Positive September 2012

See pages 4, 5 and 6 for Olympic events around the Trust

electric car pilot stop smoking section 17 involvement mental health awareness weeks five-a-side

Olympic Inspiration and Celebration

september 2012

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MESSAGE FROM THE BOARDThis month we officially launch the public consultation on our application for NHS Foundation Trust status. We want to hear your views on our plans and welcome your comments and feedback. There are many ways that you can let us know your thoughts. To find out how and for more information visit our website www.nottinghamshirehealthcare.nhs.uk or call 0115 993 4530.

The Olympic Games captivated so many of us and it is has been marvellous to see how everyone was inspired, got involved and celebrated in their own way. Thank you to all of you who ensured that our service users had the opportunity to enjoy the Games and participate in the many events organised at sites across the Trust. I really hope that this positive momentum continues and leaves a legacy of improved physical health for everyone who uses our services and those people who care for them.

As the summer draws to a close unfortunately the season for flu draws nearer. The Trust’s staff vaccination programme is due to start very soon. All employees are eligible and I urge you all to consider having the jab to protect yourselves and those you care for. Details of vaccination clinics will be publicised shortly.

Looking further ahead to next month, the 20th annual Nottingham Mental Health Awareness Weeks will take place from 8 to 19 October. You can find out all about the forthcoming events in the special guide on page 24.

Finally, our Outstanding Contribution and Recognition Scheme (OSCARS) will soon be open for nominations. The OSCARS highlights how our values are lived out in the organisation; through the commitment of our staff and volunteers who work so hard to give people who use our services a positive experience. I have been privileged to

be part of the annual OSCARS awards ceremony, as a guest before I came to the Trust and now as its very proud Chair and have always been impressed with the warmth and authenticity of the event. Please look out for details of how you can nominate the individuals and teams you think should be recognised for going that extra mile.

Professor Dean FathersChair

the first pilot took place at highbury hospital, with a nissan leaf electric car provided free of charge and used for community visits. a second pilot has now been launched at stapleford care centre, with a peugeot ion available for use by the community team. electric vehicles are completely free of carbon dioxide emissions during driving and are not subject to any road tax.

neil alcock, energy and environmental manager, explained the scheme: “transport is something we are very much focusing on this year within the trust’s sustainability remit, so when we were offered the chance to trial an electric vehicle we were keen to give it a go.

“the vehicles are expensive to buy, but cheap to run, so we needed to work with staff who usually have a high mileage in order to find out whether it could be cost

effective for us. we also wanted to find out whether the cars were practical for use in a community mental health setting. initial feedback from the first pilot shows that they definitely are practical, and i’m not aware of any operational problems with either vehicle so far.

“we fitted energy monitors to measure the electricity used to power the cars and will now look more closely at the real cost of running the cars in terms of both fuel (electricity) and the associated co2 emissions. we’ll then use that information to come up with a practical guide to the overall cost – both operational and financial – of operating the car.”

the stapleford trial will run for two months and the environmental team is also looking into the possible use of a commercial electric vehicle. further updates will be available as the work progresses.

Electric car pilot puts Trust in the driving seatWith sustainable resources high on its agenda, the Trust is taking part in its second electric car pilot.

3Positive September 2011

At the launch of the second pilot at Stapleford Care Centre.Left to right: Jerome Baddley, Sustainable Energy Development Manager for Nottinghamshire Energy Partnership; Mark Watkins, Transport Manager, Nottinghamshire Healthcare; Simon Smith, Executive Director of Local Services, Nottinghamshire Healthcare and Stuart Warsop, Healthcare Assistant, District Nursing Team, in the Peugeot iOn.


From August 2012 Learning Disability Services (LDS) will be transferring to therapeutic management of violence and aggression training in order to be consistent with all other local services. The theory side of the training, ‘promoting safe and therapeutic services’ (PSTS), has been updated to include the uniqueness of the service users. To relaunch the training the service ran a competition to design the front cover for the new training package.

The title for the competition was ‘Keeping People Safe’; the artwork and interpretation was open. Entries were open to all services users who use LDS.

Shirley Lavender, Service Manager, and Mel Keily, Team Leader, presented the winning artist, Neil Grievson, with his prize at The Hub, Worksop. Members of the Community Learning Disability

Team were in attendance along with Neil’s Community Nurse, Chris Morgan, who facilitated Neil’s competition entry. Neil was given a book token and a copy of his design will be used on the cover of the training package.

Neil entered the competition as he keenly advocates for the needs of vulnerable people and ‘keeping people safe’ is a particular

concern of his. The winning design is now proudly displayed on the cover of the training package which will be received by all staff who work in the Learning Disability Services.

Congratulations to Neil.

Right: Neil at his prize presentation with the front cover of the training package prominently displaying his design. Left to right: Mel Keily, Team Leader; Neil Grievson; Chris Morgan, Community Nurse; Shirley Lavender, Service Manager. Top: Neil’s winning design

Competition win for NeilA service user from Retford has won a Trust competition to design the front cover of a new training package.

Back in June 2011, Nottinghamshire Healthcare launched its own Olympic Challenge programme to encourage increased participation in sport and physical activity. Throughout the year leading up to the London 2012 Olympic Games, events and activities took place indoors and out, at different Trust sites and at levels to suit everyone. There were even some virtual challenges. The programme was awarded the London 2012 Inspire Mark and has seen the participation of more than 1000 service users. Here is a roundup of just some of the inspired events and some of the ways in which the Games have been celebrated.

Torch RelayThe Trust held its very own torch relay in celebration of the London 2012 Paralympic Games. Chief Executive Mike Cooke started the relay around the grounds of Duncan Macmillan House by handing the torch to Volunteer and Service User Disability Champion, Peter Spencer, who took it on the first leg of the journey.

Torch bearers included service users from the Trust’s Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services, Learning Disability Services and Specialist Children’s Services as well as members of the Trust Disability Network and Involvement Centre.

Although the relay runners carried batons, they each had the opportunity to hold one of the official London 2012 Olympic torches. Robert Beall was

nominated as a worthy torch bearer in Balderton for his community and voluntary work over 30 years and kindly lent his torch for the event. On completion of the relay, participants were presented with medals by Mike Cooke. He said: “The London 2012 Olympics has provided wonderful inspiration and motivation and we are working to continue to build on this throughout the Paralympics and beyond, creating a lasting legacy of better physical and mental health and wellbeing for all our service users and staff.”

Millbrook celebrationsstaff and patients at millbrook mental health Unit held a special event for the opening ceremony of the olympics.

the team laid on food and decorated orchid ward with flags and olympic-

London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games celebrated across the Trust

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IMAGES & CAPTIONS:Kerry P-G table – The Union Jack spread laid on for the eveningKerry P-G TV – The Olympic opening ceremony live on television

London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games celebrated across the Trustthemed items and stayed up until midnight to watch the opening ceremony together with some of the patients.

kerry palmer-green, a newly-qualified occupational therapist who has recently joined orchid ward, was delighted to be part of the fun event. “it was great to be able to organise something like this with the staff and patients joining in to support britain’s olympic ceremony,” said kerry. “i’ve only been here a short time but am really enjoying working at millbrook.”

The Wells Road CentreMore than 60 people including patients, staff, friends and carers participated in a range of fun sporting competitions and enjoyed a barbecue at a special Olympic Beach Party hosted by the Occupational Therapy team at The Wells Road Centre.

Mental Health Services for Older People MHSOP celebrated the advent of the Olympics with Occupational Therapists supporting service users in creating collages and decorating the wards as well as reminiscence quizzes and cake making. The Physiotherapists organised an Olympic walk and Olympic themed exercise groups.

Staff from around the Trust and patients from St Francis wards enjoyed an afternoon of Olympic wacky races at the Cricket Ground at City Hospital. Knockout relay races featured a variety of Olympic themed stations with space hoppers and super soakers thrown in for comedy effect. The benefits to wellbeing were clear from the amount of smiles and laughter. One participant said: “There was an amazing feeling of team

spirit throughout the day. When people experience team working in a fun and relaxed environment it cannot fail to transfer into a more effective working environment. The determination, competitiveness and satisfaction gained was a big morale boost.”

Other fun activities to raise money for Crossroads Care included a Hoola Hoop challenge and Olympic quiz. A physical healthcare stall provided valuable information and advice. Crossroads Care donated raffle prizes from their suppliers and many more were kindly donated by MHSOP staff. Along with a cake sale, a total of £105 was raised. Thank you to everyone involved.

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Nigel completes epic Olympic Celebration Walk

Occupational Therapist Nigel Humphries successfully completed an epic walk of 115 miles in five days between Arnold Lodge and Wathwood Hospital. He was joined by a variety of supporters along the route which incorporated stops at some of the Olympic Challenge events including a sports day in Newark and a rowing race at Rampton Hospital.

The organisation of the walk and the other sporting events was overseen by a group of Olympic Champions; enthusiastic individuals from across the Trust who working hard to ensure everyone could get involved.

James Routen, Health and Wellbeing Coordinator said: “As chair of the Trust Olympic Steering Group and on behalf of Catherine Pope, Associate Lead, I would like to congratulate Nigel on completing his challenge and thank all of our Olympic Champions who have put so much energy and enthusiasm into planning the events over the past 12 months. It has been very rewarding to see so many staff, patients, service users and careers getting active and inspired by this.”


Transformation team supports pilot roll-outA Transformation Programme Team has been formed to lead and support the implementation of a pilot service.

local services executive director simon smith and andrea ward, interim associate director, recently welcomed andrea cain and rachel redford in their new roles to support the pilot rapid assessment, interface and discharge (raid) mental health liaison team. the pilot will run across Qmc and city hospital campuses from 1 october 2012 and in sherwood forest hospitals from January 2013.

the raid service will be an expansion and re-focusing of the existing assessment, interface and discharge service. it will support the diagnosis, assessment and management of people with mental health issues who are admitted to the general wards, or who are seen in the

emergency department, and will operate seven days a week, 24 hours a day.

the new service will offer service users and carers a comprehensive range of specialties within one multidisciplinary team, enabling everyone over the age of 16 to be assessed and treated, signposted or referred appropriately regardless of age, address, mental health problems or time of day.

the service will focus on improving the quality of care for people who have mental ill health in an acute hospital and on developing joint working between

colleagues in mental and physical healthcare. this new development will enable a timely but effective discharge from the emergency department and general admission wards. progress against the aims and objectives of the programme will be measured and evaluated to evidence that quality outcomes have been achieved for service users and their carers with the long term aim of securing funding.

for any further information relating to the transformation programme, please email [email protected] or [email protected].

l-r Andrea Cain, Andrea Ward, Simon Smith and Rachel Redford

Intermediate Care Service embraces new technologyCounty Health Partnerships’ Intermediate Care Services are about to embark on embedding a new piece of technology into their daily work.

County Health Partnerships in conjunction with EMPACT (East Midlands Procurement and Commissioning Transformation) are leading the way forward being the first organisation in the Country to implement InterQual, a service utilisation review tool into Intermediate Care Services.

The tool which determines real time service utilisation, supports admission and discharge decisions in line with evidence based practice is designed to ensure that patients receive the right care at the right time and in the right place – providing a better experience for our patients. InterQual will enable teams to evidence any issues around delivering quality services and improve processes. It generates data on any unnecessary lengths of stay, identifying bottlenecks and barriers to discharge or even missing levels of care within the system which hinder the patients journey.

This new tool is quick and easy to use and over 50 staff across County Health Partnerships are currently being trained on it. It will be used in daily practice from Monday 1 October.

For more information on Utilisation Review, contact the Utilisation Review Team at EMPACT on 01332 813 864 or email [email protected].

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Team supports smoke free carsIn response to a recent Department of Health campaign focusing on the dangers of smoking in homes and cars, Bassetlaw’s Stop Smoking team has handed out over 4,000 air fresheners to car wash customers.

Over 80% of second-hand smoke is invisible so despite good intentions, parents who smoke with the windows open, in one room of the house or at the back door are still exposing their children to harm. Passive smoking increases children’s risk of bronchitis, pneumonia, asthma attacks, meningitis and ear infections and increases the chance of cot death in young babies.

Displaying the air fresheners in cars will help to remind both drivers and passengers that smoking in the car can have serious health consequences.

Some of the smokers at the car wash were surprised by the myths and facts around smoking in the car. One parent from Retford said: “I thought it was safe to smoke when I had the window down; I hadn’t realised that this can actually send the smoke to the back of the car where the children are sat. I won’t be smoking in the car any more.”

Specialist Advisors Kate Burley and Angela Lee

Stop Smoking service celebrates successBassetlaw Stop Smoking service is celebrating after exceeding its challenging annual national target for helping local people stop smoking.

working along with gp practice nurses who deliver stop smoking services at a practice level, the team has supported 1,042 quitters by providing a specialist service for the residents of bassetlaw.

the service helped over 1,828 people with stop smoking support during 2011/12, with 1,042 continuing for at least four weeks – well above the target of 1,018.

stop smoking advisors are based in gp surgeries, clinics and community venues, with clinics increasing on a monthly basis to meet demand. the service also offers specialist support to workplaces, young people and pregnant women throughout bassetlaw.

advisors amy, catherine and trevor, along with specialist advisors kate

and angela, offer friendly professional advice. they recommend the use of nicotine replacement therapy and other medications to help with withdrawal symptoms, and provide encouragement and support on a weekly basis.

donna ramsden, health development manager, said: “we are very pleased with these results. this shows that people in bassetlaw are making positive changes in their lives to improve their health by becoming smoke-free. we have established stop smoking sessions in local communities to allow people to access advice and support quickly and easily and we’re extremely pleased with the success we’ve had in bassetlaw. we now hope to build on this and help even more people to stop smoking and stay stopped.”

The Stop Smoking team. Front row (left to right): Amy, Donna, Kate. Back row: Angela, Trevor, Catherine.

Get involvedif you would like help to stop smoking or know someone who would, please contact an advisor on:

tel: 0800 328 8553email: bassetlaw.stopsmoking@ nottshc.nhs.uk

gp practices that deliver the bassetlaw stop smoking service at practice level are:• DrsBrowninNorthLeverton• DrFinchandPartnersinTuxford• DrGilbertandPartnersatTallTrees

in retford• DrRaheeminHarworth• LarwoodSurgeryinWorksop• MistertonSurgeryinMisterton


OSCARS 2013The annual Outstanding Service Contribution and Recognition Scheme will be launched later this month.

Please start thinking about who you would like to nominate and why they deserve to win an OSCAR. Individuals and teams are eligible for nomination and you do not have to be a manager to nominate someone;

this can be done by any Trust employee from any discipline. Nominations can also be made by people who use the Trust’s services and those who care for people who use Trust services.

All staff will be asked to promote the OSCARS in public areas, to ensure service users have a chance to nominate individuals and teams for the recognition they deserve.

Look out for more information about the event, nomination categories and details of how to nominate in future editions of Positive, on the Trust Intranet and Website.

Employment service supports final recovery stepFor many service users getting back into employment after mental ill health is a very tough challenge, but in many cases it is the final step to a full recovery.

For service users at Nottinghamshire Healthcare the Individual Placement and Support team is available to help them overcome that final hurdle. The team works with service users who want to find work and to help them decide what

they want to do, apply for work and access

appropriate support. They also support employers and

advise them on any adjustments the

service user may need.

Over recent months the team has successfully helped a number of people back into employment – one as a peer support worker at Highbury, one in our Facilities Department, another as a doctor’s receptionist and a lady who is now working in a garage.

Peter Pearson has used the IPS service for several months. He explains what it has meant to his recovery: “The IPS service and Mel Simpson have been instrumental in this final stage of my recovery. Mel worked with me on my motivation and reassured me that dealing with unsuccessful applications was part of the employment process, which helped me overcome my fear of failure.”

“He helped me update my CV and read through cover letters and online applications. In June and July I was offered three interviews and after further interview preparation with Mel, I have been offered an administrative assistant post with the East Midlands Leadership Academy.

“Mel’s support in showing me how to manage my health while I’m in my new employment

and strategies for recognising any early symptoms of a relapse at work have greatly reassured me that I can complete this final stage of my recovery.”

“I firmly believe in the recovery through work premise. I wouldn’t have been able to fully recover without the support of

the IPS service and Mel Simpson.”

For more information about the IPS service contact Mel Simpson on 0115 956 0802 or email [email protected].

Mel Simpson (left) and Peter Pearson

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Section 17 at your serviceSection 17 is a new restaurant project based within Wathwood Hospital.

It is loosely based on the concept of the Clink Restaurant at HMP High Down in Surrey which offers prisoners the chance to train and gain experience in the hospitality industry. The aim is to reduce reoffending rates of ex-offenders by providing them with the skills, qualifications and guidance to find full time employment on release.

Building Community Links: Integrated Mental Health at HMP Nottingham

Members of the Integrated Mental Health Team at the Trust’s OSCARS Awards ceremony earlier this year L-r Nicola Baugh, Specialist Clozapine Practitioner, Leona McConnell, Team Leader, Sylvia Hodgkiss, Team Administrator, Marie Gibson, Secondary Mental Health Practitioner, Chris Willis, Team Administrator, Kate Hall, Secondary Mental Health Practitioner, Siobhan Walsh, Team Administrator, Ben Ross, Specialist Outreach Worker

The last 18 months have seen significant changes at HMP Nottingham and to mental health services provided to its prisoners. The population of the prison has doubled; it now functions as a remand prison for the whole of Nottinghamshire and Derbyshire. Men serving longer sentences outside the area are returning to Nottingham Prison for local release at the end of their time in custody.

Nottinghamshire Healthcare now manages both Primary and Secondary Mental Health Services in the prison, as well as all physical healthcare, and new treatment options are becoming available.

The Integrated Mental Health Team now works in partnership with Rethink to provide an outreach service, ‘Helping You Out’ supporting prisoners after release and on their return to the community. As a result, they are working more frequently with community agencies involved with the men at the prison.

On 19 September, the team will be hosting a special Open Day to develop and build on relationships and links with agencies in the community.

Representatives from the Integrated Mental Health Team, Rethink, prison staff and service users will be on hand to answer questions and to consider ways in which everyone can work together to improve the service offered to men with mental health problems who have spent time in custody.

The event is taking place at the Visitors’ Centre at HMP Nottingham and open to all who wish to attend. Light refreshments will be provided. There is no need to bring special ID as the Visitors’ Centre is outside the secure area of the prison.

If you are interested in attending the event or have any questions, please contact Leona McConnell ([email protected]) or Ben Ross ([email protected]) on 0115 8724127 / 4462.


Trust launches new rural health networkA new network to focus on health issues in rural areas is set to be launched in November.

While recent public sector funding cuts have affected people in all areas, providing high quality clinical specialities, viable district general hospitals and good quality community-based services presents particular challenges for management teams working in rural areas. Services in rural areas are typically

more expensive to provide and as a result are often spread more thinly than elsewhere.

The new network will bring together, at a national level, health organisations and other partners to facilitate ideas, development and sharing best practice in the provision and development of health services to rural populations. Membership will be open to interested organisations from across the UK.

The Network will be officially launched at an inaugural conference on 26 November at the City Ground, Nottingham. The conference will be chaired by Baroness Byford of the All Parliamentary Policy Group on Rural Services and supported by leading clinicians and academics working in the field of rural health provision. Several topical professional

workshops will also be on the agenda to look at specific issues in more depth.

Attendance at the conference includes free membership of the Rural Health Network for the first year. The Network will facilitate professional comment and interaction through web-based learning and information sharing, facilitated by the Rural Services Network and the Institute of Rural Health.

Conference places cost £250 for the first delegate and £75 for additional delegates. To register an interest in attending, please email [email protected] or [email protected]. Further information about the work of the Rural Services Network can be found at www.rsnonline.org.uk and the Institute of Rural Health at www.rural-health.ac.uk.

Above: In the kitchenBelow Left: Service at Section 17

Likewise, Section 17 endeavours to equip patients with the necessary vocational experience and qualifications to maximise their future employability and ultimately their ongoing recovery. The training restaurant, which was established in May, showcases collaborative working at its best. Patients are supported in producing and serving a three course meal within a fully equipped professional kitchen. The menu is rotated to reflect today’s trends and styles using local seasonal produce and that from Wathwood’s own Farm Shop.

The restaurant was named by a patient at Wathwood Hospital after a Section of the Mental Health Act 1983 which grants the patient leave into the community, signifying progression and recovery.

Section 17 seats up to eighteen people with one sitting at 12.00 noon, serving a three course menu plus coffee for only £9.95. It is open to patients and their

families and friends, staff within the Hospital and wider Trust, and the general public. Reservations are required and need to be made in advance.

Bookings are currently being taken for the following dates:• 11 September • 2 October • 23 October• 13 November • 4 December

To make a reservation please contact: • [email protected], tel: 01709 870822• [email protected], tel: 01709 870842• [email protected], tel: 01709 870850

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Staff member using Wi-Fi system

The Trust’s Health Informatics Service, in conjunction with Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust (NUH) and Nottinghamshire Health Informatics Service (NHIS), has implemented an innovative community Wi-Fi system which is enabling improved collaborative working between NHS organisations and other public sector bodies across the county.

one year on since its initial implementation, the project has been going from strength to strength. allowing for flexible, multiagency working which saves time and resources, the system enables staff from nottinghamshire healthcare, the Queen’s medical centre, nottingham city hospital, sherwood forest hospitals trust and many primary

care locations across nottinghamshire seamless access to their computer systems from any building with wi-fi connectivity, or, ‘smart building’ status.

going forward, discussions are already taking place with regards to expanding the network to give staff at nottingham city council, nottinghamshire county council, the University of nottingham and east midlands ambulance service access.

peter russell, head of health informatics at the trust said: “our community wi-fi network has been extremely well received by users across a number of organisations. it allows for a more mobile way of working, a concept we see huge benefits in, in terms of efficiency and releasing more time to focus on delivering our core objective – patient care. i would like to thank both staff at the trust and our partners at nUh and nhis for their hard work in making community wi-fi possible. we now look forward to expanding and developing the network further.”

andrew fearn, director of ict at nUh, said: “now more than ever our healthcare professionals need to work in a more flexible and mobile manner. this extended wi-fi connectivity is helping ensure this is possible – and in turn provides our patients with a smoother and more efficient service.“

Innovative Wi-Fi improving NHS working

Providing a voice to the vulnerableA local charity is working to provide free advocacy to some of the most vulnerable people living in the most deprived areas of Nottingham City, namely Sneinton and St Anns.

Integritas Advocacy Ltd, formerly known as Integritas Advocacy CIC, which became a charity in February, also provides training on mental health awareness and advocacy.

The service is managed by Jayne Jackson, a trained Advocate and psychiatric nurse and is supported by a strong and knowledgeable Board led by the Trust’s Executive Director of Forensic Services, Dr Mike Harris. Dedicated volunteers with personal experience of mental illness are also a valued part of the team. This combined experience in mental health services of the team is what makes Integritas Advocacy stand apart from other advocacy providers.

Most referrals to the service are made through the Complex

People’s Panels (CPPs) and from local GPs. In the main clients may have mental health issues, often undiagnosed and come to the attention of the CPPs either due to repeated calls to emergency services or anti social behaviour.


the medical and mental health Unit on ward b47 at Qmc was set up in June 2009 to care for patients with dementia or delirium. the team from the trust

works in collaboration with nUh staff and offers training to general nurses and therapists in caring for people with dementia or delirium. it has also introduced a person-centred approach to care which includes a room where patients can take part in organised activities such as games and painting.

the heads of the two organisations responsible for the partnership working involved on the unit went to visit the ward last month. mike cooke, chief executive of nottinghamshire healthcare, and peter homa, chief executive of nottingham University hospitals, were given a tour of the unit and a chance to meet some of the staff and patients.

people with dementia or delirium who are admitted to hospital can become frightened and confused by the experience, causing distress to them and their carers. at least one in three older people in hospital has dementia. this service is working to improve their care.

Chief Executives tour dementia ward Trust colleagues based at the Queen’s Medical Centre (QMC) are looking at new ways to care for patients with dementia or delirium in an acute hospital.

The service has supported people who threaten suicide, have eating disorders, face language barriers, domestic violence, alcohol and fire risks.

Work is wide ranging, from offering support with attending visits to services and finding meaningful activities for clients, to helping with housing and neighbourhood disputes. Many clients have no immediate family or friends to turn to and the team’s support is vital to them.

For more information, call 0115 934 8411, email [email protected] or visit www.integritasadvocacy.org.uk

Safeguarding hub progressing wellSince December 2011, partners across Nottinghamshire including the County Council, police, health, probation, fire and rescue service and others have been working to establish a Multi-Agency Safeguarding Hub (MASH).

The MASH, one of the largest of its kind in the UK, will be Nottinghamshire’s first point of contact for all safeguarding concerns regarding vulnerable children and adults raised by professionals, members of the public or family members. Staff will be able to collate information from a range of different sources swiftly and accurately, allowing better informed decisions to be made. As a result, agencies will be able to act quickly, in a more co-ordinated and consistent way, ensuring that vulnerable children and adults are kept safe.

Anyone contacting the MASH will also be able to obtain advice and guidance from the team of specialists. This will help build robust knowledge of who to contact should safeguarding concerns about a child or adult arise and ensure that people who contact the MASH are supported through the referral process.

An important emphasis is also being placed on providing feedback on all cases handled by the MASH. This will make sure those who have raised concerns are aware of the outcome of their referral and are provided with appropriate contact details going forward.

The project is moving forward at a rapid pace to go live in November 2012. Already, through joint ownership, a huge amount of work has been carried out and a number of elements of the MASH design have been agreed. The project is now focusing on implementation.

For any further information, please contact Merlin Tinker, Project Manager, on 07748 194 982 or email [email protected] or Julie Gardner, Associate Director for Safeguarding and Social Care on 0115 955 5363 or email [email protected].

Mike Cooke (left) and Peter Homa (right) visiting ward B47

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Seasonal Flu VaccinationThe Trust’s seasonal flu vaccination programme will shortly be underway. The vaccine will be offered to all staff and everyone is being encouraged to take up this opportunity to protect themselves and others. Last year more than 3000 Trust employees were vaccinated against flu and it is hoped to exceed this figure this year.

here are some reasons why you should consider having the jab:

• Flukills–Forthemajorityofpeoplewho catch it, flu is unpleasant, but for some it can lead to chest infections, severe complications and death.

• Anyonecangettheflu–Oneofthe most common reasons for not getting vaccinated is “i’ve never had flu before”. there’s no such thing as natural immunity to influenza; with new strains circulating this year, it’s best to get vaccinated against flu.

• Theflujabcan’tgiveyoutheflu – it is impossible to get flu from having the flu jab because the vaccine doesn’t contain live viruses. a very small number of people experience side effects such as aching muscles, but this is simply the immune system responding to the vaccine.

• Thesideeffectsofthefluvaccinationaren’t bad – for the most part, seasonal flu vaccine side effects are mild or often non-existent. the most common side effect is soreness

around the site of the injection and occasionally aching muscles. these symptoms are a lot less serious than having flu.

• Itwillprotectyou–Healthcareworkers are more likely to be exposed to the influenza virus, particularly during winter months when patients/service users will be infected. it has been estimated that up to one in four healthcare workers may become infected during a mild flu season, a much higher incidence than expected in the general population.

• Youwillbeprotectingothers–vaccination isn’t just about keeping yourself safe, it’s about protecting your colleagues, your family and your patients/service users. You can carry and pass the virus on to others without having any symptoms yourself, so even if you consider yourself healthy, you might be risking the lives of others. by protecting yourself from flu, you will ensure you don’t pass it on to others, particularly young children, babies and pregnant women.

look out for details of forthcoming vaccination clinics which will be publicised to all staff over the coming weeks.

staff with some long term health conditions will also be offered the flu vaccine by their gp. in order for the trust to keep an accurate record of vaccinated staff, individuals are asked to notify occupational health if they receive the vaccine from their gp.

Trust Chief Executive, Mike Cooke has been invited to continue to sit on a national advisory board which supports research and development to improve the health of the nation.

Mike has been a member of the National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) Advisory Board since 2008, but in reflecting the changes in the health system nationally, the membership of the Board has recently been revised. However, Mike has been asked by Chief Medical Officer and Chief Scientific Advisor, Professor Dame Sally C Davies to continue to sit on the Board and input into the strategic development of the NIHR.

The Advisory Board includes chief executives of other NHS trusts and strategic health authorities as well as leaders of academic organisations.

It provides advice specifically on priorities for the allocation of funds and on the development of incentives for research in the NHS and the progression of a research and innovation culture.

Mike said: “I am delighted to be asked to continue to sit on the Advisory Board. Our health research system is the best in the world and it is so very important that this research is translated into tangible benefits for patients across the NHS. THE NIHR has achieved a fantastic amount since it was established six years ago; increasing the volume of applied health research, the speed at which scientific discoveries become real benefits to patients and the economy and supporting those people contributing to these discoveries. I look forward to continuing to be involved.”

Improving health through research


Member constituency meetings trialledThe Members’ Council has recently piloted two constituency meetings for Trust members; one in the Nottingham constituency and one in the Nottinghamshire County constituency. The meetings were initiated by the governor communications working group, a sub-group of the Members’ Council.

the first constituency meeting was held early in the evening on wednesday 13 June, at the mechanics institute, nottingham. the topic was ‘understanding dementia’ and the meeting offered public members of the trust the chance to meet governor members.

the meeting was chaired by dane brennan, staff governor and lead governor for the trust. dr Junaid, consultant in older age psychiatry, gave an informative and engaging presentation about dementia, followed by a question and answer session.

20 public members of the trust attended the meeting, along with 10 governor members and other members of trust staff. the event went well and attendees learned and shared their experiences. some of the feedback included “a useful event”, “more of the same please” and “an excellent session, informative, informal and the sort of sensible learning that one can share with others”.

a second constituency meeting was held for the nottinghamshire county constituency at pleasley landmark

centre on wednesday 18 July, the subject this time being diabetes. the presentation was given by a diabetes nurse, dietician and a peer mentor. feedback from the diabetes meeting included “the diabetic’s insight was a very useful perspective” and “the meeting overall was very good. i had the opportunity to speak to governors and the speakers afterwards, which was very helpful”.

due to the success of both meetings, the governors plan to host more of these events throughout the region in the future with varying themes.

16

Pride shining throughStaff and Involvement volunteers were proud to support the Trust’s Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Trans (LGBT) Forum by hosting a stand at Nottinghamshire Pride on 28 July.

Attending Pride is part of the Trust’s on-going Involvement Programme, reaching out to the diverse communities it serves and encouraging these communities to be involved in its decision-making processes.

As well as promoting Trust and public membership, the aim was to raise awareness of mental health and learning disabilities and to promote the anti-stigma message. Over 200 completed questionnaires were returned detailing people’s experiences of mental health and access to services. Information and guidance on physical health and wellbeing was also available and was underpinned by our partners at Nottingham University Hospitals.

The Pride event began at 11am with a march through Nottingham City Centre, ending at the Forest Recreation Ground (site of the Goose Fair) where the main event was held. Volunteers and staff proudly

joined the march and then gathered at the Trust stall from 12 noon. A huge array of stalls were on display, including other NHS trusts, local councils, Nottingham University, Nottinghamshire Fire Service, Nottinghamshire Police as well as crafts, jewellery and food to name but a few.

In the glorious sunshine more than 60 performers, including musicians, comedians and drama groups, entertained the crowds from six stages throughout the day. There was also a community area, healing tent and speaker’s corner.

The Trust was proud to be part of such a successful event promoting equality, diversity, inclusion and community cohesion. Representation of the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender (LGBT) communities within Trust membership has now increased, meaning greater and fairer opportunities to influence and develop Trust services.

Update from the Members’ CouncilThe third Members’ Council meeting of the year was held on 19 June at Duncan Macmillan House. The main focus of the meeting was the new Health and Social Care Act and what it means for Governor Members and the future of the Members’ Council.

Steve How, Public Governor Member for the Nottinghamshire County constituency, gave a presentation from his perspective and then handed over to Tony Price, Lead Governor from South Staffordshire and Shropshire NHS Foundation Trust, who gave a presentation covering the role of the Lead Governor, the impact of Governors, what the future holds and how the Governor role will look in the future. Tony then invited questions from the Members’ Council.

The next meeting of the Members’ Council will be held on 18 October 2012 at Duncan Macmillan House.

Members can represent their views via the Members’ Council and the Governor Member for the constituency in which they live. If you would like to get in touch with a Governor Member please contact the Membership Office on 0800 012 1623. More information about the Members’ Council is available on the Trust website at www.nottinghamshirehealthcare.nhs.uk/get-involved/the-members-council.


Dr Rais Ahmed

two years ago dr rais ahmed joined dr karthik thangavelu and others in establishing a forum to give nottinghamshire service users and carers a voice in service improvement. with support from the involvement centre, the doctors’ reference group was founded in late 2010.

in august last year, dr ahmed moved from nottinghamshire healthcare to a role at derbyshire healthcare

foundation trust and was keen to replicate doctors’ reference group’s success in derby. with help from mental health action group (mhag) and kathryn blackshaw, acting chief executive of the trust, he has now set up a similar group for derbyshire, which is due to launch in september.

called the ‘doctors’ reference forum’, the group will be a chance for service users and carers to meet with trainee

psychiatrists and discuss any issues that they feel are important. it will provide an opportunity for open discussion about all manner of aspects of the client/clinician relationship and the resulting care that is delivered.

“when i worked in nottingham, the trust was very keen to listen and valued the ideas, suggestions and advice of those on the receiving end of the services,”

said dr ahmed. “working together, clinicians and users were able to come up with new and better ways of service delivery.

“i’m really hoping the group will be a step towards improving patient engagement and empowerment in derbyshire. the group’s remit is very open and it’s a forum where all ideas are welcome. once boiled down to actionable points, those views will be passed on to trust management.

“if i hadn’t had the successful experience of running the group in nottingham i would have had a lot of doubts about trying such a thing in derby. i was very much heartened by the response of the trust and service users in nottingham.”

Trust good practice helps Derbyshire service usersA consultant is taking good practice that he gained from the Trust across to service users in Derbyshire.

Sweet smells of RosewoodA scented garden of herbs has

been introduced to the garden at the Rosewood

Involvement Centre.

Marjoram, apple mint, chocolate mint, thyme, sage, curry plant, rosemary, chives and fennel are all now on display in the new part of the garden. Not only do the plants provide fragrance to the garden area, but they are all edible and can be used in cooking and food preparation by the centre volunteers.

The idea came about after Joan Beards, Public Governor Member, visited Rosewood in June and was given a tour of the garden. Joan is a keen gardener and recognised the potential

for a scented garden. The plants were provided from cuttings that Joan had collected.

“When I was shown round the garden at Rosewood I noticed there was no area of scented plants and herbs,” said Joan. “These plants can be of particular benefit for partially sighted and blind visitors, so I suggested creating a scented garden.”

Gavin and the gardening team at Rosewood welcomed the idea and enjoyed getting to work. A day was

set aside at the beginning of August to tidy up the garden and the centre, and many of the volunteers got stuck in.

Two raised beds have now been filled with the varied herb plants and the fragrant plants are enhancing the sensory pleasure of the garden – not only for visually impaired service users and visitors, but for all the garden’s visitors.

The gardening team

18

Fourteen new apprentices attended the Trust’s corporate induction event at Duncan Macmillan House last month. the apprentices all started a 12-month fixed term contract and are based across the trust supporting various teams. a very warm welcome to all the apprentices.

the new apprentices supporting admin teams are:• ReevePalmer(Nottingham

prison)

• AliceSmith(HRdepartment, duncan macmillan house)

• RebeccaWorrall(Healthinformatics, duncan macmillan house)

• BethSlack(NewLeaf,warsop primary care centre)

• ShannonMcFarlan(children’s therapy, king’s mill hospital)

• AndreaBrocklehurst(healthy schools, byron court)

• ConnorDavis(Intermediate/

primary care, stapleford care centre)

• RyanCampbell(Headsofservices admin team, park house)

• KatieMichel(Supportservices, park house)

• JessicaDibble(Supportingceo, hawthorn house)

• AmyLee(CommunityAdultnursing, bull farm primary care centre)

the new apprentices supporting clinical teams are:• ChelsieOrme(Special

school nursing, park house)• EmilyBarnell(ShortBreaks,

children’s development centre, city hospital)

• CarlyGreen(LawrenceUnit,millbrook)

if your team would like more information about having an apprentice, please contact heather porter on 0115 969 1300 ext 11269 or email [email protected], or sue stronach on 01623 673 588 or email [email protected].

New apprentices join the Trust

Some of the apprentices with Mike Cooke (centre back) and Susan Stronach (third from right)

michael baliousis, a researcher at arnold lodge and phd candidate, was placed third in a postgraduate research competition run by the University of nottingham in June.

49 finalists displayed and presented a poster explaining their research and competed for one of ten awards in the competition. the finalists were judged on their poster and how well they communicated their research to the audience. visitors were also invited to vote for their favourite poster.

michael’s research is looking at whether ‘understanding the antisocial brain could help improve treatment’. the antisocial personality (also known as psychopathy) is relatively common and often associated with a range of behavioural and relational difficulties. to date, it has proven very challenging to treat, but investigating how the antisocial brain works could help identify ways to improve the treatment. michael’s research is ongoing at arnold lodge with inpatients in the personality disorder service.

Trust researcher scoops university prizeA Trust-based researcher has picked up a prize in a postgraduate research competition.


Trust researcher scoops university prizeA Trust-based researcher has picked up a prize in a postgraduate research competition.

“i’m delighted to have been awarded this prize,” said michael. “our research endeavours in the trust made a very positive impression and the topic proved very interesting to the public.”

the postgraduate research showcase winners were each presented with a trophy and winning entries also secured a place in the vitae regional poster competition final in July.

the research project is supervised by dr birgit völlm, associate professor and honorary consultant forensic psychiatrist at rampton hospital, and emeritus professor conor duggan, head of the section of forensic mental health of the University of nottingham until 2011.

Apprenticeship leads receive recognitionTwo Trust colleagues have been rewarded for their dedication to training apprentices.

Skills for Work and Life Advisors Sue Stronach (County Health Partnerships) and Heather Porter (Nottinghamshire Healthcare), received ‘special recognition’ certificates for ‘continued commitment to apprenticeship training’ at a recent awards ceremony held by Prostart Training.

Prostart Training is a local training provider which supports all the business administration apprentices who work at the Trust. The annual awards were held on 21 June in Long Eaton. “It’s fantastic to receive recognition for all the hard work we put into the apprentice programme,” said Sue. “We are continually evaluating the apprenticeship project both with the young people who take part, and with their line managers to ensure we can provide the best possible experience for everyone involved.”

Above: Heather Porter receiving her certificateInset: Sue Stronach receiving her certificate

Michael Baliousis with his poster and trophy.

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Trust hosts eating disorder trainingEating disorders specialist clinicians from across the UK travelled to Highbury Hospital for a three day training workshop in July.

Clinicians came from psychology, psychotherapy, nursing, dietetics and occupational therapy to

Community Nutrition Team work with Firefighters The County Health Partnerships (CHP) Community Nutrition team visited Carlton and Arnold Fire Stations recently to provide firefighters with practical cooking sessions and nutrition advice to form part of a Workplace Health Programme. The ‘Cook4Life’ course, coordinated by the Nutrition and Dietetics department, was delivered to Nottinghamshire Fire and Rescue Service (NFRS) firefighters in two hour sessions over a four week period. Firefighters learnt how to prepare quick, well balanced meals whilst being educated on which types of foods provide sustainable energy to help them carry out their demanding role.

The course also aimed to help them increase their knowledge, confidence and skills around planning, buying and cooking balanced meals. In addition, they were taught how to reduce the fat, sugar and salt in their diet and how to read and compare nutrition labels on the food they buy.

Jackie Henson Community Nutrition Assistant at CHP said: “Many people nowadays lead such busy lives which can make it hard to find the time to cook and eat healthily. These courses are designed to overcome this issue by providing hands on cooking experience and practical advice. The course has been well received.”

NFRS’s Occupational Health Nurse, Gail Armitage, said: “We are really pleased to have had this opportunity to work in partnership with our colleagues in the NHS to highlight the benefits of healthy eating.

“Health promotion is a key function of the Occupational Health Department and any chance to promote healthy lifestyles in both a fun and practical way is of great benefit to our employees.”

The department also delivered its ‘Eatwell4Life’ course to staff based at NFRS Headquarters in Arnold. It equipped participants with the necessary skills to eat well for life by promoting healthy eating, encouraging weight loss and by providing guidance on how to maintain a healthy weight through the introduction of alternative cooking practices and different food types.

For more information about these courses contact [email protected] or 01623 785183.


Trust hosts eating disorder trainingattend the trust’s session on compassion focused therapy.

the event was organised by Johanna mitchell, counselling psychologist, dr katherine huke, clinical psychologist and hannah mcilveen, specialist mental health practitioner. the trainer was dr ken goss, an international author and expert on eating disorders.

compassion focused therapy has been developed to help individuals who experience high levels of shame and self-criticism. it increases awareness and understanding of the automatic reactions we all experience and learn from early childhood. it aims to motivate people to care for their own wellbeing, to become sensitive to their own needs and distress, and to extend warmth and understanding towards themselves.

participants at the training event learned how compassion focused therapy in a group intervention can help people with eating disorders.

comments after the event were that the workshop was “very relevant to practice” and “the most engaging training attended to date” and the participants “felt ken did understand eating disorders and was able to understand how patients feel”. they particularly valued the therapy demonstration and commented on how good it was to network with people from other eating disorder services.

dr katherine huke, Johanna mitchell and hannah mcilveen would like to thank

dr ken goss for leading this workshop, and angela Jackson, operational team leader, and anita drayton, medical secretary, for their help and support. thanks also go to debbie abrams for the interest she has expressed in the group programme plans at nottinghamshire eating disorder service.

having organised this successful event, nottinghamshire eating disorder service is now in a position to start setting up compassion focused group therapy as an intervention for service users at the trust.

Community Nutrition Assistant Jackie Henson with firefighters at Carlton Fire Station

22

NICE issues ‘do not do’ recommendationsThe National Institute for Health & Clinical Excellence (NICE) has identified certain clinical practices that it recommends should be discontinued or not used routinely. The Local Services NICE Team has made this information available to clinicians in an easy to use format covering topics including alcohol use disorders, antenatal and postnatal mental health, autism in children and young people, common mental health disorders, depression, drug misuse, post-traumatic stress disorder and schizophrenia.

These NICE ‘Do not Dos’ are now being rolled out to Directorates in Local Services and are also available on the Trust intranet. For more information, please contact Pauline Adams, NICE Lead (Local Services) on 0115 9691300 ext 11221 or email [email protected].

Drop-in sessions raise awareness of NICE agendaThe Local Services NICE Team has been inviting colleagues to drop-in sessions to raise awareness about NICE (National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence) and its increased role in the NHS.

Staff and members of the public were invited to come and talk to the NICE Team about any aspect of NICE guidance at the drop-in sessions held at Bassetlaw, Byron House, Millbrook, Highbury and the Queen’s Medical Centre.

The sessions were a great success with many people coming along for a chat and to ask questions about NICE. They went away with information leaflets and copies of NICE guidance, as well as exclusive NICE goody-bags.

Many visitors also had a go at the NICE quiz devised to encourage staff to sign up to the NICE e-newsletter and download the new NICE app to their smartphones.

Pauline Adams, NICE Lead (Local Services), said: “I’m really pleased these drop-in sessions proved so popular as using NICE evidence to promote good health and treat ill health is something we should all be actively involved in.”

More drop-in sessions are planned for later in the year. For details or more information about NICE, please contact Pauline Adams, NICE Lead (Local Services) on 0115 9691300 ext 11221 or email [email protected].

Lynne Frame, Modern Matron, Adult Mental Health and Sarah Campbell, Hotel Services Co-ordinator, Millbrook at the NICE drop-in session held at Millbrook on 15 June.

Some of the ‘do not do’ NICE guideline cards


New carer pathway on Ward B2A Bassetlaw Hospital ward is focusing on developing closer relationships with carers in order to provide higher standards of care all round.

In March this year an audit was carried out on Bassetlaw’s Ward B2 using the ‘Triangle of Care’ benchmarking tool, a national guide to best practice in acute mental health care. The audit highlighted several areas in which improvement was needed in order to meet the standards set in the guide.

A number of suggestions were put forward about how to make those improvements and as a result the ward is now piloting a new carer pathway.

The new pathway aims to keep carers, families and friends of service users fully involved throughout the admission and care process and fully supported by the various services and groups available.

Under the pilot scheme carers, families and friends are offered one-to-one time with a member of staff within seven days of their loved one’s admission. This session is an opportunity for them to relay their concerns and discuss any issues and to establish a good rapport with the ward team, helping them to feel involved.

Sarah Batty, Ward B2’s Carer, Family and Friends Champion, said; “Feedback from families about the carer pathway has been fantastic; they have noticed a difference in the approach without being told about any changes being made, which is a great start.”

Another audit will take place later in the year to ensure the team is continuing to meet the Triangle of Care standards. Carer, Family and Friends Champions from other units have also expressed interest in piloting the carer pathway on their wards.

Trust makes waves on airTwo Trust colleagues have appeared on Nottingham’s number one urban radio station to discuss Black and Minority Ethnic (BME) leadership development.

dr siyanda mkweli, senior systems engineer and bme executive graduate 2011, and dr pat williams, transforming community services transition manager and clinical psychologist, featured on 97.5 kemet fm in July. presenter christine belle hosted the lively discussion as part of the monthly ‘health and wellbeing’ programme. the station broadcasts to over 50,000 listeners each day and globally online.

nearly 11% of trust staff are from bme communities, with the greatest majority employed in a clinical capacity. the discussion explored opportunities for progression to senior leadership roles in the context of the wider public

sector and current estimates of bme senior leadership representation in the nhs. it looked particularly at the highest levels of leadership, where nhs chief executive sir david nicholson has acknowledged that visibility has historically been “exceptionally poor”.

pat and siyanda also shared the benefits and challenges of mentoring. in 2007 the trust’s chief executive bme mentoring scheme led its response to the national challenges around bme leadership development. it was followed in 2010 by the bme executive mentoring scheme, for which the trust was awarded second place in the health and social care awards. the scheme continues to gain wider representation of under-represented staff groups across the organisation, for example males in non-traditional roles and people with disabilities.

the capacity to identify hidden talent and potential has also been marked by the remarkable achievements of staff on the strategies for success programme, led by siyanda.

pat and siyanda stressed the importance of bme senior leadership progression throughout the organisation. services which better reflect the needs of our rich and diverse communities help the trust to meet patients’ needs in a more responsive way.

find out more about kemet fm at www.975kemetfm.co.uk – and listen out for dr ola Junaid from mental health services for older people (mhsop) talking about bme dementia on the station on 12 september.

Left: Dr Pat WilliamsInset: Dr Siyanda Mkweli

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Sunday 7 October

6pm-10pm · Mind Freedom · open mike and music night at Jam cafe, heathcoat st. tel: 07504 802682 (alex/penny)

Monday 8 October

10am-12noon · ‘All You Need is Love’: Workshop 1, the role of kindness by spiritual & pastoral care service, at nottingham recovery college, duncan macmillan house (also 11 and 19 october). to book email [email protected]

12.30pm · heARTfelt exhibition launch · cafe art, duncan macmillan house, porchester rd. tel: 07825 113251 (kate)

5.45pm · MHAW Film Fest (1) hosted by framework at broadway cinema, 14 broad st. film tba. free tickets from 5.15pm at box office. tel: 0115 952 661

8pm · discussion and speaker tba hosted by cafe sci at edins, broad st,

Tuesday 9 October

11am-2pm · ‘Opening Minds’ · event hosted by the bishop of southwell & nottingham for faith community leaders at nottingham council house. speakers include professor mike cooke cbe and diocese mental health strategy group members. contact [email protected].

7pm-8.30pm · ‘Don’t Sweep it Under the Carpet’ · kim discusses with his brother and the audience, his own experience of bipolar disorder, at central library, angel row. free tickets tel: 0115 915 2825

Wednesday 10 October World Mental Health Day

12noon-2pm · Ecoworks Garden BBQ via allotments, ransom rd, st ann’s. tel: 07973 116291 (paul) for entry

3.45pm · Rundance at the Mechanics · random acts of rhythm with v3 power. see www.rundance.org

4.15pm-5.45pm · Joint Anniversary Tea Party · celebrating mhaw’s 20th and selfhelp nottingham’s 30th anniversaries. entertainment and buffet at the mechanics, 7 north sherwood st. by invitation only [email protected] or [email protected]

6.45pm · MHAW Film Fest (2) · see broadway cinema october brochure or www.mhaw.org.uk

Friday 12 October

10am-4pm · Rooting for Recovery · a positive day for families and friends at life@the centre, 22 parliament st. to book email [email protected] or tel: 0115 837 9474 (bright ideas)

Saturday 13 October

3pm · MHAW Film Fest (3) · film ‘beauty and the beast’ family matinee with introduction at broadway cinema

7pm-9pm · ‘Memories of Mania – the musical’ · kim – jazz pianist and university lecturer – tells his experiences of bipolar disorder through music. of special interest to psychiatry and psychology students. room c11, portland building, nottingham University.

Sunday 14 October

1.15pm-3.45pm · All Ours Soup’er social re-launch at sneinton community centre, craft workshops and games, soup and cake £2.50. tel: 07947 656651 (barbara)

Monday 15 October

10am-1pm · Art Outlook Exhibition · nottingham contemporary studio. tel: 07846 127931 (carly)

10am-1pm · Open Event for clients and staff at empowerment,702 mansfield rd. see www.wellbeingplus.org.uk tel: 0115 924 8021 (ravinder)

2pm · MHAW Film Fest (4) see broadway cinema october brochure or www.mhaw.org.uk

8pm · discussion and speaker tba hosted by cafe sci at edins, broad st.

Tuesday 16 October

11am-3pm · Celebrating Success and Recovery Conference (signed) by dual diagnosis forum at council house, old market square. to book email [email protected]

Wednesday 17 October

11am-2pm · Unwind Your Mind · well being event & living library at bulwell riverside library, main st. tel: 0115 883 3500

Friday 19 October

3pm · Open Dialogue · documentary film by daniel mackler, alternative finnish approach to healing psychosis, at broadway cinema. contact [email protected] / tel: 0115 837 9474 (bright ideas)

For more information visit www.mhaw.org.uk

Nottingham Mental Health Awareness Weeks October 2012

Returning for its 20th year, the unique annual awareness weeks will feature the following:

Group’s focus on manual handlingIn recognition of the role of manual handling in maintaining a safe working environment for colleagues, the Trust has established a dedicated group to focus on the subject.

The Trust’s Manual Handling Advisory Group is made up of practitioners involved in organising and delivering manual handling training across the Trust. It is


chaired by Bill Varnam, Back Care Manager.

The group works to promote safe working practices to reduce incidence of musculoskeletal injury. It includes representation from Mental Health Services for Older People, Adult Mental Health, Forensic, Specialist Services and County Health Partnerships.

At its meetings every two months the group discusses training provision, handling equipment, incidents, workplace design, equipment for use in the office environment and other manual handling issues. The meetings provide an arena for complex

handling scenarios to be discussed and potential solutions suggested.

The group is guided by the National Back Exchange and other authoritative guidance and ergonomic literature and all members have an interest in ergonomics and promoting safer working practices in manual handling across the Trust. The group also has a direct link to the Trust’s Health and Safety Committee.

To find out more about the Manual Handling Advisory Group contact Bill Varnam at Duncan Macmillan House on 0115 969 1300 ext 11289 or email [email protected].

Challenge continues to increase integrationThe Trust’s Integration Challenge, which aims to integrate physical and mental healthcare services wherever possible, has received an excellent response since its launch in April this year.

the integration challenge aims to encourage staff, service users and carers to look at how the trust can ensure its services are integrated to meet people’s mental and physical healthcare needs. nearly 70 inspiring and innovative contributions have already been received and are currently being progressed by the integration challenge team.

the suggestions have been collated into six core themes to support the integrated healthcare needs of people using trust services, working in partnership with others. the six themes are:• Pathwaydesignandlinks• Mentalhealthinlongtermconditions• Physicalhealthcareinmentalhealth

and secure settings• Liaisonpsychiatry/teams• Prevention,publichealthandwellbeing• Workforce,trainingandpersonal

effectiveness

the challenge was set in recognition of the fact that patients with poor mental health live shorter lives than those with good mental health, as do those with physical health problems who also have poor mental health. it is therefore important to design services that recognise this and provide interventions that seek to address both physical and mental health needs.

many areas of healthcare within the trust already encompass holistic approaches to physical and mental healthcare but more could be done. closer integration of physical and mental health remains an important element of improving patient experience and making services more effective and efficient in response to current and future challenges.

for further information about the integration challenge please email [email protected].

Lings Bar team stand to attentionA ward manager at Lings Bar surprised patients and colleagues when she turned up to work in a military uniform.

Ward Manager Christine Ongoma is also a member of the Territorial Army (TA). She wore her TA uniform to work as part of the annual Reserves ‘Uniform to Work Day’ on 27 June.

The day is organised every year to help raise the profile of those who serve in the Reserves across the country. TA officers and soldiers are encouraged to go to work at their civilian jobs in uniform for the day.

Sara Jane Ashmore, Lings Bar Matron, said: “It was a real pleasure to support Christine in doing this as she works hard for us within her role at Lings Bar Hospital and also gives up her valuable time to participate in the Reserves unit outside of work.

“The day caused quite a stir with staff and patients asking Christine

lots of questions about her second life in the TA. It gave her team and her patients the opportunity to see her in her army role and she had the ward standing to attention all day!”

Uniform to Work Day is designed to generate positive publicity for the Reserves, emphasising the unique nature of Reserve service and encouraging public recognition and understanding. The event emphasises that the TA is good for individuals, employers and communities; TA personnel gain leadership skills and specialist expertise, which serve them well in their civilian jobs.

Christine in her TA uniform with colleagues and a patient at Lings Bar

26

q What is your job title and what does your role entail?a i am the head of finance for the health partnerships finance team that are responsible for providing our community services with sound financial information and advice to help them best deliver patient care within the funding we receive. we aim to be more than just accountants and consider the bigger picture.

q How long have you been with Nottinghamshire Healthcare?a i transferred over to the trust 16 months ago under the tcs contract.

q What do you see as your priorities for Nottinghamshire Healthcare?a ensure that we understand our service costs and help in optimising the use of our funding to provide the best services we can for patients in new and innovative ways. q What is your employment background?a i started in the nhs in 1992 as a temporary finance assistant and never looked back. i have worked within the local nhs in a number of finance roles. i also managed admin services in derby prior to moving into my current role.

q What is the best piece of advice you have ever been given?a ‘to have true friends you must also be one’. wise words from a fortune cookie!

q&aThe Family Intervention Service Adult Mental Health, Learning and Development has worked in partnership with Meriden to deliver the first five-day behavioural family therapy training course in the Trust.

The course was held in Bassetlaw and all the trainees were identified carer, family and friend champions from the county areas.

The course was made possible after Andrea Emmens and Jacquie Cullen, Family Interventions Coordinators, undertook the trainer’s course delivered by Meriden Family Programme in March.

Behavioural Family Therapy is an effective evidence-based and practical skills-based approach in which the worker, service user and family members work together to promote learning, positive communication, problem-solving skills, stress reduction, wellness planning and achievement of individual goals.

Evaluation from the course has been very positive. Amy Butler, Community Psychiatric Nurse, Early Intervention Service Newark and Sherwood, was one of the trainees on the course: “The training was a great chance to develop my skills in working with families,” she said. “It enabled me to develop an evidence-based way of delivering family therapy and will aid me in supporting my colleagues in identifying families that would benefit from the therapy. I will now be able to offer behavioural family therapy within our team. It was a great experience to take part in the training, in a supportive and friendly environment.”

For more information please contact Andrea Emmens, Family Interventions Coordinator, on 01909 502025 or email [email protected], or Jacquie Cullen, Family Interventions Coordinator, on 0115 9524098 or email [email protected], or Lauren Medlam on 01909 502025 or email [email protected].

Behavioural family therapy training first for Trust

The trainees with family intervention coordinators Jacquie Cullen (back row, far right) and Andrea Emmens (bottom row, far left), and Lauren Medlam, Family Intervention Service administrator (next to Andrea).


Nottinghamshire Healthcare?a i’m pretty happy with things at the moment thanks. an extension on the tcs contract to five years would be good. that would allow us to really work on our long term transformation.

q What is your favourite hobby?a as you have probably guessed – music.

q What keeps you awake at night?a my wife asking me to stop snoring.

q What is your favourite film?a i would struggle to narrow this down to a top 10. i have recently enjoyed pearl Jam 20 and hotel marigold; two extremes as far apart as possible! q What is your idea of bliss?a i played in a band called bliss – really not a good name! good times though.

q What was the last CD you bought?a edgar Jones – soothing music for stray cats and the black keys – el camino. i recommend both.

q What is your greatest achievement?a building up the courage to give up a good job and see the world for a year. absolutely no regrets!

q What makes you angry?a i don’t really do angry but problems presented with no offers or ideas of a solution. now that’s just lazy!

q What are you most passionate about?a music plays a big part in my life though i do more listening than playing these days. family and friends are important.

q What single thing would improve your working life at

q&a q What three words would you use to describe yourself?a punk, mod, rocker = podder (the third – a hereditary nickname).

q What is your favourite holiday destination?a this is harder than the movie question. see my answer to the ‘greatest achievement’ question. diving in the similan islands, bolivia, macchu pichu, i could be a while...!

q Who would you take to a desert island?a a select group of friends and family with the required personalities and skills to develop a utopian society... and a boat just in case.

q Where do you see yourself in 10 years’ time?a in a suitably challenging and rewarding job that also allows me to have enough quality time with my family and friends. that and probably being a middle aged bass player in a band with my mates playing to people who want to listen. one can hope!

q Do you have a ‘claim to fame’?a being in positive magazine? either that or playing to a sell-out crowd at the garage in london and appearing in rocksound and kerrang magazines.

q How would you like to be remembered?a ‘he was a good bloke’.

NHS invites you to find out moreThe NHS in Nottingham City and Nottinghamshire County is inviting people to events to find out more about local health services and receive advice about looking after themselves.

nhs nottingham city is holding its annual public meeting in nottingham central library at 10am on wednesday 26 september. presentations will give more information about the annual accounts, work to reduce health inequalities and progress towards the new nhs nottingham city clinical commissioning group.

there will also be a wide range of health advice and displays available all day in the exhibition space on the first floor.visitors will be able to learn how to spot a quality care home, pick up tips on oral health care and stopping smoking and find out more about all the different nhs services available in nottingham. for more information call 0115 912 3384 or email [email protected]

later on the same day nottingham University hospitals nhs trust (nUh) is holding its annual public meeting at sherwood hall, nottingham city hospital, from 5pm to 7.30pm. free on-site car parking will be available.

nUh will showcase their nationally-recognised ‘Just do it’ awards scheme in which hundreds of staff ideas have been tried and implemented to improve patient and staff experience and value

for money. the meeting will also feature short presentations of their annual report and accounts and an update on the last year and plans for next year from peter homa, chief executive of nUh. for further details or to register your attendance at this event call 0115 969 1169 ext 76003.

nhs nottinghamshire county will hold its annual public meeting at 1am on thursday 27 september. the annual report and accounts will be presented at the meeting at birch house, ransom wood business park, mansfield. refreshments will be served from 10.30am. for further information about the meeting, or to register your place, please contact the communications team on 01623 673121 or email [email protected]

all three meetings are open to everyone who wishes to attend.

This edition we speak to Jonathan Lee, Head of Finance, Health Partnerships

WE NEED YOU!

You may have picked up this copy of the newsletter not knowing what Nottinghamshire Healthcare NHS Trust is. we provide integrated healthcare services including mental health, learning disability and community health services. we also manage medium-secure units in leicester and rotherham, and the high-secure rampton hospital near retford and provide healthcare in 11 prisons across the east midlands and Yorkshire.

WHO WE ARE...

If you have any ideas or suggestions for the newsletter, please contact Suzanne Aitken in the Trust Communications Team on 0115 955 5403 or via email at [email protected]. we are always pleased to receive articles for possible publication, but ask that they do not exceed 300 words.

wherever possible when naming individuals, please include details of their job titles/roles and the organisation they are from. if any individuals other than yourself are mentioned in what you write or featured in accompanying photographs, please make sure you check with them that they are happy to be potentially featured. it is your responsibility to ensure this consent is given. please send photos as separate image files and not in word documents.

please note that the communications team has full editorial control and may have to edit articles appropriately. therefore, if you want to see the final version please ensure you send your article in with plenty of time before the deadline and state clearly what you require.

if you would like copies of any past editions of Positive, or if you are having any ‘distribution issues’ with the newsletter – whether you’re receiving too many copies, too few, or none at all – then please contact us.

If you would like your story in the November issue of Positive, please contact us by 5 October 2012. however, due to space constraints we cannot guarantee the publication of all articles received by the deadline.

Nottinghamshire Healthcare NHS Trust, The Resource, Duncan Macmillan House, Porchester Road, Nottingham, NG3 6AA tel 0115 969 1300www.nottinghamshirehealthcare.nhs.uk

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Tough competition in five-a-side footballIn June Nottingham hosted the second East Midlands Early Intervention in Psychosis (EiP) five-a-side football tournament. Service user Mo Miah took part in the tournament and tells his version of events:

“A contest between the greatest of competitors, a duel between the most hardened of mortals… Well, the scenario was like that in my mind, but I suppose in reality it was just another football tournament.

“Four teams from regional early intervention teams (Derby, Leicestershire, Northampton and Nottingham), Positive (a team created on the day), and Young Diverse Minds (having a last hurrah before becoming Empowerment +) assembled to pit their skills against one another and compete for the coveted EIP trophy.

“Last year’s winners, Nottingham, were quietly confident about taking home the trophy for the second successive year. However, they met a disappointing end and were eliminated in the knockout stages, which shocked not only the team, but the fans too.

“Three other teams were later eliminated in the group stages and semi-finals, which left the talented

Young Diverse Minds and the dark horses of Northampton in the final.

“After a hotly contested game, Northampton powered through to claim the trophy. Although I should be heavily biased towards Young Diverse Minds as some of my friends were in that team, Northampton were definitely worthy winners.

“The award was presented by David Johnson, an Ex-Ipswich and Nottingham Forest striker.

“The tournament provided an entertaining show for the spectators, but it also provided a sense of togetherness between carers, patients and family members alike. Being a patient myself, it was awesome to see people being able to forget about their mental health issues (or if you’re a carer, the stresses of work) and just have some fun. Hopefully the atmosphere of the second EIP tournament will continue onto the third EIP tournament, and with any luck Nottingham will bring back the trophy next time!”

Mo (second from left) with members of the Nottingham team

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Positive September 2012