Publish date: 18 December 2024
September's Employee of the Month winner is Terence Mackin, St Helens LLAMS Community, nominated by Samantha Wright for the value of accountability
Terry is currently coming to the end of his secondment as a trainee nurse associate. He has been instrumental in setting up a physical health clinic to ensure that our elderly patients are monitored from a holistic perspective. Terry reviewed a patient within the clinic who upon appointment appeared unwell. With appropriate questioning, Terry was able to establish that the patient had chest pains. An ECG was completed which suggested she was having/had a heart attack. Terry’s prompt action resulted in the patient seeking emergency care with a positive outcome. As a team we are grateful for Terry's acquired knowledge and skill which has contributed to holistic care and treatment.
Prompt action and professional curiosity resulted in the patient being informed of her health matter and seeking urgent attention.
September's Team of the Month winner is the Zero Suicide Alliance Team nominated by Justine Maher for the value of continuous improvement
The Zero Suicide Alliance (ZSA) team have been recognised for their outstanding dedication and leadership in organising 2 Suicide Awareness Events that have made an indelible impact. The ZSA leveraged their exceptional communication skills to promote the event effectively utilising social media and community networks to reach a wide audience.
With immense empathy and passion, they spearheaded the planning organisation and delivery of the events which brought together over 500 individuals from diverse backgrounds, each touched by the devastating effects of suicide. The event was meticulously planned and executed, demonstrating the ZSAs exceptional organisational skills. They secured expert speakers from within the Trust and provided informative resources to the attendees with invaluable knowledge about recognising warning signs, finding support, and seeking help when needed.
One of the most impressive aspects of ZSA was their ability to create a safe inclusive space where attendees felt comfortable discussing suicide. Individuals could openly share their experiences, fears and hopes - breaking down the stigma surrounding suicide.
Attendees left with a deeper understanding of suicide prevention and a sense of empowerment to make a difference in their communities. The small teams dedication has been instrumental in creating a safer and more compassionate community and this event day stands as a testament to their exceptional qualities as leaders and advocates for suicide prevention that will undoubtedly save lives.
October's Employee of the Month winner is Helen Eden, Medicines - Community Mental Health Services, nominated by Angela Evans for the value of accountability
Helen has integrated herself within the ADHD team and has already forged relationships and improved access to medication for hundreds of patients.
The current shortages in medication have meant that service users have often felt unsure of how to access medication and have been contacting the ADHD team for advice. Helen's work on the Shared Care pathway has allowed a redistribution of prescribing resources to better cope with the increased demands on the team. She spent time with the team, explaining the processes to upskill everyone with the knowledge required – all whilst maintaining her substantive post and running a clozapine clinic in Knowsley.
Once stable on a medication, patients are now able to access it via their GP on repeat prescription – this is so important for people with ADHD. The people who are still struggling to obtain their medication are then able to be seen sooner, as there is more capacity within the team.
Helen’s integrity has ensured that patient experience is at the heart of her actions. The collaborative team effort, hard work and dedication to service quality and patient experience is humbling and making a huge difference to people's lives.
Helen is also great at making a brew which has been appreciated by the team alongside her support and warmth.
October's Team of the Month winner is Rowan View Catering nominated by Mark O'Farrell for the value of support
The team noticed that a staff member was taking longer in the bathroom than usual, therefore they went to check on the staff member - who was having a medical emergency. The member of staff was able to receive appropriate care and support in a timely manner before the rosters were moved about so someone who knew the staff member could support her to A+E. This embodies our Trust Values and was a fantastic example of caring.
The role that the team do is really important in ensuring the patients receive their meals in a timely manner, which enhances the patient experience. However, their knowledge of their colleagues has also led to the team identifying something was not right and summoning the appropriate support and care at the earliest opportunity. The caring attitude displayed by the staff was fantastic and not only made a difference to the staff member, but also embodies the Trust value of respect and support.