Beast from the East is no match for our staff

As we come to the end of a very challenging (and cold) week, on behalf of the Board, we want to extend our deepest gratitude to our staff; not just our frontline clinical staff, but those who provide support behind the scenes to keep services running.

We have been in awe of how you have braved the elements to make sure patients continue to receive the care they need and deserve.  Your dedication, commitment and concern for patients is inspirational.

We know just how difficult it has been for many of you to travel from a to b; particularly those who live or work in more remote locations.

There have been some amazing examples of staff going above and beyond.  We have heard how some mental health ward staff stayed over at work, to make sure they could cover their next shift.  Other staff have worked a longer shift to cover for colleagues who were running late due to the weather.

We have seen photos of community staff knee deep in snow, but keeping their spirits up by sharing amusing anecdotes about slipping and sliding into snow drifts.  We have heard stories about staff abandoning their cars and walking miles to make sure they reached their next patient.   

Our estates staff have been working hard to keep our health centres and office bases safe; no doubt many of you will be sporting aching muscles from all the grit and snow that has been shovelled.  

What is apparent from all of these stories, along with feedback from managers, is what absolute heroes you all are.  This is true all year around, but your tenacity is even more evident when faced with a difficult situation.  

Your fantastic work was noted by the Board during this week’s meeting and has been formally noted in the minutes.  The Manchester Evening News has also been in touch with our Communications Team for some stories and photos.  Click here to read the article.  We've also been approach by Key 103 and Heart FM.

You should be hugely proud of yourselves – the Beast from the East is no match for you!

In view of all this great work, it seems quite appropriate that nominations for our CARES Awards 2018 open on Monday (5 March).  These are an opportunity to recognise and celebrate our services, teams and individuals who uphold our CARES values and to share learning and best practice across the Trust.

Look out for more information on Monday.  We’ve no doubt there will be many inspirational entries.

Finally, while the snow and ice continues, please stay safe and take care of yourself and others.  You can find lots of advice on the Trust website at www.penninecare.nhs.uk/staywell 

Take care and thank you again.

Claire Molloy
Chief Executive 

Evelyn Asante-Mensah OBE
Chair