connections magazine march 2011
DESCRIPTION
Connections magazine shares good news with staff, service users and carers.TRANSCRIPT
You and Your Care
APRIL 2011
Dress for successOur new uniforms are launched across the Trust - p14
Practical stePs to combat DementiaStaff from our Older People’s Mental Health Services go the extra mile - p6
District nurse scooPs toP nursing awarD
One of our nurses has won second prize in a prestigious award - p9
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This is an exciting time for us as we reach 1 April 2011 - marking our first major milestone towards the transformation of community services across the district.Here at Connections we are really pleased to bring you our first magazine as an integrated health and social care organisation.
In this edition we’ve captured a snapshot of a wide range of services, from those services that have just transferred into our organisation, to projects and services we’ve re-visited a year on.
Turn to page 12 to find out how an exercise and education course developed by our Pulmonary Rehabilitation Team is helping people with lung and respiratory problems improve their quality of life.
We caught up with the team from Ward 24 at Airedale General Hospital after they travelled to Stirling University to study state-of-the-art solutions being provided for day-to-day problems
faced by people with dementia – take a look at pages 6 and 7.
District Nurse, Carol Gill, has won second prize in an X Factor-style vote that saw her clinch a prestigious nursing award. Flick to page 9 to read how Carol’s innovative solution scooped the national award.
We also dropped in at ‘Weaver Court Oscars’ to see which residents walked down the red carpet to claim their awards - look at page 13.
In preparation for our future editions we will be out and about talking to teams and reporting first hand on the innovative services we are delivering across Bradford, Airedale and Craven.
Please get in touch if you’ve got news you’d like to share with us!
Communications Team
If you require this document in a larger text format please contact the Communications team.
In this Issue
Image CaptIon: left to right: Ben, Sam, Linzi, Jayne.
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Have you Got News for us?Don’t forget we are always on the look out for great gossip, exciting events and touching tales - if you have something to shout about please let us know!
Jayne murphySenior Comms Managertel: 01274 363551email: [email protected]
Sam HirstComms Managertel: 01274 228174 email: [email protected]
Linzi ClarkComms Assistanttel: 01274 228351email: [email protected]
Ben CullimoreMulti-Media Designertel: 01274 228173email: [email protected]
p6 Practical Steps to Combat Dementia
p10 Getting to the Heart of the Helios Centre
p12 Help for Patients with Lung Problems
p14 Dress for Success
p16 Working to Support Women & Families
p22 Care Worker Steals from Service User
p26 Taking Art to Heart
What’s Inside?
pp6
pp14
pp22
pp12
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Jewels’sponsorshipcheerThe Jewels are shaking their pom-pons with delight after securing an official corporate sponsor for their trip to the Cheerleading World Championships in just a few weeks.Sovereign Health Care has donated £30,000 to the cheerleading troupe to help them cross the Atlantic and perform on the global stage at Disney World, Florida.
Glenn Stocks, Project Manager, said: “Sovereign Health Care’s very generous donation will go a long way to ensuring the Jewels follow their dreams to perform in the Championships.
“Not only will the donation go towards covering the costs of the athletes’ flights and accommodation, it will also help provide memories of a lifetime.”
Russ Piper, Sovereign Health Care Chief Executive, said: “This is a once in a lifetime opportunity for the Jewels athletes and we are delighted that we are able to help them represent the UK in this international tournament.”
Here at Connections we wish them all the best when they fly out to America on 28 April. Follow their journey on twitter @Bradford_DCt and don’t forget to pick up the next edition of Connections where we’ll be bringing you all the action from the Championships.
new website UnveiledOur website (www.bdct.nhs.uk) has been officially re-launched following a major transformation to become more user-friendly and informative. Featuring up-to-date information about all our services, including our newly transferred Community Health Services, the site benefits from a contemporary look and feel and has a strong service user emphasis throughout.
The revamped site has been developed by working closely with staff, service users and carers to ensure relevant and concise content is accessible to those looking for information about our organisation; the services we provide and much, much more.
Interactive tools including videos bring the site to life and provide an insight into the different elements of our services in an alternative way. The latest care group news, and service user artwork also feature throughout the site.
What’s more - we’ve now entered the world of social media. You can follow us on Twitter or join our facebook page to receive up-to-the minute Trust news and stories wherever you are.
We hope you like the fresh-look site, but as ever, please send your comments to [email protected] - we’d love to hear your views!
Remember, to explore our new website visit www.bdct.nhs.uk today!
news in BriefImage CaptIon: Catch a glimpse of our new look website
Image CaptIon: Sovereign Health Care’s Caroline Cundy with Julie Walker left and Zil Haque
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Lots of people suffer from memory loss as they get older. But if they are starting to forget things that happened very recently and this is affecting everyday life then it could be the early signs of dementia. It can be difficult, but it’s well worth talking to them and encouraging them to see their doctor. Spotting the early symptoms of dementia means they can get the right treatment and support. And you will keep the person you know and love a bit longer.
Dementia nhs.uk/dementiaIf you’re worried, see your doctor
Client Name: DLKW Account Name: COI Dementia Publication: - Size: 340x265 Bleed:
File Name: 67939DL48b2402_340x265 Prev File: 67939DL41d2202_pressA4 Fonts: Akzidenz Grotesk BQ
Worried someone close to you is losing their memory?
dementia campaignlaUnched We are supporting the Government’s new ‘Dementia: Early Signs and Symptoms’ campaign which aims to raise awareness of the signs and symptoms of dementia to help more people receive an early diagnosis. Some of the early signs and symptoms of dementia include:
- forgetting the names of friends or everyday objects
- a person repeating things or losing the thread of what they are saying
- feeling anxious, depressed or angry about memory loss
- feeling confused even when in a familiar environment
neil Bryson, Head of operations for older people’s mental Health Services, said: “If you are worried that you, a member of your family, or a loved one is showing the early signs of dementia, I would strongly urge a visit to the GP.”
For further information about the signs and symptoms of dementia, please visit www.nhs.uk/dementia
epic walK
FUndraiser KicKs oFF new proJectIn partnership with Opera North, we are launching an exciting new project that will explore the positive impact music has on the lives of people with dementia.The joint venture will see professionals deliver creative community workshops to people with dementia which
will investigate the links between music and increased well-being and quality of life.
To kick start the autumn project we are hosting a fundraising concert that will star a newly formed choir made up of our staff, service users and carers and solo artists from Opera North. The one-off performance will grace the stage of The Howard Assembly
Room at The Grand Theatre in Leeds on Monday 9 May 2011.
To secure your seat please email: [email protected] or call 0113 223 3565. Tickets cost just £15, and for a further donation of £10 you can gain exclusive access to the after show event.
For more information please contact Steve Keyes on 01274 363509.
Join us for a charity walk from Lynfield Mount Hospital to New Mill on Monday 9 May 2011 at 10am.The walk is in aid of Breakthrough Art, an organisation that promotes positive mental health through the creative arts. We are joining Breakthrough’s founder Tony
Russell for the Bradford leg of his epic walk to raise awareness for art in mental health.
Tony, who himself suffered from stress, anxiety and depression walked 2,355 miles to raise money for cancer twenty-four years ago.
Barry Seal, Simon Large and a number of Directors have already signed up to be part of the walk and we hope to see as many staff, service users and family members taking part as is possible.
Art lovers can view an exhibition of service user artwork at the Visitors Centre at Lynfield Mount from 9am.
More information on Tony’s epic walk can be found at www.breakthroughmhart.com
If you are interested in taking part please contact Liz o’Brien on 01274 363486 or e-mail Liz.o’[email protected].
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oLDeR peopLe’S mentaL HeaLtH SeRVICeS
Staff from Ward 24 at Airedale General Hospital travelled to Stirling University to study state-of-the-art solutions being provided for day-to-day problems faced by people with dementia.
Occupational Therapist, Janet Lister, was eager to see for herself some unique ways in which people with dementia were supported.
Janet said: “We went to Stirling University’s Design and Technology Suite because it’s set up as a normal living environment but has all the latest technology, equipment, and ideas on show. It meant we could see how to adapt an environment to improve the quality of life for people with dementia.
“As the illness of a person with dementia progresses, people’s ability to make sense of the environment diminishes so it’s really important to look at practical ways that we can help people be independent for as long as possible.
The environment is crucial - it can either enable or disable people.
“One of the simplest yet most striking ways we saw of improving the environment for people with dementia was the use of colour. Contrast is used to great effect, particularly yellow, black, and red, because they are the colours people
see the longest when they have declining vision.
“We learnt that doors painted in a contrasting colour can be used to signpost people, for example to the dining room. If you don’t want people to use a door it can be painted a similar colour to the walls to blend in.”
Following the trip to Stirling further improvements continue to be made on Ward 24.
Work to improve the environment on Ward 24 has already started and the visit was planned to
Staff from our Older People’s Mental Health Services went the extra mile – more than 200 to be precise – to the UK’s leading dementia centre to see how simple changes to the environment can have a huge impact for people with dementia.
We’ve brought back some really good ideas.
Practical Steps to Combat Dementia
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OLDER PEOPLE’S MENTAL HEALTH SERVICES
IMAGE CAPTION: Ideas from Stirling visit
see what further improvements could be made.
Jacquie Edwards, Ward Manager, said: “We’ve brought back some really good ideas. So far we’ve put up grab rails around the corridors and are looking to have them painted in a contrasting colour. We’ve also improved signage in the ward which will help people become less disorientated.
“Some people with dementia can become fatigued because they walk around the ward without realising when they need to rest. To combat this we’ve introduced seating areas around the ward with visual prompts to encourage people to sit down.
“We’ve introduced a reminiscence pod with a display of old toys which prompts conversation and helps with sensory stimulation.”
The team are working on some of the other more advanced ideas they picked up to implement in the future. They will look at acoustics and lighting and ways of improving dining equipment.
One idea is to provide a menu book at mealtimes which has both words and pictures to make it easier for people to understand what is available. Another simple idea is to have bath and sink plugs that are controlled by the weight of the water which release after a certain point and cannot overflow.
Jacquie added: “We’ve set the benchmark very high after visiting Stirling University. Our work to improve the quality of life for people with dementia is an ongoing process and we’re determined to improve the ward environment to the highest standards and to give people the highest quality care possible.”
IMAGE CAPTION: Our changes to Ward 24
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CHILD & aDoLeSCent mentaL HeaLtLtL H SeRVICeS
Cultural Competence training gives staff a rare insight into how their own values and beliefs shape the way they see life and what effect this can have on their work. It is designed to help staff understand and work with people very different to themselves.
The training was created by Clinical Psychologist, Fameeda Ansari, and Family Therapists, Kate Stewart and Ann Overton.
Fameeda explained: “It is not the same as equality and diversity awareness – training in cultural competence goes much deeper. We start off by raising people’s awareness of how far their attitudes and behaviours are likely to be affected by the culture they are born into.
“In the training we get people to trace back through their family to their grandparents to help them see how much influence family background can have on present day values and beliefs. We carry out role play and exercises designed to help us identify which aspects of our own cultural background are similar and different to the families we see. By understanding these issues we can appreciate how our understanding and beliefs about the families we see are constructed.
“Once people understand how deep these cultural influences are they can see how it has been a major factor in shaping their values and beliefs. This gives staff the confidence to engage and work with children and families from diverse communities to explore the role of culture, values and identity.”
Since the training session was delivered feedback has been positive. Staff report that they have grown in confidence and skills.
Ann Overton, who also helped facilitate the training, said: “We have found it makes a real difference. It opens up communication and creates a better understanding between staff, service users and families.
“People learn that we don’t all come from the same starting point when we approach a situation. We have different cultural backgrounds where some things are shared and others are not.
“The training helps us develop a shared understanding with service users about what their difficulties are and how we will help them. It helps build a relationship where there is a feeling of being understood.”
For more information on Cultural Competence training contact Fameeda ansari on 01274 723241.
Once people understand how deep these cultural influences are they can see how it has been a major factor in shaping their values and beliefs.
Cultural Understanding Creates Better CommunicationCreates Better CommunicationOur Child and Adolescent Mental Health Service’s (CAMHS) team has developed a unique new training package that helps staff boost their communications skills by looking at the world through other people’s eyes.
Image CaptIon: Femeeda ansari
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aDULt SeRVICeS
District Nurse Carol Gill has won second prize in an X Factor-style vote to win a prestigious national nursing award.Carol, who’s based at Wilsden Health Centre, was in the final to find the UK’s best nurse-led innovation in a contest, run by the Royal College of Nursing (RCN).
Her entry - an early warning system for pressure ulcers - is now attracting a lot of interest from other health trusts across the country keen to run the project themselves.
Carol beat over 300 applicants to reach the final with her innovative solution to a problem which costs the equivalent of 4p in every pound of NHS budget spend. She was awarded a plaque and £500 to be invested in her project.
Following an incident where older people with mental health problems developed severe pressure ulcers without nurses being alerted, Carol felt driven to improve knowledge of pressure ulcer recognition among staff in care homes across Bradford.
She used her findings to develop an early warning system to identify and treat pressure ulcers before they get worse. Carol identified that healthcare assistants, who mainly deliver healthcare in residential homes, lacked training in recognising early signs of pressure ulcers. This meant problems were often not reported until significant damage
had been done and were more costly to treat.
Over 12 months, six care homes in a pilot programme saw a reduction in pressure ulcers by around 25 per cent as Carol delivered training sessions, and encouraged healthcare staff to use a reporting and recording tool she had developed.
Carol said: “It’s a great honour to be rewarded in this way by the nursing profession, and I’d like to say a big thank-you to all the staff who voted for me and supported my entry. I’ve been invited to go and talk to the RCN Congress about the project and I’ve had a lot of interest from other
trusts, so it’s been a good way of showcasing the work going on in Bradford and Airedale.”
Over 12 months, six care homes in a pilot programme saw a reduction in pressure ulcers by around 25 per cent as Carol delivered training sessions.
District Nurse Scoops Top Nursing Award
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aDULt mentaL HeaLtH
The project group meet every Monday morning at the Helios Centre (a busy day service providing psychological support and treatment) to work on projects that improve the environment for people who use the service.
Taking the group is Senior Occupational Therapist, Jo Frankland, who encourages people to join to try out new skills in supportive surroundings.
Jo said: “People come to the Helios Centre with a range of complex needs. Problems can include difficulty managing intense emotions including anxiety, anger and depression that are linked to traumatic experiences. Often people struggle to cope with these feelings without having to
harm themselves. With the help of a key worker they attend a variety of occupational, psycho-educational and psychotherapy groups.
“In this group we encourage people to take ownership of projects. It means that they practice team work, decision making, and try out new skills while at the same time having fun. Getting people involved in their environment takes them one step further towards recovery.”
This can mean anything from renovating furniture to brighten up their surroundings, to becoming involved in forums and steering groups.
Work on creating a better environment for others has helped the project group at the Helios Centre create a brighter future for themselves.
Getting to the Heart of the Helios Centre
Image CaptIon: Bill working on the project group newsletter
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aDULt mentaL HeaLtH
The group’s current project to make the reception more welcoming began by renovating and restocking the bookcase and adding pot plants. A lot of thought has been put into creating the right impression for those who are new to the centre and may feel anxious or afraid.
Bill is the longest serving member of the project group and has been coming to the centre, based at Lynfield Mount Hospital, for almost two years. He has worked with the group to create a garden within the Helios Centre and produces the group’s newsletter.
Being part of the group has given him practical experience of decision making and encouraged him to take on responsibility.
Bill said: “The project group has given me the opportunity to practice the skills I’ve learnt from the therapy I’ve received at the Helios Centre.
“There is a danger of becoming institutionalised when you have mental health problems, you can end up waiting to be told what to do. This group has helped me challenge myself to take on more responsibility.
“If I didn’t attend this group I wouldn’t have got involved with other forums such as the Regional Learning Network, and the Trust’s Annual General Meeting. It gives me the opportunity to explore things outside of the group. I recently travelled independently with another member of the project group to a steering group meeting in Leeds which is something I never thought I would be able to do.
“Coming together to socialise is an important part of being in the group and we cheer each other up with a laugh and a joke.”
Working together on the garden has been a big focus for the project group. They have put a lot of energy into creating a tranquil outside space for people to use when the weather is fine. Recent projects include creating a garden mosaic and courtyard gardening area where the
group grew tomatoes in their own greenhouse.
The project group are already making plans for this year’s garden and hope more people will come and enjoy it.
Getting people involvedin their environment takes them one step further towards recovery.
Image CaptIon: Julie working on a plan for reception
Image CaptIon: Helios Centre garden
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aLLIeD HeaLtH pRoFeSSIonaLS & pLanneD CaRe
Members of our Pulmonary Rehabilitation Team are urging local GPs, practice nurses and practice managers to refer people who are eligible. These include patients with a confirmed diagnosis of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), pulmonary fibrosis, bronchiectasis and chronic asthma.
Participants need to be referred by a health professional and the programme includes two sessions a week for eight weeks. Eligible patients can choose one of five venues to visit.
Pulmonary rehabilitation is a holistic approach providing a physical exercise programme carefully designed for each individual. Patients are given advice on lung health and coping with breathlessness in a friendly, supportive atmosphere.
Benefits of the programme to health professionals are that participants are less likely to be admitted
to hospital or visit their GP inappropriately. Patients are offered dietary advice, occupational therapy and help coping with anxiety and
depression.
Jude Greaves-Newall, Pulmonary Rehabilitation Clinical Lead, said:
“People with COPD often walk very slowly and have to keep stopping due to breathlessness. The vast majority of our participants say the programme really improves their quality of life, including how they do their daily tasks.”
Patient Stuart McLead, aged 73, who has suffered with COPD for over ten years, said: “I would recommend it to anyone, it’s really very good and I’d say to anyone if they get the chance they should take part in the
sessions. It helped to improve my breathing.”
COPD is the fifth biggest killer in the UK and the number of deaths are on the increase. For more information call 01274 322161.
Exercise and education courses to help improve the quality of life for people with lung and respiratory problems are being run across five venues in the district.
The vast majority of
our participants say the programme really improves their quality of life including how they do their daily tasks.
Help for Patients with Lung Problems
anneD CaRe
Exercise and education courses to help improve the quality of life for people with
Image - patient Stuart mcLead with Jude greaves-newall, pulmonary Rehabilitation Clinical Lead at Springs medical Centre in Ilkley.
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LeaRnIng DISaBILItIeS
When the invitation to the Weaver Court ‘Oscars’ dropped through Connection’s letterbox there was no hesitation – this was going to be a must-see event. Heading off to the transformed Hollywood-themed venue we couldn’t wait to see who would be walking up the red carpet.
Camera at the ready we wanted to capture all the excitement of this one-off event at the residential home for people with learning disabilities.
With a glittering array of gowns to challenge any Oscar ceremony attendee, and a new set of categories never seen before, staff at Weaver Court were ready to announce the winners.
Prizes were awarded for categories including ‘Most Proud Man’, ‘Best Smile’, ‘Most Knowledgeable’, and ‘Best Party Lover’. There was a ‘Best Coffee Drinker’, a ‘Best Chocolate Eater’ and even a ‘Best
Pyjama Lover’ - all the residents were delighted with their awards.
Julie Balahura, Weaver Court Manager, said: “We were on such a high when we won our You’re a Star Award that we wanted to re-create the moment for residents. It has given staff a real boost in confidence and we felt we could do the same for those in our care. It’s been a fabulous occasion and well worth all the effort the staff have put into it.
“Not only that but we are also celebrating our 25th anniversary of the opening of Weaver Court so it couldn’t
be more timely. We’ve all come a long way!”
Two of our Directors were also keen to drop in, Nick Morris, Executive Director of Business, Planning and Compliance, and Nicola Lees, Executive Director of Nursing and Service Delivery.
Nicola said: “Nick and I were delighted to be invited to the event and enjoyed every minute of it. Staff, service users and family members looked fantastic in their red carpet outfits! The success of the event was a credit to all involved and not one Nick and I will forget in a long time.”
Image CaptIon: Residents with their awards
It’s been a fabulous
occasion and well worth all the effort the staff have put into it.
And the Winner is....
Image CaptIon: Weaver Court Staff - ‘glamming it up’
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CoRpoRate SeRVICeS
The argument for and against uniforms in mental health services has raged back and forth over the years. Do uniforms create barriers between staff and service users or are they the most practical way of giving staff a high-profile professional image?
Dress for Success - Uniforms for the 21st Century
Image CaptIon: Staff show off their new uniforms
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CoRpoRate SeRVICeS
As the final phase of the new dress code is rolled out in in-patient services, Connections looks at what went into deciding our dress code and what staff and service users really think to the new look.
Before any decisions could be made a pilot study involving front-line staff at Airedale Centre for Mental Health was carried out, along with a staff survey.
Julie Megaw, Acting Head of Nursing, said: “Involving front-line staff and service users in the debate was a very important part of the process. There was a strong argument for wearing uniforms from an infection control point of view and for practical work wear. Some staff preferred uniforms but suggested they didn’t need to be traditional nurse’s uniforms, just something easily identifiable accompanied by a name badge.
“A survey of service users and carers indicated that they preferred staff to wear uniforms and they commented that it was reassuring, less confusing and looked more professional.
“As a result of this feedback we have chosen uniforms that are appropriate to staff’s needs dependant on the service user group they work with. Some staff working in learning disabilities and older people’s services needed something
practical and easy which protects them. They wear a more traditional uniform with the option of using disposable aprons to meet infection control requirements.
“Those working with adults with mental health problems wear a shirt which is both smart and practical.”
Thabani Songo, Ward Manager on Heather Ward, has been trialling the uniform for the last year.
He said: “It really helps on the ward, especially when service users are admitted. It means service users and their families can immediately spot a member of staff.
“It’s definitely been a positive move, the uniform looks professional and the policy makes it clear to staff what is expected of them for work wear.
“And it’s made my life a lot easier - I just get all my shirts lined up for the week and don’t have to worry about what I wear to work!”
Details of the dress code can be found on the intranet under HR policies, ‘Standards of Dress Procedure’.
The policy for our community health staff is on the Loop.
It really helps on the ward, especially when service users are admitted. It means service users and their families can immediately spot a member of staff.
Image CaptIon: Learning Disability & older people’s Services uniform
Image CaptIon: adult mental Health Services uniform
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SUBStanCe mISUSe SeRVICeS
Working to Support Women and Families With so much concern nationally about the effects of drugs and alcohol on pregnant women, we paid another visit to the Airedale Community Drug and Alcohol team in Keighley.We spoke to Helen Cowley, Community Psychiatric Nurse (Development Nurse) about the ground-breaking work taking place to help mums-to-be reduce the risk to their unborn child.
Helen said: “We are aware that some women continue to drink alcohol at varying levels throughout their pregnancy. As alcohol is legal there is an assumption by some people that it is
not as harmful as illegal substances, this is not necessarily the case.
“Women do not have to be dependent drinkers to risk causing damage to their developing unborn baby. The problem is they may not disclose this at their usual antenatal bookings as they are embarrassed or ashamed and may fear social service involvement.
“The team is working together to connect with these women to reduce harm to the unborn baby and the women. We have a new worker to help with this and a member of staff from our Community Health Services also continues to work with us at the maternity clinic.
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SUBStanCe mISUSe SeRVICeS
“Our multi-agency work is expanding and this will help us to reach more and more women.”
Pregnant women using the service have access to scans, have antenatal checks by a specialist drug liaison midwife and have a consultant available. They can also seek advice and treatment about alcohol and drugs all under the same roof.
Helen continued: “As well as working with service users to help them manage their pregnancies, we’ve worked with midwives to increase their awareness and knowledge of substance misuse. This is making a big difference when it comes to helping remove the stigma surrounding the use of drugs and alcohol.
“We’ve worked hard to break down the barriers so that expectant mothers with drug and alcohol problems get the right treatment.”
The service offers much more than antenatal care. Increasingly the team find themselves working with the whole family.
The Integrated Family Service is a new service set up by Project 6 in Keighley to support families to stay together and helps them break the cycle of problems that are passed down through generations. They can even support grandparents caring for the children of substance-misusing parents.
Helen added: “I am thrilled with the new service. It was developed to support the whole family and give agencies such as ourselves the opportunity to refer service users for additional support. They can attend parent craft sessions for pregnant women and their partners, and parenting classes, as well as other activities for families. There are also links into training and employment.
“Substance misuse problems are a problem for the whole family”.
Becky Cutler, service user representative, helps the team support women at the pregnancy clinic. She offers a sympathetic ear and helps signpost women towards other services that can help them with their drug and alcohol problems.
Becky said: “I talk to people in an informal way about their situation and because I speak from personal experience I understand their problems. It helps them to open up in a different way to how they might speak with a midwife or GP. I show them that there is a lot of help and support out there and where they can find it.”
As well as our substance misue community services, the multi-agency service also involves NHS Bradford & Airedale and local charity Project 6.
Helen added: “Since we started we’ve had some wonderful feedback from people who use our service. We’ve had women who have completely turned their lives around with the support provided by the team.”
Since winning a You’re a Star award in 2009 the team has stayed true to form by spending the prize money on equipment for parent craft sessions, calendars and diaries, and bags full of toiletries for some of the women. They are also producing a set of leaflets to compliment the service.
For further information contact the multi-agency antenatal Service on 01535 602010.
Women do not have to be dependent drinkers to risk causing damage to their developing unborn baby.
with their drug and alcohol problems.
Image CaptIon: Becky Cutler, Service User Representative
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SpeCIaLISt SeRVICeS
Health and well-being skills for mental health service usersA group of men who have been living in a mental health unit are learning new skills back in the Keighley community.
Health Improvement Practitioner, Merv Pemberton, in our Health of Men Team (HOM), has been working in partnership with the Sangat Centre, The Willows, and Ghyllside to support the group around health issues.
The men have free Health MOTs and talk about a number of different health issues. Additionally the Sangat Centre has a safe kitchen where the men can learn to cook.
Merv said: “It’s really important to support these men to live back in the community and teach them new skills to help them become independent. Helping them to take care of their health and wellbeing is a key part of this and it’s very rewarding to see them develop and become more aware of health issues.”
Health team promote prostate cancer awareness
Our Health of Men (HOM) team is re-launching the Bradford and Airedale men’s health support group - an informal group offering information, support and a place to share concerns and experiences about prostate conditions and general men’s health.
Prostate cancer is the most common form of cancer in men. Every year 36,000 men in the UK are diagnosed with prostate cancer and 10,000 die from it every year.
Merv Pemberton, Men’s Community Health Improvement Practitioner, said:
“We want to help men understand more about prostate cancer and the treatment that is out there. With around 250,000 men in the UK living with the illness we feel it is really important that local men talk about their concerns.
“The group not only offers the chance to talk about prostate cancer, but it also gives people the chance to talk about men’s health in general, helping men across the district to understand more about their health and wellbeing.”
For more information contact merv pemberton on 01535 338706 or Fauzia Jabeen on 01535 338713.
Helping them to take care of their health and wellbeing is a key part of this.
Shining the Spotlight on Men’s Health
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For more information contact on on
Image CaptIon: men’s health group at the Sangat Centre featuring some of the mental health service users
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LoW SeCURe SeRVICeS
Securing Better CareStaff and service users at Moorlands View have helped to make major changes to the way people in secure services will receive care across the whole of Yorkshire and the Humber.
Making sure service users had their say was Occupational Therapy Lead, Louise Cooper and service user, Errol Ellington who were part of the group shaping things at a regional level.
They have helped to develop 20 new standards of care based on a ‘person-centred’ approach so that people in low and medium secure units can feel more involved in the whole care process.
Louise Cooper said: “We’ve worked hard to make sure that all the work that was done at a regional level is being rolled out at Moorlands View. Everyone has been involved in the consultation - service users, nurses, occupational therapists, and consultants.
“The standards set out changes in the process which allow service users to have more control over their care.
“It’s making a difference in everything we do. Service users are included in every part of their Care Programme Approach meeting. They can send out invitations in their name if they
wish, including letters to carers, and choose the room. They will have the opportunity to read copies of any reports at least one week before the meeting and be involved in future planning including their discharge.
“People are given time to talk through and agree a plan with their care
co-ordinator and can make comments that are incorporated into the final report.
“We monitor how these standards are being met by giving people a questionnaire following their Care Programme Approach meeting.”
Errol said: “It’s been hard work attending the meetings with Louise, then making sure the standards are introduced at Moorlands View, but it has been worth it.”
To find out more check out our new look low secure web pages at www.bdct.nhs.uk
People are given time to talk through and agree a plan.
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Dysphagia is a condition affecting up to 80 per cent of adults with learning disabilities and causes difficulties in eating, drinking and/or swallowing.
We caught up with the Clinical Liaison Team to find out how they are working together to support people with this condition.
The Team explained: “Dysphagia can be serious, it can lead to choking or blocked airways. It can result in poor nutrition and dehydration because someone who cannot swallow safely may not be able to eat enough of the right foods to stay healthy or maintain an ideal weight.
“To treat this condition we bring our individual areas of expertise together to make joint assessments and provide a care package that really gets results.”
The Clinical Liaison Team provides specialist community health services for adults with learning disabilities in Bradford and Airedale.
Taking a Teamwork Approach
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The team is made up of speech and language therapists, psychologists, physiotherapists, occupational therapists, dieticians and behaviour specialists.
They have been working on innovative ways to develop the service.
The Team added: “Speech and language therapists understand the way the mouth and throat operate so they assess individual’s eating and drinking needs and the level of risk. They are trained to ensure people receive the right consistency of food and drink, and optimal support at mealtimes. Advice is given on what foods to avoid and how to make things easier to swallow by providing softer foods that are easier to eat, or thickening fluids to make them be easier to drink.
“The dietitian will look at a person’s diet to see whether they need advice or what changes they might need to make. They can help people maintain a balanced diet to make sure they meet their energy and nutritional requirements. Tips can be given on how to fortify meals, for example with cream and butter.
“Sometimes a few physical adjustments can help. Physiotherapists can assess people’s posture or seating arrangements to optimise their position for safe eating and drinking.
“The occupational therapist’s role is to look at the environment and see what adjustments can be made to help people retain their independence.
“Something as simple as using specially adapted cups or spoons can make all the difference to people with this condition.
“Psychologists and behaviour therapists in the team may also provide advice on behaviour strategies and psychological issues around eating and drinking.”
The team meet regularly to share their knowledge and discuss individual cases so they can constantly improve their service.
They have also developed a one day training workshop for carers ‘Safe Swallowing for People with Learning Disabilities’ which gives people a real insight into what it feels like for those suffering with dysphagia.
To treat this condition we bring our individual areas of expertise together to make joint assessments and provide a care package that really gets results.
The one day Safe ‘Swallowing for People with Learning Disabilities’ workshop is an interactive and practical training session.
Subjects covered include:
• The swallowing process and how it can be impaired
• The risks posed by dysphagia
• Modifying food and drink consistency
• Menu planning and food supplements
• Seating and positioning
• Choice, capacity, independence, environment and communication
• How and when to refer to the team
Anyone wanting to know more about the training should contact Sarah Bearder, Team Secretary, on 01274 497121.
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Care Worker Steals from Service User
Special Report:
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Following on from our spotlight on fraud last year, Connections returns to speak to our Local Counter Fraud Specialist, Liz O’Reilly.She reveals how a community support worker who stole from a service user was brought to justice.
Liz said: “A 52 year old community support worker was employed by the Trust to work with the Supported Accommodation Team. She was one in a team of staff supporting two residents with learning disabilities.
“She often worked extra shifts and was keen to support the residents particularly with the banking and financial recording.
“In June 2009 she was suspended for an unrelated matter, it was then discovered that the bank balance of one of the residents was significantly less than it should have been.
“I was called in to investigate and gather evidence and the support worker was arrested in September 2009 and questioned by myself and the police. She was interviewed four times during the course of the enquiry but failed to comment on her knowledge of the theft every time.
“Further enquiries revealed that £1,200 had gone missing from one of the bank accounts. It was also discovered that she had told another member of staff that the victim’s savings account had been closed when in fact it remained open. This deception allowed her to cover up her crime.
“Eventually, she pleaded guilty to the crime and was sentenced at Bradford Crown Court on 31 January 2011. The judge’s comments were damning – he described it as a ‘despicable offence’ and said that she had ‘taken advantage of someone who was disadvantaged’.
“He commented on how the support worker was relied upon ‘to look after his finances – not to do what you did and steal a substantial sum of money from him’.”
The support worker received six months imprisonment suspended for two years, 100 hours unpaid work and a 12 month supervision order.
Carol Stubley, Director of Finance, Contracting and Facilities, said: “It is a disturbing fact that a small minority of NHS staff, service users, professionals and contractors
deliberately commit fraud against the NHS, which puts a huge strain on already tight budgets.
“Anyone committing any type of fraud needs to be aware that when they are caught they will have to face the consequences of their fraudulent actions.”
Anyone with concerns about fraudulent activity should email Liz
o’Reilly on [email protected] or telephone 01924 816098.
Alternatively you can call the NHS Fraud and Corruption Reporting Line on 0800 0284060.
The judge’s comments were damning – he described it as a ‘despicable offence.
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February proved to be a landmark month as we made major strides towards providing opportunities and positive environments for all.As well as hosting a ground-breaking learning and sharing seminar, our staff received coveted awards for their roles in promoting equality and diversity throughout the region.
The awards were given by the Equity Partnership, a charitable organisation that represents the views and needs of all lesbian, gay and bisexual (LGB) communities in Bradford. They recognise the achievements of individuals, groups and organisations whose work has benefitted LGB communities.
With over 1,000 votes cast, we were nominated for three out of six categories, including ‘Most Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender (LGBT) Friendly Organisation’.
Dr Steve Hopker, Director of Medical and Service Governance, was awarded ‘Most Inspiring Individual’ and Liz Parsons, Equality and Diversity Manager, received ‘Best LGBT Champion’.
The Equity Partnership were a great support at our recent seminar to mark LGBT History Month. Staff, partner organisations, service users and carers were invited to discuss how equality could be put
into practice in a mental health organisation. It was based on research from the Equity Partnership who have studied the health needs of LGB communities in Bradford.
Guest speaker, Jake Braden from the Equity Partnership, said: “Over the last few years we’ve built up a good relationship with the Care Trust. This event has been a great opportunity for people to come together and recommend how to take things forward. It’s been fantastic to work together on meeting the health needs of the LGB community.”
Paul Hogg, Trust Secretary, led the discussions on our behalf. He said: “We made very good progress in identifying some really important issues. The seminar has helped create a culture of openness and given everyone a deeper understanding of what the issues are, and how we can work together to overcome them.”
Key issues that came out of the seminar included the need to develop an LGB initiative within Older People’s Services, to improve the monitoring of sexual orientation and a review of the complaints process to make it clearer.
The LgBt Staff network can be contacted on 07795 506193 or by emailing [email protected]
Working Together for Equality
We made very good progress in identifying some really important issues.
Image CaptIon: Liz parsons, equality & Diversity manager & Dr Steve Hopker, Director of medical and Service governance
Image CaptIon: paul Hogg, trust Secretary & Jake Braden from the equity partnership
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Our ongoing project to redesign and modernise Adult Mental Health and Older People’s Services is gathering pace with an exciting new phase being given the go-ahead.Plans have been signed off for work to begin on Chellow Lodge to provide a modern, high quality environment for adult mental health rehabilitation services.
A project group made up of staff from every part of the organisation and service users has met regularly to work together on plans for the new ward. It will be more recovery focused and provide new and improved facilities.
The team has been working closely with architects and planners on the detail of the design and features to provide the highest quality healthcare to service users.
Dr Jane Clark, Consultant for Adult Rehabilitation Services, has been part of the project group. She said: “Meeting regularly with the different professional groups and service users has been an efficient way to ensure that each group has been able to put across their point of view. We wanted to exceed current standards and create
a new environment that would enable staff to provide the highest quality of care.
“As the ward is focused on recovery and rehabilitation one of my concerns as a clinician was to ensure we had sufficient private interview space for staff to work one-to-one with service users. Other people had other priorities such as how to ensure the environment was bright and friendly. I think the group worked well together.”
The newly designed ward will have top class accommodation with en-suite bedrooms built around a quad area to give them natural light. The communal area will also have separate same-sex rooms to protect people’s dignity and privacy.
Allison Harrison, PALS Officer, was keen to get service users involved. She said: “It’s been an important part of the process to include the people who are going to live there. Their perspective can give a real insight into creating a better environment – for example we have discussed the effects of colour schemes and lighting on people’s moods.”
Sharon Marston, Modern Matron, said: “We wanted to make sure everyone throughout the organisation was involved early in the process for the best results. The project group has worked really well and is something we will repeat for future redesign projects.”
With much more to come on the redesign project a new Q&A page is coming soon to our intranet.
Redesigned Ward One Step Closer
We wanted to exceed current standards and create a new environment that would enable staff to provide the highest quality of care.
coming soon to our intranet
Image CaptIon: Sharon marston, allison Harrison & Rob armstrong, project manager discussing new plans
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It may not be the Tate Gallery but colour and creativity was just as evident at a recent art exhibition at Shipley Resource Centre, when a group of budding art students revealed their hidden talents.
A group of adults with learning disabilities attend a weekly class at Kirkgate Studios where they get the chance to try out all kinds of new activities including pottery, painting, and drawing.
Taking Art to Heart
Image CaptIon: pottery and paper flowers
Image CaptIon: Some of the art group with their portraits
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Jackie Crowther, Day Centre Officer, said: “The classes have been a fantastic success, they’ve helped the group in so many different ways. It has hugely built their confidence because they are getting out and mixing with the other people who attend the studios. They have learned to work together as a peer group as well as interact socially.
“The whole group has discovered talents they didn’t realise they had, it has opened up their imagination and improved motor skills. One of the members has autism and this has really helped bring out their creative side.
“We work on a range of projects trying out different mediums so everyone gets to find something that they enjoy. The students get to take their work home and they are so full of pride when they see the end product of all their efforts.
“One of the most popular projects was the self-portrait project because it was a new experience for everybody. Their self-portraits have been amazing, it has really helped individuals express themselves and has given people a new level of self-awareness.
“We also worked on a group project around the theme of autumn. Everyone went to the park and picked up leaves to identify the colours of autumn. This was used as a basis for a large canvas. The whole group really grasped the concept and the effects were stunning.”
Gail is one of the students enjoying the course. She was a bit apprehensive on her first visit but has quickly adapted to the new experience.
Gail said: “It was a bit of a shock until I got used to it but now it makes me feel happy and proud. I love it. The time goes quickly and I’ll be sorry when it ends.”
Jackie continued: “The beauty of this course is that it runs for 18 months so it really gives people a chance to immerse themselves in art and develop their creativity rather than just dip their toe in the water. We carry out an evaluation so we can
see that they really have something to show for it, not just the work they take home. It’s been a very positive experience for everybody.”
The whole group has
discovered talents they didn’t realise they had, it has opened up their imagination and improved motor skills.
Image CaptIon: art group canvases
Image CaptIon: ‘autumn’ group project
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Supporting Staff with SupervisionImage CaptIon: Supervision Steering group
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There is an old saying, “If you don’t look after yourself you can’t look after anyone else”.As an organisation we want to support our staff in looking after themselves and make sure those caring for others receive the right kind of supervision.
Penny Petrie, Occupational Therapy Lead, said: “We are looking at all the ways we can make things better for staff and research has shown that supervision, if supported by managers and done well, can be a big help.
“It’s really important that staff understand exactly what is meant by supervision and how to use this time to their own benefit.
“All frontline staff should receive a minimum of 12 sessions of supervision a year. Whether it is with your line manager or another person of your choice, the aim is to give you the support you need for your practice and development.”
The supervision steering group is looking at ways to ensure all front line staff, including support workers, get the right type of supervision for them.
Penny added: “Professional and clinical supervision is an important part of people’s development. It can be on a one-to-one or group basis and needs to be conducted in a safe, confidential environment to give people support and guidance as they need it.”
A new e-learning programme, ‘Introduction to Supervision’, has been launched to provide a step-to-step guide to give staff a clear understanding of the supervision process.
The e-learning tool can be found on the intranet under the heading of Human Resources/ Leading Learning and Development/e-Learning options.
The supervision steering group is also looking to develop training for supervisors in association with the University of Bradford. Anyone interested in becoming a supervisor and wanting an update on this can contact penny petrie on 01274 228145.
Professional and clinical supervision is an important part of people’s development.
What can Supervision offer you?• A safe and confidential environment to
reflect on the content and process of your work and gain fresh insights
• Increased feelings of support and personal well-being
• A forum to seek information and feedback from a different perspective
• Validation, support and encouragement as a person and as a worker
• A forum to discuss practice standards, effectiveness and concerns
• Increased knowledge and decreased incidence of emotional strain and burnout
Coffee BreakwordsearchTo get your hands on £30 worth of Marks and Spencer vouchers, have a go at our Spring-themed word search. Below is a list of 20 words, but only 19 have made it on to the grid. Can you find the missing word? Once you’ve found it, send your answer to [email protected] or write to Communications Team, Room 2.10, New Mill, Victoria Road, Saltaire, BD18 3LD no later than Wednesday 11 May 2011. Don’t forget to leave us your name and contact details.
The winner will be selected at random and notified after the closing date. Good luck!
Good luck! Good luck!
I e g J K C a V n L L a g e R B p p
a H K e m o o L B F S L U B e U B a
L S U n F W U a p o L D S g n L U pa Z B I Y B B U t t e R F L Y B t Rm S a n I t p F F g D J K L S S t I
B g I R W S L a I n a S I W Q t R L
S e D a F F p n t m F e t n m L F X
L S e S p R I n g a F m e S B a I K
e o F V S W R C n L o B L I Y R Y L
e a m a B I B m Y g D F R W e R Q p
J S U n S H I n e a I X J m t a g F
S Z t W m e a L t U L I p S C Y U g
K C S e H U R C m H S R Q R B L m n
I H m L S Y C a g S D F U e I S n I
p C n t a W F X I L B t n W C a B p
L p U D D L e B m n Y J F o o L S p
n L t F L I U H R e B R U H Y e p I
J a B U D S t W a H e o B S m n L K
F C H o C o L a t e H n W I H S m S
1. Spring 2. April3. Showers4. Puddle5. Tulips6. Lambs7. Daffodils8. Sunshine9. May10. Bloom
11. Sunflower12. Butterfly13. Bee14. Fools15. Rainbow16. Chocolate17. Bulbs18. Buds19. Skipping20. Birds
Find the Words Below
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sUdoKU Each Sudoku has a unique solution that can be reached logically without guessing. Enter numbers from 1 to 9 into the blank spaces. Every row must contain one of each number, and so must every column and 3x3 square. Have fun!
FebrUary winners The winner of February’s Spot the Difference competition was Leighann Pearson, Student Nurse on Baildon Ward, Moorlands View. Well done to everybody who correctly identified the five changes. We had an overwhelming response to this competition - try your luck again this month with our Spring-themed word search for another chance to win.
9 1
5 4
7 5 3 2
3
4
5
6
Just for Fun Have a go at our Sudoku!
Lots of people suffer from memory loss as they
get older. But if they are starting to forget things that happened very recently and
this is affecting everyday life then it could be the early
signs of dementia.
It can be difficult, but it’s well worth talking to them and encouraging them to see their doctor. Spotting the
early symptoms of dementia means they can get the right
treatment and support. And you will keep the person
you know and love a bit longer.
Dementia nhs.uk/dementiaIf you’re worried, see your doctor
Client Name: DLKW Account Name: COI Dementia Publication: - Size: 340x265 Bleed:
File Name: 67939DL48b2402_340x265 Prev File: 67939DL41d2202_pressA4 Fonts: Akzidenz Grotesk BQ
Worried someone close to you is losing their memory?