Recognition for health commissioner staff

The hard work and dedication of NHS workers was recognised recently when employees of NHS West Suffolk CCG and NHS Ipswich and East Suffolk CCG held their annual staff awards.

The ceremony was the focal point of the two CCGs’ joint ‘Staff Away Day’ event at the University of Suffolk’s Waterfront Campus

Awards were presented for ‘Working in partnership’, ‘Innovation’, ‘Making a difference to patients and the public’, ‘Living the CCGs’ values’, ‘Star behind the scenes’ and ‘Patient Participation Champion’.

More than 100 nominations were received for staff members across both CCGs.

Older people often experience a reduced sensation of thirst, meaning they don’t realize they need a drink. This particularly affects those with Alzheimer’s disease or those who have suffered a stroke. Some medicines such as diuretics and laxatives may increase the likelihood of dehydration and those who are incontinent might limit their fluid intake.

Family members and carers are encouraged to be aware of the symptoms of dehydration which include sluggishness, confusion, dizziness and dark urine. Around 20% of water in the average diet comes from food and the remaining 80% comes from drinks, so it’s important that older people have a regular intake of fluids. The recommendation is to drink six to eight cups of fluid each day, which includes fruit juice, tea and coffee, milky drinks and water.

Older people should consider having a drink at specific times during the day, whether or not they feel thirsty, to make sure they don’t become dehydrated. If you look after an older person don’t rely on asking them whether they are thirsty, instead encourage them to take a drink at regular intervals. Wet foods like jelly, blancmange and soup are also a good source of water.

Ensuring good hydration not only prevents falls, it also improves the mood, stimulates the appetite and reduces restlessness and disrupted sleep patterns.

An independent examination of leadership and governance at the region’s ambulance trust has been welcomed.

Labelling the chief executive Robert Morton as “visionary and compassionate”, the independent review conducted by Deloitte looked at how senior leaders worked together and its business processes.

The comprehensive review included interviews, focus groups and surveys along with desk research and meeting observation. It involved internal and external stakeholders from across the organisation and across the region. Almost 1,000 staff participated in the engagement process.

Chair Sarah Boulton said: “This has been an extremely worthwhile exercise, and the report and its findings will inform our future strategies and plans to provide an excellent service."

The Ministry of Defence has announced that the East of England Ambulance Service has gained the Employer Recognition Scheme (ERS) Gold Award for showing outstanding support for its Armed Forces staff.

The service is one of 50 winners this year to receive this prestigious award, given to organisations who have signed the Armed Forces Covenant and have demonstrated outstanding support for those who serve and have served in the Armed Forces. It is the third ambulance trust to receive this award, and last year only 10 NHS Trusts were given the award.