spring 2019 hct matters - hertfordshire community nhs trust · made a referral to our integrated...

HCT MattersSpring 2019

www.hct.nhs.uk - Twitter: @HCTNHS - [email protected]

• HCT rated Good by CQC

• Tackling diabetes

• Beehive junior parkrun

• Brain CARE team

• Family Centre Service

• Healthy Memory Cafe

• Heart failure awareness

• Special Care Dental Service

• Back on track with Step2

• Maple frailty clinics

• Rita walking again at 81

• And lots more inside

HCT rated Good by Care Quality Commission

Services at Hertfordshire Community NHS Trust (HCT) have once again been rated as Good by the Care Quality Commission (CQC), the organisation which monitors, inspects and regulates health and social care services in England. The rating follows a planned inspection of HCT services in September 2018. A copy of the full report is available on the CQC website.

The CQC rates services under five domains, determining whether services are safe, effective, caring, responsive and well led. Following its inspection in September 2018, the CQC rated HCT’s services as Good for being effective, caring, responsive and well led, but gave a rating of Requires improvement for safety.

In particular, the CQC said that:

•Our staff continually care for patients with compassion and that feedback from patients and their loved ones confirms that staff treat them well and with kindness

•We involve patients closely in their care, particularly around managing pain levels and providing emotional support to minimise a patient’s distress•We effectively plan and deliver our services so that they meet the needs of local people•We have a positive working culture which supports and values our staff, and we learn effectively when things go well and when they go less well

Praise for innovation

Inspectors also praised some of HCT’s specific innovations, including our initiative for healthcare assistants in our community nursing teams to administer insulin for people with stable diabetes with the support and management of registered nursing staff. This helps to ensure that registered nurses have more time to focus on patients with more complex needs.

Clare Hawkins, Chief Executive at HCT, said of the inspection result: “This is a great achievement and a real testament to the hard work and dedication of our teams across Hertfordshire. Since our previous inspection in 2016, we have retained our overall rating of Good whilst at the same time introducing a number of innovations and new services. These include: a new public health nursing service for the County (health visiting and school nursing) as part of the new Hertfordshire Family Centre Service; integrated nutrition/dietetics and diabetes services (delivered with local NHS and voluntary sector organisations) which help provide patients with more seamless care; and a unique electronic consent form for school-aged flu vaccinations which has been nationally recognised. I am also very pleased that the improvements we have made in community end of life care since our 2016 inspection have been recognised, with an overall rating of Good for this service.”

Further improvements already under way

Clare said: “We recognise the areas where the CQC have told us that we need to make improvements and we are addressing the issues they raised with us, in particular making sure that we always manage medication and equipment correctly. Following the inspection, we took immediate actions to ensure that patient records are accurate, resuscitation equipment is always in place and that all equipment is regularly monitored, tested and maintained.

“Across our inpatient units, we scored less well overall than in the previous inspection. We have already begun a comprehensive improvement programme with a particular focus on medicines management, patient records and the planning of care for patients at the end of life. We know there is more to do in this service and we have a robust action plan in place to ensure we make all these improvements as quickly as possible.”

Specific issues raised by the CQC which require improvement include: • Ensuring all patients on our inpatient units receive their medicines on time • Ensuring that patient records always include mental capacity assessments and that “do not resuscitate” agreements are recorded in line with our policies • Ensuring that testing and maintenance of medical equipment is always carried out and recorded in line with our policies

Declan O’Farrell, Chair of HCT, added: “Our teams work incrediblyhard to care for our patients and service users and their families and carers, whether in someone’s home, our outpatient clinics, our inpatient units or in local schools, health centres, GP practices or family centres. I am very proud of them and of our inspection result. I also want to thank our many partners across the health, social care and voluntary sector in Hertfordshire who work with us every day to provide care and services to our communities.”

In this edition

2-3 HCT rated Good by the CQC4 New HCT referral hubs 5 Welcome 6 Tackling diabetes7 Nutrition and Dietetics 8 Minor injuries service 9 Supporting patients with brain cancer

10 Healthy Memory Cafe 11 Maple Frailty Clinics 12 Rita walking again at 81 13 Jamie’s story of courage and determination14 State-of- the-art community facilities in St Albans15 Carers Cafés & support for pulmonary fibrosis

16 Family Centre Service and Special Care Dental Service17 Back on track with Step218 Children’s physiotherapy 19 Junior parkrun and Ready Steady Mums update20 Compliments and HCT shortlisted for prestigious awards

GP referrals for patients in east and north Herts are being managed far more quickly following the introduction of new HCT referral hubs.

No need to complete a form

When an answer is needed on the same day, GPs can now speak to a clinician, without the need to complete a form. This is significantly cutting the time GPs need to spend on making referrals for their patients.

The majority of requests for HCT’s services such as nursing, physiotherapy and occupational therapy services are triaged by hub staff within an hour of receipt. The referrer/GP is kept fully up to date on progress.

More responsive

84-year-old Fred lives on his own and recently suffered a fall – he doesn’t have any family living nearby to support him. Following his discharge from hospital, Fred was pleased to be contacted by phone on the same day his GP made a referral to our Integrated Community Service (ICT).

Patients feel reassured

During Fred’s phone conversation with the referral hub triage therapist, he was able to talk through all of his health problems and concerns and was offered an appointment for the following week. Fred felt reassured and was particularly pleased that his GP would be kept informed of his progress and appointments.

GPs have told us they find the service more responsive. Being able to hand their patients over directly to one of the Clinical Triage Team means they are fully aware of when we’ll be visiting their patients. Using SystmOne GPs can view the clinical record made by the ICT.

Average call answered within just 34 seconds

Melanie Bedoya Customer Service Manager for the East and North (E&N) Adult referral hub said: “I’m delighted with the success of our new referral hub and the difference it’s making to the speed of service we can provide for GPs and patients. In February the E&N Hub received a total of 5,880 calls which on average were answered in just 34 seconds!

Referral hubs improving services for GPs and their patients

Triage Therapist Michelle Oates at the Hub

Outstanding service

“I’m grateful to all the staff in our newly formed hub teams. They’ve adapted quickly and achieving these outstanding levels of service in such a short space of time is testament to their hard work and enthusiasm.

Similar hubs are already in operation for Herts Valleys Adult Services at Sandridge in St Albans; for Specialist Children’s Services at the Peace Children’s Centre in Watford and for Public Health Nursing (Health Visiting and School Nursing) at Bedford Road in Hitchin; Slippers Hill in Hemel Hempstead; Avenue Clinic in Watford and Bishop’s College in Cheshunt.

Welcome to the spring edition ofHCT Matters

Declan O’Farrell, ChairClare Hawkins, Chief Executive

Please email your feedback to: [email protected]

Welcome to the Spring edition of Community Matters, our magazine for everyone in Hertfordshire. You’ll see a number of really inspiring news stories about how our services help people to live their lives to the full, whatever their health needs. After a busy winter, we are now looking forward into the spring and summer with a focus on delivering our long term integrated health strategy and our journey to being an outstanding organisation. A key part of this is developing further partnerships with local organisations, including NHS trusts, local authorities and community and voluntary organisations so we can deliver really joined-up health and social care for our patients. Two great examples are the new Family Centre Service for Hertfordshire and the Integrated Diabetes Service for people in west Hertfordshire. You can read more about both these services on pages 6 and 16.

In January, we were delighted to announce that we have once again been rated Good by the Care Quality Commission, the organisation which monitors, inspects and regulates health and social care services in England. You can read more about our success on page two. At the same time, we also had to share the very disappointing news that Herts Valleys Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG) has decided to award the contract for Adult Community Health Services in west Hertfordshire to Central London Community Healthcare NHS Trust (CLCH).

Raj Bhamber is now our Interim Director of Strategy, People & Organisational Development. In addition to her current portfolio, Raj will be working more closely with Sam Tappenden, our Associate Director of Strategy and Dr Hari Pathmanathan, supporting delivery of our strategy.

We also welcome Sarah Browne who has joined us from Essex Partnership University NHS Foundation Trust as our new Director of Nursing and Quality.

Sarah BrowneWe also said goodbye to Julie Hoare, our Director of Service Development and Partnerships. Julie worked at HCT for more than ten years in a variety of senior roles, and we wish her well with her future plans.

We hope you enjoy reading this edition of HCT Matters. We’re always keen to hear your feedback.

The decision followed a market testing process run by the CCG in 2018. HCT currently provides these services and has done so for many years. We are of course very disappointed at the outcome of the process which we do not feel reflects the quality of the services we provide. We will continue to run the services up to the point when they transfer to CLCH in October. Our other services in west Hertfordshire are not affected.

Leadership Team changes

Over the last few months we’ve made some further changes to our leadership team, as we continue our transformation journey from Good to Outstanding.

Dr Hari Pathmanathan will be focusing on providing the Trust Board with dedicated advice on the ongoing development and implementation of our new clinical strategy. David Bacon has now been appointed as the permanent Director of Finance.

We are delighted to confirm that Dr Elizabeth Kendrick will be bringing her extensive clinical knowledge to her new role as Acting Medical Director.

Working together to tackle diabetes

Patients are each issued with a management plan containing useful tips and advice on how to reduce their blood sugar levels and help prevent damage occurring to their kidneys, eyesight and nerves.

Patients from west Herts are also invited to go along to carbohydrate awareness courses to provide further support in learning about ways to manage their diabetes effectively.

Feelings of depression and anxiety are commonly experienced by people with long term conditions. Patients at the clinic are also asked about this and offered mental health support if they would benefit from it.

Type 2 Diabetes has been constantly in the media over recent months, as numbers of people in the UK living with the condition continue to rise at an unprecedented rate. This is a serious concern in terms of the associated health complications if the condition isn’t managed properly, as well as the cost to the NHS.

One appointment for all concerns

HCT has joined forces with West Hertfordshire Hospitals NHS Trust, Hertfordshire Partnership University NHS Foundation Trust (HPFT) and the Herts Valleys GP Federation with a single vision. Their aim is to improve care and educate patients, so they can self-manage their condition better.

Multi-disciplinary clinics allow patients to raise all their concerns in one appointment, with a consultant, specialist nurses and dietitians all on hand to see them.

Maggie Carroll, HCT’s Clinical Lead for Diabetes said: “Integrated working in multi-disciplinary diabetes clinics is proving highly popular with our patients as well as clinicians.

“Improved self-management means our patients are feeling better and have less need to contact services between their appointments.”

Consultant Dr Thomas Galliford is the Clinical Lead for the Herts Valleys Integrated Diabetes Service. He said: “This multi-disciplinary approach is the culmination of several years of hard work. The new service is providing immense benefits for our patients by offering enhanced care for them in a seamless way and in settings which are closer to people’s homes.”

Maggie Carroll (1st left) and Dr Thomas Galliford (3rd left) with other members of the multi-disciplinary clinic team at The Marlowes

Service improvements in Nutrition and Dietetics

Since HCT won the contract to lead an integrated Nutrition and Dietetics Service in west Hertfordshire last year, the service is moving forward in leaps and bounds. Quality improvements so far include:

• More joined up working and liaison with GPs and other health professionals in different services and local NHS trusts. This includes working with charitable organisations and care homes to help improve continuity in care for patients• New patient education groups for patients living with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and coeliac disease • Faster triaging means patients are being seen more quickly• Longer opening hours and Dietitians are available to provide advice and guidance from 1pm to 2pm daily, for healthcare professionals and patients with nutrition related queries

Christine, a patient from Watford said: “After my operation I wasn’t eating enough and lost a lot of weight. At first they suggested having milky drinks, but I really don’t like them. Emma the Dietitian prescribed juice drinks instead until my appetite returned and I’m now

back to a healthy weight.“Emma was such a nice person and has told me I can contact her again if I have any problems with my appetite in the future.”

Ditch faddy diets

There is often a heavy focus on weight loss and many ‘fad diets’ are appearing in the media. Usually these involve following a very restricted diet or eating very specific combinations of foods for a short period of time. The associated weight loss is often very rapid and can be very appealing. However, most people are unable to sustain these diets and often start over-eating, choose less healthy foods and gain weight as a result.

Sadly, there is no magic solution to losing weight and keeping it off long-term. Furthermore, many fad diets are associated with nutritional or health risks and most are offering a short-term fix to a long-term problem. The best way to lose weight and keep it off is to make healthier choices, eat a nutritionally balanced and varied diet with appropriately sized portions, and be physically active. Your GP can support you to find services which can help you lose weight.

A quick quiz

Which of the foods below do you think contain the most calories? Check page nine for the answer...

HCT partnership with Herts Urgent Care (HUC) and Lea Valley Health Federation begins running Cheshunt minor injuries serviceFrom April 2019 HCT is running the minor injuries service at Cheshunt Community Hospital in partnership with two other local NHS organisations.

Open 365 days a year

Having primary care, community services and urgent care services working together in one place will enable patients to be treated for a minor injury 365 days a year, without having to go to hospital.

Working in partnership

HUC is the NHS111 provider for Hertfordshire and Lea Valley Health Federation (LVH) is an organisation which brings together all the GP practices in the area. Together with HCT, these organisations were awarded the contract for running the service by East and North Hertfordshire Clinical commissioning Group (CCG) last October. Careful management of the transfer of the service from the previous provider has ensured there has been no interruption in service for patients during the transfer period.The service operates from 8am to 8pm with x-ray available on site seven days a week. Experienced nurses can treat adults and children over the age of 12 months who have a minor injury such as a cut, burn, scald or suspected fracture.

Clare Hawkins, Chief Executive at HCT said: “We are very pleased that our partnership with HUC and LVH has been chosen to deliver this essential local service. Minor injury services play an important role in ensuring that people with urgent healthcare needs can get access to highly-skilled clinicians close to home and avoid an unnecessary visit to A&E. “

Quality care closer to home

David Archer, Chief Executive of HUC said: “We are delighted to be working in partnership with Lea Valley Health Federation and Hertfordshire Community NHS Trust, two organisations which, like HUC, are deeply rooted in the local community.

“Our joint expertise will benefit patients greatly and help deliver a high quality service to local patients, taking the pressure away from A&E.”

Richard Moore, CEO of LVH said: “Our collective partnership will offer a resilient service, which ensures patients receive the right treatment at the right time in the right place. We know how much the services at Cheshunt Community Hospital are valued and we want to continue providing good quality care, close to people’s homes.”

Supporting brain cancer patients to live wellAfter being diagnosed with a brain tumour back in 2018, HCT patient Wendy underwent surgery followed by chemotherapy and radiotherapy. She is now being helped to access rehabilitation and support by the Macmillan Brain CARE Team – a new HCT team focusing on brain cancer rehabilitation for people in Hertfordshire.

The team offers regular assessments of people’s rehabilitation needs as well as providing information and support. They also help by liaising with therapists and doctors and making referrals to other services e.g. physiotherapy, occupational therapy, counselling support and others.

Relaxation and social support

There is a growing body of evidence to support the benefits of keeping physically active throughout cancer treatment. Wendy regularly attends Grove House in St Albans, where the Rennie Grove Day Services are based. While at Grove House Wendy participates in an exercise session which focuses on stretching, stamina and keeping moving in a fun and supportive group. After the exercise there is opportunity for relaxation, holistic therapy, a review by the nursing team, as well as social support. Wendy said; “I attend the Day Service at Rennie Grove and both the exercise and company are beneficial for me. I also try to do the exercises at home to keep active and coming here has brought out my confidence.”

Similar sessions are available for eligible cancer patients throughout Hertfordshire in Watford, Berkhamsted, Letchworth, Welwyn Garden City, Hertford and Stanstead Abbotts.

Empowering patients

Macmillan Specialist Therapist Lesley Sayliss from the Brain CARE team said: “Rehabilitation delivered by allied health professionals empowers people living with cancer to maximise their ability to function independently and adapt to their condition. It can increase strength and fitness, improving the quality of life for them and their families.”

Find out more

If you’d like to find out more about the service and watch a short film showing therapy in action, go to the Adult Services section on our website: www.hct.nhs.uk

Contact details for the Brain CARE team are:• email:[email protected] • tel: 01923 299100• twitter: @hctbraincare

The Brain CARE team l-r Alison Kelly, Lesley Sayliss and Lucy Lambden

Wendy exercising

Answer from page seven: All the foods are the same at 200kcal

Support over a cuppa at Healthy Memory Cafe

Somewhere people who are experiencing memory difficulties and their carers can come together for a cuppa and a chat with local professionals and services. It’s about the local community helping each other.”

Local people supporting each other

Waltham Cross GP Dr Haydar Bolat has a special interest in dementia and chairs the Lower Lea Valley Dementia Task and Finish Group, out of which the Healthy Memory Café has emerged. “This venture brings together professionals from many local organisations, including the voluntary sector, in one place to support not only those who have been diagnosed with dementia, but anyone who is struggling with memory issues,” he explained: “We have doctors, nurses, pharmacists, benefits and legal advisors, along with Herts police and fire services, who can advise on safety issues, and many more, making it easy for people to get the support and advice they need.”

A community partnership in Lower Lea Valley which includes HCT is supporting people to find help for memory problems. It has been growing in popularity since opening its doors last July. The Healthy Memory Cafe runs once a month at Tesco in Cheshunt’s Brookfield Centre. Local people who are living with memory loss and their carers can meet up for friendly support, professional advice and a cuppa.

Sylvia is 73 and lives in Cheshunt. Since the Healthy Memory Café opened, Sylvia and her husband have become regular visitors. She said: ‘I really look forward to the Friday morning sessions now, as everyone is so friendly and welcoming and those who run it do such a good job. It is a great way to meet different people, who are in a similar stage of memory loss.

Paul Brown, Locality Programme Manager from HCT went on to explain: “The aim of the Healthy Memory Café is to be very informal.

Attended by over 300 residents

Since the first cafe last summer, word has spread and now over 300 local residents have attended these popular monthly events.

The Healthy Memory Café is a good example of the Hertfordshire & West Essex Sustainable Transformation Partnership (STP) plan for local people to drive change and find sustainable solutions in their neighbourhoods. Other localities across East & North Herts are now interested in developing their own healthy memory cafés throughout 2019. The aim is for the local community to embrace their Healthy Memory café and become part of the current Carers Cafés organised by local volunteers.

Paul Brown, Locality Programme Manager, Trisha Featley, Lea Valley Health Federation, Kerryn Atkins, Hertswise and Ann Freeman, volunteer all attended and presented the Health Memory Café model at the Primary Care Home conference by the National Association Primary Care (NAPC) on 14 March.

The Healthy Memory Café meets on the last Friday of every month at Tesco Extra in Cheshunt’s Brookfield Centre in the Community Room between 10.30am and 12 noon. Call 01992 622157 for more details.

To find out more, you can listen to the recent BBC 3 Counties radio interview with Dr Haydar Bolat on our website in the news section atwww.hct.nhs.uk/news-and-events/healthy-memory-café-in-lower-lea-valley/

(Left to right) Trisha Featley, Lea Valley Health Federation; Lyn Youthed, Tesco community Champion; Paul Brown, Hertfordshire Community NHS Trust; Kerryn Atkins, Hertswise; and Sylvia, a regular visitor at Healthy Memory Café.

Maple Clinic lays down strong roots to tackle frailty in Hertfordshire

Ida said: “We’ve been very well looked after and had a very thorough check over, including blood tests, weight, ECG by the nurse, doctor, physio and OT - couldn’t be any better!”

The Hertfordshire and West Essex Sustainability and Transformation Partnership (STP) has pioneered this new approach and is also working on similar projects to improve the identification of frailty, as well as crisis management.Care needs of the frail and elderly are extremely complex. Evidence shows that managing these needs in a proactive way increases their chances of remaining independent in their own homes for longer, as well as reducing hospital admissions or a need for 24 hour care.

Dr Elizabeth Kendrick, a GP with a special interest in older people and HCT’s Acting Medical Director, is also the Clinical Lead for implementation of the Maple Clinics.

November 2018 saw the opening of the first Maple Clinic run by HCT at the Ernest Gardiner Treatment Centre in Letchworth. This new clinic is for older patients identified as being frail and offers access to a multi-disciplinary team of professionals including nurses, physiotherapists, occupational therapists, a GP and community navigators who explore opportunities for patients to become more involved with local people, groups and activities. The aim of the team is to provide a fully integrated service that helps people to improve their strength and retain their independence for as long as possible.The first appointment lasts around 90 minutes. After this, each patient receives a plan of action, detailing the most appropriate treatment/s for them. Plans might include a course of physiotherapy, or a home visit to consider adaptations that might be helpful. It can also offer sign-posting to local community services and activities aimed at reducing loneliness and isolation – feelings commonly experienced by people who find it difficult to get out and about.

Feedback so far has all been positive

John said: “I didn’t know this place existed until my doctor told me, which I’m very pleased he did. I’m continuing my exercises and feeling better for it and I’m more than satisfied with the service I’ve had.”

satisfied with the service I’ve had.”

Helping independent living

Following its success in Letchworth, Dr Kendrick has plans to set up further Maple Clinics in other areas of East and North Herts over the coming months. She said: “The Maple tree is a symbol of strength and endurance, so we’ve chosen this name to focus on the strength in the roots of older people gained from their life experiences. Like mature trees, frailty can make people more susceptible to illness and falls, but supporting people to keep themselves healthy and to prevent them from falling is the best way forward.

Dr Kendrick continued: “The recently announced NHS Long Term Plan sets out to support people to age well by bringing together different professionals to coordinate care better and by using integrated care systems to help more people to live independently at home for longer. Maple Clinics are a really good example of the NHS Long Term Plan in action and how it will deliver significant improvements in care for older people”

The Maple Clinic team at the Ernest Gardiner Treatment Centre in Letchworth

Maple Clinic attendees

Dreams become a reality for Rita - walking again and back home at 81

Rita with her physiotherapist Jagdish

Simple exercises for strength and balance

Jagdish said: “We started out with some simple exercises to strengthen her lower limbs, progressing to standing, focusing on balance followed by simple step exercises. Rita has been really good at following and practising this programme, with excellent support from her daughter Linda.”

As part of her agreed health package she was also referred to HCT Community Occupational Therapist Lisa Farmer who visited Rita’s home with her daughter.

Together they assessed what she would need in terms of equipment such as hand rails, suitable flooring and commodes.

Helping patients to be independent again

HCT’s community occupational therapist Lisa Farmer said: “To enable somebody to come home it’s about looking at every aspect of their life, from getting out of bed to making a cup of tea.

“If we can get people doing things for themselves again, it’s just perfect.”

Last April Rita Blyth badly twisted her back whilst getting out of bed at her home in Hemel Hempstead. She needed spinal surgery but the prognosis was poor. Rita was told she’d never walk again.

Rita said: “I was devastated when I thought I’d be confined to a wheelchair for the rest of my life, plus the prospect of possibly never returning to my own home. If it hadn’t been for the support from HCT, especially their occupational therapist and physiotherapist, I wouldn’t be sitting here at home. It really was a wonderful Christmas gift, to be back in my own house and feeling more and more confident about the future.”

Rita and her daughters were determined that she would one day return to her cosy home to resume her normal, active life, surrounded by friends and family.

After moving into a care home, Rita received regular visits from Jagdish Kaswala, a physiotherapist from HCT. Gradually she got her strength back, to the point where she was able to take tentative steps with a walking frame.

Rita’s daughter Linda with Rita’s occupational therapist, Lisa

Determination and regular visits from HCT

Rita returned home in November 2018 and was able to enjoy Christmas with her family. Through her sheer determination and regular visits from the HCT team, Rita no longer fears the prospect of being confined to a wheelchair for the rest of her life. She loves being back at home and has plans to venture further afield this year.

Her daughter Linda said: “All I can say is that the NHS has been absolutely brilliant for us as a family. They have supported us and helped us with all our needs. All I can say is thank you!”

Rita and her daughter Linda at Christmas

Watch this moving account about Rita’s story in the news section of our website.

Jamie’s story of courage and determinationDespite being diagnosed with heart failure and told by specialists he had until last summer to live, 29 year old Jamie Wilding is determined to make the most of whatever time he has left. He is making special memories with his family and raising funds and awareness for this incurable and life limiting condition often referred to as the “silent killer” disease.

Jamie was diagnosed with high cholesterol at the age of 11 and since then has undergone two liver transplants, a double heart bypass and an aortic valve replacement.

In 2017, Jamie was diagnosed with heart failure and told that he wouldn’t be strong enough to survive a heart transplant. He said: “It wasn’t a massive shock for me when I found out, but it was tough to hear.”

A better quality of life

Jamie keeps fighting in spite of a severe bout of pneumonia early in 2018. He is now receiving care and home visits from the HCT Community Cardiology Team who have expertise in heart failure.

Sarah Warr is his regular HCT Community Heart Failure Specialist Nurse, helping deliver a palliative care package for him. Jamie can always rely on Sarah to speak to about anything and regards his care team more like friends than clinical professionals. He said: “Hertfordshire Community Trust is absolutely amazing. They’re here 24/7 and they do make life easier. They can’t make you better, but they can help to sort out your symptoms to give you a better quality of life.”

HCT’s Carys Barton, Clinical and Operational Lead for Community Cardiology said: “There is a need to

get people with heart failurediagnosed more quickly in the community, so they can get the right treatment quicker to improve their quality of life and life expectancy.

GPs can do a simple blood test called BNP that, if elevated, can then signpost them to the hospital for echo and diagnosis.

A million people living with heart failure in the UK

“Heart failure is not well known about and we must raise awareness. We know there are almost one million people in the UK living with the condition and this number is increasing. Evidence shows that patients under the care of a heart failure specialist nurse in the community are faring better.”

Number one on Jamie’s bucket list was to take his mum on holiday to thank her for always being there. Their holiday to Turkey re-energised him and they had a fantastic time.

Also Jamie says how wonderful his dad has been and his whole family.

“Jamie’s a true champion and leader”

Jamie said: “My family and friends are with me and I have to live for the good times. It would be easy to give up but there’s things I want to do.” He often relies on wheelchair assistance, yet he bravely completed a 2km walk in May 2018, raising almost £1,000 for Pumping Marvellous, a charity dedicated to educating everyone on heart failure. Nick Hartshorne-Evans, Chief Executive and Founder of Pumping Marvellous said: “Jamie is truly an exceptional individual who inspires all that come across him. He is a true champion and leader inspiring others to manage their condition better.”

Jamie completed another sponsored challenge in February, climbing over the roof of the O2 arena. You can still donate here: https://www.wonderful.org/fundraiser/jamiesclimbofthe02-6428aee4

Jamie with his Specialist Community Nurse , Sarah

State-of-the-art community facilities in St Albans

A new and modern Community Treatment Unit (CTU) run by HCT and based at St Albans City Hospital was officially opened in December last year.

Six new patient bays

The clever and stylish design of the CTU includes six new patient bays, providing a total of eleven treatment spaces and two private clinic rooms, enabling the team to see more patients and accept more referrals in a spacious, airy and welcoming environment.

Joyce Coleman who lives in St Albans was diagnosed with anaemia four years ago and needs to have regular blood transfusions. She used to attend the Rapid Assessment Unit (RAU) at St Albans City Hospital.

Welcoming and relaxed

Joyce said: “It was old, tired and a bit claustrophobic. The nurses were lovely but in summer it got very hot and in winter very cold – we were even given blankets to keep warm!”

Joyce is most impressed by the new environment: “The views are lovely – it’s so nice and warm too.

“When you arrive you notice how clean and spacious it is. It’s not just the patients who appreciate it but also the nurses, who have always been so nice and put you at ease.

“When I receive my treatment I feel so relaxed I even fall asleep sometimes, returning home rested. I know that if I’ve got a problem, I could ring one of the nurses up and they would solve it for me.”

Light and spacious

Marion Dunstone, Director of Operations at HCT said: “We’re delighted that the new CTU has been so well received by patients, their families and staff. This represents a big improvement in comparison to its previous location. Overall the CTU provides a much better environment for our patients and staff with more light and space. Our nurses are able to offer a service more tailored to specific health needs and there’s the added advantage of receiving treatment closer to home. It is also proving popular with the district nursing teams, GPs and the local acute hospitals.”

The unit welcomes haematology, oncology and renal patients, providing a range of treatments. These include intravenous therapies, blood transfusions, central venous access device maintenance plus chemotherapy disconnection, catheter care and wound care. The CTU is an outpatients day service and is open from Monday to Friday between the hours of 8.30am and 4.30pm.

Joyce Coleman

It’s all about carersCarers of parents, siblings and other family members make up almost ten per cent of Hertfordshire’s population, with some being as young as seven. Their contributions are invaluable and it’s in everyone’s interests to make sure our carers are supported in managing their individual and changing needs.

HCT’s Engagement Manager and Carers Lead Ruth Bradford coordinates around 50 members of Trust staff who are designated carers champions. These champions make sure HCT staff are kept up-to-date on the wide range of community resources available, such as the fantastic carers cafés running in East and North Hertfordshire - an initiative supported by Crossroads, an independent charity. The cafes give carers a chance to take a break from their caring role by meeting other carers in a friendly and supportive environment.

A Hertfordshire support group for anyone affected by the little known, but life-limiting lung condition Pulmonary Fibrosis is demonstrating how integrated working can improve patient care.

HCT physiotherapist Laura Bygrave started the group in 2017, with support from Respiratory Consultant Dr Chong and Respiratory Nurse Jane Conway who both work for East and North Hertfordshire NHS Trust, as well as the charity Action for Pulmonary Fibrosis.

Sandra, aged 42, described herself as one of the youngest carers at the Cheshunt group and has been attending for three years. She said: “I first came with a friend and have introduced other people. Everyone is so friendly and the volunteers who run it are really good. I find it informative and find out more here than anywhere else. You make good friends and there is support when you need it.”

The café is run by a committed team of volunteers who have been involved for almost five years.

One volunteer said: “The carers deserve everything we can do for them and we can see how much the café helps, which brings us pleasure.”

Ruth said: “We recognise the vital role of carers in helping our patients to recover and stay well. It’s also really important for us all to remember that carers count and that they need access to support and TLC as well.”

For more information about carers cafes, call Jane from Crossroads T: 01462 455578, M: 07712 670623 or email: [email protected]

Volunteers at the Carers Cafe in Cheshunt

Supporting our patients with Pulmonary Fibrosis Patients, together with their families, carers and friends can listen to speakers from various organisations providing information on topics including relaxation techniques, how to alleviate their symptoms, as well as giving ideas to support carers.

Laura said: “We started the group as we saw an increase in the numbers of patients. Little is known about Pulmonary Fibrosis, so we wanted to offer more support and information about it, as well as provide the opportunity for those affected to share their experiences with others in similar situations.

“Patients from the group have also helped us, together with East and North Herts NHS Trust to develop a new patient information pack. This will be delivered at the point of diagnosis, improving the patient journey between the two trusts.”

Call 01462 478783 to find out more about this group.

New Family Centre Service launches in Hertfordshire

Special care for those pearly whitessetting. Their aim is to reduce any anxiety felt by their patients as much as possible.

There are clinics in Harpenden, Hemel Hempstead, Hoddesdon, Letchworth and Watford.

Brian Lambert brings his daughter Megan who has autism to the unit at the Peace Centre in Watford for regular appointments. He said: “It’s difficult to clean Megan’s teeth and she does find it a little bit distressing. Everyone here is really careful, they stop when she gets

A visit to the dentist is a necessary chore for most people, but for some the whole experience can be extremely daunting. Imagine if you are an adult or a child with special needs such as mental health problems, learning difficulties or if they use a wheelchair or hoist? Fortunately there is help on hand for people in need of some extra support.

The staff in HCT’s Special Care Dental Service provide safe and high quality dental care, as well as giving preventative advice in a relaxed and non-threatening

distressed and will start again once she is ready. “When she’s had enough, that’s it - they’re understanding and helpful and that’s the best part for me. They also advise me on caring for Megan’s teeth at home. She’s been coming here a long time and we’ve tried a few different techniques. She doesn’t have any fillings, which has got to be a good thing.”

Senior Dental Nurse Luisa Lancey saw Megan and her dad for her oral health appointment and said: “We give the care and attention to all our patients of all ages - Megan is an absolute superstar.”

The Peace Centre in Watford has undergone a facelift over recent months. Look out for more details on this in the next edition of HCT Matters.

Find out more about the Special Care Dental Service and how to access it in the list of our services at: www.hct.nhs.uk/our-services/

HCT’s Head of Children’s Universal Services Kay Gilmour said: “We’ve created this joined up approach which allows for lots more communication, better planning and integration of services to wrap around the needs of children, young people and families wherever you live in the county.” Find out more at: www.hertsfamilycentres.org

Liz Applin from InspireAll (left) with HCT’s Kay Gilmour

Megan with her dad, Brian at the Peace Centre

January saw the official launch of the new Hertfordshire Family Centre Service in partnership with Hertfordshire County Council, Barnardos, One YMCA and InspireAll (formerly Hertsmere Leisure). The event took place at Highfield Community Centre in Hemel Hempstead. The new service is bringing children’s centres, health visiting and school

nursing together to provide a more joined up service.

Families will be able to access available services from any Hertfordshire Family Centre, allowing them to fit more sessions and services such as health checks, advice, support, classes and activities around busy family life.

Young people getting back on track with Step2

in how they’re feeling and that support is available in the group. “They often share ideas with one another and stay in contact after they’ve completed all their group sessions.”

Leyla Preston sought help for her son Aron after he developed anxiety at the age of eight. She said: “Aron deteriorated gradually over a period of twelve months, with a massive decline three months before we began our treatment with Step2. He had problems sleeping and struggled to concentrate, which began to affect his performance in school. “We started doing mindfulness and yoga with Aron, but we weren’t tackling the root causes of the problem – it was a scary time and we felt helpless. “At our first appointment I explained everything that was happening to our HCT Psychologist Damian, who was amazing. He spoke to Aron before diagnosing his anxiety and referring us to a multi-family anxiety group which was great.”

Step2 is an early intervention service for children and young people aged between 0-19 with mild to moderate emotional problems. The emphasis is on providing treatment as early as possible, to help prevent any difficulties they’re going through from developing into something more serious.

Specialist Community Practitioner Allison McNaught said: “Step2 offers short and focused sessions, teaching young people and their families/carers different strategies and techniques to help them to manage their emotions better. Children under five may benefit from interactive video guidance enabling us to provide feedback to their parents. Step2 support can be given on a one-to-one basis, or in a group setting with up to eight families and children.“Group sessions allow us to help more people which is really important, as demand for this service is always high. They help the attendees realise they’re not alone

Anxiety Group which was great.”

Aron said “I had a lot of fun at the group and it made me feel like I wanted to stop being anxious. I learned what I can do if I feel angry or anxious, like square breathing.”

Read more about Leyla and Aron’s experience at: www.motherhooddiaries.com.

Step2 takes written referrals from health and educational professionals across Hertfordshire. Find out more at: www.hct.nhs.uk/our-services/step-2-camhs/

Aidan, dad Tommy, Aron and mum Leyla

Allison McNaught

Young people reaching their full potential with physiotherapy

Find out more about the services we provide by visiting our website: www.hct.nhs.uk

Children’s physiotherapy at HCT is provided by a specialist team offering a holistic approach to treatment. Therapists help children and young people to preserve and improve their health to enable them to reach their full potential.

Children’s physiotherapists aim to develop “gross” motor skills such as walking and moving between positions. They can offer advice to parents/carers as well as a hands-on approach to ensure the child is optimally positioned to carry out activities and exercises.

One Hertfordshire mum who took her little boy Jose for physiotherapy treatment said: “Jose was born prematurely and needed some more support with his development.

“Physiotherapist Sian noticed that his arms were staying up and she taught me some exercises to do with him at home. Since coming for physiotherapy sessions, Jose has learned to sit up and stand – he’s progressed really well and I’m so grateful to Sian for all her hard work.”

Personalised treatment Service Manager for Children’s Occupational Therapy & Physiotherapy Karen Woollard said: “Our therapists are trained to understand physical development in children. They focus on their patients and can adapt their treatment to each child’s age, abilities and needs.

“Treatment from a physiotherapist can also increase confidence in parents to help support and manage the physiotherapy needs of their children. Treatment can also help to reduce the risk of developing a physical deformity, especially in children with long term conditions.”

Setting goals

“Physiotherapists set goals with the children and their families through joint discussion, focusing on their priorities.

“HCT’s physiotherapists pride themselves on working with staff in early years and education settings,

thereby supporting the principles of early intervention.”

Patients are referred into the service by a medical professional and may receive their treatment at a children’s centre, outreach clinic, at home or at school, depending on their specific needs. HCT has centres in Borehamwood, Hertford, Hemel Hempstead, St Albans, Stevenage, Watford and Welwyn Garden City.

You can find out more on HCT’s website at: www.hct.nhs.uk/our-services/childrens-physiotherapy

Jose at his physiotherapy session

Beehive Sunday parkrun for juniorsHCT is passionate about encouraging children and young people to enjoy physical activity to help them keep physically and mentally healthy and feel part of their community. HCT’s General Manager for Children and Young People’s Services, Katy Healy volunteers at one of the free, weekly timed 2k junior parkruns for 4-14 years olds that take place at 9am every Sunday at a number of locations across Hertfordshire. Katy’s local event is at King George V playing fields in Welwyn Garden City – it’s called Beehive junior parkrun.

Elsie is a regular to the Beehive parkrun. She’s already achieved half marathon and marathon wristbands and said: “I feel happy when I’m running and when I’ve finished, it feels like I’ve done a good job. I’ve made some new friends and also really enjoy being a volunteer marshal as I like cheering everyone on.”

To find out more go to: www.parkrun.org.uk/events/juniorevents/

Ready Steady MumsSophia said: “Physical activity and socialising with others in a similar position is a really great way to improve wellbeing. These groups encourage mums to leave the house and support each other. There is a real family approach to these free walks.”

Sharing baby stories

Mum Olfa said “It’s an excuse to get out of the house, make new friends and share baby stories which makes you feel better. Everyone is friendly and the fresh air is great for you and the baby.”

Anyone can come along, whatever their level of fitness - parents, grandparents and of course the children!

You can find out details of the walks near you at:www.readysteadymums.org

HCT’s Katy Healy volunteering at Junior parkrun

Elsie at Junior parkrun

Ready Steady Mums is a nationwide initiative from the Institute of Health Visiting, bringing people together to improve their mental and physical health.

Mums are being encouraged to join local walking groups, to meet other mums and do some activity outside in the fresh air.

HCT’s health visitors Sophia Ferrari-Wills and Emma Gambrill set up walking groups in Hoddesdon and Cheshunt last year which are really popular with local mums. Due to their success, they’re planning six further groups in other areas of Hertfordshire this year and another three in 2020

Fun in the fresh air

Katy said: “It doesn’t matter how fast you can run at this weekly event. The aim is to have fun in the fresh air and get fitter at the same time – it’s fine to run, jog or walk around the course. I love the community feel and the warm feeling you get from volunteering. “There’s no need to book and we’re a friendly bunch, so please join us for a coffee after the event.”

www.hct.nhs.uk - Twitter: @HCTNHS - Facebook: HCNHSTrust

We would like to hear from you - so if you have any comments or feedback please email: [email protected]

Two HCT services shortlisted for prestigious HSJ Awards

Patient Feedback

We receive feedback from service users, carers and families through surveys, letters, emails and cards. We receive over sixty compliments to every complaint. Give your feedback direct to the team at [email protected] or call 0800 011 6113/01707 388164

All our teams use feedback to improve what they do. Here are just a few of the 13,000 compliments about HCT this year...

Integrated Care Team, Stevenage “Thank you for all the things you have done for me. The time and care you have given to me, always answering my questions and being helpful. Thank you all for being so kind and understanding, I never could have done the injections myself. You are a great team, doing a fantastic job. Kindest regards”PALMS (Children’s services)“When we were first asked to attend another parenting course my heart sank. At the first session our eyes were opened. Whilst working as a group, we were supported to develop a plan and strategies for our own son. Sharing with other parents has been so valuable. The facilitators have shared their expertise and really know Autism and our children. We’ve loved this course and know it will have ongoing support implications for us and our son.”Herts Valleys (Adults), Nutrition and Dietetics“It was a pleasure to meet the dietitian. Her professional and welcome approach really made a difference and left me feeling a lot more positive. The information she provided was excellent.’’

An initiative which addressed an increase in demand for PALMS’ services, while providing high quality interventions to support more families and children with autism, learning disability and mental health issues.

HCT CEO Clare Hawkins congratulated the successful, shortlisted teams, saying: ”Everyone at HCT is incredibly proud that both the CAHS and PALMS initiatives have been selected as possible finalists for these prestigious awards.

To get to this stage of the selection process is no small feat and recognises the positive outcomes that our teams have achieved in the services they offer across the Hertfordshire community. We all hope for success after the final stage of the award process.”

The final round of judging will take place in April where shortlisted organisations will present their projects to a panel of experts and NHS leaders. Winners will be announced in May in Manchester.

Two HCT services have been shortlisted as finalists for the HSJ Value Awards: Community Health Service Redesign Award-Therapy Redesign within the Community Adults Health Service (CAHS) - a transformational project to help improve access to occupational therapy and physiotherapy services whilst operating within a reduced financial envelope.Specialist Service Award -Positive Behaviour, Autism, Learning Disability and Mental Health Service (PALMS)

spring 2019 hct matters - hertfordshire community nhs trust · made a referral to our integrated...

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