Hello everyone – scorchio!!
Well it seems that we may be about to take more, tentative steps towards significant easing of ‘lockdown’. How exciting that we will soon be able to meet with some (up to 5) friends and family; shop for something other than food; move around for more than exercise. All of these are of course, still subject to restrictions, but hey! more freedom than we’ve been used to lately.
However some restrictions and changes are, I am afraid, here to stay for some time yet. For example, our hospital will remain closed to visitors save for the current exceptions; we’ll continue to have many more remote meetings using things like ‘Teams’, and ‘Zoom’ and working from home will become much more ‘normal’. And there are so many additional, societal positives that have come about as a result – have you noticed how much bluer the sky is? the number and brightness of the stars at night? how much quicker journey times are?? I certainly hope that we will continue to respond flexibly to requirements, find new ways of working, and hold on to the innovations we’ve introduced. Throughout all of this, there has been a whole myriad of difficulties, none of which we have failed to face. Throughout, we have witnessed and received the thanks and appreciation of our community either through the increased donations to and fundraising for our charity, the weekly clap or the support of local businesses. Throughout all of this, the dedication and compassion of our staff – all of them – has been constant. I hope you all know that I am incredibly proud of, and grateful to, each and every one of you.
I love it when I get the opportunity to shine a light on particular teams or individuals (and please note, I cannot possibly or feasibly do this as much I’d like to). Next week is Dietitians Week 2020 – an annual celebration focussing on #WhatDietitiansDo so I’d like to single our this small, but highly effective team for some attention. They make a massive difference to patients – and their friends and families - and are a really important part of the Trust team. So, big shout out to you all, and thank you for your input! More information about Dietitians Week is available here.
Antibody testing is now available for staff. This is the test that will tell you whether or not you have had Covid-19. Staff can book a test by filling in the form on our internal sharepoint site. This is a long awaited and important development. Staff can also access a test to determine if they have Covid-19 – this has been in place for some time.
Finally, I’d just like to wish you all a great weekend. It looks like the weather will continue to be beautiful, so enjoy. If you are working, as ever, a massive thank you.
Take care, until next time…
Kevin