Monthly archives: February 2021

Could you be the next vice-chair of our LGBTQ+ Network?

Are you a colleague who self-defines as being lesbian, gay, bisexual or transgender, or perhaps an ally of people who do? If so, we’d love to hear from you.

Our staff network is going through an exciting transformation, and we’re looking for a dynamic, committed and open-minded colleague to help us drive our agenda forward.

Currently, we’re planning for 2021 and beyond. It is an exciting time to join us – you’ll have a direct input on our network, our events and how we plan to shape and promote our network.

 So what will the role of vice-chair involve?

This is a dynamic role that can help influence the work and policies of the organisation. It can help staff have a real voice in leading change. You will work with colleagues to help deliver our staff pledges and lead events to improve the experience of our LGBTQ+ colleagues.

Should you wish to be involved, please email the equality and diversity inbox via swb-tr.SWBH-GM-EqualityDiversity@nhs.net and declare your interest by Monday 22 February.

For more information, or an informal chat about what this role, please contact the Network Chair, Thomas Devaney at thomas.devaney@nhs.net.

National Apprenticeship Week 2021

This week is National Apprenticeship Week. The annual week-long celebration of apprenticeships aims to shine a light on the amazing work being done by employers and apprentices across the country.

To celebrate the awareness week, throughout this week, we will be promoting and sharing content around out apprentices and their fantastic contributions and efforts.

Natalie Brown, Theatre Support Assistant – Healthcare Support Worker Level 2

“I’m currently working as a theatre support assistant. This is my first clinical role so everything is new to me as I previously worked in an administration role and studied business administration. The one stand out thing I learnt as an apprentice is that  everyone makes mistakes and its part of learning so you shouldn’t be afraid to own up to mistakes if you make them. Moving forward from my apprenticeship I have gained invaluable knowledge in my chosen profession and I’m certain the skills I have obtained will take me further up the career ladder where my long term goal is to eventually become an operating department practitioner.”

Apprenticeship FAQs: Some colleagues have preconceptions about the word ‘apprenticeship’ so be sure to check out some of our myth busters to clarify any concerns you may have – Apprenticeship FAQs.

If you are interested in any degree and higher level apprenticeships, please take a look at what is available by clicking here and if something is of interest please contact swbh.apprenticeship@nhs.net for the next steps

COVID-19 Bulletin: Monday 8 February

1. New: Countdown is on for switch to LAMP testing

As part of the national drive to continue asymptomatic testing of staff and in line with other Trusts, we will start the process of rolling out the LAMP (Loop Mediated Isothermal Amplification) test, which is a more sensitive saliva test for COVID-19, replacing the lateral flow tests.

This is a weekly test where your saliva will be sent off to the lab to be tested.  Results are processed quicker than the usual PCR swab tests.  We have provided instructions on how to perform the test which can be accessed by clicking here. If the result comes back positive you and your household will need to immediately isolate for 10 days and you will not require a PCR swab test to confirm the result.

Your group leaders will be informed when the LAMP test becomes available in your area or service and you will be asked to register and book a kit collection slot a week before your testing regime starts. By 22 March, we will have testing available for all staff.

From week commencing 15 February we will start LAMP testing for staff in the following directorates:

• Admitted Care A
• Admitted Care B
• Emergency Care

If you belong to these directorates please ring 0121507 2664 option 6, Monday to Friday between 8am – 6pm or Saturday and Sunday on 07816992873, between 8:30am – 4pm  to register and book your kit collection slot.

Those of you who have been doing your twice weekly lateral flow testing will likely be at the end of your test kits. You should continue with the lateral flow testing until you move to the LAMP testing programme. If you have kit left over from your lateral flow tests please return these to your service area and we will arrange for left over testing kit to be collected.

You can read the Frequently Asked Questions by clicking here.

2. Updated: Alternative sites for vaccination

COVID vaccinations for colleagues restarted again at Sandwell Hospital’s Education Centre today. There are a small number of slots are still available and colleagues can book through the contact centre by calling ext. 4112.

The hub will stop offering first doses after 11 February in order to support the allocation of vaccine supplies across the system so that priority groups are able to be vaccinated as quickly as possible. The facility will reopen in March to administer second doses. Staff who need to be vaccinated after 11 February with their first doses can book to have their vaccine at Black Country Living Museum by clicking here or at Walsall Manor Hospital by clicking here. Walsall Manor Hospital has provided guidance for colleagues attending its site. You can read it here.

Alternatively colleagues can book via the Your Health Partnership Primary Care Network by emailing yhp.cot@nhs.net for an appointment at Whiteheath Medical Centre, in Oldbury.

Please note you will be required to take your ID badge with you to the appointment.

3. Reminder: Face masks – They’re not one size fits all

There’s more to face masks than you would think. It’s not simply a matter of grabbing the closest mask to you as you enter a ward, they only really work if they fit well.

For those of us who simply wear a fluid resistant surgical mask (FRSM), it’s just a matter of making sure you put it on the right way round (colour side outside) and to pinch the bridge of the nose to get it to fit. However if you need to wear an FFP3 mask or respirator, there is a whole range to choose from depending on the shape of your face, and you must be fit tested and assessed before you wear one in a clinical setting.

Under no circumstances should staff simply wear any mask they have at hand or ask for an FFP3, unless they know what mask they have been fit tested for. Colleagues working within the PPE hub have a responsibility to ensure that all staff are safe by issuing specific masks following a fit test.

This is because masks that are ill-fitting allow particles to pass by the side of the covering leaving the wearer at risk. You MUST be fit tested to be able to safely wear a face mask and be assured it is working properly.

Please make it your aim to remember which FFP3 mask you have been tested for. If you don’t know, please ask your line manager to check ESR. If ESR does not contain the information, please contact Dinah McLannahan (dinah.mclannahan@nhs.net) who will access fit testing records.

To book yourself in for fit testing please call ext. 5050 and the team will book you into a slot at a site, date and time to suit you. Fit testing clinics are available everyday between 8am and 4pm.

Patient safety alert – pulse oximeter probes

If an oximeter probe intended for the finger is attached to the ear (or vice versa), it can produce a reading up to 50 per cent lower or 30 per cent higher than the real value. The clinical implication of an inaccurately high reading, is that colleagues may:

• Be falsely reassured about a patient’s condition, when in reality the patient is deteriorating, or
• Make an inappropriate intervention when in fact a patient is stable or improving.

Note: If unsure please follow the manufacturer’s advice when using pulse oximeters.

For more information please see Pulse oximetry information sheet or email swb-tr.SWBH-GM-Resuscitation-Team@nhs.net.

Heartbeat: Jeremy WoWs SWBH

In 2020, the Trust invested in our World of Work (WoW) programme. The course seeks to help job seekers/ unemployed people who are looking for employment within the healthcare sector.

Each cohort benefits from induction training, a work experience placement as well as interview and CV workshops. They can also take advantage of access to further education and the chance of an apprenticeship within the Trust. We caught up with Jeremy Dillon who joined the programme in July 2020 and who has achieved great success so far.

Speaking to Heartbeat, Jeremy told us: “I came across a leaflet about WoW in a local takeaway and, I have not looked back since. It was easy to apply, and the team were very supportive. The learning sessions were a mix of online and lectures and, given the nature of the lockdown, two weeks of placement.

“I have worked in two areas – the library and also bereavement care. As someone who enjoys learning and working with vulnerable people, these areas have been good for me. In the library, I have been helping create better access to e-books and online catalogues, which will improve the service we offer users.

“In bereavement care, I spend time calling the relatives of those who have sadly passed away, allowing them space to talk. I am passionate about this in particular and hope to see the service grow. The recent pandemic has seen a rise in people unable to grieve in the usual way, and a kind word from us or short phone call is welcome – it is rewarding.”

Discussing the past 12 months, Jeremy commented: “This has been a tough year on a lot of people. I have been out of paid employment, but this programme has given me a sense of pride and achievement.”

Looking to the future, Jeremy hopes to pursue a career that firmly focuses on helping people. “I have a degree in media and a passion for giving a voice to those who are vulnerable. In the future, I would like to move into a role with a focus on mental health or bereavement.”

Liza Gill, World of Work Programme & Volunteer Service Manager, said: “Jeremy has been a brilliant member of our WoW programme. We are proud of everything he has achieved in the time he has been part of the team and, we look forward to seeing what he achieves in 2021 and beyond.”

REACT-ing to support mental wellbeing

The Trust is training more REACT Practitioners to support the mental wellbeing of colleagues. The training is a half day online course that can be completed using any type of tablet or laptop and it can be done from home. The equipment used does not need to be supplied by the Trust, personal devices are fine. Here is a link with more information.

The following dates are available with spaces, with training sessions lasting from 9am through to 1.30pm

• February: 12, 15, 19 and 26.
• March: 1, 5, 8, 12, 15, 16 and 22.

If you would like to become a REACT Practitioner please ask your line manager to email Mandeep.gill11@nhs.net and provide your name, place of work and which course you would prefer to attend. Where courses are full you will be asked for another date.

Colleagues must be willing and able to provide support to colleagues within the Trust and it is not anticipated that this would take more than a maximum of one hour per week. We especially welcome staff to complete the training from the surgical services group and also any staff who work on wards and areas that have been particularly impacted by COVID. However, all colleagues may request a place.

Note: This training is externally purchased by the Trust and failure to attend once booked may incur a financial penalty.

NHS discount offers

As you may be aware, Trust colleagues are entitled to a variety of discounts due to working for the NHS.

Visit www.nhsdiscountoffers.co.uk who are currently offering a variety of discounts from 20 per cent off EE mobile, 15 per cent of Bloom and Wild Flowers, 10 per cent off Crocs shoes plus many more!

Have you claimed your £10 festive reward yet? It’s not too late!

In recognition of colleague dedication and continued commitment during the current pandemic, the Trust are offering all colleagues a gift of £10 to use through the SWB Benefits portal. For detailed instructions in regards to claiming your reward please click here.

For more information regarding staff benefits, please contact amir.ali1@nhs.net.

Book today – Adult Safeguarding Level 3 training this February

We’re hosting Adult Safeguarding Level 3 training aimed at clinical band 8As and above. However, if you are interested in attending all colleagues are welcome regardless of band.

Training will be provided virtually through Microsoft teams. The external leaders will send an invite out in advance.

You can attend either of these sessions:

• Wednesday 24 February, 9am – 12.30pm or 1.30pm – 5pm

Please book your place via ESR or email r.begum19@nhs.net.

Star of the Week – Peter Jay

Our Star of the Week this week is Peter Jay, Clinical Support Manager.

Peter volunteered to be part of the swabbing team in April 2020. He has become a pivotal part of the swabbing team and is partially redeployed to the service. Peter undertakes COVID-19 swabbing and also undertakes home swabbing and co-ordinates the swabbing team in the absence of the team leader. Peter has played an integral part in the swabbing that the Trust has undertaken on behalf of Public Health England. Peter has supported newer colleagues in swabbing and has used his clerical skills to develop an instruction guide for colleagues. Peter has stepped out of his comfort zone and embraced this new role.

Do you know someone in your team that has gone above and beyond the call of duty? Why not put them forward for Star of the Week by clicking here.

Dr Nick’s sixth #Dance4Wellbeing – send us your photos and videos

As you may have seen last month, Dr. Nick Makwana led you through the fifth in a series of  #Dance4Wellbeing routines to help you get up and go. The routine was based round the Jackson 5 and Nick was joined by 10 year old Bailey Whitehouse (son of Mark Whitehouse, Head of Patient Access and Planned Care) from St. John Bosco Primary School in West Bromwich.

For the month of February, Nick has come in with a routine based around 5,6,7,8 and is joined by Kayleigh Dickens, Sister from paediatrics.

You can see their fantastic moves by clicking on the video below.

We’re encouraging colleagues from across the Trust to send us their photos and video clips of their fantastic moves to  swbh.comms@nhs.net.

In case you have missed any of the previous routines you can check them out by clicking here.

For more information please contact Johnny.shah@nhs.net.