Chief Executive’s Message – Friday 25 August

August 25, 2023

Earlier this week I wrote to you with my initial thoughts on the verdict in the trial of Lucy Letby, and it is right that I continue with some further reflections I have had since then. As the news settles into the public psyche it is inevitable that some messages from the extensive reporting from the trial could be misconstrued to turn the horrific actions of one individual into a representative behaviour of the caring profession. This is uncomfortable but not unexpected and I would urge you to ignore anything unfiltered you read from the tiny section of the population who are wired to think like this.

Instead within our organisation we should focus on our values – Ambition, Respect, and Compassion – and the behaviours that demonstrate those values. Look not at isolated comments on social media but at your colleagues and the positive comments from your patients, colleagues, and family members if you are feeling disturbed by current events.

We will get through this together and will have different strategies to help. Something that helps me is speaking to colleagues and observing our behaviours in practice, by seeing how individuals demonstrate our values in the little day to day things that cumulatively make such a difference. I’ve picked three quotes to share in this message representing each value – these quotes by our colleagues have helped me see past the horror of Lucy Letby and underlined the consideration running through our organisation. A fundamental part of that consideration for others is the willingness to Speak Up when you are concerned by something you have seen. We are extremely active in ensuring all colleagues have a route to speak up, and you can read more on Connect here about how to raise your concern. Please do not walk by and ignore, please use your voice to help those that follow you.

Here are three inspirational quotes from our colleagues dealing with each of our values:

Clair Finnemore, Therapy Lead for Stroke Services, said: “For our patients the life changing impact a stroke can have on a patient’s life and that of their family, drives me to ensure our service provides the best outcomes for our patients. Ambition to me means I am always looking for new and innovative ways to deliver therapy to support our patients to achieve their maximum possible recovery during their rehabilitation journey.

Our incoming Chief Registrar, Dr Amelia Lloyd commented: “For me respect is acceptance of individuality, it is about bringing out the best in colleagues and seeing uniqueness as strength. Having a team that is inclusive and accepting of people, demonstrating kindness in the little things is the team I want to be part of.”

Laverne Gordon, Nursing Associate added: “Compassion for me is doing the very best I can, to ensure that the patient feels welcome and valued; and has a positive hospital experience. I treat every patient as I would want my loved ones to be treated. I treat every patient as a unique individual, and I see them as more than just their illness. I place the patient at the centre of their care, promoting and encouraging them in the making of decisions regarding their care – empowering them. I also treat every patient with respect, kindness, dignity, compassion, understanding, courtesy, and honesty.

If you would like to share a quote on how you live any of our three values, please email swbh.comms@nhs.net