Health and Wellbeing Winter/Spring Newsletter by University of Cumbria

HEALTH

& WELLBEING WINTER 2012/13

Student elective placements offer valuable insight Students are encouraged to make the most of their placements, travelling to destinations which allow them to view their profession in a new light. Graduate

makes waves in British Rowing programme

Knowledge transfer

saves trust money and improves patient care

Nuclear portfolio to develop with expert help

Students engage staff in corporate health challenges

Rebecca Western on our BSc (Hons) Diagnostic Radiography course at a Tanzanian orphanage, whilst on placement

WELCOME FROM THE EXECUTIVE DEAN OF THE FACULTY OF HEALTH AND WELLBEING Welcome to our second, winter edition of the newsletter from the Faculty of Health and Wellbeing. As you will see it’s been a busy six months for us, with lots going on. We have a strong track record as a major provider of knowledge and skills for the health and wellbeing sector across the north of England. In addition, every year we train more new entrants to the allied professions than any other university in our area. Aspiring health professionals choose our pre-registration courses because they will qualify in their chosen field and leave us ready to start their career at the leading edge of practice. Sports students choose the faculty because of our student-centred focus and our emphasis upon employability. We have a strong reputation for quality and student satisfaction. Our highly motivated and qualified team of lecturers, combined with top facilities and support, give new professionals the best possible start on their career path. A wide range of short and part-time courses have been developed to up-skill professionals to enable them to be up-to-date with their practice. We work with health and wellbeing professionals in the public, private and third sectors in delivering professional development training. This includes working overseas with a range of partners. As you will see from this newsletter our portfolio responds to the changing needs of the health and wellbeing sector and it continues to evolve. Please do get in touch with us if you have any queries or suggestions.

With best wishes Dr Robin Talbot Executive Dean Faculty of Health and Wellbeing Email: robin.talbot@cumbria.ac.uk

Editor Beverley Kerr - External Relations Features Tracy Calvert - Communications Team Design Adam Nolan - External Relations If you would like to contribute to the next issue of ‘Health & Wellbeing’ please contact tracy.calvert@cumbria.ac.uk

CONTENTS 4

5 6-7

Knowledge transfer saves trust money and improves patient care

University supports army-civvy street transition

Nuclear portfolio to develop with expert help Nursing event opens up to international audience

10-11

Graduate makes waves in British Rowing programme University soap goes global

Patient knowledge helps learning disability nurses

Greenfingers project improves citizensâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; health

Students engage staff in corporate health challenges

Learning disability nursing students deliver spirituality thoughts to professional colleagues

Placement news

News in brief

“This has been a fantastic opportunity for me and I’m very passionate about the participation and coaching work we are doing for British Rowing.” Katherine Morris Above: Katherine at work

GRADUATE MAKES WAVES IN BRITISH ROWING PROGRAMME

Katherine Morris, 24, graduated with a BA (Hons) Sport and Exercise Science degree in 2009 and landed a post as participation team leader for British Rowing in September 2011, covering the Wessex region in south England.

A University of Cumbria graduate is using Olympic rowing success to encourage others to participate in the sport.

Katherine’s role with British Rowing involves developing opportunities for people to get started in the sport, stay and develop in the sport and, for the talented few, ensure pathways to elite success, such as competing in future Olympic Games.

“I attended every rowing event at the London 2012 Olympic Games to offer my support both professionally and vocally! It was fantastic to see the quality of athletes we have in British Rowing and it’s something for our youngsters to aim to achieve in the future.”

She also has responsibility for the coach education programme, ensuring that there are qualified coaches and officials in place to improve rates of participation and athletic improvement. Katherine also attended the Paralympics to show her support.

Tim Barry, quality lead for sport and physical activity at the University of Cumbria said: “It’s fantastic to see one of our graduates in such an important role for British rowing, and clearly making a major contribution to the sport within her dedicated region of activity. Katherine was highly dedicated to her studies whilst at university and she demonstrates that hard work and commitment pay off in terms of great job prospects within UK sport.”

Rowing’s profile has been enhanced thanks to the success of British athletes at the London 2012 Olympic Games. The team’s rowers picked up an impressive haul of nine medals, including four gold, two silver and three bronze medals, topping the rowing medal tables ahead of New Zealand and winning the adoration of the British public.

Katherine said: “This has been a fantastic opportunity for me and I’m very passionate about the participation and coaching work we are doing for British Rowing. The games have brought the sport to the attention of the British public and we want to make it more accessible for people to get involved at any level. “Sport equality is also important and we are working with disabled youngsters too, ensuring that they have the facilities they need to enter the sport and potentially become our Paralympic champions of the future.

UNIVERSITY SOAP GOES GLOBAL An interactive learning tool created by the University of Cumbria has become a worldwide hit. Stilwell, which has been likened to an online ‘soap opera’, allowing students to control the actions and wellbeing of the characters as they deal with real life social, domestic and healthcare issues. A number of universities in the UK and abroad, including a college and a university in Perth, Australia, and a technical college in Canada, have bought into the drama created by University of Cumbria health and social care experts. The web-based tool was initially designed to support health and social care students and continuous professional development at the University of Cumbria. As the programme was so successful, it was rolled out to support training in other organisations such as Cumbria Constabulary, the NHS and Cumbria County Council. Real-life scenarios are played out by real actors and the web-based environment features video, audio, profiles, newspaper articles and background health and social reports. Students use the situations to make informed decisions about the best treatment for the characters. Dr. Mike Walsh, the creative director of Stilwell, has developed a variety of resources, incidents and scenarios that span a wide range of health and social issues such as domestic abuse, mental health issues, child protection and long and short term health problems, all of which help students to deal with difficult topics.

“The best thing about Stilwell is that it allows the students to make decisions in a safe environment and they can learn from the decisions that they choose.” Ian Corrie, Stilwell project manager Ian Corrie, Stilwell project manager for the University of Cumbria said: “The best thing about Stilwell is that it allows the students to make decisions in a safe environment and they can learn from the decisions that they choose. This builds their confidence and experience for when they are faced with the reallife situations in their career.” For more information please visit: www.stilwelleducation.com

Above: A still from one of the many videos on Stilwell

KNOWLEDGE TRANSFER SAVES TRUST MONEY AND IMPROVES PATIENT CARE A partnership between the University of Cumbria and a local NHS trust has resulted in cost savings and improved services for people with a major disease. A Knowledge Transfer Partnership (KTP) saw the University of Cumbria share knowledge to create a Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) Centre of Excellence for the East Lancashire Hospitals NHS Trust. The overall aim of the project was to achieve efficiencies in consumption costs, such as expenditure on oxygen, and hospital admissions. Through the funded programme, physiology graduate Tom Liversedge, 25, was recruited to liaise with the university’s respiratory care specialist Tilly Reid and implement and manage projects for the NHS trust. Above: Tom Liversedge at the East Lancashire Hospitals NHS Trust

“The KTP was a remarkable opportunity for me and I would highly recommend it to anybody who wants to gain some further experience” Tom Liversedge

These included research into assessment methods for respiratory conditions, the development of a care bundle to allow patients to manage their care needs at home, implementation of staff training initiatives and a home exercise DVD for COPD patients. Tom, of Burnley, spent six months within the community division of the trust, leading on a number of clinical projects to support them in understanding the type and level of care needed by the patients.

The KTP resulted in over £96,000 of efficiency savings as well as £40,000 savings on preventative costs associated with oxygen supply. This is predicted to escalate and continue to offer significant savings to the trust. Through better patient assessment and on-going treatment there has also been a significant reduction in the number of individuals being admitted to hospital.

“The KTP model brings so many benefits to all of the partners, supporting the development of high calibre project managers.” Tilly Reid Advanced practice learning facilitator

Lorraine Goldsbrough of East Lancashire Hospitals NHS Trust said: “The value of the KTP during a period of significant cost savings was clear through its ability to focus minds and alignment in such methods of innovative care. It provided an opportunity for lateral thinking with reference to innovation, lean working and cultural change, all of which are key to the health service making cost savings.” Tilly Reid, advanced practice learning facilitator, mentored Tom and supervised his work throughout the project. Tilly said: “Having a dedicated associate supported by the KTP programme has enabled a clear focus and the scale of productivity is stunning. The KTP model brings so many benefits to all of the partners, supporting the development of high calibre project managers, which will become an invaluable asset to the organisation going forward.” Tom has now been offered a full time position with the NHS trust. He said: “The KTP was a remarkable opportunity for me and I would highly recommend it to anybody who wants to gain some further experience. Having an academic support system in place comprising experts within the field of healthcare was invaluable to achieving the outcomes of the KTP. The knowledge and skills acquired significantly contributed to acquiring my new position within the trust management team.”

“The value of the KTP during a period of significant cost savings was clear through its ability to focus minds and alignment in such methods of innovative care.” Lorraine Goldsbrough East Lancashire Hospitals NHS Trust For more information on our KTPs please contact: philippa.chapman@cumbria.ac.uk

Above: combat medical technicians

UNIVERSITY SUPPORTS ARMY-CIVVY STREET TRANSITION Working closely with Army Medical Services (AMS), the University of Cumbria has developed a programme to prepare combat medical technicians in the Army for a career in mainstream civilian healthcare. For more information please contact: jacqueline.arrol-barker@cumbria.ac.uk

This quality of the new programme was so good that it was shortlisted in the Outstanding Employer Engagement Initiative category of the Times Higher Education Awards 2012, By working together, AMS and the university were able to create an accredited education and skills based programme which provides progression routes in line with civilian roles. These include Emergency Care Assistant, Health Care Support Worker, Assistant Practitioner or Paramedic and progression opportunities to careers in nursing and allied health professions. The focus is on areas that the students will not have come across during their army careers, including childbirth, chronic conditions and dealing with relatives. An initial pilot programme, involving 60 staff, began in April 2012 with university staff and civilian paramedics delivering lectures and practical lessons on site at Keogh Barracks in Surrey. Each of the 60 students will celebrate their success and receive their certificates at a special ceremony at the University of Cumbria’s Lancaster campus in 2013.

“What makes this programme particularly successful is the impact which it has had on the students and the employer.” Jacqui Arrol-Barker, Faculty Business Manager

The university was shortlisted in the category alongside Bournemouth University, the University of Essex, the University of Lincoln, the Open University and the University of Sunderland. Jacqui Arrol-Barker, Faculty Business Manager from the University of Cumbria said: “What makes this programme particularly successful is the impact which it has had on the students and the employer. It has been tailored to meet their specific needs and offers benefits to the AMS, the student and to future employers too.” Major Clive Smyth from the AMD said: “This is a pilot programme, facilitated through the University of Cumbria that has allowed some of our Combat Medical technicians (Class 1) to complement their military training and competencies in order to gain professional recognition in their Army role”.

NUCLEAR PORTFOLIO TO DEVELOP WITH EXPERT HELP The University of Cumbria is further developing its nuclear courses in west Cumbria in partnership with the Environment Agency. Above: Dr. Chris Englefield

Dr Chris Englefield of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) will work with the University of Cumbria to design and deliver courses to meet the demands of the county and the changing nuclear industry including an MSc in nuclear security. The university already offers courses in radiation protection, is developing an MSc Nuclear Security and is investing in research and enterprise around nuclear security. Dr Englefield has more than 30 years of experience in the industry and as a radioactive active substance regulator on behalf of the Environment Agency. He has also been an Honorary Research Fellow at the University of Cumbria since 2010. He has previously been president of the Society for Radiological Protection and is a consultant for the IAEA. His part-time role at the University of Cumbria at Energus, Workington will see him work closely with the university’s new principal lecturer in radiation protection, Alan Marsh, and Dr Alison Marshall, Director of the Cumbrian Centre for Health Technologies (CaCHeT).

“We are now well placed to meet national and international needs for competent radiation protection professionals to protect workers, the public and the environment.”

FOR MORE INFORMATION ABOUT UNIVERSITY OF CUMBRIA COURSES IN RADIATION PROTECTION AND SECURITY PLEASE CONTACT: alan.marsh@cumbria.ac.uk or visit www.cumbria.ac.uk/RPFDSC

Dr Robin Talbot, Executive Dean for the Faculty of Health and Wellbeing

Dr Robin Talbot, Executive Dean for the Faculty of Health and Wellbeing is pleased that the university is widening its offer within the nuclear industry. He said: “The addition of Chris will not only strengthen our radiation protection team but also widen the scope of the support that the university provides to industry in the UK and overseas. We are now well placed to meet national and international needs for competent radiation protection professionals to protect workers, the public and the environment.”

“The university is blessed with proximity to a large part of the nuclear industry in Cumbria and across the north west. Our relationship with the energy coast gives us an inside track with the nuclear industry and our relationship with the Society for Radiological Protection gives us a strong network with other industries that use ionising radiation. We listen to the professionals and work with them to develop the professionals of the future.”

Above: An African hospital ward

NURSING EVENT OPENS UP TO INTERNATIONAL AUDIENCE University of Cumbria nursing students from around the world have used technology to prepare for their transition from student to working professional. A recent conference for senior students allowed groups from Cumbria, as well as Hong Kong, China and Africa to discuss the professional aspects of their move into the working world. The conference, organised by the university and the Royal College of Nursing was held in September 2012 and brought together the students online to share ideas and experiences from their training around the world.

A live video stream, social media and an email address allowed the international audience to watch and interact, ask questions and have their answers broadcast live. Discussions focussed on current healthcare provision and the transition from student nurse to registered nurse, including developments in healthcare, knowledge on career development and the job market and awareness of specific obligations as a practising healthcare professional. A range of presentations and workshops delivered by healthcare and nursing professionals gave an insight into what nurses need to know and the help available to support them as they embark on their nursing career.

“The international scenario was also useful for the students based here as it allowed them a chance to think about the differences in healthcare provision around the world.” Janet MacLean Royal College of Nursing

Simon Jackson, Senior Lecturer in Nursing at the University of Cumbria said: “We have students studying courses and modules with us from different countries and cultures around the world and this has given them a chance to participate in a useful debate around the nursing and healthcare profession. “The conference was a key part of the students’ transition to registered nurse as they considered aspects such as dignity and equality, professional development and leadership and delegation.”

Janet MacLean of the Royal College of Nursing said: “This was the first senior student conference we have arranged which had an international reach, which made it very interesting for our student nurses as well as our professional speakers. “The international scenario was also useful for the students based here as it allowed them a chance to think about the differences in healthcare provision around the world which they might encounter at some point in their future careers.”

For more information on nursing courses please visit: www.cumbria.ac.uk/health

PATIENT KNOWLEDGE HELPS LEARNING DISABILITY NURSES Learning disability nursing students are using the experiences of local people to help shape their knowledge.

Steve Mee, a Senior Lecturer at the University of Cumbria, has written ‘Valuing People with a Learning Disability’ to help support the teaching of information to students on his course. Steve worked with local students and people with learning disabilities to write the book which is based on their experiences. He began the project in the 1980’s, working with adults with learning disabilities who had been resident in the Royal Albert Hospital in Lancaster. More than 150 former Royal Albert patients took part, most of them from the Lancashire area and now living in their own homes. They detailed their experiences and treatment which was documented for the ‘Unlocking the Past’ website. Over the past seven years, students at the University of Cumbria have listened in on the conversations and documented and summarised them as part of their learning. Students also used their placement and professional practice experiences from across north west England to contribute further to the book. Steve believes that this approach to learning has been beneficial to each of the groups. He said: “The book takes a difficult concept and uses real life experiences and stories to break down the complex theory.

“The students are able to learn from what went wrong in the past and by listening to some of the stories of unsuitable treatment, they can understand the correct and most appropriate way to support somebody who has a learning disability. They have told me that this has made a huge difference to the way in which they approach their work. “The former Royal Albert patients who helped us with the project have been able to share their experiences and help to ensure that other people with learning disabilities are treated more fairly in the future.” Although the book will mainly be used as a source of information for students studying on social care courses and professionals working with vulnerable groups, it is available to buy from Amazon. For more information on our learning disability nursing course please contact: tony.dennison@cumbria.ac.uk

Students on the sports and physical activity undergraduate programmes have been working in partnership with the Lancaster City Council on a ‘Greenfingers’ research project.

All ages and fitness levels are catered for with lighter tasks for the less fit, and more strenuous work for the fitter. Each session ended with a get together in the Pavilion Café for a well-earned cup of tea. A research paper based on the project has already been published in a health journal highlighting the benefits for those who get involved.

GREENFINGERS PROJECT IMPROVES CITIZENS’ HEALTH Above: Students working on the Greenfingers project

Second year students on the BA Sport, Physical Activity and Health Development degree assist with the project alongside park officers, and help with research data collection. The project, now in its third year, aims to clear and replant areas of Williamson Park with native species, whilst at the same time creating new habitats for wildlife. Volunteers with green fingers and an interest in conservation are asked to take part in the research. They will benefit by improving their physical health through the tasks associated with the project as well as gaining the social and mental health benefits from participation.

Councillor Jon Barry, Lancaster City Council Cabinet member with responsibility for the voluntary sector, said: “Volunteering opportunities such as this give local people the chance to take pride in their district and make a real difference not only to themselves but the wider community and environment too. I would urge local residents to come along and give it a try. Mark Christie, tutor at the University of Cumbria, added: “It’s also a great opportunity for our students to not only appreciate different approaches to encouraging physical activity and community development work, and link theory to practice, but also to be hands on with the research itself.” For more information on the project please contact: mark.christie@cumbria.ac.uk

STUDENTS HELP STAFF PUT BEST FOOT FORWARD Student led corporate health events are helping university staff to keep active.

Right: Staff keeping fit in a local park

Staff members in Carlisle were invited to join a pedometer challenge, organised by five final year BA (Hons) Physical Education students and supported by the University of Cumbriaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s human resources service. The corporate health event was launched with a health awareness talk and then a briskly paced 1.5 mile lunchtime walk close to the campuses. The students, and Janet Whitworth, Head of Human Resources, highlighted the benefits of regular walking in a short presentation attended by more than 25 staff members, with 60 staff signing up to the pedometer challenge. Staff were issued with a pedometer and asked to log their steps on a website for four weeks, competing against other faculties and services to see which team averaged the most daily steps. The results showed that the teams were all achieving above the recommendation of 10,000 steps per day, combining both work-based walking and recreational walking.

The winning staff section averaged over 78,000 steps per person, per week. Lancaster campus staff were invited by six final year BA (Hons) Coaching and Sport Development students to enter a departmental Olympic-themed quiz involving orienteering around campus. Launching the event, the students led a half hour briefing, explaining the importance of a healthy lifestyle and highlighting the orienteering challenge format. The 40 staff attending all received a goody bag full of information, fruit and bottled water. For each correct quiz answer, the teams gained a Scrabble letter from a checkpoint on campus. The letters each team received then had to be used to devise an Olympic-related word (or words). By the end of the week, around 70 staff in 14 teams had been engaged in the competition. The winners, Facilities Management service, won with an impressive Scrabble score, combined with the number of letters they gained, of 41 points.

Two learning disabilities nursing students are making a name for themselves in the profession after highlighting their experience and understanding of spirituality. Above: Emma and Matt, learning disability nursing students

LEARNING DISABILITY NURSING STUDENTS PROVIDE SPIRITUAL INSIGHT Third year BSc Learning Disabilities nursing students Emma Consadine and Matt Walwyn have presented information about spirituality in nursing to a number of local audiences and will be delivering a national presentation next year.

“I realise now what huge part of the nurse’s role caring for somebody’s spiritual needs is.” Matt Walwyn The students got involved in the subject after being asked to consider spirituality and the person centred approach in their course work. Matt was keen to share his own personal self-awareness journey and Emma created a short film to highlight the importance of capturing individuality.

Both volunteered to talk to an audience at the Calderstones NHS Partnership Foundation Trust ‘Spirituality in Nursing’ event. This led to them working with the governance department at Calderstones to shape their person centred approach within the organisation.

“Emma and Matt have made a great impact on the audiences they have spoken to” Jo Marshall, senior lecturer

They were then asked to present at the regional End of Life conference in Blackpool in October. Emma and Matt have made such an impression that they have also been asked to make presentations at the National End of Life conference in London in March 2013 and at the Macmillan Conference in Cumbria in May 2013. Jo Marshall, senior lecturer, said: “Emma and Matt have made a great impact on the audiences they have spoken to so far. The student group were asked to consider holistic care, the person centred approach through their studies. In particular, they looked at capturing the essence of the individual and supporting a holistic therapeutic relationship.”

For more information on our learning disability nursing course please contact: tony.dennison@cumbria.ac.uk

CYPRUS

Placement NEWS

STUDENT ELECTIVE PLACEMENTS OFFER VALUABLE INSIGHT

Five students from the BSc Adult Nursing course chose to do their four week elective placement at two hospitals in Cyprus. The placement, organised and paid for by the students themselves, allowed them to find out about treatment and care in another country. Ellis Davidson, 20, travelled with fellow student Rebecca Irving to work at the 169 bed Larnaca General Hospital, one of the main public hospitals on the island. Ellis said: “I thought this would be a great opportunity to learn how a different healthcare system works and whether there were any techniques or guidelines I could bring back to use in the UK.

Students across the university are encouraged to make the most of their elective placements, travelling to destinations which allow them to view their profession in a new light. This year was no different, with students opting to take a placement in a number of countries including Cyprus and Africa. Our students recount their experiences for you. Above right: A hospital in Cyprus

“I really enjoyed the placement and we were able to witness different patient journeys as the first week was spent on accident and emergency, the second week on theatre and the final week on the surgical and urology ward. “We watched a Caesarean and other operations such as total knee replacement, cataract surgery, mammograms, tonsillectomies and cholystectomies during our week in theatre. “The nurse to patient ratio was 1:1.74 but communication was different to that in UK hospitals. I think it is important to communicate with patients and I will try my best to explain procedures more thoroughly.

“I thought this would be a great opportunity to learn how a different healthcare system works and whether there were any techniques or guidelines I could bring back to use in the UK.”

“The main issue we had was the language barrier but this improved my observation skills as I had to try to assess patients without asking them questions. However, my biggest concern was the lack of privacy and dignity displayed towards patients which was difficult to observe. “I learned that patients need choices. They should be asked about their treatment rather than told. I also realised that the NHS is a value service in comparison. “We have far more guidelines, protocols and nursing tools to help guide our practice which ultimately provides patients with safe and efficient care. The aftercare patients receive in England is outstanding and there are community nurses available which Cyprus does not have.“

Ellis Davidson

TANZANIA Emma Watson, 21, travelled with four other BSc Nursing students to Tanzania to undertake their elective placement. Emma said: “My main aim was to witness a different healthcare provision and the ways in which medical care is delivered. I also wanted to experience a different culture - food, drink and the day to day activities and lifestyle. “I started planning the trip months in advance, raising just over £3,100 with a 32 mile walk, race night, tea and coffee morning, Easter treasure hunt and donations from family and friends. “The main thing I learned on the placement was that healthcare is so much different and more basic in Tanzania.

Above right: Working with a patient in Tanzania

“I spent most of my time on obstetrics and gynaecology where I was able to assist with the pre and post natal care of mothers and their babies, the care and treatment of premature babies and also assist in gynaecology with common procedures. I was also able to visit theatre where I observed a Caesarean section.

“The best part of my placement was the opportunity to care for both the mother and new born baby. The worst part was witnessing the death of numerous babies during the placement. If the facilities and resources which are available in the UK were also available in Africa, these babies may have survived. “Whilst in Tanzanai, I had Swahili lessons twice a week, learned African dancing and experienced different foods. I also went on safari, a boat trip to watch the sunset, visited two different orphanages and visited the markets to buy presents and have clothes made. “I would love to go back in a few years’ time to see if any changes have been made to the healthcare provision. I would also love to visit all the people I met out there as I am positive they would all recognise us! “The placement itself was the hardest thing I have ever done but it was an amazing experience. I would recommend it to other nursing students as it is a great opportunity.”

Placement NEWS

CONTINUED... TANZANIA “My elective was amazing and has really opened my eyes, I feel I have come out of my shell as a person and feel so much more confident.” Rebecca...

Above right : Rebecca with one of the children at the orphanage

Rebecca Western, 20, travelled alone to Tanzania to take part in her placement. She said: “I was shown around on my first day and it was apparent just how different it was to the NHS. “I spent some time in the x-ray department where there was only one x-ray room with very basic equipment. They were using film rather than the computerised radiography I am used to in the UK. At times we were unable to take any chest x-rays as they didn’t have the correct size film and one day they ran out of film. “The patients I saw varied from the follow up of fractures to road traffic accidents. There was a high number of traffic related injuries and we received a wave of patients each day from a ‘dalla dalla’ or local bus crash. “The language barrier was quite difficult, but with my twice weekly Swahili lessons and help from the staff, I found myself being able to have basic conversations with patients as well as carry out the examinations effectively by being able to ask all of the relevant questions. “I spent a few days on the labour ward where women where brought in the very late stages of labour. The ward had five beds and two nurses so it was extremely busy, with about 80 births per day.

“I also spent a day on a general women’s ward where there was a lack of medical equipment and medication. Patients did not have access to pain relief and many were in pain, unable to afford the medication. One patient on the ward had severe burns to most of her body and she could not afford treatment. I got together with some other students to pay for two weeks of medication. It cost just £30. “In the time I was there I was also able to visit a local orphanage, taking donations of clothing and toys to children. I was able to travel round the local area including visiting nearby Zanzibar and I got a real feel for the African way of life, attending a local church and even spending an evening with a local family in their home. “My elective was amazing and has really opened my eyes, I feel I have come out of my shell as a person and feel so much more confident. It has shown me how vast the differences are with health systems in different countries. I would urge anyone who is thinking of going abroad for electives to do it as it is life changing.”

News: IN BRIEF ROBIN JOINS TRUST BOARD Dr. Robin Talbot has become a governor for the NHS trust which will run north Cumbria’s hospitals from April 2013. Dr Talbot, Executive Dean for the Faculty of Health and Wellbeing will represent the university and the county on the Northumbria Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust Board. The trust is taking over the running of the Cumberland Infirmary in Carlisle and the West Cumberland Hospital in Whitehaven “It is important that we maintain our current role for health care education in Cumbria. This will also allow us to create new opportunities to support health care education in north east England. I will be meeting the interim chief officer at the North Cumbria Hospitals and we will have a programme of strategic and operational meetings with governors and trust managers in the future. I am optimistic that over the next three to five years we can establish new north east placement opportunities for our students and open up new markets in Northumberland and Tyneside for our well-established CPD programmes” said Dr Talbot.

“It is important that we maintain our current role for health care education in Cumbria. This will also allow us to create new opportunities to support health care education in north east England” Dr Robin Talbot

Above: Dr. Robin Talbot

GRADUATE MASTERS FOOTBALL SCHOLARSHIP IN THE USA A 2012 University of Cumbria sports graduate is travelling the world thanks to his degree from the university. Former student David Campbell has been selected for a master’s scholarship in the USA, but is first enjoying a role coaching tennis in Australia. David, 21, graduated with a degree in Physical Education and spent his time at university juggling studying with a semi professional football career, playing for Gretna and Workington Reds. He is now one of just three trialists selected from 25 to study a part funded sports degree in America in 2013.

The amount of funding he will receive to study will be based on his profile, made up of academic status, level of performance, qualifications and areas of interest. While he waits to start his programme, the volunteer tennis coach has flown off to Australia to work for a tennis academy in Melbourne. Physical education programme leader Lindsay Sander said: “David was always a very proactive and busy student, looking for ways to further himself in his studies and career development, as well as keeping physically active. This just goes to show that there are fantastic opportunities available to those who have the drive and attitude to succeed and the confidence to grab them.”

EMPLOYABILITY FOCUS FOR STUDENTS

Final year undergraduate and postgraduate social work students at the University of Cumbria have benefited from a range of events to help make their career aspirations come to fruition.

“Employability of our students is a key theme for the university and it’s important that we give them the opportunity to make the most of the skills and knowledge they have gained throughout their studies”

Our students had a chance to meet a range of prospective employers and discuss career opportunities. Following on, seminars were arranged where the topic of discussion was what future employers are looking for from potential employees?

Kirsteen Laidlaw, Senior Lecturer in Social Work

Additional seminars took place in the following weeks to focus on interview skills, writing personal statements and understanding person specifications when applying for jobs. Kirsteen Laidlaw, Senior Lecturer in Social Work said: “Employability of our students is a key theme for the university and it’s important that we give them the opportunity to make the most of the skills and knowledge they have gained throughout their studies.”

Above: School pupils and our students at the Young Peoples’ Sports Festival

MAKING A LONDON 2012 MARK Innovative community sports events delivered by University of Cumbria students has been formally recognised by London 2012. “In total, our students organised ten fantastic events this year, including the InspireMark events, involving 1200 or more primary school pupils” Dr Robin Talbot

Sixteen students studying degrees in coaching and sport development, sport, physical activity and health development, contributed to the Young People’s Sports Festival, part of the north west region’s contribution to the London 2012 preevent regional activity. The students organised events including Boccia, a Paralympic sport, Quickstix hockey and tag rugby, attracting 400 school pupils and involving over 50 students in event management or volunteer capacities. The festival also included contributions to local schools hockey coaching clinics by 30 second year sports students over a number of weeks.

The initiative has been awarded an InspireMark award which will be proudly displayed in the London 2012 Olympic Park on the Olympic Park Copper Box, the venue which hosted handball, volleyball and goalball. Mark Christie, module leader for the Managing Sports Events module, commented: “It is exciting to have the efforts of our students recognised in this way, alongside the contributions of others up and down the country that helped bring the London 2012 message to people in all regions. “In total, our students organised ten fantastic events this year, including the InspireMark events, involving 1200 or more primary school pupils, 100 community fun runners and 130 of our own staff across both campuses in sport and physical activity.”

SPORT AND EXERCISE CLINIC BLOOMS AT RICHARD ROSE A project to support the development of stronger links between the university and academies, as well as giving our students some hands on experience and topping up their vocational placement hours has been delivered, benefitting staff at a Carlisle academy. Students from the University of Cumbria have used their skills to run a staff sport and exercise massage clinic at Richard Rose Central Academy in Carlisle. Teacher, David Langley enjoyed a treatment from foundation degree Sports Massage Therapy student Ashley Graham after taking part in a 20 mile run. “The massage was excellent. I feel so much looser and better. I’d definitely come again” said David. The University of Cumbria sponsors the Richard Rose Academies and has a long running partnership, including involvement in setting up the Richard Rose Trust. Professor Liz Beaty, Pro Vice Chancellor of the University of Cumbria sits on the board of the trust. Above: Sports massage therapy student

“The massage was excellent. I feel so much looser and better. I’d definitely come again” David Langley, Teacher

The university also supports the academies through the academic programmes for progression, particularly through a learning partnership which aims to raise the higher education aspirations of the pupils.

STUDENT LAUNCHES SUPPORT FOR EATING DISORDERS A University of Cumbria student has set up a support group to help fellow students deal with eating disorders. Mental Health nursing student Faye Worthington, set up Student Run Self Help (SRSH) on our Lancaster campus to help students suffering from disorders such as bulimia or anorexia. SRSH is a national scheme which trains students to act as local group facilitators, offering support, encouragement and empathy to sufferers. Faye, originally from Durham, chose to study at the university after a recommendation from a registered mental health nurse in the north east.

“Setting up SRSH has helped me to gain more experience as well as help fellow students by listening and allowing them to understand their feelings toward their personal issues in a friendly, informal environment.”

FOR MORE I N F O R M AT I O N ABOUT SRSH

Above: Faye Worthingon, mental health nursing student

Faye said: “I think that people with a mental illness are misunderstood and mistreated by society and I want to change that. I did a work experience placement in a mental health day unit and I also did some volunteering in Lourdes before starting university.

CLINIC COMPLEMENTS DEGREE COURSE

The clinic was set up in October 2010 to enable the second year students to experience working in a complementary therapy environment. It also helps them to accrue the 60 hours of supervised case studies required for membership of the industry professional bodies.

Appointments are available for all and the clinic is open each Monday and Tuesday with appointments at 5.15pm and 6.30pm costing £10 each, or £5 for concessions. Clients who have five treatments will receive a sixth treatment free of charge.

Alison Brown, senior lecturer in complementary therapies said: “The clinic has been very successful from a learning perspective as it enables students to engage in problem-based learning. They can put taught theory into practice and become reflective and informed practitioners.

For more information or to book an appointment contact: appoints-h&eclinic@cumbria.ac.uk or call 01228 616383

Complementary therapy students at the University of Cumbria who offer a range of treatments including aromatherapy massage and reflexology at their Carlisle clinic, have had more than 60 clients making use of the supervised service.

“Feedback from clients is positive with comments around the improvement in their own general wellbeing and the professionalism and high quality provision from the student therapists.”

cumbria@srsh.co.uk

STUDENTS RESPOND TO COMMUNITY NEED Two University of Cumbria students have been sharing their learning, to the benefit of the local community. Second year physiotherapy student Lauren Watson, 20, has set up a first responders team in Calthwaite, her local village in the Eden Valley. After applying for her training, Lauren met fellow university student Rob Ewin, 23, a special constable in the police force and a first responder trainer. Rob, a final year policing, investigation and criminology student, also works as a field trainer, team leader and area co-ordinator for the first responders. Rob has taught Lauren and her recruits to deal with medical emergencies, including ones which may require the use of oxygen, and a defibrillator for restarting a patient’s heart. Lauren decided to set up the first responder team after realising how vulnerable her community would be in an emergency. Lauren was also aware of the vital services which could be provided after losing a close family member through an accident in 2002. Above: Robert Ewin, Policing, investigation and criminology student Top right: Lauren Watson, physiotherapy student

She said: “When I applied to be involved with first responders I didn’t want do it alone. I went around the village with flyers, asking if there was anybody else willing to join and volunteers of all ages came forward. Although Lauren and the team have been provided with some kit, they are now seeking to fundraise £18,000 to pay for other vital equipment, including pagers to make communication easier. For more information about how you can support Lauren and the first responders contact Lauren on 07753488341 or email laurenwatson12@hotmail.com.

STAFF WALK TO HEALTH WITH STUDENT HELP Staff at the University of Cumbria are being encouraged to take part in lunch time health walks led by students. More than ten second year students studying sport, physical activity and health development have been trained as walk leaders as part of the scheme.

FOR MORE I N F O R M AT I O N A B O U T H E A LT H W A L K S A N D O T H E R H E A LT H A N D C O M M U N I T Y I N I T I AT I V E S THE UNIVERSITY IS I N V O LV E D W I T H , C O N TA C T: MARK CHRISTIE ON mark.christie@cumbria.ac.uk 01524 384578

The ‘Walking to Health’ programme began in Lancaster in October 2012 and allows for a 35 minute walk from the Bowerham Road campus to Williamson Park. Members of staff are encouraged to use the time to get out of the office and experience the physical and social benefits of a group walking programme. Mark Christie, senior lecturer in sport and physical activity development commented: “This is a great opportunity for our students to get hands-on experience of leading health walks, whilst at the same time positively contributing to corporate health. Staff were also given a free pedometer for participating, allowing them to monitor their steps taken on a daily basis.

Above: Students taking a walk in a local park

UNIVERSITY - CARLISLE LEISURE PARTNERSHIP SUCCESS Hundreds of students have taken up a fantastic offer to help them enjoy their leisure time while at the University of Cumbria. Above: The gym at Carlisle Leisure Limited

“We have also worked with CLL through our Sportivate projects, allowing the students to gain experience in working with local schools to pass on their knowledge and build their own experience.” Dave Houlston, Director of Sport

The students have signed up for a Lifestyle Membership, enabling them to use the sports and leisure facilities provided by Carlisle Leisure Limited (CLL) across north and west Cumbria. So far, more than 1500 students and 130 staff across the county have signed up and are using the various facilities on offer, including the gym, swimming pools and exercise to music classes at such facilities as The Sands Centre and The Pools in Carlisle, Workington Leisure Centre and Cockermouth Leisure Centre. Recent research from within the sports industry has revealed that universities play an increasingly significant part in promoting physical activity as a lifestyle choice and students choice of university is linked to the availability of sport and physical wellbeing facilities. The university is supporting the partnership to help form the student deal package for those studying in the areas serviced by Carlisle Leisure, making the university a more attractive option for potential students.

The deal has also been opened up to university staff who can pay a reduced annual rate to gain access to the CLL facilities. The scheme is part of a wider on-going partnership developing between the university and CLL which has already seen a number of students working closely with CLL, with many of the university’s sports students involved in planning and delivering sports activities for local school children. Dave Houlston, Director of Sport at the University of Cumbria said: “Our link with Carlisle Leisure encourages students and staff to engage in sport and physical activity as a lifestyle choice as well as a performance arena. It also encourages better integration between students and local communities and offers a broader range of cultural activities and events. “We have also worked with CLL through our Sportivate projects, allowing the students to gain experience in working with local schools to pass on their knowledge and build their own experience.”

Graduates of the former St. Martin’s College campuses in Lancaster or Carlisle, Charlotte Mason College in Ambleside, UCLan at Newton Rigg or Cumbria Institute of the Arts, or any of its former names, are being asked to sign up to the alumni association.

ALUMNI ASSOCIATION NEEDS YOU Former students of the university’s legacy institutions were welcomed into the University of Cumbria’s recently formed alumni association.

“Many graduates of the legacy institutions have fond memories and stories from their time studying in Ambleside, Carlisle, Lancaster or Penrith spanning several decades.” Dave Houlston, Director of Sport

C O N TA C T T H E UNIVERSITY OF CUMBRIA ALUMNI A S S O C I AT I O N O N

All graduates will receive a dedicated alumni e-magazine three times a year containing news and graduate case studies, advice on reunions and support in tracing lost friends as well as career and postgraduate opportunities and information on philanthropic support, professional development and employability activity.

Karen Bassett, Development and Alumni Relations Manager at the university said: “Our growing body of graduates are our most valuable and interesting asset as ambassadors within the community. During the formation of the university we sadly lost touch with many of our alumni and now wish to re-establish contact and develop an alumni service dedicated to supporting graduates and the university.

alumni@cumbria.ac.uk.

“For many people their time at university and college was among the best years of their life, and strong emotional bonds were formed to the cities and campuses where they studied. Many graduates of the legacy institutions have fond memories and stories from their time studying in Ambleside, Carlisle, Lancaster or Penrith spanning several decades.” Visit the university website alumni pages for more information or ‘like’ uocalumni on Facebook or ‘follow’ them on Twitter.

HEALTH & WELLBEING

Sarah Lowe Graduate—BSc (Hons) Midwifery

For further information on any of our programmes, please see our booklet: www.cumbria.ac.uk/health

Richard Mealor Studying—BSc (Hons) Nursing (Adult)

ww w.cumbria .ac.uk/health

HEALTH AND WELLBEING BOOKLET

Paul Tho mas Studying —MSc Occ upational Therapy (accelera ted route)

To request a hard copy, or if you have any queries, please contact: enquirycentre@cumbria.ac.uk; 0845 606 11 44.

ÂŠ 2012 University of Cumbria (SLA 838)

Fusehill Street Carlisle CA1 2HH www.cumbria.ac.uk/health