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Chief Executive’s Message – Friday 17 December

December 17, 2021

This week we have been reviewing our surge plans as the latest data and forecast on COVID-19 looks likely to have a significant impact on our services. I am sure that all of you are rightly concerned about the rapid escalation of cases that we are seeing across the country and wondering how we will cope with the latest surges, both in terms of COVID admissions and those without COVID too. In respect of this there are two key messages I want you to take away.

  • This Trust’s response to the pandemic has been outstanding and I know that, like in previous surges, we will manage the challenges thrown at us because of the way we have all pulled together, with kindness, supporting those colleagues and patients most at need. Your flexibility in changing your usual practices including working in unfamiliar areas may well be required once more, and I thank you in advance for your willingness to step forward.  At each surge we have been better prepared than previously and this time around is no exception. The treatment and management of COVID-19 patients is better than ever, our IPC guidelines are well-embedded along with our stock of PPE, regular testing and access to rapid tests.
  • The toll that the pandemic takes on you as individuals is considerable and recognised. We heard at our Trust Board meeting this month, the experience from one of our surgical wards which has had to adapt and move, often at short notice, coping with considerable disruption and supporting patients and families in very difficult circumstances.  We must manage colleagues with compassion when we ask them to work in other areas.  Please share your concerns if this is not being handled as it should be.  We must all ensure that we look after ourselves and each other through these times. The range of wellbeing support on offer for all colleagues remains extensive. If you need help, advice or just a chat, please, please make use of the support available.

As the drive for COVID-19 boosters continues in earnest you will see additional clinics opening up for you to get your booster if you have not yet taken up the opportunity. The booster is our best chance of reducing the impact of the Omicron variant. Sandwell will once again host a clinic starting on Monday in the Berridge Room, Courtyard Gardens. You can still walk in at Sheldon block at City and Tipton Sports Academy too. We want to make it as easy as possible for you to be vaccinated so do pop along – first and second doses are also available. Our communications campaigns will continue to use different people and techniques to get this vital message across to all in our communities and our colleagues.

And, in respect of staff vaccination, we will in the new year be crystal clear with you all around our Trust’s expectations for the roles that require vaccination as a condition of employment, following this passing into UK law this week. We will take a consistent approach with Trusts across the Black Country, in partnership with staff side colleagues, with a transparent process that covers existing employees and new starters.

As ever, if you have particular concerns or worries please do get in touch.

Richard