Staff Bulletin 11 March 2022
Changes to visiting guidance
To reflect the latest national advice and the positive benefits visitors have on patients, our guidance for the public has been updated. The key points are:
- A maximum of two visitors are now allowed at any one time, and may stay longer than one hour. Patients may have more than one such visit per day, which can be by different visitors. Visits should continue to be pre-arranged with the ward
- Anyone showing any signs of Covid-19, or who are unwell, should not visit
- Visitor PPE requirements remain unchanged
- Compassionate visiting and ward/clinical team discretion must be balanced with the related IPC risks, and must focus on the patient's/visitor's wellbeing
- Patients in our emergency departments may be accompanied by one other person at the discretion of the department (including one parent if the patient is a child)
- The guidance will be kept under regular review.
Our website, social media channels and posters around the hospitals will be updated to reflect this new guidance from Monday.
Automated text message error
On Monday (7 March) an automated text message was set up to be sent to new patients added to a hospital service waiting list. Unfortunately, there was an issue with our data processing which led to the text message being sent to 5,360 patients who had previously been referred for an appointment to this service. These patients were contacted and asked to fill in the form, as well as those who were the intended recipients of the message.
This error was identified and stopped by a member of our team, and while we fully investigate the issue, additional safeguards have been implemented to prevent this happening again. There has not been a breach of data and for those who filled in the form who were not an intended recipient any information inputted will be removed from our systems.
If you are contacted by patients or their carers concerned by these messages, please do reassure them that there hasn't been a breach of their data and that they should delete the message. Please do apologise on our behalf. For any further enquiries, please contact This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..
Continuing need to self-isolate if symptomatic and seek PCR test if unwell
Covid-19 can easily spread, leading to significant impacts on staffing and patient safety. It remains vital that any member of staff who experiences Covid-19 symptoms should remain off work and arrange a PCR test. If your result is positive, you may return to work only after a period of self-isolation including two consecutive days of negative lateral flow tests after day six.
Key signs of Covid-19 include:
- a high temperature – this means you feel hot to touch on your chest or back (you do not need to measure your temperature)
- a new, continuous cough – this means coughing a lot for more than an hour, or three or more coughing episodes in 24 hours (if you usually have a cough, it may be worse than usual)
- a loss or change to your sense of smell or taste – this means you've noticed you cannot smell or taste anything, or things smell or taste different to normal
- Covid-19 may also appear as cold-like symptoms. Please remember to continue to routinely take a lateral flow test twice a week while asymptomatic.
- If you are in any doubt, ring your line manager and seek a test.
Car parking charges to be reinstated
The government's funding to enable free car parking for NHS staff during the pandemic is coming to an end, meaning staff car park charges need to be reinstated from 1 April.
As well as the reinstatement of charges we will also introduce a single car parking policy for all of UHD, subject to board approval in March. There will also be more proactive traffic management on all hospital sites to make sure spaces are available for those who are eligible.
Richard Renaut, chief strategy and transformation officer, said: "The new policy on parking is designed to balance the four below objectives and do the best for our staff, patients and visitors. Help and guidance will also be available from our dedicated car parking team and via the intranet."
The policy has been designed with the input of UHD's staff partnership forum and focuses on four key themes:
- making getting to/from work as hassle free as we can – doing our best to provide a parking space when you need one, in addition to identifying journey options other than by car
- with parking spaces numbers set by the Council, making sure they are allocated fairly and transparently
- supporting the wider UHD Green Plan by reducing single occupant and peak time car trips - with incentives for public transport and active commuting
- ensuring that any surplus income generated is reinvested into our services and facilities, as there is no profit taken out
You can find out more information about the planned changes, and how to contact the team, in the Q&As here.
Cardiology requests on EPR goes live on 14 March
We are excited to announce the arrival of Cardiology requesting on EPR. ICE Cardiology enables instant requesting of cardiac diagnostics, including the ability to see if the request has already been made or if previous test results are available. Users will also be able to see the date and time when the test has been booked and when a result has been sent to EPR.
Be part of service improvement for unpaid carers and the Discharge 2 Assess process
If you're involved in discharge planning we need your help. When our patient arrives at home, we know their continued recovery is often in the hands of an unpaid carer.
We want to know how carers find the hospital experience and what is it like for them when their cared-for person arrives home. Working with NHS and charity partners across Dorset, we're collecting staff and carer views to feed into the development of Home First - please share your views with this survey.
If you would be interested in further supporting this work please contact Karen Uphill, carer support advisor on ext. 8714 or at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..
POOLE: No medical photographer next week
There will be no medical photographer on site next week (14-18 March). In addition there will also be no service on 30-31 March.
A standby camera will be available for appropriate use, provided by the equipment library.
RBH: Limited palliative care cover
Due to unforeseen circumstances there will be no palliative care cover this weekend (12-13 March). For urgent concerns, 24 hour advice is available from the Macmillan Unit, please call ext. 5470 and option 1 between the hours of 8am to 5pm and option 3 between the hours of 5pm to 8am.
For non-urgent queries, please leave a message on ext 6021 (HPCT) and a staff member will pick these up on 14 March (Monday).
RBH: No homeless care team next week
The homeless care team is not running from 14-18 March. Please contact the hospital housing advice team for support and queries on This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..
An important update for March for Men participants
UHD charity has been made aware of an event in support of the crisis in Ukraine which will also be taking place at 10am on Sunday (13 March) at Bournemouth Pier Approach. We fully support the Sandbanks Walk for Ukraine and are working with the organisers to ensure both events can go ahead as planned. As a result there will be a few changes to March for Men 2022.
As we expect Pier Approach to be very crowded, the start line and gather point has moved to the promenade outside Harry Ramsden's. Please check your travel arrangements, make alternative plans if car parks are full and use public transport where possible.
Please arrive from 9am until 9.30am to avoid crowds. March for Men will still set off at 10am but please arrive by 9.30am to ensure a smooth start. March for Men participants will be heading from the promenade towards Boscombe and Southbourne while the Sandbanks Walk for Ukraine walk will go in the other direction.
We're so excited for March for Men 2022 and want to assure you that this important fundraising event is going ahead. To stay up to date follow @UHDcharity on Facebook, instagram and twitter or keep checking our website.
NHS Charities Together Covid service
On behalf of NHS Charities Together, a remembrance event is being held today to acknowledge the ongoing sacrifices of NHS staff. For more information on how to catch up on the service, please click here.
Annual leave update
As we are coming up to the end of the financial year, please make sure to carry over or sell back any holiday. This needs to be submitted by 31 March. The adjustment forms for carrying over and selling back holiday can be found in our managed bookmarks. The old paper forms will not be accepted.
For the new annual leave year, Agenda for Change terms state you cannot accrue annual leave entitlement while sick over a bank holiday, meaning you will have annual leave deducted from your entitlement. The amount deducted is contractual weekly hours divided by five.
For the Queens Jubilee there will be an additional bank holiday in the 22/23 annual leave year, this bank holiday has been added to ESR and Health Roster.
Catch up on Ask Aly
If you missed the Ask Aly session yesterday, you didn't miss out. You can view a recording of the session here.
Thanks to all those who attended. Dr Alyson O'Donnell was joined by Richard Renaut, chief strategy and transformation officer, who gave an update on our hospitals and the reintroduction of car park charges for staff, as well as initiatives to encourage alternative travel options. Other topics covered included the pressures on our hospitals, the relaxation of Covid restrictions, vaccinations, staff wellbeing and the situation in Ukraine.
Save the date for the next session: Thursday 21 April, 1pm.
RBH: Returning our wheelchairs
A wheelchair return and collection point has been introduced at the West Entrance. This is located at the reception in the far corner by the doors to the singular lift and stairs.
Please ensure you are using this area only to store wheelchairs in the West Entrance. Please do not put the trolleys in front of the door to the enquiries desk, this is a fire risk and puts our colleagues at risk.
Mindful March
We know our colleagues are currently facing many challenges, and how when we are all under pressure it can be easy to put the wellbeing of others before our own.
As the days start getting brighter and longer, mindful March reminds us to make time to exercise, rest and eat well. Find out the latest offers from LiveWellDorset and how we can support each other on the health and wellbeing pages of the intranet.
UHD awarded for our commitment to professional development in finance
The Chartered Institute of Management Accountants has recognised us for our commitment to continued professional development for our finance professionals by awarding us with premier partner status.
In partnership with Healthcare Finance Management Association (HFMA), we've developed online courses to help you understand how NHS services are paid for, and how money flows through the NHS. These courses are an asset for any of us who want to know more about how our finance systems work.
Course topics include finance, governance, budgeting, charities, commissioning and more – read the full list here. These accessible bitesize online learning courses help to demystify NHS finance and governance, boosting your knowledge so you can communicate about finances and make decisions with confidence.
Completing five of these courses, including the mandatory 'NHS finance course' counts toward your CPD hours, and you will be awarded the Introductory Award in Healthcare Finance certificate. If you are interested in finding out more about any of the courses, or would like to sign up please contact This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..
The countdown is on - make a staff lottery bid to benefit your team
Time is running out to place your staff lottery bid for something that could benefit the wellbeing of your team or department.
This is a great opportunity to promote your team or departments wellbeing, and to think of what extra support could really benefit you and your colleagues. Bids should be made for resources that are not available for funding through any other route.
To find out more and make your bid go to the staff lottery pages on the intranet by 31 March.
Building an eco-community with 'EcoEarn'
Thanks to colleagues from Dorset and across the south west for suggestions on the name for our new sustainability engagement programme.
We received a wide range of ideas with our shortlisting panel selecting 'EcoEarn' as their preferred choice - neatly summarising the rewards that can be earn across a number of sustainability and wellbeing themes. We're grateful to Helen Price, nurse clinician at SWAST, for the idea – look out for more information on programme when it's launched this Spring.
Randomised coffee trials
Randomised Coffee Trials are great a way to meet colleagues from around the trust to share ideas or simply get to know each other. To find out more or to sign up please contact the library at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. The closing date to sign up is 31 March.
Fraud alerts
Throughout the pandemic, there have been a few instances of fraudsters contacting individuals purporting to be from the NHS Test and Trace service in order to obtain personal and financial information. Fraudsters are also known to use this phishing technique to encourage victims to purchase Covid-19 testing kits.
Keep up to date with the latest fraud alerts on the finance pages of the intranet.
Staff Bulletin 8 March 2022
POOLE: Managing clinics ahead of our move to a single PAS system
We're moving onto a single version of eCaMIS, and need to manage the way we book appointments for clinics as we approach the cutover date.
Any appointments booked on the Poole CaMIS beyond 17 May need to be rebooked. We appreciate patients want to know when their appointment will be, and we're working with services to manage the rollout and bring clinics online.
We're automating as much of the move as possible, but it will also support us manage the process we work with departments us to plan and deliver the rollout in a controlled way. Ngaira Smith, project manager for outpatients and theatres workstreams, has been making contact with departments to discuss the transition of outpatient clinics, and will be getting in touch with those who still need to remain to move over.
The single PAS project team look forward to supporting you through the process of moving your specialties to the UHD e-CaMIS.
The following specialties have already been migrated across:
| 103 – Breast Surgery | 371 Nuclear Medicine |
| 171 Paediatric Surgery | 421 Paediatric Neurology |
| 180 A & E | 650 Physiotherapy |
| 190 Anaesthetics | 651 Occupational Therapy |
| 258 Paediatric Respiratory | 652 SALT |
| 260 Paediatric Oncology | 654 Dietetics |
| 264 Paediatric Cystic Fibrosis | 721 Addiction Services |
| 314 Rehabilitation | 831 Med Microbiology and Virology |
| 315 Palliative Medicine |
We are working with specialties in priority order based on booking levels beyond 17 May:
SpecialtyVolume of Bookings| 800 Clinical Oncology | 320 Cardiology | >500 |
| 420 Paediatrics | 290 Community Paediatrics | |
| 410 Rheumatology | ||
| 303 Haematology (Clinical) | 307 Diabetic Med | 200-499 |
| 400 Neurology | 330 Dermatology | |
| 502 Gynaecology | ||
| 300 General Medicine | 263 Paediatric Diabetic Medicine | 100-199 |
| 120 Ear, Nose and Throat | 140 Oral Surgery | |
| 321 Paediatric Cardiology | 422 Neonatology | <100 |
| 503 Gynaecology Oncology | 501 Obstetrics | |
| 100 General Surgery | 340 Thoracic Medicine | |
| 223 Paediatric Epilepsy | 257 Paediatric Dermatology (with DERM) | |
| 341 Respiratory Physiology | 430 Geriatric Medicine | |
| 301 Gastroenterology | 110 Trauma and Orthopaedics | |
| 370 Medical Oncology | 141 Restorative Surgery |
Don't forget to join our chief medical officer at Thursday's Ask Aly
Join us at 12pm on Thursday (10 March) for Ask Aly, hosted by our chief medical officer, Dr Alyson O'Donnell.
It's a great opportunity to ask questions, raise concerns or share your views. You can join the meeting here and if you'd like to send any questions in advance, pop them through to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.and we can ask on your behalf.
Support as the conflict in Ukraine continues
As the situation in Ukraine develops, we're working closely with NHS England South West as our regional lead in coordinating requests for medical supplies and assistance. This will help avoid creating disruption or duplication and ensure that the most needed supplies are prioritised.
The Charity Commission and Fundraising Regulator has urged the public to 'give safely' to registered charities as people make donations to help support and protect people affected by the invasion of Ukraine. The Disasters Emergency Committee, a coalition of 15 leading UK charities, has launched its collective appeal to provide emergency aid and rapid relief to civilians suffering during the conflict.
For all those concerned about the situation in Ukraine, please talk to your line manager, and remember that our wellbeing support services and staff networks are also available to support staff at these times. In addition, our employee assistance programme provider, Carefirst, can be contacted on 0800 174 319.
Our prayer spaces across our sites are open for prayer or meditation. Please come and write a message of hope and peace.
For further updates please check the intranet latest news.
Celebrating International Women's Day
Today is International Women's Day, and we would like to say a huge thank you to all the women across our hospitals who make a positive difference to our patients and to their colleagues every single day.
We will be shining a spotlight on three influential women from across UHD on our social media channels today, and in this month's edition of The Brief magazine, so take a moment to read their experiences of being part of #TeamUHD.
RBH: Possible reduced patient and staff menus this week
Our catering team is currently experiencing low staffing levels, which may lead to a reduced or changed patient and staff menu this week.
Menus may be changed at short notice, so please check in with our communications before mealtimes.
To help cover shifts in the kitchen the Oasis is not currently serving food or drinks, but the café is open for staff who wish to use it as a seating area.
We apologise for any inconvenience this may cause.
POOLE: Ensure that blinds are closed on wards this week
CRL Surveys are on-site to undertake a structural concrete survey on external parts of the main hospital.
There may be some noise as they drill samples of the concrete and privacy issues as they abseil down the building, so please could wards ensure that blinds are closed.
Our apologies for any disturbance caused.
RBH: Temporary closure of west wing entrance alongside Boots pharmacy this Friday
The entrance into the hospital alongside Boots will be temporarily closed on Friday morning (11 March) to allow for the scaffolding to be removed.
The entrance will be closed from 9am for approximately one hour. Visitors to be hospital will be directed to the nearest alternative entrance/exit, via the orthopaedic outpatients department.
We apologize for the inconvenience, contact This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. if you have any questions.
Changes to driving at work policy
We have aligned the driving at work policy. Please ensure that you read the policy if you drive as part of your role.
The definition of a 'driver at work' includes any person who drives a trust vehicle, their own vehicle or a hire or lease vehicle for trust work purposes (driving to meetings, sites, training venues in work time, on call and whilst on work business).
It doesn't include staff using their own vehicle to drive to and from work, unless they are travelling from their home to somewhere which is not their usual place of work.
More information can be found on the health and safety pages of the intranet. If you have any questions email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..
RBH: Dr Matt Baker, your new named doctor for safeguarding children
Dr Matt Baker will be taking on the important role of named doctor for safeguarding children on Bournemouth site. Matt has been one of our emergency medicine consultants for 13 years, and has been clinical lead for the emergency department throughout the pandemic.
Matt also has experience of multiagency working as the clinical governance advisor to Dorset, Devon and Cornwall Police Alliance, an Ofsted registered trustee, and chairperson at a local preschool. He is also regular course and medical director for our APLS courses.
He is looking forward to working with the teams to ensure children are kept safe through robust child safeguarding training and policies with good links to other agencies.
Apply for a registered nurse degree apprenticeship
Applications for the registered nurse degree apprenticeship with Our Dorset are open until next Monday (14 March). This is a brilliant opportunity to earn while you learn and gain your nursing registration.
To apply you must:
- be 18 or over
- have grade C/4 or above in GCSE English and mathematics or equivalent
- have 3 A-level's at grade C or above or equivalent, or level 3 study recognised to be sufficient for entry (this may include a full level 3 apprenticeship or access to higher education).
Applications are open to those who have previous experience and those who are new to healthcare. For more information and to apply click here.
RBH: Have you seen this scanner?
A Zebra TC51 scanner, last used in ITU, has not returned to the main theatre stores and is missing.
If you have the scanner, please email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or call ext 4339.
Thank you for supporting our infection control measures
The south west regional infection prevention and control network has shared a video of thanks, in recognition of the efforts that all staff have gone in promoting safe healthcare during the pandemic. You can watch it here.
Applications for NIHR ARC Wessex internship and research development awards are open
The NIHR Applied Research Collaborations (ARC) Wessex is offering a number of research awards to help build the next generation of health and social care researchers. This is a great opportunity to apply for Wessex internships for our whole multi-professional team.
To view the lists of awards and to apply click here.
Deadline for applications is 31 March.
Are you registered with the nursing and midwifery council or health and care professions council?
The education team has a series of study days and webinars you can use to develop your clinical, communication and professional skills. These are designed to support your continuing professional development and future career progression opportunities.
Browse the online courses and book your place here.
These courses are fully funded by Health Education England and are a great way to add value to your CV and prepare you for future roles.
Improve your coaching style with conversations workshops
Coaching conversations workshops provide you with an opportunity to develop your coaching style and confidence. The workshops are suitable for any member of staff who manages people or is involved in the development of others.
The sessions run from 9.30-11.30am on 15 March and 21 April.
Check the education and training pages of the intranet for more information and to book a place. If you have any further questions email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..
Twilight Walk for Women's Health returns on 6 May
Mark #InternationalWomensDay by to signing up to our Twilight Walk for Women's Health to support women's health projects across UHD.
This year's glitter-themed walk will take participants on a 5km route around Baiter recreation ground in Poole's stunning harbourside park.
This is not just a fundraising event but a celebration of the women in our community. So, gather a group of friends, family or colleagues to walk with you and invite your loved ones to cheer you across the finish line. You could even bring your four-legged friends along for a walk under the stars.
Tickets are £15 for adults and £8 for children (under 5's go free), and adults will receive their very own Twilight Walk t-shirt.
You can sign up here or in our charity offices or by calling ext 8449 or ext 4060.
Free staff bike maintenance next week
Bike Fixed will be returning next week to offer you a free bike tune up and will be on site at RBH on Tuesday (15 March), Poole on Wednesday (16 March) and XCH on Thursday (17 March).
If you suspect your bike may need replacement parts, Bike Fixed may be able to supply these, but they will incur a charge. If something is spotted which may need to be replaced, you will be advised about this at the time of the service.
A limited number of appointments between 9am-3pm are available on each day.
If you'd like your bike to be serviced, please email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..
Staff Bulletin 1 March 2022
Reminder on Covid restrictions including lateral flow tests and self-isolation
- We all need to continue to wear face masks in our hospitals, including visitors, and observe social distancing wherever possible
- If you have no symptoms of Covid-19, take lateral flow tests twice a week, and continue to log your results
- If identified as a contact of someone with confirmed Covid-19, self-isolate and take a PCR test. If positive, continue to self-isolate and take a lateral flow test on day six. You may return to work after risk assessment after two consecutive days of negative lateral flow tests after day six
- Lateral flow tests should be ordered here.
Please support our under-pressure teams
A number of teams and departments continue to experience significant staffing issues as a result of Covid-19, leading to some delays in service provision. This includes our pharmacy teams, who are currently offering a reduced priority service and encouraging medicine requests to be sent through as soon as possible each day, to avoid sudden spikes in demand.
Is your department on the move?
Remember to make the enquiry (reception) desks at our main entrances aware of any changes affecting your location so they can direct our visitors to the correct area. Also remember to let delivery drivers know exactly where you are in the building. The main entrance area cannot hold correspondence or parcels as they have no secure area to keep this.
Email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. with any updates.
Watch the film before your resus refresher training
Refresher resuscitation training has changed.
Staff must watch a 45 minute video and pass the online MCQ assessment otherwise staff will not be able to complete their training.
The two hour session training on basic life support (level 2 resus) training is now spilt into two elements; eLearning and a 30 minute face to face practical session.
Training has not changed at Poole or for new trust inductions and all sessions can be booked via ESR.
Last chance to apply for our registered nurse degree apprenticeships
This is the last chance to apply for our registered nurse degree apprenticeships, a great opportunity to earn while you learn and gain your nursing registration. Applications can still be made here and applications close on 6 March. A level 3 qualification, maths and English GCSE's or equivalent are needed.
More information can be found on the vocational qualifications pages under training on the intranet.
Reminder: support for those affected by the conflict in Ukraine
The secretary of state for health, Sajid Javid, has written a letter aimed at all Ukrainian health and social care staff living and working in the UK, outlining that those who are on work, study or visit visas in the UK will have their visas temporarily extended or be able to switch onto different visa routes.
- If you are concerned, please talk to your line manager, and remember that our wellbeing support services and staff networks are also available to support staff at these times. In addition, our employee assistance programme provider, Carefirst, can be contacted on 0800 174 319.
- Jonathan Harding, Helen Martin or Deb Matthews, from our OD/HR teams, can also be contacted directly.
Our prayer spaces across all our sites are open and tomorrow they will be available all day for prayer or meditation (Wednesday). There will be opportunities to write a message of hope and peace and to light a peace candle. At 12pm tomorrow all staff are welcome to join a short prayer service on each site, with the opportunity to join the service live on the trust's Facebook account.
For further updates on the prayer service and how we can support our colleagues please check the intranet latest news.
An exciting new sustainability programme is coming... and we need your help!
We're developing a new engagement programme that rewards colleagues for taking part in a range of sustainability and wellbeing related actions – and we're asking you to put forward suggestions for its name.
Working with colleagues across Dorset we're developing a new engagement programme that rewards colleagues for taking part in a range of sustainability and wellbeing related actions – and we're asking you to put forward suggestions for its name.
The initiative will have a number of sustainability and wellbeing themes where staff can check out activities they want to participate in and earn points for doing so, including:
- saving energy and water
- sustainable travel choices
- waste and recycling
- engagement and spread
- wellbeing and lifestyle
Teams will 'compete' against each other and individual staff can also play against their colleagues for 'Green Points' and rewards, which will include vouchers and donations to charities.
What can you do to help?
We are looking for a name that:
- is engaging, clear, logical and descriptive
- will stand the test of time
- preserves the existing overall positive regard for our organisation
UHD is leading on the naming process and putting forward a name is simple – just send your suggestion to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it., with 'Sustainability programme name' in the subject line. Please add your name and your role/organisation if you can.
Suggestions must be received by 7 March, following which the shortlisting panel (comprising of representatives from our sustainability champions and central team) will then make the final selection.
The name will be announced to coincide with programme launch in the Spring.
Thanks for your ideas and support.
RBH: Café West is here with special opening offer
The transformation of the west entrance and reception area at RBH has been completed with the opening this week of the new 'Café West' coffee shop (28 February). The new facility provides a range of hot and cold drinks alongside a selection of snacks and is currently open on weekdays between 8am and 3pm. Once the full team are in post the opening hours will be extended and the menu extended to add hot snacks, sandwiches and salads.
For a limited period to celebrate its opening for every coffee purchased customers will be offered a free snack (offer subject to availability).
Join gender identity awareness workshops
Our gender identity workshops will give LGBTQ+ and gender identity awareness training to attendees, enabling them to discuss and understand the complex issues around gender in an interactive and thought provoking way.
To find out more click here.
Staff Bulletin 4 March 2022
A single PAS for UHD is imminent – here's what you need to do
A single patient administration system (PAS) for the whole of UHD brings a range of benefits, including the creation of single waiting lists, single patient records and simpler cross-site transfers. Here's what you need to do now ahead of its arrival in the coming weeks:
- Managers – if you have not received new access details for your current Poole CaMIS users, please contact This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. to provide details of relevant staff.
- Poole CaMIS users – please speak to your line manager to ensure they have received your new log-in details for when your service goes live
- New users – please go through the usual training process to get access
- RBH and XCH users - will already have access to the shared system when it comes online
For more on the project please see the PAS pages of the UHD intranet.
End of current staff vaccinations programme
Over the past two years, we've vaccinated thousands of UHD staff – more than 92 per cent of you – with at least two Covid-19 vaccination doses. We've also administered the vaccine to many thousands of our partners working in health and social care in Dorset, as well as the public.
This week marked the end of our current Covid-19 and flu vaccination programme. Thank you to all the staff and volunteers who have made our programme a great success, and helped protect not only colleagues but crucially, our vulnerable patients, against the virus. Look out for news about furthers staff vaccination programmes, currently scheduled for the autumn, in the Staff Bulletin, The Brief and other internal communications.
Click here to book Covid-19 vaccinations outside of our hospitals, which remain available through the national booking service.
Understanding Covid-19 and its effects on staff
As part of our work to fully understand the impact that the Covid-19 pandemic has had on staff, our occupational health team would like to hear from those who have recorded a positive PCR Covid-19 swab test result at any time during the pandemic.
Your answers to a short survey will help us better understand the pandemic's effect on our staff, and identify any areas that we can learn from. This includes helping us better assess whether staff contracted Covid-19 as a result of their work and if any protocols, policies or practices need to be reviewed.
The survey is part of our commitment to RIDDOR (Reporting of Injuries, Diseases and Dangerous Occurrences Regulations 2013) and takes just a few minutes to complete. Complete it online here by 14 April.
Ask Aly, our chief medical officer, your questions next Thursday
Join us at 12pm next Thursday (10 March) for Ask Aly, hosted by our chief medical officer, Dr Alyson O'Donnell.
It's a great opportunity to ask questions, raise concerns or share your views. You can join the meeting here and if you'd like to send any questions in advance, pop them through to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. and we can ask on your behalf.
RBH: Pathology result delays this evening
There will be delays to biochemistry results from 8pm tonight to 8am tomorrow (4-5 March), as samples will be transported from RBH to Poole for analysis.
There is no anticipated interruption of service, but there will be a slight delay to cover the time of the specimen transport between sites.
Please ensure all samples are sent to the lab promptly to avoid unnecessary extension to the overall turnaround time.
Thank you to our overseas workers!
Today is NHS Overseas Workers Day, which gives us all the opportunity to celebrate the contributions of our international staff, and the huge difference they make to our patient care, and to the diverse culture of UHD. We would like to say a huge thank you to all of our overseas colleagues for everything they do for our hospitals.
You can learn more about two of our international staff on our social media today. Read a quote from Elemar Lubrica, AMU acting deputy sister, here and watch Pabalelo Pule, staff nurse, share his experience here.
Reminder: an exciting new sustainability programme is coming... and we need your help!
We're developing a new engagement programme that rewards colleagues for taking part in a range of sustainability and wellbeing related actions – and we're asking you to put forward suggestions for its name.
Working with colleagues across Dorset, the initiative will have a number of sustainability and wellbeing themes, to enable staff to find out about activities they may want to participate in, and earn points for doing so. Find out more about the programme and how you can get involved here. The deadline to put forward suggestions is 7 March.
It's time to update your computer
To ensure our Windows PCs and laptops are kept up to date all Windows 10 devices across the trust need a large update installed, which each of us will need to activate on our own devices. This update will take approximately 30 minutes and your device will need to restart.
You can find out which version of Windows 10 you are using by clicking on the start button (bottom left-hand corner), typing 'about' and clicking on 'about your PC'. This shows the version under Windows specification, and if it states 'Windows 10 Enterprise, version 1909' please complete the update.
The update can be found in the software centre/update section which can be located on your desktop or via the start menu. Follow the below steps to complete the installation and plan the reboot of your machine - taking into consideration the longer process and ensuring you do not power off the device whilst it is updating.
Please contact the IT Service Desk if you have any problems.
Contribute to our Covid-19 service of reflection, part of national events
We will be holding special services across our hospitals from 11.45am on 23 March to reflect on the pandemic and to remember the family, friends, neighbours and colleagues we've lost.
The simultaneous services at Christchurch, Poole and the Royal Bournemouth will be led by our chaplains and include the observation of a minute's silence at 12pm. You are welcome to bring your own ribbon and tie it to one of our ribbon trees on the day.
We are looking for staff members or volunteers to read one of the poems on each site on the day – if you're interested, please email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..
You can join our services in person or watch them via our social media channels.
- XCH: at the front of Christchurch Hospital
- Poole: on the lawn behind Churchfield House
- RBH: by the lake
POOLE: Fire alarm testing next week
Next week (7-11 Match) there will be fire alarm sounder testing across the hospital.
Monday morning: B6 offices, penthouse suites, wards A4 and A5, underpass, ladybird unit, breast screening unit
Monday afternoon: ward C4, F3 theatre staff area
Tuesday morning: F2 theatres, ward A2 and A3
Tuesday afternoon: ward B2, B2 coronary care, D block
Wednesday morning: C1 children's unit, C1 admin and switchboard, ward B1, B1 respiratory, Bravery Way, EB radiotherapy, EB oncology/haematology
Wednesday afternoon: F1 Labs and management corridor, ward A1, B block basement
Thursday morning: EG maxiofacial, EG day theatres, emergency department, CT scanner, ultrasound, north entrance, x-ray, outpatients clinics, new pre op area
Thursday afternoon: FG labs, urgent treatment centre, AG Ward (AMU), restaurant, kitchens
Friday morning: aseptic suite, pharmacy/dispensary, nuclear medicine, dome areas
Friday afternoon: physiotherapy, equipment library, hospedia, A block lower ground floor, F block lower ground floor
RBH: Limited acute kidney injury (AKI) service this month
Our AKI nurse is on annual leave from March 7-28, and there will be no AKI service across our sites during this time.
If you need advice, please contact our Poole site nurse lead This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.ext 2044 or the Prince of Wales ward at Dorset County Hospital on 01305255139 and ask for the on call registrar.
'Understanding endometriosis' talk postponed
Unfortunately, the Understanding Health talk on endometriosis that was scheduled for Monday (7 March) has been postponed.
We will share the rescheduled date as soon as it has been rearranged.
Stay vigilant on cyber-security
Please continue to be vigilant around IT security – for example unusual requests for information by email, messages with unexpected attachments you are not expecting that you are invited to download, messages containing links you do not recognise – to ensure our IT systems remain as robust as possible.
See the IT security section of the intranet for more information, or contact the IT helpdesk for more advice.
Did you miss Dorset's 'adding value with patient initiated follow-up' webinar?
If you missed the webinar on patient initiated follow-up (PIFU) with Professor Alastair Hutchison, chief medical director at Dorset County Hospital, you can catch up here. This is a private link please only share with Dorset ICS colleagues.
This webinar covers how PIFU is being used locally and nationally to support reduction in follow-up waiting lists and as an effective tool for elective recovery.
The intention is for formal patient-initiated follow-up to be reviewed and implemented across all outpatient specialties over the coming months in Dorset. This process will be fully supported by the team within Dorset's outpatient transformation programme, and we ask you to begin to look with your teams at how PIFU will add value within your service.
Our lead contact for implementation is This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..
Limited dementia and delirium cover
RBH: there will be no specialist dementia and delirium nurse available on 8 and 11 March and very limited cover on 7, 9 and 10 March. Referrals will be prioritised, so please expect delays in reviews and new assessments.
Poole: there will be no dementia service from 9-16 March and 22-25 March, so please expect delays with response to referrals.
RBH: Improving dermatology referrals
We're keen to improve our dermatology inpatient referral pathway from Bournemouth to Christchurch Hospital.
If you use the referral pathway, please complete this one-minute survey to help us understand and improve the current practice.
RBH: Corridor flooring renewal
From Monday (7 March) a month of flooring renewal work will take place on the first floor, west corridor.
The work will begin between wards 14 and 15 (glazed section of corridor) an will be carried out at night from Monday to Friday. During this time there will be no access to the area, so please follow the directions to the stairwells.
The estates department apologise for any inconvenience caused during these works.
Reminder: PCA cassettes at critically low level
Prefilled morphine cassettes are still available to order through pharmacy so consider if there is a clinical reason to have an alternative. In the event we run out of cassettes completely and a patient requires IV analgesia, this will need to be prescribed and given as IV bolus doses titrated to pain.
Please could all stores and stocks be checked for any cassettes that may be unaccounted for.
Join Rachel Ellison on Teams this International Women's Day (IWD)
This IWD (8 March) former BBC news reporter, Rachel Ellison, will be discussing 'dilemmas and choices – what one female leader did when a day at work went drastically wrong'.
Rachel will share the story of a female leader posted to work in a volatile region while working for an international non-governmental development aid organisation. Through breakout sessions and general group discussions, participants will be invited to explore the situation and share their thoughts.
The event runs on Teams on March 8 from 12-1.30pm. Click here to join.
The countdown is on - make a staff lottery bid to benefit your team
Time is running out to place your staff lottery bid for something that could benefit the wellbeing of your team or department.
This is a great opportunity to promote your team or departments wellbeing, and to think of what extra support could really benefit you and your colleagues. Bids should be made for resources that are not available for funding through any other route.
To find out more and make your bid check the staff lottery pages by 31 March.
Spaces available at 'leading teams through change' workshops
Are you leading a team through change? There are spaces available on our leadership development workshops. These workshops will help you to gain knowledge on leading through times of uncertainty and network with other leaders across UHD.
Check the leaership development pages on the RBCH intranet for more information and workshop dates.
Are you taking part in March for Men 2022?
Instead of handing out their usual race numbers this year UHD charity would like you to write your reason for taking part on your bib. These personal touches will show just how many important, unique, reasons there are to raise funds for men's health services.
Whatever your reason for taking part, share your March for Men motivation – sign up here to take part, receive your bib and March for Men t-shirt.
Staff Bulletin 25 February 2022
Supporting patients and their mental health
Join a face-to-face session with our education team to gain a better understanding of mental health conditions, where they come from, and how to support our patients.
The session can be combined with breakaway conflict resolution training (see below) for a full-day course. Dates for classes can be found on the education and training pages of the intranet.
To book a space search '153 UHD mental health training' in ESS or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. (Poole) or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. (RBH).
Learn how to de-escalate situations
Breakaway training is useful when working in high risk areas for learning how to de-escalate verbally aggressive situations.
Staff will learn breakaway techniques, allowing them to extricate themselves from violent or dangerous situations and learn how to apply safe-holding techniques in the event that a patient becomes a danger to themselves or others. Specific areas covered include personal safety, verbal and non-verbal techniques, room awareness, ethical and legal considerations, and how to respond to physical attacks.
See the education and training pages on the intranet for more information or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. (Poole) or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. (RBH).
PCA cassettes at critically low level
Nationally there is a critically low level of PCA cassettes, this is affecting UHD and we are waiting to hear of a delivery date from the suppliers. Our acute pain service has tried to divide the supplies that are remaining so be mindful and share if another ward requires one for a patient.
Prefilled morphine cassettes are still available to order through pharmacy so consider if there is a clinical reason to have an alternative. In the event we run out of cassettes completely and a patient requires IV analgesia, this will need to be prescribed and given as IV bolus doses titrated to pain.
Please could all stores and stocks be checked for any cassettes that may be unaccounted for.
POOLE: Safeguarding training
Safeguarding Children Level 3 (SGCL3) will go live on the BEAT VLE for Poole staff on 1 March. Please note SGCL3 is not a new topic, if your training is up to date your brain will be green, if need to revisit the brain will be red.
The training can be completed with face to face training or eLearning. Further booking details are available by clicking on the appropriate line on your BEAT VLE.
Support for those affected by the conflict in Ukraine
We know that major events around the world, such as those currently unfolding in Ukraine, can affect us all, and particularly those with family, friends or connections in the areas affected. These events are a timely reminder of the need to look out for one another.
Please raise any concerns or anxieties you may have with your line manager, and remember that our wellbeing support services and staff networks are also available to support staff at these times. In addition, our employee assistance programme provider, Carefirst, can be contacted on 0800 174 319.
Jonathan Harding, Helen Martin or Deb Matthews, from our OD/HR teams, can also be contacted directly.
Our prayer spaces are also open for you to take comfort or have a moment of reflection.
New digital maternity system and app
From Monday (28 February), we will have access to Badger Net, a product and service designed for Dorset Local Maternity System (LMS) to enable paper-light records and minimise data entry.
Badger Notes will provide expecting parents personalised care throughout their maternity journey. Read more here.
If you would like to find out more, please contact the maternity digital team at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..
POOLE: Reminder - fire extinguisher update
A changeover for fire extinguishers will begin on Monday (28 February) and will take three weeks to complete. Our suppliers will remove all existing fire extinguishers and replace with new ones. The new P50 fire extinguisher is multipurpose and can be used on all of the types of fires that the CO2 and foam fire extinguishers are used for.
The new extinguishers are extremely environmentally friendly and will represent significant cost savings to the Trust.
Any queries, please contact fire advisor This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..
LGBT+ History Month round-up
Thank you to everyone who has joined us in celebrating LGBT+ history month. From attending our poetry session with the LGBT+ poet laureate, Trudy Howson, to making pledges to show allyship by wearing a rainbow lanyard and badge, it has been brilliant to see some many members of #TeamUHD following our values of listening to understand, and being inclusive.
We have now added the option to include gender pronouns in our official UHD email signature template, which many of us already do. Using our pronouns in our signatures tells everyone that you are not going to assume their gender and that you care about individual preferences. If you would like to learn more about gender pronouns, click here.
Challenge yourself to your marathon your way for UHD Charity
The TCS Virtual London Marathon will return on 2 October and UHD Charity are offering you the chance to be a part of what promises to be another recording breaking day!
Last year our participants raised almost £7,000 for our hospitals, taking on routes all over our beautiful county. Whether you’re a rambler or runner this challenge gives you the opportunity to do your marathon your way.
The Virtual London Marathon is a celebration of fabulous fundraising, community spirit, positivity, and togetherness for people who want the flexibility and freedom of running wherever they are.
Participants will have just under 24 hours to complete the 26.2 miles and all finishers will receive the coveted medal and t-shirt. There is a registration fee of £28 and minimum sponsorship target of £250.
Sign up today to claim one of our limited charity places.
Discounted sailing opportunities for UHD staff
The Rona Sailing Project charity in Southampton is offering discounts to UHD staff for sailing experiences running out of the port. To find out more contact the RSP office on 01489 885098, or visit their website here.
It is the responsibility of individual staff members to ensure offers are still valid and to check individual terms and conditions. The trust does not endorse or vet these offers.
