Heartbeat: Wellbeing event shines a spotlight on colleague experiences

October 26, 2020

Wellbeing and wellness took centre stage at a recent event for the surgical nursing teams on Lyndon 3 and Newton 3. Led by Sonia Bal, Sister, the wellbeing team-building afternoon was designed to offer a safe space for colleagues to talk openly about their experiences during the pandemic and to explore the wellbeing support available to them.

As many of you will be aware, the last few months has seen colleagues move to different areas to help us tackle Coronavirus and continue to look after patients effectively. In response to the many changes colleagues have experienced, the organisation has placed further emphasis on ways to help colleagues look after their physical and mental wellbeing.

One of the key aspects of the agenda was exploring all of the different support options available to staff. Sonia explained: “The agenda of the day focused very much on the wellbeing of our team members and it allowed everyone to speak openly and highlight any struggles that they may be facing – for example, dealing with their emotions. As a management team, we wanted to be able to put some dedicated time aside to sit down, talk and listen to everyone to understand any concerns and look at things we can do differently to support where needed.

“This event was also an opportunity for us to say thank you to colleagues and to acknowledge the sacrifices individuals made to continue with their jobs at a time filled with uncertainty. We had guest speakers on the day from the wellbeing sanctuary, the alcohol team, the therapy team and senior leaders took the time to join in too. I’d like to thank our Matron, Donna James for supporting us with this event and Di Eltringham, Group Director of Nursing for Surgical Services. We very much appreciate everyone coming together to make this a success.”

Matron, Donna James remarked: “Managing your psychological health at this time is as important as your physical health. Taking care of yourself and learning some coping strategies can help to provide stability and comfort.

“I was pleased that everyone felt comfortable enough to talk openly and honestly about their personal experiences. We shared stories that made us laugh, some that made us cry and some that inspired reflection within ourselves. We supported each other as a group, and I want that to be a continuing part of how we work together.

“We also took the opportunity to signpost colleagues to some of the resources we have available within the Trust, for example, the Thrive app, our wellbeing sanctuary and the counselling service. If anyone needs any support, I would ask them to speak to a member of the management team. We’re all in this together and our door is always open for a confidential chat, cuppa or any help you may need. Thank you to everyone for joining in on the day.”