JANUARY 2021 - RDASH LEADING THE WAY WITH CARE - RDASH NHS FOUNDATION TRUST
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January 2021 RDaSH leading the way with care
from the Chief Executive
Welcome to the first edition of Throughout the pandemic we have all pulled
together, that’s our partner agencies, businesses,
Trust Matters for 2021. members of the public and Trust colleagues to keep
each other safe and protect the most vulnerable in
I am sure that you will all agree that 2020 will our communities. As a Trust we have introduced new
certainly go down in the history books as one of the ways of working and are proud to be one of the first
most challenging that we have faced in our lifetime. in the country to start paperless prescribing for our
patients with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder.
The vaccines bring renewed hope of a brighter future
and a way a through the pandemic. But we must not Children and young people across our communities
let our guard down. We still need to keep following have been supported by our eClinic apps to provide
the Hands, Face, Space guidance at all times to reassurance and keep them mentally well during this
reduce the spread of the virus to save the lives of the difficult time.
people in our care and our loved ones.
Kathryn Singh Our Grounded Research team has been involved
Chief Executive Since receiving the AstraZeneca vaccine earlier in a clinical study called COPCOV to test whether a
this month together with our partners we have malaria drug could reduce the risk of people catching
If you’ve a story to tell vaccinated 2,700 colleagues and 38 patients. On top COVID-19. We await the results in due course.
of that we have vaccinated a further 700 colleagues
let our Communications from our social care partner organisations.This has I hope you enjoy reading Trust Matters. I want thank
Team know. been a massive logistical challenge and I want to say the people of Rotherham, Doncaster and North
Email rdash. a big thank you to our fantastic team of vaccinators, Lincolnshire for supporting us by continuing to play
volunteers and our partners who have gone above your part to protect the NHS, your communities and
rdashcommunications@ and beyond to ensure the speedy administering of our colleagues.
nhs.net the vaccine.
or ring them on Kind regards.
01302 796204. Kathryn .
Don’t forget you can Did you know?
also follow us on social
media:
We use the contact information that you give us with to send
appointment reminders by text. If you do not wish to receive
@Rdash_nhs
reminders this way please let your health practitioner
know. More information about how we use your
Rdash nhs data is available on our website here:
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2
News matters
Top award for psychological support hubs; supported
the development and enhancing of
support for Black Asian and Minority
local doctor Ethnic and Lesbian Gay Bi-sexual,
Transgender and Questioning networks
as well as developing a network for
One of consultant colleagues who were at home shielding;
psychotherapists received a she enhanced leadership support for
prestigious medal in this year’s regional FTSU guardians and much
New Year’s Honours. more.
Dr Judith Graham, Director of In her spare time Judith, who also cares
Psychological Professionals, received for her father, has also made hundreds
the British Empire Medal (BEM) in of face coverings and ear supports for
local nursing homes and carers; has Dr Judith Graham
recognition of her dedication to improve
patient care, supporting the wellbeing supported food and medication drop
offs for a number of highly vulnerable couldn’t believe it when I received the
of colleagues, enhancing staff networks
people; has raised cash for a number notification. I feel so privileged to have
and her charity work.
of charities, including cancer research, been nominated and selected for such a
mental health, armed forces and prestigious medal.”
Judith, who is also a Freedom to Speak
Up (FTSU) Champion encourages people multiple sclerosis charities as well as
carrying out ‘random acts of kindness’ Kathryn Singh, Chief Executive, said:
to speak up if they encounter issues to
gift drops on doorsteps of people to “I am so proud of Judith. She works
help improve patient care, and has also
spread a little bit of happiness. incredibly hard not only at RDaSH
recently been appointed as a Trustee
but also in her other roles including
and Council Member of the Queen’s
She will receive her medal in the coming her national Freedom to Speak Up
Nursing Institute.
months from the Lord Lieutenant for role. She regularly carries out charity
South Yorkshire Andrew Coombe and work and also raises cash for well
During the pandemic, Judith worked
will attend a future Royal Garden Party, deserving causes. She is hard working,
with our teams to develop an enhanced
once it is safe to do so. cares passionately for others and is
wellbeing programme that supported
inspirational. She thoroughly deserves
all of our colleagues, especially
Judith said: “I am absolutely this award.”
the most vulnerable; worked with
Trust lead psychologists to establish overwhelmed. I had to pinch myself. I
New role for Steve
Our Director of Finance and Performance Steve Hackett is leaving the
Trust in June.
Steve has been appointed as the Director of Finance at The Rotherham NHS
Foundation Trust.
Steve said: “I’ve loved working at RDaSH over the last couple of years and recently
have been covering the finance role at Rotherham Hospital part time. I’m looking
forward to the new role and a new challenge.”
Kathryn Singh, Chief Executive of RDaSH, said: “We want to thank Steve for all of
his hard work at RDaSH over the past few years and we wish him well in his new Steve Hackett
venture.”
The Trust is working to appoint a new Director of Finance.
3
News matters
A big thank you to all the vaccinators, volunteers and our partner
organisations. Together we have vaccinated 2,700 colleagues and 38
patients (as we go to print). In addition we have vaccinated
700 colleagues from our social care partner organisations.
We are aiming to have all our colleagues vaccinated
by mid-February. Here are some photos:
Derek James on Hawthorne Ward receiving his vaccine.
Hayley Burrows, Nursing Assistant/ Team Secretary in
Rotherham, said:
"I just want to say a massive thank you to
everyone at Almond Tree Court in Doncaster.
I had my vaccine and the system is brilliant.
You have your jab with the lovely nurses then
you are sat in a waiting room for 15 minutes
to make sure you are okay."
4
News matters
Louis Palmer, Clinical Studies Officer, said:
‘’Happy to be receiving my first dose of the
AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine. Thank you
to all of the RDaSH staff involved that have
worked hard to provide an efficient and
professional vaccination service. COVID-19
has had a disproportionate impact on BAME
colleagues so it is very important that when
offered we take the opportunity to protect
ourselves and our loved ones.’’
Thank you Morrisons
Colleagues in our vaccination clinic had a surprise
delivery of goodies courtesy of Balby supermarket
Morrisons. The team received cakes, biscuits
and other delights which have kept them going
in their heroic task of vaccinating our frontline
workers and vulnerable patients. Thank you
Morrisons for thinking of us.
For more information
about the vaccine and
key facts visit this link:
https://bit.ly/3qSljUZ
5
News matters
Paperless prescribing
benefits patients
Our Trust is believed to be the first in the country to
introduce paperless medicine prescribing for one of
our specialist services.
The new computer-based system is making it faster, safer and
cheaper to manage the specialist monthly prescription needs of over
200 Rotherham adults with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder
(ADHD), said Sadie Watkinson-North, Clinical Lead for Rotherham’s
adult ADHD service.
Prior to introducing electronic prescribing, when one of Rotherham’s
ADHD patients rang to say they needed a repeat, the prescription
had to be manually written and then posted to them to take to their
local pharmacy. Sadie Watkinson-North
“With each request taking over 10 minutes to complete and around £200 a month by not having to post the prescriptions and
currently having over 200 patients to care for each month, it was our patients are benefiting by having a safer way of accessing the
very time-consuming. Now, with the computer system set up to medicines they need.
email the prescription direct to the patient’s chosen pharmacy
as soon as it is approved by us, each request takes seconds to “Electronic processing reduces the risk of medication errors and of
complete, added Sadie. prescriptions for controlled drugs being duplicated or lost in transit
to the patient or pharmacy. We can also record on the patient’s
“We believe we are the first Trust in the country to have introduced electronic record any allergies or sensitivities they have as part of our
this type of electronic prescribing for ADHD patients. We are saving care monitoring.”
Patient and Public Engagement Then join:
• Virginia Golding, Head of Equality,
Framework event Diversity, Inclusion and Participation
• Safeena Ali and Justine Warner,
The Equality, Diversity, Inclusion and Participation Team wants Patient and Public Engagement
to hear from you. It is important that they hear from a range Leads.
of voices on how the Trust engages and communicates with its For an online event on Tuesday 9 February
service users, patients, carers and the public. from 9 to 10am.
Interested? Please contact Amanda.ambler@nhs.net for a link to the
meeting.
The Wellness Hive – RotherHive
Did you know that there is a new section of RotherHive which has just been launched called The Wellness Hive?
The Wellness Hive has been created to support adults of Rotherham and the people they care about. It is packed with wellbeing top-tips,
downloadable resources and directs you to online activities that you can access instantly. Take a look at this link:
https://rotherhive.co.uk/wellness-hive/#top
6
News matters
COPCOV clinical study Local Principal Investigator for the study Dr Adrian Phillipson
said: “I’m delighted to say that this has been a huge success
for the Grounded Research Team and for the Trust. We have
The Trust has recently taken part in an international had really positive feedback both from our participants and
from the Study Team in Oxford.”
drug trial called COPCOV.
The randomised controlled trial was developed by and
administrated from Oxford University’s Diabetes Trials Unit.
The study was trialling whether a drug called
hydroxychloroquine, routinely used to prevent people
contracting malaria while on their holidays, could reduce a
person’s risk of contracting COVID-19.
The study was open to members of staff working within the Trust.
The Trust was of the first community or mental health trusts to
take part.
A total of 28 people expressed an interest in the study, and of the
16 that were eligible to participate, 8 were successfully enrolled.
Reception: Charlotte Damms, Research Admin Assistant
Sapphire Lodge, based on the Tickhill Road Hospital site was
converted into the Trust’s study headquarters and rooms were
carefully kitted out to ensure that consent, eligibility screening,
clinical procedures and safety observations were all done safely
and efficiently.
Assessment: Anil Rajpal, Pharmacist and Mike Seneviratne,
Speciality Doctor/ Clinical Research Fellow
Consent: Karen Cvijetic (participant) and Helen
Oldknow, Research Nurse
Medication: Kevin Williamson, Head of Research; Adrianne Blood Testing: Dr Andy Keslake, Core Psychiatry Trainee
Close, Research Nurse; and Participant
7
News matters
Christmas round-up
Although Christmas is just a distance memory, we wanted to share with you some of the amazing stories
of kindness, generosity and compassion that our teams and communities have shown to those less
fortunate. Here are some of them.
Doncaster team supports
Walking With The Wounded
A small team, representing our Improving Access for
Psychological Therapies (IAPT) service in Doncaster, took
part in the annual ‘Walking Home for Christmas’ raising
£487.81 for the Walking With The Wounded charity.
Every year around 15,000 skilled and capable men and women
leave the Armed Forces having selflessly served on behalf of their Left to right: Lesley Wilkinson, Sheree Powell, Jen Mason
country. The majority transition successfully. But for a meaningful and Ronnie (the Dachshund) and Sarah Tomlinson.
minority the departure from the structured world of the military is
not easy and they struggle with mental health issues. Walking With The Wounded supports these men and women and their
families, empowering them to regain their independence, thrive and contribute in our communities.
The IAPT team walked from the War Memorial in Bawtry to the Cenotaph on Bennetthorpe calling by Cantley Health Centre
on Sunday, December 20.
Jennifer Mason, Senior Psychological Wellbeing Practitioner, said: “Thanks to everyone who sponsored us we raised £436.36!
In doing so, we have helped ex-military and their families in need of urgent mental health care by supporting programmes of
Walking With The Wounded whose principal partner is the NHS. We had such fun together doing something memorable, and
feel proud knowing that every mile we have covered and every pound raised matters.”
Christmas Eve bags for
vulnerable families
Thanks to the dedication of Cheryl Dickinson from the
Doncaster School Nursing Service vulnerable families
received an extra special gift at Christmas.
She worked closely with Tesco supermarkets in Balby and Saville
Street Sheffield which kindly donated mince pies, cakes, hot chocolate
and marshmallows for Christmas Eve bags. The bags were handed
out, along with the Hallam FM Mission Christmas gifts, to struggling
families.
Pictured is Cheryl with her trolley of goodies.
8
News matters
Elf Day goes online for Alzheimer’s Society
For the third year running our Rotherham Learning Disability Service took part in Elf Day and raised
£380 for the Alzheimer’s Society – that’s over £1000 in three years. An excellent achievement everyone.
Things were a bit different this time with lots of Elf Day fundraising activities via MS Teams.
9
News matters
Join the Big Conversation
The RDaSH Way is our way of improving quality
and culture. Whether you are a patient, service
user, carer, foundation trust member, a governor or
simply someone who lives in our communities, then
you are all invited to be part of this journey with us.
• Listen to Learn Network
How? Just sign up for our Engagement Hub (eHUB). It’s easy and • Carer Champion Network
free, just follow the link below and register: • Equality, Diversity and Inclusion.
Big Conversation Engagement Hub - https://bit.ly/3a3ZsmE …and much more
By joining you will have the opportunity to get involved, have Once registered why not join the People Focused Group (PFG)
your say in our big conversations. Grab a cuppa and settle down conversation. As our first Participation Partner, the PFG, a well-
and join us. established peer support community group in Doncaster, is
expanding its engagement expertise and knowledge into the
The Hub is packed full of information, news, guidance and communities of Rotherham and North Lincolnshire.
support sources including:
The PFG is working closely with our Equality,
• News from a wide range of our and community services Diversity, Inclusion and Participation Team.
• Save the date events Together they are engaging with and
• Wellbeing encouraging people to share their
• Carer support experiences of accessing and using our
• ‘Covid and Me’ support group services.
Yasmin urges better “Doncaster had one of the lowest rates of cervical screening uptake
in Yorkshire and the Humber in 2019/20 (74.1 per cent) with over
one in every four of those women who were eligible for a check
screening uptake deciding not to have one.”
Trust colleague Yasmin McMath is highlighting how Cervical screening is available to women - and people with a cervix
– aged 25 to 64. The first invitation is sent at the age of 24.5 years.
thousands of Doncaster women are not taking up a key Those aged 25 to 49 receive invitations every three years and every
screening appointment and potentially putting their lives five years from the age of 50 to 64.
at risk as a result.
Dr Rupert Suckling, Doncaster’s Director of Public Health, was
Yasmin, who works for Doncaster’s Macmillan Cancer Information quick to add his support for cervical screening, saying: “You can
and Support Service, says that in the 12 months prior to the start of travel for medical appointments during national Covid restrictions,
the Covid pandemic, less than 75 per cent of the borough’s eligible so it is essential that you continue to take care of your health and
women chose to have a cervical smear examination, even though wellbeing.”
it’s important not to leave screening for later or put it off completely.
Doncaster’s Macmillan Cancer Information and Support
Yasmin used this month’s Cervical Cancer Prevention Week to Service, which is run by RDaSH, offers financial, emotional
remind Doncaster women that the risk of developing this type of and practical help to people affected by cancer. The team
cancer can be reduced by following some simple advice, including also provide information on the warning signs of a range of
attending for cervical screening when invited. cancers and advice on how to reduce cancer risk. If you are
worried about signs and symptoms, or notice any changes,
Yasmin said: “Understanding what the symptoms of cervical cancer please contact your GP straight away. For further information
are and seeking medical advice when experiencing them is vitally and support please contact the Service on 01302 796853 or
important, as is having the HPV vaccine when aged 11 to 18 and email: rdash.macmillan-info-doncaster.nhs.net
encouraging others to do so.
10News matters
eClinic apps supporting young people throughout
the pandemic
The eClinic app has never been
more important to enable young
people to connect with a health
practitioner or make a self-referral
via their mobile device.
Our Children’s teams now offer two apps.
The first is the eClinic 11-19 which covers
Doncaster and North Lincolnshire School
Nurses, including Project 3 (sexual health
service). The second is the CAMHS eClinic
app which covers our Child and Adolescent
Mental Health Services (CAMHS) in
Doncaster and Rotherham and also the
With Me In Mind Rotherham schools.
We currently have 1165 young people
registered on the apps.
During the last months of the pandemic
(October – 19 January 2021) there were:
• 193 patient appointments booked
(60% CAMHS) (40% School Nursing/
Project 3)
• Young people aged 16 to 17 years is the
main group, however there has been an
increase in 14 year olds
• A large portion of advice and support
requested is around children’s mental
health with low mood, worry and
anxiety being the most common
• Our eClinics have seen a 100% increase
in bookings over the last 3.5 months Young people can download the eClinic apps via android or IOS, register their
details and book an appointment.
11News matters
Doing Dry January? Here’s why it’s so important to
stick with it
How are those of you who have
signed up to this year’s personal
challenge doing?
“Life is tough for most people at the
moment, so well done for sticking with it
so far, says Andy Collins from Doncaster’s
Alcohol Alliance.
“But if you do need a bit of extra
encouragement to stay off the booze here
are some top reasons why Dry January
is an ideal opportunity to reset your
relationship with alcohol. You will start
to see your skin get brighter, your wallet
fuller, your days busier, your step bouncier,
your mind calmer and your nights sleepier, of diabetes and developing cancer-related staying with it is the best possible start to
added Andy.” proteins in the blood. Alcohol is linked with what we’re all hoping will be a better year
more than 60 health conditions, including than 2020, said Andy.
Most people who do Dry January see a liver disease, high blood pressure, depression
range of obvious benefits that really kick and seven types of cancer. “My upbeat message is keep going. The
start their year. first couple of weeks of Dry January are
“But the good news is that research by the hardest, but the end is in sight. And
Research by the Royal Free Hospital, the University of Sussex found that around remember, the personal benefits you will
published in the British Medical Journal, 70 per cent of people who took part in gain in the long run will far exceed the
found that a month off alcohol lowers blood previous Dry Januarys were still drinking sacrifices you are currently making. Keep
pressure and cholesterol, reduces the risk more healthily over six months later. So it up!”
If you need more support, a website launched by Doncaster’s Alcohol Alliance, which has just notched up its first year
anniversary, has an online assessment tool for people to complete anonymously to find out if their drinking is a problem.
Visit www.rethinkyourdrinkdoncaster.co.uk. There’s also useful information on what kind of support is available, along
with useful links to facts about alcohol.
A spire is still open
The team at Aspire Drug and Alcohol Service is reminding Doncaster
residents that support is available and that its services are still open.
Aspire Drug and Alcohol Service which also runs New Beginnings in Balby,
offers confidential support, advice and treatment for adults who are
experiencing a drug and/ or alcohol problem.
The team has hubs in Mexborough, Stainforth and Doncaster town
centre.
If you or someone you know is struggling with drug and alcohol issues
nd want to talk to someone in confidence then ring 01302 730956 or
visit www.aspire.community
12News matters
New Beginnings’ creative writing class
Our team at New Beginnings in Balby, which is part of Aspire Drug and Alcohol Services, uses a range of activities
to support the wellbeing of people in recovery. One of these is encouraging people to express themselves
through creative writing. We wanted to share this one with you:
A clean calendar This year is different
A new chance This year will be hard
A blank page But I’ve dealt myself a new playing card
A new chapter I’ve connected with people I’d never have met
No blotted marks or inky mess Who’ve humbled me and nurtured me then opened my mind.
But a chance to make this year a success.
These are the people who clap when you’re wining
The heartache, the pain The people who show you there are New Beginnings.
The torment within
Took me to places that I’d never been So thanks to you all
A shell of a person This year will be mine
Losing it all I gave myself back, the precious gift of time.
The bottom of a bottle always the call.
Census 2021
The census is coming. By taking part, you
can help inform decisions on services that Census
shape your community, such as healthcare,
education and transport. Your details are protected by law and
information published is always anonymous.
The census is a unique survey that happens every 10 years.
It gives a snapshot of all the people and households in
England and Wales – the most detailed information we have
Census Day is Sunday March 21.
about our society. Everyone should have the support they need to fill in the
census.
It’s important that you fill in your census questionnaire.
Without the information you share, it will be more difficult We are working closely with the ONS and have arranged
to understand your community’s needs and to plan and an online workshop on Zoom to support anyone who need
fund public services. help to complete the census form or who need further
information.
In one way or another, your information touches the lives
of every single person living in England and Wales, whether Please join us for the Census 2021 preparing workshop
it is through using census information to plan new schools, at 2pm on March 4 via this link: https://bit.ly/2LWAEof
doctors’ surgeries or bike lanes.
To know more about the Census please visit
Because these things matter to us all, everyone needs to www.census.gov.uk
complete the census.
For further details please email Safeena Ali, Patient Public
The Office for National Statistics (ONS) runs the census in Engagement Lead, Safeena.ali1@nhs.net
England and Wales and is independent from government.
13Colleagues matters
How COVID-19 has affected me
Some of our colleagues wanted to share their COVID-19 experiences to show how vital it is that we all
take care and do our best to protect ourselves, our families, our patients and our communities from this
virus. Here is a selection of them:
Lockdown has brought me into sync with as mum put the mobile to her ear I didn’t see
the online world, well almost! MS Teams much other than a hearing aid but it gave us a
meetings, online quizzes, watching events at much needed smile and a chuckle.
home, messaging using the camera function
and getting WhatsApp to work to see mum in On entry to hospital mum tested positive for
hospital when she had COVID-19. COVID-19. The nurses and staff spent time, a lot
of time, caring for mum and more time making
Also I now enjoy home working (VPN sure that she could see me. At first mum thought
permitting), much less time wasted travelling, seeing me on WhatsApp was a cine film (only
coffee being offered to me throughout the people of a certain age will understand this).
day (again almost as I’m still working on this). I So the conversation was initially three ways and
have a desk and draws I can call my own, and a by her telling a nurse her observations as she
window I can see out of. Combined with being watched I learnt many things, including that she
more productive and finding many patients now thought I’d put on weight and didn’t like my
prefer being contacted by telephone, I know jumper!
there are many advantages I want to continue
when this is all over. At 88 she is now home safe after a negative
test, thanks to a NHS team that looked after her,
For me, the main downside of lockdown was not cared for her feelings and
being able to see my mum for many months due mine throughout.
to a fall, a care home stay and several weeks in
hospital. After mum’s last fall, the ambulance
crew came out to her and used their own phone This story comes
so I could see my mum for the first time in three from one of
months. This act alone made me cry and I remain our Doncaster
colleagues who
very grateful for this opportunity. Unfortunately
wishes to remain
anonymous
Thank you to all colleagues who have shared their stories.
Got a COVID-19 story to share? Email rdash.rdashcommunications@nhs.net
14Colleagues matters
I tested positive for COVID-19 on 25 May 2020, after to prescribe anything else. They said the dizziness
feeling unwell for one to three days. I felt ‘off colour’ was not due to blood pressure postural drop, and
on the Friday with a bit of a sore throat/ lump in my it was 'probably an after effect of COVID-19'. They
throat, but not particularly unwell. I'm so glad I trusted prescribed different inhalers two or three weeks later.
my instinct and phoned work to say I’d work from Ten weeks after I came out in a rash, which didn't
home, as lots of people were in the office that day. change with antihistamines. GP felt this was possibly a
post viral rash and it lasted 48 hours. I have since had
I began to feel ill Saturday but didn't particularly the rash again at 16 weeks (which lasted a week) and
have a cough. I coughed maybe once or twice a 18 weeks after (lasting 24 hours).
day Saturday and Sunday. I ached everywhere, my
coffee tasted unusual but I could taste everything I returned to work 11 weeks after testing positive,
else normally. By Sunday I just knew something was but on light duties due to ongoing dizziness. I phased
wrong even though I didn't have the classic three my return two days a weeks, for six weeks, then
symptoms. Sunday late at night I took my temperature three days. I did have a course of antibiotics and
and it was 37.8 (which isn't particularly high). There beclomethasone nasal spray, at around 14 weeks
are six of us at home, two others had temperatures after. This was after speaking with an Occupational
(and subsequently tested positive also). I only had a Health Nurse at work. She said the dizziness and
temperature again on the Monday night and never pressure in my head when bending forward maybe a
again. As it was bank holiday Monday, I accessed a sinusitis infection (she had other returning staff with
test via the GOV.UK website. On the way back from the same issue). The antibiotics made little difference
the test on Monday afternoon, I realised I had lost my to the dizziness, although helped with the pressure
smell (only because the farmers were muck spreading until the end of the course, when it came back.
and I couldn't smell it). My taste went the next day.
Both didn't return for seven to 10 days. It is now seven months since I tested positive, and I still
get breathless walking very short distances, or if I talk
The following one to two weeks I had different without taking enough breaks. I am still experiencing
symptoms every day, almost in rotation. Headache, dizziness almost every time I stand after sitting down,
aching, tiredness, sore throat, cough, shortness of bending down, bending over, or dropping my head
breath, loss of appetite (the aching was the worst). forwards. I have fallen in the shower numerous
But I felt well enough to look after the children, and times, as closing my eyes when stood makes me dizzy.
get on with things; it was just a bit more difficult. Additionally my eyesight (when reading/or computer
I truly thought I’d be back at work after the initial work) has deteriorated over the past two to three
couple of week’s recovery. months (I have a test booked). I remain on light duties
at work and the whole thing is becoming a pain in my
Week three came and I felt like I’d been hit by a train. personal and professional life.
Huge increase in fatigue which lasted for around
nine weeks. I also developed dizziness on standing I have asked my GP for further tests now it has been
or after bending down. I’d see stars or feel weird five months, but she doesn't know what is available in
and on occasions fall. I still had days of all the above Rotherham.
symptoms, but by now the fatigue and dizziness
were the worst. I had a further COVID-19 test four
weeks after, as I have been part of the King’s College
London COVID-19 study since March, and was sent
by them. This was negative. Five weeks after testing
By Sarah Furniss,
positive I suddenly had worsening of shortness of Occupational
breath. I was breathless without activity. The GP Therapist
saw me, diagnosed inflammation of the lungs and
prescribed inhalers, and told me it was too long after
15Colleagues matters
In memory of
It was with deep sadness that our well respected
colleague Andrea Willis sadly passed away
on Christmas Eve surrounded by her family after
a battle bravely and courageously fought.
She will be missed by all her colleagues and friends.
New coaches are ready to share their skills
Congratulations to four colleagues behaviour of concern by giving them planning work we have undertaken is how
who have qualified as Positive the right support at the right time. PBS we can turn this into reality.
practitioners are taught to examine the
Behaviour Support (PBS) Coaches and reasons for the behaviour by considering the “PBS awareness sessions will be integrated
are now ready to share their newly person as a whole, including their life history, into existing learning and development
learned skills across the Trust. physical health and emotional needs. activities and clinical practice. Specific
sessions will also be designed, run and
Keeley Rowley, Tom Redding, Nick Skinner Keeley, who is based at Doncaster’s Almond evaluated. We can also help services with
and Jemma Wignall passed the assessment- Tree Court, said: “Our aim as coaches is to requests for, such as, completion of PBS
based course, which was run by Steve help drive PBS awareness across RDaSH, be plans and to discuss safety issues.
Wilson on behalf of the British Institute of a source of information and support and
Learning Disabilities. encourage collaboration and involvement. “Through the PBS model we can look at the
reason for behaviour and are able to meet a
They were shown how to care for people “A whole organisational approach is needed vulnerable person’s need rather than simply
who display, or are at risk of displaying, to embed PBS and part of the action react to their presentation.”
For more
information
about PBS
contact:
Keeley Rowley Tom Redding Nick Skinner Jemma Wignall
Learning and Development Child and Adolescent Reducing Restrictive Senior Practitioner
Facilitator and Learning Mental Health Service Interventions Lead (With Me In Mind) and
Disability Nurse, (CAMHS) Learning Facilitator, Learning Disability Nurse,
Tel: 01302 796753 Disability Nurse Tel: 01302 796135 Tel: 07814 324875
Doncaster CAMHS
Intellectual Disability Team,
Tel: 07867 324076
16Colleagues matters
Congratulations
World Week of Prayer and
We are pleased to announce the
following appointments: Holocaust Memorial Day
Well done to Carlene Holden who has been
appointed as Deputy Director of Human Our Chaplaincy Team held
Resources and to Paula Rylatt who is our a Zoom meeting which was
new Deputy Director of Organisational open to colleagues and
Development. patients for World Week
of Prayer and Holocaust
Memorial Day.
Carlene Holden Paula Rylatt
Congratulations and very well done.
The event took place on January 20 and included an
explanation of the origin of the event and insight into
how the World Week of Prayer evolved. A candle was lit in
memory of all those who lost their lives. Thank you to Hassan
Jamil, Head of Spiritual Care, and Chaplains Mike Parnell, June
Rutherford and Father Andy.
17Colleagues matters
National Apprenticeship
Week (February 8-14
Thinking about doing an apprenticeship? Then why
not use National Apprenticeship Week in February
to boost your knowledge, experience and personal
development.
Join our other 105 apprentices who are currently learning
in a wide range of roles across the Trust. Plus there are over
750 apprenticeships to choose from. There’s Intermediate,
Advanced, Higher and Degree level – all fully funded by the
Apprenticeship Levy.
The full list of apprenticeships, application form and the Our Learning and Development Team will be running an
process can be found at the following links:
Institute of Leadership and Management (ILM) Level 3 or Level
List of apprenticeships:
5 programme soon. There are 10 places for a February/ March
start and 10 places for an April/ May start. Email Jan Hodgett on
Apprenticeship standards / Institute for Apprenticeships and
Technical Education - https://bit.ly/3cfJicL jan.hodgett@nhs.net for more information.
The Application form and to read more about the Apprenticship
process is availableon the intranet via this link:
https://bit.ly/3ahG0mL
“I am really enjoying the ILM Course as “Committing to my career and personal
it fits in with my current role, I am also development. I commenced a Trust
learning a lot.” endorsed leadership and management
apprenticeship in July 20, knowing
the course will enhance my skills,
“In addition being able to complete qualification portfolio and also be of
the course remotely with support of benefit to my employer.”
my tutor has been a real positive!”
“Learning the theory that underpins management has given me the confidence
to believe in myself in becoming a successful manager, despite on-going work
pressures I feel successful people do what unsuccessful people are not willing to
do. Invest in yourself. It’s the best investment you’ll ever make.”
18Colleagues matters
Remember to keep your GEM Award
nominations coming in
We are still celebrating our fantastic GEMs, those of you who are constantly Going the Extra Mile (GEM) for our
patients, colleagues and the service we provide.
During the pandemic we are sending each of our GEMs a special thank you gift, certificate and new name badge
in the post. When you receive your GEM gift please send us a selfie photo with your certificate and gift so that we
can shout out and let everyone know that you are a GEM.
Keep your GEM nominations coming in!
Why not enter a colleague for a Going the Extra Mile (GEM) Award?
If you work with a colleague who is always Going the Extra Mile, please nominate them for a GEM award here:
http://nww.intranet.rdash.nhs.uk/communications/gem-awards/
19Colleagues matters 20
Colleagues matters
Calling all colleagues – There are two ‘virtual’ focus groups which have been set up:
• 10am on Wednesday 3 February
have your say on internal • 3pm on Friday 12 February.
communications If you are interested in joining and offering your views on what
you’d like to see more of or less of, please email
rdash.rdashcommunications@nhs.net Thank you.
The Communications Team wants to hear your views on
the range of internal communications that you receive. This
includes Trust Matters, Daily Briefing, the news pages on the
intranet and video messages so that they can make sure that
they are serving your needs.
21Colleagues matters
Lesbian Gay
Bisexual Transgender Q+
Staff Networks (LGBTQ+) Network
Why not join one of our networks and connect The network will meet on:
with others to share your experiences? We have
three networks as follows: February 11 from 1 to 3pm
March 11 from 1 to 3pm
April 8 from 1 to 3pm
Black Asian
and Minority Ethnic
(BAME) Network For more information on
the LQBTQ+ Network please
February 3 from 3 to 5pm - email the Chair Naomi
one of the topics is ‘COVID vaccine’ and
everyone is very welcome to join us Handley-Ward on
naomi.handley-ward@nhs.net
March 3 from 3 to 5pm or for a link to the meeting
April 28 from 3 to 5pm Disability And
Amanda.ambler@nhs.net
Wellbeing Network
(DAWN)
February 25 from 1 to 3pm
March 25 from 1 to 3pm
The network’s new Chair is Louis April 22 from 1 to 3pm
Palmer, and Wahida Ullah-Cox is
the new Secretary, with Safeena
Ali remaining as Vice-Chair.
A big thank you to Tinashe
Mahaso, Lee Oliver and Lexmore Invitation to attend DAWN for shielding colleagues
Kahwa for their commitment,
dedication and hard work as We know that colleagues who are shielding at home are doing so
committee members which has because it is the right thing to do for their health and wellbeing and
been greatly appreciated. to keep safe. It is understandable that you may be experiencing a
range of emotions which may impact on your family and you.
For more information about the
BAME Network please email Please be reassured that you are not alone. Your colleagues are
Louis Palmer louis.palmer@nhs.net still thinking about you and ready to support you in any way they
can. This is why we, at the DAWN network want to extend a warm
If you would like a link to the welcome to you and help you to connect with other colleagues who
meeting please email Amanda are also shielding and have a long term health condition.
Ambler Amanda.ambler@nhs.net
The DAWN network is where we support each other, listen to you,
answer your questions and offer support. For more information on
the DAWN network please contact Virginia.golding@nhs.net or for a
link invite please email Amanda Ambler on Amanda.ambler@nhs.net
22Colleagues matters
February is LGBTQ+
History Month
The theme this year is: Body, Mind, Spirit.
Promoting tolerance and raising awareness of the prejudices faced
by lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people are the key aims
of LGBTQ+ History month. Keep an eye on the Improvement Hub
(iHUB) for updates, information, blog/ vlogs factsheets and much
more throughout the month and taking a walk through history.
For more information please contact us at
rdash.equalit yanddiversit y@nhs.net
Working with the transgender and gender
diverse communities–online professional
education and training
In celebration of LGBTQ+ history month, Jessica Lynn, They provide understanding to those who work with or
a world-renowned transgender advocate and educator, provide health services for transgender and/ or gender non-
will host the last of her online professional education and conforming people to advance your skills in addressing the
training sessions on February 22. needs of these diverse populations.
These sessions have been specifically designed to increase For more information and to join this session please contact
your knowledge and concepts of gender identity, gender Amanda.ambler@nhs.net
expression, and the diverse ways in which these can
manifest.
23Colleagues matters
Hidden Disabilities
Awareness sessions
We will be hosting Kerry Pace from Diverse Learners
for two thought provoking awareness sessions on
hidden disabilities in March.
We would like to encourage all colleagues and
managers to attend to help dispel myths and fears
and gain a better understanding about Hidden
Disabilities in the workplace.
Dates and times will be circulated through Daily
Briefing, intranet and team meetings. To know
more please email Amanda Ambler Amanda.ambler@nhs.net
HSJ Virtual Awards
Join our Equality, Diversity,
Inclusion and Participation Team
at the Health Service Journal
(HSJ) online Awards on March 17.
The team is a finalist for a top
award in the NHS Workplace
Race Equality category. You can
watch the event and cheer the
team on from the comfort of
your own home between 5 to 7pm
on the day.
Register to watch the event at
this link:
https://bit.ly/3a6VF89
For more information and how to join in the celebrations email amanda.ambler@nhs.net
Good Luck everyone!
24Colleagues matters
The Improvement Hub
is two years old!
Since introducing the Improvement Hub (iHub)
two years ago, you have shared, connected and
discussed thousands of ideas for improvement and
innovation for both patients and colleagues.
The iHub has enabled you to start Big Conservations on
In two years iHUB has achieved: health and wellbeing, smokefree policy, Armed Forces
Covenant, patient safety, recovery – the next steps, flexible
1,495 New users working opportunities and smart working.
1,465 Ideas Your favourite Big Conversation was NHS Heroes with 469
heroes being nominated and gaining 3240 votes and 481
2,627 Comments posted comments.
10,761 Votes cast
Thank you to everyone who has shared ideas and joined
28,630 Idea views the conversations over the past couple of years and we look
forward to hearing more ‘New Conversations’ in the future.
14,915 Page views
Like to join the iHub then follow this link:
https://improvement.rdash.nhs.uk
Making Time
to Talk
A small conversation about
mental health has the power to
make a big difference. Please
join us for a chat and a virtual Speaking up about our wellbeing
conversation on how we are
Noma Makhanda, Freedom to Speak Up Guardian, is inviting you to a
feeling.
scheduled Zoom meeting.
Time to Talk Day on Thursday 4
Topic: Time To Talk - Coffee and Chat, Tea and Talk
February is the day that we get
talking about mental health and Time: February 4 at 3pm
wellness.
Join Zoom Meeting - https://bit.ly/36k4HO2
This year’s event might look a little Meeting ID: 884 4368 7113
different, but at times like this open
Passcode: y8ENq6
conversations about mental health are
more important than ever.
We are hosting a 30 minute
conversation on Zoom please join
in and let’s get connecting as
#OneRDaSH.
25Hospice matters
Happy retirement Audrey
The team at St John’s Hospice wished one of their much loved nursing assistants a very happy retirement. Audrey Hunt who
had worked at the Hospice since 2003 retired this month. Her colleagues couldn’t let her go without presenting her with gift
and flowers.
Sam Edwards, Clinical Team Leader, said: “You will be greatly missed by all your colleagues and friends at the Hospice. We all
wish you a very happy retirement Audrey.”
If you would like to become a sponsor of St John’s Hospice or fundraise by
holding an event, please get in touch with the fundraising team on 01302 796662
or 01302 798391 to help the hospice this year. Alternatively you can donate here:
http://www.stjohnshospicedoncaster.co.uk/fundraise/donate/
Follow us on: @stjohnsappeal stjohnshospicedoncaster
26Their opinion counts
It boosts our morale when we get a thank you from colleagues, managers but
especially patients and service users.
Here, in ‘Their opinion counts’, is a selection of comments and compliments from the
Your Opinion Counts forms.
s to Learning Disability Team
Improving Acces Physiotherapy (Rotherham)
erapies
Psychological Th
(Doncaster) “Very kind, spoke clearly
with respect and explained Me
intments and in detail about exercises and (Nor mor y Clin
“Regularity of appo th Li
n co l n i c
ade me feel
progress reviews m treatment.” “The
w s h ir e
)
positive about ther
apy. my fa ay the n
th e u r s e sp
Can’t think of how n a l T herapy he re r was rea
s ll
oke t
o
t a t i o e r) p o y g
to improve.”withou O cc u p
( D o n cas t feelin nd ed w
ell
o od an
d
ho p g he
was u without
her.” Works a s s
gw stupid eless or
o d . Ever y thin ly. Also .”
ll w a s go d fr ie nd
“A l an were
fi cie n t , helpfu needed, we
ef we .”
g else priately
hildren’s) any thin osted appro
Breastfeeding (C signp
Cardiac Physio Team
been great. (Doncaster)
“The suppor t has
ey were
X was fantastic. Th “1-1, X helped me with both
owledgeable
suppor tive and kn my issues and talking abou
be able
and it was good to symptoms and it was good
t my
to share stories with .”
other mums too.”
Access Team
Community
lnshire) Aspire Drug and Alcohol
(North Linco
Service (Doncaster)
oth
contact and b
“I had phone ful.” The staff are all so helpful and
were very help caring, I can’t fault anything
Mulberr about New Beginning. It is the
(Nor th L
y Ward best thing and decision that I
incolnsh have ever made in my life.”
ir e)
“The sta
ff were in
I can’t re credible. Health Visitors First
member
names b
ut I cann
all their Friends Doncaster The Glades (Rotherh
am)
them hig ot praise (Children’s)
hly enou
gh.” rds,
“From entry point onwa
“Communication and PPE were the nurses, carers and
team
particularly good by X.” have been utterly fantas
tic.”
27Flourish Matters
Open for business
Our garden centre is open and our café is operating a take away
service. Why not call and see us.
We’re following strict government
guidance to keep you safe.
Huge success
Two recent open days for local residents
wanting some socially distanced
company were a huge success!
Flourish Enterprises staff served cuppas and
mince pies between Christmas and the New
Year and around 50 local residents came
along and visited them.
Laurie Smith, Managing Director of Flourish,
said: “Some of our visitors were people
who were on their own and couldn’t spend
©iStock/Alena Kravchenko
Christmas with their families due to the
COVID-19 restrictions, so it was good to be
able to see them and support our community.”
The social media messages inviting residents
along also had 6000 views! Thank you for
your support.
©iStock/vetas
28Flourish Matters
Care team’s plea for garden design help
A team of carer colleagues, who look after Doncaster residents nearing the end of their life, has launched an
appeal for someone with landscaping skills to help them design a peaceful new memory garden on one of our
hospital sites
They want to give a bare
outside space a major make-
over, so people who have
lost loved ones can go and
remember them and where
local community groups can
get together.
Flourish Enterprises is moving
its Woodfield 24 Care Services
staff into a new base called
Cherry Tree Court, on Balby’s
Tickhill Road Hospital site,
and wants to transform
the secluded garden area
alongside. Pictured are left to right: Flourish staff Sarah Jeeves, Sarah Wybrand, Debbie
Hatton and Linda Lee.
To do this they are hoping
local businesses will get “We are currently based in we have found that those left behind
behind them and donate items, or staff St Catherine’s House, which is no longer often feel lonely and isolated from the
time to help with the project, but first suitable due to the ever changing world around them and struggle to
they need a design to work to. needs of the service we provide. come to terms with their loss. If they
Cherry Tree Court includes a much have cared for a loved one for some
Flourish’s Laurie Smith said: “This will needed visitors’ room for bereaved time, rebuilding a new life is not easy.
be the crucial first step in developing family members. They often visit us to The garden will be so important in
a vision for the garden, something we remember their loved ones as well as to providing a welcoming environment,
will be able to show to local businesses acknowledge what difference the care where visitors are encouraged to stay
when appealing for their help with their from Woodfield 24 meant to them as a a while. Bereavement affects us all
project. family.” differently and we want to empower
those who want to support others to
“We hope there is someone out there It’s hoped the memory garden will be set up a self-help group where we can
with the relevant design skills, who a key feature of Woodfield 24 aftercare arrange meet-ups a safe environment.”
would be willing to help and maybe service when the team moves to its new
even act as a project manager to bring base in a few months’ time, as Interim
the design off the drawing board. Manager Debbie Hatton explains: Could you, or someone
“Our 57-strong carer team support you know, help with this
“We want the garden to be accessible,
patients diagnosed with a terminal illness to encourage ‘pottering’ and to connect
who want to die at home. This includes important project? If so
with nature, with plants that will
personal care, respite, night sits and stimulate the senses and attract wildlife, please ring Laurie Smith on
emotional support, especially to family such as butterflies, bees and birds.
members who are coming to terms with 07966 992032.
their loved one’s diagnosis. The care is “Learning to live with the loss of
free and in the last 12 months we have someone close is one of the most
supported 384 patients to achieve their painful experiences any of us can
final wish to remain at home. encounter. When a patient passes away
29Visit our website: www.rdash.nhs.uk Or follow us on: @rdash_nhs rdash nhs @rdashnhs rdashcommunications RDaSH leading the way with care
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