwatch Cornwall will have strategic seats on the Health and Wellbeing Board, Overview and Scrutiny committee and partnership boards so will be in a prime position to influence decision making. The organisation has statutory rights, enabling it to enter and view adult care settings and children’s health care settings, while also having a legal expectation to be responded to by the commissioners and providers when it makes recommendations. It will share its achievements and performance results on its website, through other communication outlets and in its annual report. There are currently significant pressures on health and social care services in Cornwall. Do you think Healthwatch can make a difference to the way the system works? Yes. I believe Healthwatch Cornwall has the ability to positively change the system where it is found to be lacking. By working together with commissioners and providers to find solutions to issues that Healthwatch Cornwall raises, we will be able bring about effective change but this may not happen overnight. Healthwatch Cornwall can also play a role in collating impact assessment data. So, where services have been reduced due to financial constraints we can gather evidence on how commissioning decisions are impacting our communities. Healthwatch Cornwall also has a role in feeding into the national umbrella organisation, Healthwatch England, which in turn can influence national policy. What changes would you like to see RCHT make in the next few years? As Healthwatch Cornwall begins to gather feedback from people, including any good or bad comments about RCHT, it will be able to determine exact areas for change. Its predecessor LINk in Cornwall worked closely with RCHT in response to concerns about hospital discharge and transport to and from hospital. Healthwatch Cornwall will continue to address issues as they arise. If patients or staff wish to share their experiences they can visit www.healthwatchcornwall.co.uk or call the freephone advice line on 0800 0381 281.
Win one of four pairs of tickets for a night of theatre under the stars! This summer Cornwall’s Miracle Theatre demonstrates why Waiting for Godot, once famously described as ‘a play in which nothing happens – twice!’ is one of the most profound, moving and comic plays ever written. Both deadly serious and seriously funny, Beckett’s timeless masterpiece explores what makes us tick with clarity, dramatic force and irresistible humour. Delivered by a stellar cast of the company’s best known actors, this classic about a couple of vagrants killing time under a tree is admirably suited to Miracle’s stunning outdoor locations - a perfect reason to spend an evening under the stars! Simply answer the following question: Who wrote ‘Waiting for Godot’?
To win a pair of tickets to see the show at one of the following venues: s 13th July, 7.30pm Cathedral Green, Truro s 13th, 14th & 15th Aug, 7.30pm Gyllyndune Garden, Falmouth s 7th & 8th Aug, 7.30pm St Mawes Castle, The Roseland s 29th & 30th Aug, 7.30pm Restormel Castle, Lostwithiel
To enter, please send your answer along with your name, home address, or Department and extension number to oneandall@cornwall.nhs.uk or send it to: One & All Magazine, c/o Press Office, Bedruthan House, RCH There will be four winners, no cash equivalent prizes. The competition is open to RCHT staff only, excluding those associated with the competition. The prize is non-transferable and is available to entrants aged 18 and above. Al entries must be made by 28 June 2013. The decision of the Press Office is final and no correspondence will be entered into.
T O U R I N G J U N E T O S E P T E M B E R T O C O R N W A L L’ S B E S T O U T D O O R S E T T I N G S
W W W. M I R A C L E T H E AT R E . C O. U K
C. Nicholls Solicitors Chris Nicholls M.A. (Cantab.) 71 Fore Street, Bodmin, Cornwall PL31 2JB
Family Problems? • Neighbour Problems? Conveyancing and Wills • Motoring Specialists
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We offer advice in all these areas – AND –
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Discounts for Health Professionals Contact C. Nicholls Solicitors on 01208 76969 for a free assessment
24/7 Emergency number – 07778 496058 Family Panel Member • Motoring Specialists • Higher Court Advocates.
Now available to all Royal Cornwall Hospitals NHS Trust employees! To access the scheme and find out how you can drive away a brand new, fully maintained and insured car for up to three years go to www.tuskerdirect.com. Select ‘Create Account’ Company Code (RCHT) Unique Employee Identifier (Your Employee Number)
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Your business could benefit from advertising in One & All call 01392 201227
WHAT’S ON
Competition WIN a Family Ticket for four, to Flambards
Can you spot six differences from the photos below? For a chance to win, circle the six differences and send your entries to Spot the Difference Competition, Communications Department, Bedruthan House, RCH – Good Luck!
Flambards - Cornwall’s best day of the week, whatever the weather. Experience the undercover exhibitions including ‘The Victorian Village’. Meander through its cobbled streets, 50 life size shops, houses and businesses together with all the attendant trades. This recreation of Victorian life is truly outstanding. Explore ‘Britain in the Blitz’ and take a walk through history during World War 2. The ‘War Gallery’ displays respectful tributes to ‘The Few’ and to all the men and women of Great Britain and The Commonwealth, who served in World Wars 1 and 2 and subsequent conflicts. Experience thrill therapy on the best family rides in Cornwall from the gentle to the daring, including the famous Skyraker and Thunderbolt. Throughout the season there are TV character meet and greet sessions, visits from Titan the Robot and shows including The Beast of Bodmin, a theatrical puppet show and an extremely funny Science Boffins magic show. Our Firework spectaculars in August are the best in the West. Name………………………………..................................... So, come rain - come shine, there is plenty to enjoy for all the family. Department (if applicable)…………………............................ See our website for the new calendar and check open dates and available Contact Number ……………………................................. facilities. All correct entries will be entered into a draw and a winner picked at random. There will be just Flambards, Helston. T: 01326 573404 Sat Nav: TR13 0QA www.flambards.co.uk
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one winner, no cash equivalent prizes. The competition is open to all, excluding those associated with the competition. The prize is non-transferable and is available to entrants aged 18 and above. All entries must be made by June 1, 2013. The decision of the Communications Team is final and no correspondence will be entered into. Winners from the last edition: Congratulations to Ruth Stedmon, WCH X-Ray, who is the winner of the One & All Spot the Difference competition. Congratulations also to Lesley Rowe, RCH Maternity, who was picked as winner of the Hall for Cornwall competition.
What’s On April 15 PLACE (PLACE programme Patient- Led Assessments of the Care Environment) Training Day 25 RCHT Trust Board meeting May ME Awareness Month 8 World Red Cross Day 11 (Saturday): Get On Your Bike – Cornwall Coast to Coast Cycle Ride, Devoran to Portreath in aid of the Phoenix Stroke Appeal, 10am; 12 Nurses Day 18 (Saturday): Coffee Morning, Mawnan Smith Village Hall, 10am – 12 noon; 30 World No Smoking Day 30 RCHT Trust Board meeting June 6-8 Royal Cornwall Show 7 World Environment Day 13 Council of Governors Meeting (Shadow – TBC) 14 Blood Donor Day 27 RCHT Trust Board meeting 30 RCHT Open Day July RCHT Long Service Awards 25 RCHT Trust Board meeting October 13 21st Anniversary Thanksgiving Service, Truro Cathedral, 2pm, More details to follow. If you have an event or diary date email us at: oneandall@cornwall.nhs.uk
n Cornwall we are looking for people to become foster carers and adopters. Becoming a foster carer or adoptive parent can be fulfilling and life changing, and make a real difference to the life of a child. On average we successfully place 40 children a year in adoptive families, and we continue to have children waiting for a family. There is no one type of person that makes a good adoptive parent. Just as every child is different, so every adoptive parent brings different life experiences, backgrounds and skills to the care and support they can give. Sarah and Mike adopted with Cornwall last year and say: “We have gained an amazing fun filled family life and recommend it whole heartedly. But be prepared to be exhausted!” Currently we have 270 foster carers, and anyone can apply to become a foster carer as long as they
have the skills and experience to look after children in care. Foster carers can help some of the most vulnerable children in Cornwall, providing them with guidance, stability and love. John is a young person in foster care in Cornwall. He says: “My foster carers are amazing, I mean they treat me with so much care and they truly do love me as much as I love them. I see them as my family. I wouldn’t be as confident in myself if I wasn’t in foster care…it gives me confidence and happiness.” If you are interested in finding out more about how you can give a child a loving, secure home, please contact us. Adoption: www.cornwall.gov.uk/adoption, tel: 01872 322200 Fostering: www.cornwall.gov.uk/fostering, tel: 01872 323638
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