Congratulations in order – Health Service Journal Awards shortlist announced 

The Health Service Journal (HSJ) have announced the finalists for their annual national awards. And two teams at the Royal Berkshire NHS Foundation Trust are featured. Our Elderly Care Department are finalists in the Patient Safety category, and our Occupational Health and Wellbeing Team finalists in the Staff Wellbeing category.

The Elderly Care Department have been shortlisted for their ‘Mind the HAP’ initiative, looking at practical ways to reduce the risk of Hospital Acquired Pneumonia on our Elderly Care wards. By making some small changes to how patients are positioned in bed, and deepening understanding of the importance of mouth care during a hospital stay, instances of Hospital Acquired Pneumonia have consistently reduced.

And the Occupational Health and Wellbeing Team have been shortlisted for the full range of support they provide at the Oasis Staff Health and Wellbeing Centre. The aim of the Centre is to support the physical and mental wellbeing of the more than 7,000 staff and volunteers who work at the Trust. Whether that’s through a walk around the garden, exercise in the gym, or just peace and space in one of the Quiet Rooms, or through services provided at the centre, for example health checks, all facilities are free for all staff and volunteers to use. With more than 55,000 visits since it opened its doors just under two years ago, it's a hugely valued resource. 

With more than 1,350 entries across all categories, it’s a great achievement to have made the final shortlist, and brilliant that we have initiatives at the Trust that are being recognised for the benefits they make to patients and colleagues. And we’re keeping our fingers crossed until the awards ceremony itself at the end of November.