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The Step Inside Dementia course is skills-based training suitable for anyone who would like to improve their knowledge and understanding of dementia.
- Can you help with Restart a Heart Day 2019?
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Restart a Heart Day will be held on 16th October. Are you interested in volunteering this year?
- Information Governance: Themes from incidents
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Looking at our incident themes alongside national figures reported by the Information Commissioners Office.
- Trust Board Head of Governance- Emma De-Carteret
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This weeks leadership message is from the new Trust Board Head of Governance, Emma De-Carteret
- Last few days to take part - have you fed back yet?
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Help us understand how you want to be communicated with by taking our quick survey!
- What is Records Management?
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Do you have any questions about records management? We are holding a series of Information Governance Workshops where staff will be available to answer all of your queries.
- New series: Learning From Incident events
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A reminder to clinical staff that, following on the successful pilot event last year, the Trust is holding a series of evening ‘Learning From Incidents’ events across the region.
- Book your place: e-Advanced Life Support (eALS) Course
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Places are now available for staff on an e-Advanced Life Support (eALS) course at the UEA in March.
- Reporting medical device failures on DATIX and new red faulty tags
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An updated SOP (MD03) on the correct reporting of medical devices failures has been issued.
- Survey: How should we communicate with you?
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Your communication and engagement team would like your feedback on how we communicate with you here at EEAST.
- Clinical Update: Corpuls monitor issue
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Clinical update relating to Corpuls monitor issues.
- New EEAST podcast: NEWS2
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Listen to this special edition EEAST Podcast, covering NEW2, and what it means for the Trust
- January PEd of the month announced
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Who has won January’s Practice Educator of the month?
- Winter OT incentive- Jan 14th to Feb 3rd
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A further overtime incentive period has been agreed by the Trust Executive, and will run from Monday 14th January to Sunday 3rd February 2019.
- Sizewell Stage Three Consultation
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EDF Energy began the second stage of a public consultation into a new nuclear power station at Sizewell in Suffolk.
- Mental Health Booklets – now available on the CFR site
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The Trust’s ‘introduction to understanding mental health conditions’ booklet is now available to download for our community first responders (CFRs).
- CPD opportunity: Free Intraosseous and Airway Management lab course at the University Hospital Coventry
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Places available on workshop to empower practitioners with using the Arrow EZ-10 intraosseous access and airway management strategies
- Updates from Recruitment incl new vacancies and expressions of interest - 2nd January 2019
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View the latest updates from the recruitment team including new vacancies.
- Reminder: Completing values on DATIX
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- Christmas leadership message from Dorothy Hosein
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This week's leadership message is a special video message from Chief Executive, Dorothy Hosien
- Expenses for students – accommodation and travel
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This is a joint message from the Trust and from UNISON regarding expenses for students.
- Patient safety Alert: Placement of pulse oximeter probes
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NHSI has issued a patient safety alert to all NHS Trusts regarding the risk of harm from inappropriate placement of pulse oximeter probes.
- A merry Christmas to our NTK readers!
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- People and Vehicle Hub Norfolk Trial
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New People and Vehicle Support Hub trial starting 21 December 2018 for Norfolk crews.
- Sharing information under the Data Protection Act
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- First PEd of the month announced
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- New breathlessness and diabetic sections on MiDoS
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The MiDoS team have been working with the CCG Directory of Services teams to add new services to MiDoS
- Double uniform news
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Updates on polo shirts and Keela jackets
- Latest leadership message from Dorothy Hosein, interim CEO
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- Take Mind’s survey on mental health in 999 teams now
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Mind’s Blue Light Programme want to understand the current experiences of staff and volunteers within ambulance services
- Cambridge University Hospitals goes live with the ReSPECT process
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Cambridge University Hospitals adopts the ReSPECT process from the 5th December.
- Joint statement from the Trust and UNISON Relief Policy
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The Trust and UNISON have worked in partnership to finalise a Relief Policy.
- Updates from Recruitment incl new vacancies
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View the latest updates from the recruitment team including new vacancies.
- International Volunteers Day
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We want to say thank you to all of our volunteers on International Volunteers Day.
- Blue light Christmas carols
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Blue light carol service on 13th December
- Essex Chief Constable commends EEAST paramedic
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South West Essex paramedic receives commendation from Essex Police
- Digital radio/Airwave terminal refresh
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The bi-annual radio audit of Airwave terminals is about to begin.
- Apprentice EMT role - Change to the recruitment process and criteria
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A new advert will be going live on NHS Jobs for the apprentice emergency medical technician role.
- Reminder: New starters payroll paperwork
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A reminder regarding new starters and payroll guidance including forthcoming cut-off dates.
- Reminder: Christmas pay date
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Reminder of December's pay date and cut off date.
- Concept vehicles: the new ambulances set to hit the road
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The new ambulances set to hit the road
- Latest leadership message from Dorothy Hosein, interim CEO
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- Exercise Medical Stretch
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Army leadership course available in January
- Experiencing Internet issues
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An update from the IM&T team regarding the problems some users have experienced in the last few weeks with the Internet.
- We've had our say, have you?
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Don't miss the chance to have your say. Deadline Friday 30th November.
- Latest flu clinic dates
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This weeks' list of flu clinics taking place across the Trust.
- Putting HART into Christmas
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HART paramedic Dave is collecting toys for Addenbrooks Hospital
- PEd of the month
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Thank a Practice Educator/Mentor for their work
- Check your automatic emails
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Auto forwarding of emails will stop soon
- Public drive switch off is soon
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The P:Drive will be inaccessible from 21st December
- Sad passing of Simon Eatherton
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The Trust is sad to announce the death of retired staff member Simon Eatherton after a long fight with cancer.
- Next LGBT+ network meeting
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The next LGBT+ network meeting will take place on Monday, 10th December .
- LGBT+ Chair applications open
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Interested in becoming the next LGBT+ Network Chair for the Trust?
- Organisational Development Matters bulletin
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Find out about Novembers's issue of Organisational Development Matters!
- Let's get clinical with critical care
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The latest opportunity with EHAAT for your CPD
- Overtime Incentives to Provide Optimal Patient Care
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Overtime incentives are available over winter
- Reflections on Autumn with Sarah Massie
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- Mental Health Day Conference - Mental Health: Me & You
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Book your place for this conference to explore issues pertinent to mental health care.
- Information Governance and the Legal Services Team
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- Southend Hospital Improvement work
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Improvement work at Southend Hospital to impact on ambulance/RESUS entrance.
- Updates from Recruitment incl new vacancies
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View the latest updates from the recruitment team including new vacancies.
- Service Delivery Structure: New terminology
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With the new Service Delivery structure comes some new terminology.
- EOC adopting new support in times of need
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- I've received a reminder email, is it really anonymous?
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Yes it is. The Trust does not have access to the questionnaires or to any linked personal data.
- Call HART for Carfentanil incidents
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New opioid requires specialist PPE
- Updated national REAP
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Updated REAP goes live 1st November
- New Sickness Absence Management policy
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Read more about the new Sickness Absence Management policy developed in partnership with Unison
- Talk to the CQC inspector
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The CQC is holding focus groups with EEAST staff on 23rd November.
- Clare volunteers at this year’s Tower of London remembrance display
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Clare Bethell based at Chelmsford station will volunteer at ‘Beyond the Deepening Shadow: The Tower Remembers’ to commemorate the centenary of the end of the First World War.
- Recruitment team and new starters payroll paperwork
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New starter and payroll guidance.
- Trialling and procurement of new medical devices
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A reminder of the correct Trust processes for trialling and procurement of medical devices.
- New interim Chief Executive joins the Trust
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We're very pleased to share the news today that we are welcoming Dorothy Hosein to the Trust.
- Latest leadership message from Dr Tom Davis
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This week's leadership message is from Dr Tom Davis, Medical Director
- Wellbeing and Personal Development Passport launches
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Earn up to £250 towards your own personal, professional or wellbeing development.
- Rock your socks for charity!
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Take part this Friday for Children in Need and The Ambulance Service Charity (TASC).
- Updates from Recruitment incl new vacancies
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View the latest updates from the recruitment team including new vacancies.
- Latest flu clinic dates
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This weeks' list of flu clinics taking place across the Trust.
- Clinical support available and 111 Out of Hours
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As part of our closer working partnerships with 111 providers, we are giving feedback to patient-facing colleagues to help improve the quality of our interactions
- Are you interested in a clinical academic career?
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Find out more about an opportunity for Masters to PhD Bridging Awards (MaPBA) in 2019/20 for graduate NHS non-medical clinicians.
- Christmas pay date
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It may still seem a while off until Christmas (56 days) but the Christmas pay day has been announced.
- Mental Health Act FAQs
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A list of FAQs centred around Section 136 and 135 of the Mental Health Act has been put together.
- Don’t miss the chance to have your say
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- Who's who in the Ops restructure
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See the updated chart of roles in the new Operations structure
- New ‘salary sacrifice’ schemes go live
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Choose a two- or four-wheel commute with benefits
- This weeks leadership message from Heather Madden
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- Compassionate Conversations: New Training Dates Available
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New training dates released for the Compassionate Conversations appraisal process.
- Clocks to go back this weekend
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This weekend the clocks go back an hour to signal the end of British Summer Time.
- This week's flu clinic dates
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This weeks' list of flu clinics taking place across the Trust.
- Your special contributions honoured
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Thank you to everyone who was able to attend Wednesday evening’s awards ceremony.
- Recruiting an interim CEO
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Update on interim CEO recruitment
- Ops Instruction: Rapid Handover Protocol
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Updated instruction for rapid handover protocol
- This weeks leadership message from Sarah Boulton
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- RIDDOR - Reporting of Injuries, Diseases and Dangerous Occurrences Regulations 2013
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RIDDOR Mandatory Training package is now available.
- Recruiting at the Emergency Services Show
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Last month the Trust exhibited at the annual Emergency Services Show (ESS) in Birmingham.
- Flu clinic dates - coming soon
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This weeks' list of flu clinics taking place across the Trust.
- Thousands of school children learn how to save a life
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More than 7,300 children in the east of England have learnt how to perform a crucial life-saving skill as part of Restart a Heart Day.
- Updates from Recruitment incl new vacancies
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View the latest updates from the recruitment team including new vacancies.
- The ‘Big Sing’ in Colchester
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Celebrations for NHS70 are continuing with a 'Big Sing' Festive event.
- Clinical Briefing Day Podcast now live!
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Our pilot podcast is now available on SoundCloud! Check it out here
- UK Student Paramedic Conference 2018
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The UK Student Paramedic Conference is back for 2018.
- Paramedic Clinical Research Unit (ParaCRU)
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Invitation to the launch of the new research unit in the School of Health & Social Work at the University of Hertfordshire
- Further flu clinic dates taking place
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Find out where you can get your flu jab this week.
- Secondment Opportunity – Make Ready Services Manager
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The operations support team have a secondment opportunity for someone to lead the roll-out of make ready existing sites.
- The latest leadership message: Kevin Brown
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- EpiPen and EpiPen Junior
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- Tourist is living la dolce vita thanks to life-saving interventions
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Kendal and Debbie save an Italian tourist who collapsed unconscious and stopped breathing at Stansted Airport.
- Over 25% are now vaccinated against flu
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Over 25% of you are vaccinated and stopping the spread of flu. It's not too late to get yours.
- Take the Challenge!
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- Get the facts, get the jab!
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Take 4 minutes and watch this fact checking flu video
- Maternity/unborn baby alerts received from Safeguarding Services
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The maternity/unborn baby safeguarding alerts process is to ensure the health system can raise concerns about individuals/families.
- REAppropriate: Research update
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Key findings and recommendations following the research project, REAppropriate.
- See you at the Clinical Briefing Day
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Look at the stands on display at the briefing days
- The latest leadership message: Lindsey Stafford-Scott
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- The partnership forum, TU agreement, and BBR
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A joint statement regarding the staff partnership forum, Trade Union agreement, and Building Better Rotas.
- QI one day course in London
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A one day Quality Improvement course is being held in London in November
- Building Better Rotas: change to voting dates
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- Could you take part in Restart a Heart Day?
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We're looking for staff or volunteers to help deliver Restart A Heart Day training in Essex and Herts locations.
- Message from Kevin Brown
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- Playing our part to bring the expert help into patients’ own homes
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Specially-trained paramedics have started a pioneering initiative this week supporting patients with suspected stroke.
- Get involved in Humans Of EEAST
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We're looking for more people to take part in #HumansOfEEAST
- More flu clinic dates for your diary
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Find out where you can get your flu jab this week.
- CFR welfare: It matters and you can help
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Crews should contact EOC if they think a CFR needs a welfare check
- And the Unsung Hero Award goes to…. Esther!
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Paramedic is officially ‘marvel’-lous after taking home an award at NHS ceremony.
- Flu jabs - We’re listening…
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Changes to the flu jab incentive for staff
- World Mental Health Day
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Next Wednesday (10th October) is World Mental Health Day.
- National Staff Survey – Check your inbox
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The NHS staff survey is now open!
- This weeks Leadership message is from Robert Morton, Chief Executive
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This week's leadership message from Chief Exec, Robert Morton
- Emergency Helicopter Medics filming dates
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Tern TV are continuing to film the new documentary series. Here are the upcoming dates for filming
- Book your place on a new development workshop
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Do you want to improve your leadership skills?
- 105 not out! Bedfordshire colleagues rack up more than a century of service
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Three members of staff have collectively provided a total 105 years of service
- Dates for your diary - Flu clinics
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Find out where you can get your flu jab this week.
- Vehicle cleaning changes
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New vehicle cleaning protocols are coming in from 1st October
- Kevin Brown on C1 responding
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Kevin Brown sets the record straight on responding to C1 incidents while transporting a patient.
- Training needs analysis - Band 6 paramedics
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As part of the national band 6 pay agreement for paramedics a new national job description has been produced.
- New! Our first BME network goes live
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Staff are being invited to join a forum of networking and support for underrepresented groups in the organisation.
- Sad passing of Saira Bull
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We are deeply saddened to report the untimely death of Saira Bull who passed away on 12th September.
- Action Counters Terrorism e-learning
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New online training is live on LearnZone
- Blue light Christmas Carols in Essex
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Calling all singers, and all who can’t sing!
- Come and see us at the Emergency Services Show
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- Death in Service scheme notification
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- Have your say – staff survey opening soon
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The annual NHS staff survey will launch later this month, with all staff invited to share their opinion.
- Information Governance training – updated
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- Reminder: Today's Q&A session with Robert Morton
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Chief executive, Robert Morton will be holding a Q&A session for staff at Chelmsford ambulance station today.
- Sad passing of North Hertfordshire colleague
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We’re deeply saddened to report the death of our friend and colleague, Vicky Lovelace-Collins, this morning.
- End of Service Delivery Consultation
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The Service Delivery consultation has now come to an end.
- Changes to child care voucher scheme
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Last few days to sign up to the Trust's child care voucher scheme due to government changes.
- Staff Partnership Forum
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The Trust and UNISON held its first Staff Partnership Forum (SPF) in August under the new partnership working arrangements
- Patient thanks crew for rapid treatment
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Ambulance service staff reunited with patient who is thankful for their swift diagnosis and treatment of a serious heart attack.
- Queens Award presented to Essex CFR group
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Congratulations to Stanford / Corringham and Tilbury Community First Responder group
- End of Life Care CPD Opportunity
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An End of Life Care CPD Day has been organised in Welwyn Garden City, in conjunction with Isabel Hospice.
- Extra vigilance needed for Entonox supplies
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All staff are reminded to take extra care in securing Entonox canisters.
- Paediatric alert line at Basildon and Thurrock Hospital
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A new alert line will go live for paediatric pre-alerts for Basildon & Thurrock University Hospital.
- Learning from Incidents event
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We are holding another Learning From Incidents open forum event.
- EEAST Pride goes national!
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EEAST staff attend the National Ambulance LGBT Network’s 2018 conference and Manchester Pride.
- Can we BANK on you to help us tackle flu?
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We're looking for BANK paramedics who are interested in becoming part of our Flu Team
- Ajay’s campaign for his flood-stricken homeland
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Our health, safety and security manager is collecting donations to help restore schools after floods in Kerala, India.
- Our Health Heroes Awards 2018
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Returning for its third year, nominations are now open for the Our Health Heroes Awards.
- Updates from Recruitment incl new vacancies and expressions of interest - 5th July 2018
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View the latest updates from the recruitment team including new vacancies.
- Announcement from CEO Robert Morton
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Chief executive to leave EEAST, following three years of progress and achievements
- Commendations, kindness and cooperation- This week's message from Robert Morton
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This week's leadership message from Chief Exec, Robert Morton
- A special delivery in Black Notley
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Baby Amya was delivered at home in Black Notley, Braintree, with mum being just 25 weeks pregnant
- Essex Chief Constable honours paramedics
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Chief Constable of Essex Police, Stephen Kavanagh, has given his commendation to two paramedics who went to the aid of a seriously injured motorcyclist while off-duty.
- Salary sacrifices, on two wheels or four
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Staff will soon be able to take advantage of not one but two ‘salary sacrifice’ schemes involving cars and bicycles.
- New ‘critical incident’ level being introduced in September
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The Trust is introducing a new category of incident to improve resilience and response to larger scale incidents.
- Lewis Andrews Leadership Message
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This week’s leadership message comes from Lewis Andrews, Head of Quality Improvement
- Leadership message from Robert Morton 16th August
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This weeks leadership message comes from Robert Morton, Chief Executive
- Making your Compassionate Conversations work: training news
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Managers and teams can get new face-to-face training to build on understanding of Compassionate Conversations.
- Important update about network drive access
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- Returning gas cylinders for re-fill
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Returning cylinders of Oxygen and Entonox to station for re-fills.
- Winter jackets
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Work to introduce winter jacket options is fully underway, following sign-off from the Exec and Senior Leadership teams.
- #ProjectA – the hunt for new ambulance service ideas continues
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There is still time to take part
- Updates from Recruitment incl new vacancies and expressions of interest - 15th August 2018
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View the latest updates from the recruitment team including new vacancies.
- West Norfolk’s first Pop-Up Minor Injuries Unit comes to Hunstanton
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Volunteers from St John Ambulance will be running a Pop-Up Minor Injuries Unit in Hunstanton
- Use of headrests on Ferno Pegasus stretchers
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- Change in REAP level
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The Trust has reduced its REAP level to REAP 2 - moderate pressure.
- Expression of interest opportunity for apprentice EMTs
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The latest opportunity for the Trust’s apprentice EMTs role is now open.
- Celebrating the first ever Ely Pride
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Hundreds of people enjoyed the first ever Ely Pride event at the weekend.
- Booking on
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- Use fastECG instead of Corpuls until further notice
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Due to issues with our provider, CorPuls, the CorPuls telemetry is currently down.
- Do you live in Bedfordshire and want to have your say about the urgent care system?
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Bedfordshire CCG and Healthwatch Bedford would like to hear from you about plans for the urgent care system.
- Nominations for the Pride of Britain Awards
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Do you know an inspiring person whose bravery, fundraising, courage or fortitude deserves recognition?
- What's all the Hubbub?
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Our Wellbeing Hub team is thrilled to announce the arrival of its first ever newsletter - Hubbub!
- Filming for a new series of Emergency Helicopter Medics
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Filming of EAAA for new Channel 4 TV series, EMERGENCY HELICOPTER MEDICS, will begin shortly.
- Office 365 email – available now to ALL trust staff
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A new online version of Outlook (our email client) is being rolled out - have you migrated over to Office365
- Leadership message from Lindsey Stafford-Scott - 9th August 2018
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This week's leadership message comes from Lindsey Stafford-Scott, Deputy Chief Executive and Director of People and Culture.
- Come and join us at Ely Pride
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We’re continuing to fly the Pride flag this weekend, this time at Ely and Cambridge Pride – and we’d love you join us!
- New system for timesheets: a new way to improve data and save time
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A new process to transform the way our teams provide accurate and quality information about how work time is recorded is coming soon.
- Updates from Recruitment incl new vacancies and expressions of interest - 8th August 2018
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View the latest updates from the recruitment team including new vacancies.
- Overtime incentive for August bank holiday
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- Leadership message- Robert Morton 2nd August
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This weeks leadership message comes from Robert Morton, Chief Executive
- ECAT welcoming two new teams
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- Trust receives Gold Award for supporting the Armed Forces
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The Ministry of Defence has announced that the Trust has gained the Employer Recognition Scheme (ERS) Gold Award
- Latest on building better rotas this year
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- Change to Serious Haemorrhage Prioritisation (21D04M)
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Following your feedback, from today (1st August) there is a change to the serious haemorrhage prioritisation.
- Fingers crossed: Award nomination for west Essex patient service
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We're crossing our fingers (and toes) for our West Essex rapid intervention vehicle scheme team who are up for an award.
- A Pride to be proud of!
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A team of inspiring staff and volunteers helped transform Norwich’s Chapelfield Gardens into a Pride 2018 success.
- The latest leadership message from Trust Chair, Sarah Boulton
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This week's leadership message comes from Chair, Sarah Boulton.
- NHS Pay banding agreement
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A change to pay banding for all NHS staff is coming over the next three years.
- Trust moves from REAP level 2 to REAP level 3
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Due to current and system pressures relating to the high temperatures, the Trust has moved from REAP level 2 to REAP level 3.
- Wellbeing day spaces still avaliable
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- Invitation to the APM and July Board meeting
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Staff and volunteers are invited to join the Board and other colleagues at this year’s annual public meeting.
- Updates from Recruitment incl new vacancies and expressions of interest - 19th July 2018
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View the latest updates from the recruitment team including new vacancies.
- Independent examination of leadership published today
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An independent examination of leadership and governance at the region’s ambulance trust will be published today (Thursday)
- A change in REAP level
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The Trust has reduced the REAP level to moderate pressure
- Trust bidding for more money for estates
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After receiving £6.5 million last week, the Trust has announced today that it has put forward a further bid for £38.6m.
- This weeks leadership message is from Chief Executive, Robert Morton
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This week's leadership message is from Chief Executive, Robert Morton
- Uniforms – polo shirts on order
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Summer and winter uniforms soon to be available.
- Compassionate Conversations - What's the word!
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What are you saying about compassionate conversations?
- Ambulance crew thank respiratory team for a speedy response
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Ambulance crew praise the CPFT respiratory team for their speedy response
- Its all about ME (Maths and English)
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Opportunity for staff to achieve their Maths and English qualifications.
- The Workforce Race Equality Standard (WRES): a way forward
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Do you want to join a workshop to help staff from black and minority ethnic (BME) backgrounds to have equal access to career opportunities and receive fair treatment in the workplace?
- Represent EEAST at Brighton Pride
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It’s one month to go until Brighton Pride - so let's help EEAST get represented.
- Staff structure sessions cancelled
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Due to the current pressures and REAP level, the planned open staff structure sessions have had to be cancelled
- Change in REAP level to REAP 3
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Following a review of the current REAP level, the Trust will escalate to REAP 3 ‘Severe Pressure’ from midday today (10th July).
- Ready, steady…bake!
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The great baking challenges of south-east Essex continued last month, as colleagues at Southend and Rayleigh stations raised money for Essex and Herts Air Ambulance Trust.
- Can you help our Marathon Medics reach fundraising goals?
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You’ll hopefully have read this article about an inspirational team of colleagues in south-east Essex putting their best feet forward to raise thousands for charity next year.
- This weeks leadership message from Robert Morton, Chief Executive
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This weeks leadership message from Robert Morton, Chief Executive
- Staff rated as ‘outstanding’ for caring by CQC
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Our staff were rated as ‘outstanding’ for caring after an inspection by the Care Quality Commission (CQC).
- Inaccuracies with payslips: please keep your eyes peeled!
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Staff are being reminded to check payslips each month for accuracy to ensure that details are correct so that any overpayment/underpayment situations can be resolved quickly.
- New cultural awareness e-Learning
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The Equality, Diversity and Inclusion team have been working with Marshall E-Learning Consultancy to develop a Cultural Awareness E-Learning programme.
- Ambulance Trust supports Essex Pride
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Trust staff and volunteers took part in Essex Pride at the weekend
- Annual leave policy update and FAQs
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An update from the Trust Executive Team on the recent changes to annual leave restrictions and previous NTK messages.
- Norwich bakers’ recipe for fundraising success
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The Commercial Contact Centre Team swapped their headsets for oven gloves to raise plenty of ‘dough’ for charity .
- PTS recruitment open day in Luton
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Patient Transport Service (PTS) management team and the HR team joined forces to hold a recruitment open day in Luton.
- This weeks leadership message comes from EEAST Medical Director Dr Tom Davis
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- Kevin Brown answers your questions around the Ops restructure
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FAQs from staff around the operations restructure
- Delay in sending payslips
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There has been a delay in the dispatching of pay slips to EEAST staff.
- Funding extended for falls scheme
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Funding has been extended for North-Essex scheme Project Pendant, which works with Colchester Helpline to refer non-injured fallen patients.
- This weeks leadership message comes from Anthony Brett
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Although I can’t quite believe that we are at the end of May already, writing this has been a chance for me to take a step back and appreciate the Trust’s staff achievements over the last five months.
- New Trustee for College of Paramedics
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EEAST Paramedic Graham Clark appointed as Trustee for two more years.
- Vacancy and Transfer list- 24th May
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- Quality Roadshows coming to a station near you!
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Quality roadshows are taking place across the region over the coming months.
- Muddy marvellous: clearing the obstacles for NHS charity
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Nearly 30 Essex colleagues and their friends faced ‘mud, glorious mud’ at the weekend when they took part in a no-holds-barred endurance event for charity.
- Office 365 email – coming soon to all Trust staff
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A new online version of Outlook (our email client) is being rolled out at the Trust offering staff more email storage and better access from mobile devices.
- New process for medically expected patients at West Suffolk Hospital
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From tomorrow, West Suffolk Hospital changes how it manages medically expected patients.
- Time to remind yourselves about RIDDOR?
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RIDDOR is the law requiring employers, and other people in control of work premises, to report and keep records of work-related deaths, specified injuries, certain industrial diseases and certain dangerous occurrences.
- Mental Health Awareness Week: This year's theme - dealing with stress.
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This week is Mental Health Awareness Week and the theme is dealing with stress.
- EHAAT Major Incident Clinical Governence Day
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Trust staff are invited to learn about major incidents at EHAAT’s Clinical Governance Day on 15th May.
- Second LGBT network meeting this week
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The second meeting of the Trust’s LGBT Network will take place on Tuesday (15th May) in Suffolk.
- Survey - Do you use MiDOS?
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The ECAT team would like to hear from staff who are already using MiDOS to get feedback on the user experience
- Have your say about quality at EEAST
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Read the strategy and give your feedback soon!
- Business continuity awareness week
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Next week is Business Continuity Awareness Week!
- Vacancy and transfer list - 10th May
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The latest job vacancies have been published.
- Red bag initiative in Norfolk – your feedback matters
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The red bag pilot initiative is well underway in Norfolk and organisers want your feedback.
- Map upgrade for MDTs
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All Terrafix maps located on MDTs throughout the Trust are to be updated. Project begins in Cambridgeshire on 14th May.
- Building better rotas: the final countdown
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There are only a few days left for staff across the Trust to express an interest in joining a working party to kick off the rota improvement work
- NHS70 and Humans of EEAST
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Find out about the NHS70 birthday celebration plans and our Humans of EEAST project
- Shortage of rectal diazepam
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The Trust has been made aware that there is a national shortage of the 2.5mg presentation of Rectal Diazepam.
- This week's leadership message comes from Robert Morton, Chief Executive
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- Survey: Championing our Armed Forces colleagues
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Please take a moment to feedback on our military survey.
- Reminder: MiDOS and Directory of Services
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A national database of all services commissioned within the NHS, which provides information on how they can be accessed, is available to all staff.
- Emergency services sign dementia pledge
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Hertfordshire’s emergency services have come together to collectively sign Alzheimer’s Society’s dementia pledge.
- Trust continues to support Armed Forces Reservists
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The Trust has further pledged its support to our armed forces reservist staff by formally launching a dedicated Armed Forces Reservist Policy.
- Building better rotas: get your expressions of interest in!
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Some areas are getting really engaged with signing up to Building better rotas working parties, but we’re seeing very low uptake in areas of Suffolk, Cambridgeshire, and Hertfordshire in particular.
- All you need to know about GDPR
-
You’ll have probably seen emails and letters from organisations asking you to ‘Keep in Touch’ with them, talking about the new Data Protection Act and the General Data Protection Regulation.
- Furosemide Injection
-
There is a shortage of the 50mg/5ml presentation of Furosemide Injection.
- No waiting around for baby Nia
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Ambulance staff have been reunited with the baby girl who wasn’t breathing when she rushed into the world last month.
- Compassionate Conversations are coming.
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Preparation continues to embed the Trust values and leadership strategy by launching the new Compassionate Conversations appraisal process at the end of this month.
- This week's leadership message comes from Kevin Brown, Director of Service Delivery
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- Vacancy and transfer list - 26th April
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The latest job vacancies have been published.
- Are you glove aware?
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To coincide with World Hand Hygiene Day on 5th May, the Royal College of Nursing is hosting Glove Awareness Week from 30th April, to raise awareness of skin health and appropriate glove use by clinical staff.
- Regional supervision for UNISON local branch
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Colleagues may have seen or been made aware of a letter sent by the Regional Branch Secretary of UNISON
- Using blues and twos appropriately
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Due to concerns raised by members of the public and other emergency service partners, the Trust would like to remind frontline staff about the use of sirens whilst driving under emergency conditions.
- ZSL wants to thank all the EEAST Superheroes!
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ZSL wants to thank all the EEAST Superhero's!
- Long service awards – are you eligible?
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Are you eligible for a long service award at this year’s ceremony ?
- Dignity & Respect Face to Face Training
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Training courses exploring dignity and respect at work are available now.
- Ops update - Provision of Laryngoscope and Magils in primary responder bag
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Provision of Laryngoscope and Magils in primary responder bag
- Your NHS pension contributions
-
Please be aware that your NHS Pension contributions may change as from the 1st April.
- JESIP News out now
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The latest edition of JESIP News is out now!
- Neonate Bag-Valve-Mask
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The Trust has reviewed the need for Neonate Bag Valve Masks (BVMs)
- Independent Prescribing (IP) for Paramedics
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The Trust is exploring ways to introduce Independent Prescribing (IP) for paramedics.
- What you need to know about HART
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- Lord Mayor and Sheriff of Norwich thank ambulance staff for commitment
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Ambulance staff in Norfolk have been praised following a recent visit.
- Review of partnership arrangements - update
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The latest on ACAS-supported review of trade union partnership arrangements
- Band 6 job description consultation
-
A national job description for band 6 paramedics has been drafted by NHS employers and unions.
- Late finishes trial gets go ahead
-
The third workshop dealing with the issue of late finishes took place at Melbourn HQ on the Tuesday 26th March 2018.
- CPD briefing day film
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A couple of weeks ago, we had a great clinical briefing CPD day at Newmarket Racecourse. Including some amazing speakers and workshops.
- This week's leadership message comes from Kevin Smith
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This week is an important milestone for our financial planning, so I am pleased to be able to outline where we are.
- New JESIP training video shows how blue light agencies can work together
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A new JESIP training video has been launched across the UK
- HEMS programme to air this Sunday
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The popular television programme Emergency Helicopter Medics is back on More4 this weekend.
- New Mental Health Booklets
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The Trust has introduced the first in a series of mental health booklets.
- Pre-election period: local election guidance
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Guidance during the pre-election period, ahead of the local elections taking in May.
- This weeks leadership message comes from the Acting Director of Clinical Quality and Improvement Tracy Nicholls
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- Essex man thanks the people who saved his life.
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“Thank you all for doing what you do, otherwise I would not be here.”
- Building better rotas
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The Trust is working with staff to improve rotas and inviting you to take part in new rota improvement project which aims to see changes to rotas from early 2019.
The rotas under review are for all frontline emergency staff (covering DSA, RRV and EMT vehicles for all SLM areas)
- New appraisal process being launched
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Your appraisals are changing – From the end of April 2018 the Trust are launching ‘Compassionate Conversations’ – A new way of holding appraisal conversations.
- New Ipswich hub moves forward
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The Trust is delighted to announce that we’ve signed on the dotted line to buy a new site in Ipswich.
- Caldicott Guardian in the Trust
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Dr Tom Davis has been appointed as the Trust’s interim Caldicott Guardian.
- General Data Protection Regulation
-
The GDPR is the EU General Data Protection Regulation which will replace the Data Protection Act 1998 in the UK.
- Addison’s Disease and Adrenal Insufficiency
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New guidance has been published around Addison's disease and adrenal insufficiency
- Recording vehicle mileage
-
We mainly mark the mileage of our vehicles using the MDT and Terrafix, recorded when crews log in.
- ePCR event in Cambridge this Friday
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- The One Show NHS Awards
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Say thank you to NHS staff and volunteers who have gone the extra mile.
- Sport Relief 2018
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Sport Relief is back!
- #Tellusyourway on national no smoking day
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Thinking about quitting smoking?
Wednesday 14th March is National No Smoking Day and this year's theme is #tellusyourway.
- Ron Hampton
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It is with great sadness that we have to inform you that our much-loved former colleague, Ron Hampton, passed away last week.
- Introducing new IPC Practitioner
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Congratulations to Shaun Watkins who has begun a new role as IPC Practitioner.
- Child sexual abuse and exploitation awareness training
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Free training is available for frontline staff about child sexual abuse and exploitation
- Mothers Day Film
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Happy Mother's Day. Some of the fantastic mums in EEAST talk about their experiences of being a mum and working for the ambulance service
- If you see someone who has been exposed to a Hazardous Substance
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A reminder about what to do if you see someone who has been exposed to a hazardous substance.
- EEAST is supporting Safeguarding Awareness Month March 2018.
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EEAST are supporting Cambridgeshire & Peterborough Safeguarding Adult & Children’s Board Safeguarding Awareness Month
- Medical devices safety and management group – Feedback to staff
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The Medical Devices Safety and Management Group last met in December 2017, where a number of issues were discussed.
- We pressed for progress with police and fire colleagues
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We have pressed for progress on International Women’s Day by holding a joint conference with Essex Police, Essex Fire and Rescue Service and Kent Police at Chelmsford City Racecourse to celebrate the achievements of women in the emergency services.
- REAP 3 actions
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With the Trust moving to REAP 3 , colleagues are asked to refamiliarise themselves with the actions needed during this time.
- Jim's legacy reminder
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Emergency operations centre staff are asked to familiarise themselves with EOC instruction 46 - Jim's Legacy.
- Stanford/Corringham and Tilbury Community First Responder nomination
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Congratulations to Stanford/Corringham and Tilbury Community First Responder group who have been nominated for a prestigious Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service.
- Project shortlisted for national award
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A pilot project between EEAST and two hospitals has been shortlisted for the HSJ Value Awards 2018.
- VIDEO - Dr Tom Davis reminds staff about medicine management
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Dr Tom Davis reminds staff about correct medicine management.
- Staff survey results are out
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Results from the 2017 NHS Staff Survey have been published.
- Hospital handovers one week on
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After week one of the new hospital handover protocol, a significant improvement in performance has been seen.
- Update: Overtime incentive extended
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The overtime incentive has been extended for a further 48 hours until Thursday 8th March.
- CQC Guide for staff
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Following on from our last CQC inspection, the Trust has created a revised CQC inspection guide for staff.
- New community health services contract in Bedfordshire
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As of April 1st, the East London NHS Foundation (ELFT) will be delivering Community Health Services in Bedfordshire.
- Safer Sleeping Week
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The Lullaby Trust is running a Safer Sleeping Week 12th-18th March.
- Move to REAP level 3
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The Trust has this evening moved from REAP level 2 to level 3.
- Delayed handover protocol: New for Monday 26th February
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A new process has been put together to transfer patients to hospital care safely and quickly, which is being introduced across region.
- Sandy Brown announces his retirement
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Our Director of Nursing and Clinical Quality is to retire.
- Meningitis sufferer thanks lifesavers
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A Norfolk woman has thanked her lifesavers after a suffering a flare-up of a rare form of meningitis.
- Child Care Vouchers Rule Changes
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Changes to Trust childcare voucher schemes will take place in the spring.
- 'Make me smile' says Cockney Rebel
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Cockney Rebel frontman Steve Harley had nothing but praise for the crew who attended him when he broke his leg.
- Clinical Update: Diazepam 2.5mg Rectal Tubes
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We are aware of a number of incidents where on opening the foil pack-age it has been found the contents of the rectal tube have leaked from the tube.
- This weeks leadership message comes from our Deputy Chief Executive and Director of Nursing and Clinical Quality Sandy Brown
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This week, Sandy talks about recent media coverage and the Trusts SI process.
- EEAST staff thank good Samaritans
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Ambulance staff have thanked two good Samaritans who rushed to the aid of a seriously injured man in Peterborough.
- Ambulance staff reunited with fire service colleague for first time since saving his life
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EEAST staff have been reunited with the firefighter whose life they saved at an incident last month (January).
- Late finishes update
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A second workshop has taken place to develop ideas to combat late finishes on the frontline.
- Vacancy and transfer list - 8th February
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This week's HR e-zine, with the latest job vacancies, expressions of interest and transfer opportunities, has been published.
- Bookings open for College of Paramedics event
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The next regional clinical conference run by the College of Paramedics will take place on 8th March.
- Today is Safer Internet Day
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Safer Internet Day 2018 is being celebrated globally today, Tuesday 6th February 2018 with the slogan “Create, Connect and Share Respect: A better internet starts with you”.
- HEMS research study opportunity
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Are you a clinician at EEAST and would like to take part in a research study?
- Hard work at Stevenage care home fire
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Staff have been praised for the swift and caring actions at the scene of a fire in Stevenage.
- Time to Talk Day
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1 in 4 of us will fight mental health issues. So, how are you?
- This week's leadership message from Chief Executive Robert Morton
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Robert talks about teamwork care and the exec team’s determination to lead the Trust through this challenging period.
- Vacancy and transfer list - 31st January
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This week's HR e-zine, with the latest job vacancies, expressions of interest and transfer opportunities, has been published.
- Cardiac arrest survivor thanks his lifesavers
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A west Norfolk man has been reunited with his lifesavers, close to the anniversary of suffering a cardiac arrest.
- New and existing driving related policies and procedures
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A suite of new driving-related policies and procedures as well as updated existing guidance has been introduced.
- Praise for call handler who helped deliver baby
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A Cambridgeshire couple have praised an ambulance call handler who assisted with the birth of their first child.
- Book your place on free wellbeing seminar
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A free seminar will take place this spring focusing on mental health and wellbeing.
- This week's leadership message comes from Chair Sarah Boulton
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Sarah Boulton reflects on a week when the Trust has been under the spotlight from media, politicians and regulators.
- Vacancy and transfer list - 25th January
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This week's HR e-zine, with the latest job vacancies, expressions of interest and transfer opportunities, has been published.
- JRCALC New Guidelines Released
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- Late finishes - we're listening
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The Trust is working with a staff group and in partnership with UNISON to find a new way of trying to reduce the instances and duration of late finishes.
- Dunmow fire station RTC demonstration event
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Are you clinical? Have you ever wanted to know more about the fire service procedures in dealing with RTCs? If so then this is the event for you!
- Calling all clinical staff! ATMIST presentation now available to view
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The use of ATMIST is the region wide standardised format for providing a handover and a pre-alert.
- This weeks leadership message from Mark Patten
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This week our Medical Director Mark Patten shares his final leadership message for EEAST
- Cold defibrillators reminder
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Store defibs and AEDs in the warm to keep them working in the cold weather.
- Mental Health Act and Mental Capacity Act pocket guides now available
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EEAST has developed a pocket guide to support all patient-facing staff about both the Mental Health Act and the Mental Capacity Act.
- Discount available for staff to attend eALS course
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Places are available for staff on an e-Advanced Life Support (eALS) course at the University of East Anglia (UEA) on Saturday, 17th March.
- Lockdown extended at EOCs
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A lockdown of the Trust's EOCs has been extended until 29th January.
- Death of former Essex ECP
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The Trust is sad to announce the death of former south east Essex Emergency Care Practitioner Nigel Davies.
- This week's leadership message from Chief Executive Robert Morton
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Robert reflects on winter pressures, hospital handover delays and Independent Service Review.
- Shift summary envelopes rolled-out following YOUR feedback
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Following a successful trial, new shift summary envelopes have been rolled out Trust-wide.
- Seven things you can do to shake off the January blues
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Monday 15th January is Blue Monday – supposedly the most depressing day of the year.
- Plea for vigilance after nitrous oxide theft
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Staff are being urged to stay vigilant following reports of thefts of medical gases across the country.
- Death of PTS ambulance liaison officer
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The Trust is sad to announce the death of West Essex PTS Ambulance Liaison Officer Dilys Jack.
- Increase in flu cases reported
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Have you seen reports of so-called ‘Australian flu’ in the media?
- The NHS in the spotlight
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The NHS has been in the spotlight this week following the extreme pressures on the whole system.
- Keeping fleet firmly on the ground
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Fleet teams are working tirelessly to make sure vehicles and the kit on board is safe and ready to use in the extreme pressures the Trust is currently facing.
- Understanding more about the risks from terrorists
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A series of videos have been released for staff to help them better understand the terrorism threat currently faced in the UK.
- Thank you to all of our staff
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Thank you – that is message from senior leaders at the Trust during one of the most challenging times it has ever seen.
- Sepsis conference to take place in Birmingham
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An conference all about Sepsis is taking place in Birmingham next month.
- NEW AUDITING TOOL – AuditOnline
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A new audit tool has been introduced for ACQI clinical auditing and safety walkabout checklist auditing.
- Service experiences unprecedented demand
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Thank you to all our staff and volunteers who worked over New Year.
- Public say thank you to our staff
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Members of the public have been sharing how grateful they are to EEAST staff over this incredibly busy festive period.
- Move to REAP level 4 - extreme pressure
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The Trust has moved to the highest REAP level because of NHS pressures.
- Enhanced overtime rates over Festive period - Operations
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Following a review our busiest night of the year staffing and demand predictions, both EOC and Front line capacity for New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day have improved and need further improvement.
- Our busiest ever Christmas
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Thank you to all our staff and volunteers who worked over the Christmas period.
- Reminder to crews to check DNACPR forms
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Clinical staff are reminded to check that DNACPR forms are filled in correctly when treating end of life patients.
- Christmas Message from Robert Morton
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In his annual Christmas message, Chief Executive Officer Robert Morton would like to thank staff across the Trust who will be working over the festive period.
- Anne-Marie hits the right notes
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From blues and twos to musical tunes, Hertfordshire student paramedic Anne-Marie Hemmings hit the right notes this week.
- Become a flu fighter this festive season
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You can protect yourself, your family and colleagues by attending a flu vaccination drop-in on Friday 22nd December.
- Staff Present at Hospice conference
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Ambulance staff presenting at a national conference have highlighted how Trust staff can make a difference to end of life care.
- VIDEO- Staff meeting in Stevenage
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A group of staff have led a discussion to help generate ideas about solving late finishes.
- Exercise highlights dangers of drink driving
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Norfolk-based staff took part in a car crash demonstration this week to highlight to the public the potentially devastating consequences of drink driving.
- Award for NARS volunteers
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Success for NARS at Stars of Norfolk and Waveney.
- Jeremy Kyle backs Don't Choose to Abuse campaign
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A television presenter, known for his zero tolerance approach, has backed Don't Choose to Abuse campaign.
- First stork badge awarded in EOC
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Congratulations to senior call handler Kerry Summers who is the first recipient of the Trust’s stork badge.
- Sign up for clinical governance day
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Book your place on the Christmas clinical governance day.
- PSIT goes live
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Patient Safety Intervention Teams (PSIT) have gone live across the region to minimise patient wait and maximise the availability of ambulances.
- Don't Choose to Abuse - Mark's story
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Mark's attacker was sentenced to a suspended prison term and ordered to do community service.
- Thanks to staff following snow spate
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Teams in green and volunteers across the region are being thanked for their extensive efforts during spate snow conditions.
- Internal Major Incident Declared
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The Trust has of 3.05pm (10th December) declared an internal major incident as the region continues to be impacted by adverse weather.
- Take part in new workforce race equality standard (wres) workshop
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The Workforce Race Equality Standard (WRES) enables employees from black and minority ethnic (BME) backgrounds to have equal access to career opportunities and receive fair treatment in the workplace.
- National award for procurement partnership
-
An award-winning project between the ambulance service and two hospitals in the East is set to be rolled out across the whole of the NHS.
- Late finishes and handover delays: an update from Kevin Brown, Director of Service Delivery
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This week's leadership message comes from Kevin Brown.
- Protect yourself. Protect your patients. Have a flu vaccination
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A letter from NHS chiefs about flu.
- Police and Crime Act 2017 - important changes
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The following changes to law come in to effect on Monday (11th December) and the overarching legislation has been titled the Police and Crime Bill 2017.
- Update: UNISON partnership review
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Following a partnership review meeting, a joint statement has been issued by the Trust and UNISON...
- 'Significantly improved NHS stroke care', new study finds
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An independent study commissioned by NHS England that patients are getting much quicker access to the vital tests and treatment they need when they have a stroke, greatly improving their chances of recovery.
- Red bag initiative goes live at Norfolk care homes
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Fourteen care homes have joined a new initiative to improve the speed and quality of transfers of care when residents need to go to hospital.
- Don't Choose to Abuse - Ian's story
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Chelmsford-based EMT Ian Watkins shares his story.
- More kit for mass casualty incidents
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More kit is now available to allow the Trust to better respond to incidents involving large numbers of casualties.
- VIDEO – your questions answered
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Lots of staff have submitted questions about late finishes, jackets and what the situation is with UNISON. We’ve made a video to try and summarise these points for you.
- The Real Living Wage
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The Trust has once again committed to pay the Real Living Wage which has increased to 8.75 as from 6th November 2017.
- World Aids Day
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Today is World Aids Day.
- Vacancy and transfer list - 30th November
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This weeks HR e-zine, with the latest job vacancies, expressions of interest and transfer opportunities, has been published.
- Christmas annual leave restriction
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Ops colleagues with a clause in their contract that restrict them from booking annual leave over the Christmas will now have this clause removed.
- Major incidents: would you know where to find information?
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A page on our website has been launched to help staff know what to do during a major or significant incident.
- Badges mark volunteer recognistion
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A range of badges has been launched by the Trust to recognise the dedication of service given by volunteers.
- Is your area top of the flu fighter league?
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Congratulations to our top five flu fighter areas who have achieved high vaccination uptake this year.
- National banding agreement update
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The Trust has now started the work needed in order to implement the necessary changes regarding national banding agreement - transitional arrangements.
- New faces - heading to a station near you
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Welcome aboard our newest recruits.
- EEAST team members inspire the future generation of clinicians
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This week our Patient and Public Involvment team were invited to Thurston College for the annual recruitment fair.
- Enhanced care car launched in Essex
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The BASICS Essex Accident Rescue Service (BEARS) launched its enhanced care car this month to provide critical care support across the county and surrounding areas.
- The value of respect: Exec update from Lindsey Stafford-Scott
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This week’s exec message focusing on our value of respect, comes from Director of People and Culture Lindsey Stafford-Scott.
- The ambulance community nationally has hit back at media coverage discussing technicians
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An article has been published yesterday (27th Nov) in the Daily Mail discussing ambulances trusts sending Technicians to incidents instead of paramedics
- What you really need to know - your questions answered
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Thank you to everyone for engaging with us and sharing your questions. Here are your questions answered.
- Don’t Choose to Abuse – Robert Morton’s video message about our new campaign
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The Trust today launches a new campaign highlighting verbal and physical abuse against our staff.
- Pancreatic cancer awareness month - do you know the signs?
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November has been pancreatic awareness month and with almost 10,000 people newly diagnosed with the disease each year within the UK, it is something that affects a huge number of people.
- Staff urged to stand against violence against women for White Ribbon Day
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Today, 25th November, marks the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women – also known as White Ribbon Day.
- It's the final countdown! Your final week to complete the staff survey
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If you haven’t filled out your staff survey it’s not too late to have your say. As the closing date approaches, we’ve busted some myths about the survey
- Our current leadership message comes from Chief Executive Robert Morton
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Robert reflects on recent events within the Trust and encourages staff to have their say.
- What you really need to know - The situation
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We have addressed the facts and the Trust feels it now needs to look toward the future.
- What you really need to know - Hot topics
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Following our communication yesterday we know there are some talking points amongst staff.
- What you really need to know - Trade union discussions
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The Trust is going through some tough times regarding local UNISON relations – and we think you need to know what the situation is.
- Don't use your phone behind the wheel: The latest campaign from THINK!
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Nearly 500 drivers have been caught in Hertfordshire for using a handheld mobile phone while at the wheel since the penalties doubled earlier this year.
- EOC staff raise funds for Children in Need
-
Our three EOC’s across the region joined forces on Thursday 18th and Friday 19th November to raise funds for Children in Need.
- The communications team would love to hear from you!
-
You hear from us on a regular basis; we can often be seen appearing in your stations and offices. But what can the communications team do for you?
- Make a sick child smile this Christmas
-
If you are looking for a way to give something back this Christmas then this may be your answer. David King, a clinician from HART is running a toy collection for Addenbrooke’s Hospital.
- New early intervention vehicle starts in Great Yarmouth and Waveney
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Patients who suffer a fall in Great Yarmouth and Waveney are set to benefit from extra support from a new initiative which launched last week.
- Vacancy and transfer list - 23rd November
-
This weeks HR e-zine, with the latest job vacancies, expressions of interest and transfer opportunities, has been published.
- Trust recognises heroic lifeguards
-
A team of lifeguards have been recognised for their heroic actions in saving the life of a swimmer.
- How you can support Don’t Choose to Abuse campaign
-
Next week, the Trust will launch a new public campaign to highlight the unacceptable face of emergency care.
- Urgent Corpuls units to be removed from service
-
There are 17 Corpuls modules that must NOT be used in a clinical environment, must be removed from service immediately and isolated.
- Rearrangement of Corpuls accessory puches and correct coiling of cable
-
Clinical Engineering are currently experiencing a high failure rate of SPO2 cables across the Trust
- Munro jackets
-
The Trust would be pleased to support and put forward the idea of Munro jackets to the national ambulance procurement group for their consideration, as we procure all uniform through a national framework.
- Our current leadership message comes from Director of Communications, Chris Hartley
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Chris talks about the success of this years Trust awards and celebrates the achievements of EEAST staff
- Death of a retired EEAST colleague
-
The Trust is sad to share the news that Alfred Green, a retired colleague who worked at EEAST for over 20 years until September 1996, passed away last week.
- New medical director for NHS England
-
Professor Stephen Powis has been appointed as new national medical director replacing the outgoing Sir Bruce Keogh.
- Places available on STOP suicide workshops
-
Following on from the success of the STOP Suicide workshops held in June, the Trust are running a further two courses this month.
- Celebrating our staff and volunteers
-
A day of celebration recognised almost 200 staff and volunteers yesterday (Wednesday, 15th November).
- Vacancy and transfer list - 16th November
-
This week's HR e-zine, with the latest job vacancies, expressions of interest and transfer opportunities, has been published.
- How you can help in a major incident
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We know that when major or significant incidents occur, our staff want to know how they can help even if they are off duty.
- Introducing the JET service
-
The Joint Emergency Team, known as JET, operates across Cambridgeshire and is run by Cambridgeshire and Peterborough NHS Foundation Trust.
- Five years of educating Peterborough
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It began when Steve Wainwright overheard a phone call asking for the ambulance service to visit a Peterborough school.
- Staff survey reminder: it's not too late to have your say
-
It’s that time of the year again where you have the chance to have your say, and help us to build a better and stronger EEAST.
- New Clinical Quality Matters and Security Matters available to download
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Our latest issue of Clinical Quality Matters and Security Matters, focussing on all things security within EEAST and clinical learning from our SIs, has been published.
- Clinical guidance for shortage of adrenaline 1:1,000 syringes
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There is a national shortage of pre-filled adrenaline 1:1,000 syringes. This is likely to continue for some months resulting in a need for the Trust to restock with ampoules.
- “It all starts with compassionate leadership”: this week’s leadership message is from Sarah Massie, Associate Director Workforce and Education
-
If you were to ask any member of the public what they want from health and social care, it’s likely that compassion from the staff who provide care would be high on their wish list. But in order to establish compassionate cultures that manifest on the front line, we need to begin with compassionate leadership.
- The ins and outs of the flu jab
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What’s the point of having the vaccine? What do you do if you have already had your jab elsewhere? How do I book the flu bus? These are just some of the questions we have received from around the Trust.
- The ins and out of the mental capacity and mental health acts
-
The Mental Capacity Act (MCA) and the Mental Health Act (MHA) are acts of law, but make very different statements from one another about what we are expected to do to support patients…
- Short film released to mark World Antibiotics Awareness week
-
A short drama film on antibiotic resistance is set to be released to the public on Monday (13th November) to mark World Antibiotics Awareness Week.
- Reminder: places still available on stroke study day
-
Clinical staff are invited to attend a study day exploring the future of stroke that will take place at the Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital.
- Vacancy and transfer list – 9th November
-
This week’s HR e-zine, with the latest job vacancies, expressions of interest and transfer opportunities, has been published.
- Recent court case
-
Yesterday a member of staff pleaded guilty to attempting to meet a child for sex following online grooming. As a trust we condemn these behaviour and actions as they have no place in our ambulance service
- Social media guidance: know the dos and don’ts of using platforms responsibly
-
More and more EEAST staff and volunteers are using social media to represent themselves.
- Winter is here – have you had your flu jab?
-
It’s getting colder outside, so protect yourself this winter and make sure you get your flu jab.
- 'Behind the headlines': Transparency and clarity when working with the media
-
The Trust has introduced a new feature on eastamb.nhs.uk which will help stakeholders see the whole of EEAST responses to media outlets.
- Commercial Training Team launch FREC 3 courses
-
The Commercial Training Team have just launched their First Response Emergency Care Level 3 courses.
- Night closures on the A1
-
Over the next couple of months, there will be planned night closures on the A1 from the junctions 6-8, which have the potential of causing some disruption.
- New team recognition by senior leaders
-
A new commitment to recognising the hard work and dedication of staff throughout the organisation has been set up by the Senior Leadership Board, otherwise known as SLB.
- Safeguarding our staff: this week’s message comes from Robert Morton
-
In this week’s Need to Know message, Robert looks at how the Trust can safeguard our staff, when it comes to social media and his thoughts on the recent patient transport service news.
- National banding agreement -transitional arrangements
-
Following consultation with UNISON the Trust has agreed to enter into a local agreement – click here for the full agreement.
- Get involved with Jabathon tweet chat
-
Are you leading on the roll-out of flu vaccinations in your area?
- Book your place at Sepsis conference in London
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A conference dedicated to improving recognition and managing sepsis will be taking place in London this month and all EEAST staff will be offered a 50% discount on the cost of their conference fee.
- There’s still time to nominate a colleague for Unsung Hero Awards
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The deadline for the Unsung Hero Awards, a ceremony to celebrate our non-medical healthcare staff has been extended.
- Vacancy and transfer list –2nd November
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This week’s HR e-zine, with the latest job vacancies, expressions of interest and transfer opportunities, has been published.
- New provider announced for PTS contract
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A new provider has been selected to run patient transport services across Great Yarmouth, Waveney and Suffolk from 1st April, 2018.
- Wellbeing begins at home: this week’s leadership message comes from Health and Wellbeing Manager, Debra Winterson
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"Everyone who knows me will know I am passionate about anything and everything wellbeing. I think it touches everything we do, say and feel on a day-to-day basis. Therefore, my leadership message today has to be about looking after your own wellbeing."
- Special operations training at Watford FC a success
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A football stadium provided the perfect background for a major incident multi-agency exercise for the Trust's Hazardous Area Response Teams (HART) and the Ambulance Intervention Team (AIT).
- Things are changing in EEAST Patient and Public Involvement (Volunteers)
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A refreshed structure and look of the Trust User Group has been agreed following a review.
- Places available on stroke study day
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Clinical staff are invited to attend a study day exploring the future of stroke that will take place at the Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital.
- Testing the Laerdal suction unit
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The failure of suction units has been fundamental in two recent serious incidents, so staff are being asked to ensure their unit is functioning properly at the beginning of every shift.
- Vacancy and transfer list – 26th October
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This week’s HR e-zine, with the latest job vacancies, expressions of interest and transfer opportunities, has been published.
- Sad passing of John Hemmingfield
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Last month, the Trust announced the sad news that John Hemmingfield, who worked as our courier passed away on Monday 23rd October.
- Email and Skype
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We have been experiencing some issues accessing email on Microsoft Exchange and Skype since yesterday intermittently.
- Places available on cardiac conference
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The Sudden Adult Death Trust is holding a conference surrounding people with cardiac conditions, survivors and professionals involved with their care, and staff are invited.
- Occupational health are changing their book system
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As of Monday (23rd October), the occupational health (OH) appointment booking system will be changing.
- More dates for ePCR refresher training
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The rollout of Toughbooks continues for vehicle in east Norfolk.
- This week’s message comes from Chief Executive, Robert Morton
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I’d like to start this week by reflecting on Wednesday’s go-live for the biggest change for ambulance services in decades.
- Learn more on end of life care
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End of life e-learning is now available to all emergency and non-emergency staff on LEARNZONE.
- Say no to flu and get your jab
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Flu clinics are up and running across the region.
- Diwali: The Festival of Lights returns
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Today (19th October), sees the return of the Hindu festival Diwali.
- EEAST Clinical Briefing days a triumph!
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Staff and volunteers from around the Trust once again celebrated clinical excellence and development at this year's briefing events.
- Vacancy and transfer list – 19th October
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This week’s HR e-zine, with the latest job vacancies, expressions of interest and transfer opportunities, has been published.
- Ambulance Response Programme standards go-live complete
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This is a short update to inform you that the planned switch-over in all EOCs earlier this morning (Wednesday) happened as planned.
- Calling all student paramedics and technicians on the paramedic pathway
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There is now a new email address for draft submissions of critical reflection essay which will affect Student Paramedics and those on the Tech-Para pathway.
- Hand hygiene – why so important?
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Today (Sunday 15th October) is Global Handwashing Day – a day to increase awareness of the significant role hand hygiene plays in reducing infections and ultimately save lives.
- AWE group on Facebook and Twitter follow @EEAST_AWE
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All women in EEAST (AWE), the Trust’s special interest group is now on social media.
- Praise to our people and the new ambulance standards: this week’s leadership message comes from Kevin Brown, Director of Service Delivery
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This week Kevin looks at the final countdown to the Ambulance Response Programme (ARP) and a big thank you to staff.
- Trust bids farewell to non-executive director
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Non-executive director Sheila Childerhouse will be leaving the Trust at the end of December.
- Spreading the word on Restart a Heart Day
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On Monday, hundreds of young people across the region will be learning how to save a life on Restart a Heart Day.
- National award for our fab four
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Congratulations go to the amazing Phil Smith, Laura Wallace, Julia Horswell and Emily Wallis who received a national award first.
- Annual staff survey: have your say
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The annual NHS staff survey has officially landed, giving you the opportunity to share your views on how to make the Trust a better place to work.
- Vacancy and transfer list – 12th October
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This week’s HR e-zine, with the latest job vacancies, expressions of interest and transfer opportunities, has been published.
- Get involved in World Mental Health Day
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World Mental Health Day is today (Tuesday October 10) and this year focusses on mental health in the workplace.
- Being prepared for anything: this week’s leadership message comes from Robert Morton
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This week, I have seen a number of staff involved with major incident training exercises. Although we never hope to be involved in such incidents, it is so important that we are prepared for the worst at all times, especially given recent events in the UK and across the world.
- Get involved with Ambulance Response Programme Q&A
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Do you have a question about the Ambulance Response Programme?
Kevin Brown, Director of Service Delivery, will be talking ARP during a live online Q&A next week.
- Join AWE at next week’s clinical briefing
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The AWE-some team will be holding their next meeting at day one of the clinical briefing and are inviting all staff to join them.
- Paramedic learning at ARU’s Advanced Life Support course
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Last month James Rouse a NQP) from Southend completed an Advanced Life Support (ALS) course with the Anglia Ruskin University. Here, James looks at what an ALS course can do for you.
- Electronic patient care records are coming soon
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From Monday, 16th October, Toughbooks will start to appear on vehicles in east Norfolk.
- Book your place on free EZ-IO workshops
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Places are available on an interactive and engaging workshop designed to empower practitioners with the knowledge skills and confidence to use the Arrow EZ-10 Vascular Access System.
- Vacancy and transfer list – 5th October
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This week’s HR e-zine, with the latest job vacancies, expressions of interest and transfer opportunities, has been published.
- Ambulance staff praised for “faultless” and “five-star” service in latest survey
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Staff have been commended in EEAST’s latest survey which included comments such as “exceptional”, “exemplary” and “first class”.
- Confidential waste contract change
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Due to our contractor delivering the incorrect confidential waste containers to our sites, the company will be collecting and replacing them with the correct ones this week.
- Patients Transport services in Beds & Herts
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Private Ambulance Service (PAS), the company who operated patients transport services across Bedfordshire, Hertfordshire and Luton has gone into administration.
- Calling our military reservists
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Are you part of the military reserves? If so, we need to hear from you.
- Have you booked a place at EEAST’s clinical days?
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It is just over a week to go until the Trust’s clinical briefing days and places are still available.
- Are you ready for the Stoptober challenge?
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Stoptober is back; the 28-day quit smoking campaign.
- Learn more about ALS via e-learning
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Places are available on The Resuscitation Council (UK) e- Advanced Life Support (e-ALS) course
- New Shred it bins arriving from next week
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A new contractor has been appointed to service the Trust’s confidential waste and uniform shredding.
- This week’s leadership message comes from Deputy Director of Operations Support, Paul Henry
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In this week’s message Paul tells us about the big changes coming to operations support soon.
- Robert’s visit to Norfolk and Norwich
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As part of the executive team’s commitment to the staff engagement strategy, Chief Executive Robert Morton will be touring around the region to meet staff.
- Final chance to nominate your colleagues for a Trust award
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Nominations for this year’s Trust awards close on Monday.
- Coming to an ambulance near you…ePCRs!
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Toughbook ePCRs will be returning to ambulances and rapid response vehicles from Monday, 16th October.
- ACA Catherine’s daring abseil raises more than £450 for charity
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Ambulance Care Assistant Catherine Renew faced her fear of heights and abseiled off the Royal London helipad.
- Use of Penthrox in Luton
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Luton Airport Fire and Rescue Service has become the first airport in the UK to carry and administer Penthrox for pain and relief management as of last week.
- Vacancy and transfer list – 28th September
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This week’s HR e-zine, with the latest job vacancies, expressions of interest and transfer opportunities, has been published.
- Stevenage ambulance hub officially opens
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Stevenage ambulance hub is officially opened.
- Plans on track for ambulance response programme
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The new NHS England operating model against new national standards, known as the ambulance response programme (ARP), will be phased in from next month as planned.
- This week’s leadership message comes from Robert Morton
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In this week’s message, Robert looks at the White Ribbon Campaign, the recent PTS takeover week and the fantastic call handlers nominated for a national award.
- Annual staff survey: help to make our Trust a better place to work
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The NHS annual staff survey launches this month and everyone has an opportunity to share their views on the workplace and what they would like to see change.
- Places still available for clinical briefing – book yours now!
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This year’s clinical briefing days are being held next month on the 10th and 11th at Rowley Mile at Newmarket race course, covering all thing cardiac.
- PTS crew travel to Scotland in the name of patient care
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A crew from Patient Transport Service has been praised for great patient care after taking a patient in need from Scotland to Essex.
- Join new e-learning mental health courses
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Would you like to broaden your knowledge around mental health?
- Changes to clinical waste collections
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Changes to the way clinical waste is collected are being made as part of a system update.
- Vacancy and transfer list – 21st September
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This week’s HR e-zine, with the latest job vacancies, expressions of interest and transfer opportunities, has been published.
- Airport’s ambassador soaring after becoming 50,000th first aid learner with ambulance service
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A Stansted Airport employee has been recognised by the region’s ambulance service for being part of a milestone in its bid to train thousands of people in first aid.
- Calling Essex staff! Could you or someone you know foster?
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Essex County Council is looking for more foster carers to help build better futures for hundreds of children in Essex.
- Training session: learn more about Personality Disorders
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Clinical staff are invited to a study day about personality disorders in Luton next month.
- Places available at student paramedic conference
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The Student Paramedic Conference is back for 2017, hosted by the University of East Anglia at the Norwich Research Campus.
- National threat level changed to severe
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The national threat level has been downgraded from critical to severe following the terror incident in London last Friday (15th September).
- National threat level increased
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The national threat level has been changed to critical following the terror incident in London today (15th September).
- Coming to a station soon, new safety needles
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Safety needle options have been reviewed to replace current intra-muscular needles for use across the service to help reduce needle stick injuries.
- Report medical device failures to Datix
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If a medical device fails or a problem develops when using it, report it via Datix.
- Exciting opportunity to help develop rehabilitation technology
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Trust clinicians are invited to attend an exciting event in Norwich focussing on rehabilitation from illness and injury.
- HART take the plunge in Bedford training exercise
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Staff from the Hazardous Area Response Team (HART) took part in a challenging water rescue training exercise in Bedford last week.
- Nominations open for Unsung Hero Awards
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The Unsung Hero Awards are back – a chance to celebrate our non-medical healthcare staff.
- The leadership message this week comes from the five non-executive directors on the Trust Board.
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They are Sheila Childerhouse, Peter Kara, Valerie Morton, Tony McLean, Mike Burrows and Andrew Egerton-Smith.
- What is the death in benefits scheme?
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When losing someone close to you, having some extra support can be greatly needed.
- Nominate a colleague for the Trust awards
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The Trust’s annual awards ceremony is back in November – an event to celebrate the special contribution, long service, qualifications and Chief Officer Commendations our staff, volunteers and stakeholders have made during the last year.
- Don’t leave your equipment out in the cold
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As we are coming into the winter months, different types of batteries in some of our devices can perform differently by being stored in cold temperatures.
- Can you help with Restart a Heart Day?
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Thousands of students learnt to save to life during Restart a Heart Day 2016 and this year’s event is fast approaching.
- Join EHAAT’s monthly clinical governance day
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The Essex and Herts Air Ambulance will be holding its clinical day on Tuesday, 19th September and EEAST colleagues are welcome to attend.
- Vacancy and transfer list – 14th September
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This week’s HR e-zine, with the latest job vacancies, expressions of interest and transfer opportunities, has been published.
- Finnbars Force was strong at Norwich Adventure Day
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Almost 4,000 people flocked to the special event held at Eaton Vale Activity Centre in Norwich on Sunday (10th September), helping to raise more than £10,000 for the Norfolk charity - Finnbar’s Force.
- AACE publishes annual report
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The Association of Ambulance Chief Executives (AACE) has published its annual report online.
- Alistair ‘Billy’ Harvey
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Last week, we shared with you the sad news that our much-loved colleague Alistair ‘Billy’ Harvey has passed away.
- EEAST call handlers shortlisted for national award
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It’s that time of year again where the International Academy of Emergency Dispatch (IAED) awards one call handler in the UK with the prestigious title of Dispatcher of the Year.
- Thank you paramedics on World Sepsis Day
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Paramedics at EEAST are being thanked for their assertiveness in diagnosing sepsis.
- World Suicide Prevention Day - #ITSOKAYTOTALK
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This Sunday (10th September), is World Suicide Prevention Day - a day of raising awareness and reaching out to people who may be struggling in their lives.
- “I was scared to ask for more help”: World Suicide Prevention Day
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Today (10th September) is World Suicide Prevention Day. Vicky, a technician from Cambridge, bravely shares her story.
- Being at the forefront of progress: this week’s leadership message is from Head of Quality Improvement and Professional Standards, Lewis Andrews
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This week Lewis looks at our recent Trust-wide assurance visits, next month’s clinical briefing and how his team helps to progress EEAST to be a leader in our sector.
- Nominations now open for this year’s Trust awards!
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The Trust’s annual awards will be taking place in November – and we want your nominations!
- Book your place on our clinical briefing day
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Places are available to staff and volunteers for next month’s clinical briefing day, covering all things cardiac.
- Training and education drop-in sessions
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Students on development pathways are invited to drop-in sessions with organisational leaders.
- Vacancy and transfer list – 5th September
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This week’s HR e-zine, with the latest job vacancies, expressions of interest and transfer opportunities, has been published.
- Ambulance open days raise money for charity
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Emergency services were on show over the weekend with a series of station open days, raising hundreds of pounds for local charities.
- Men urged to support White Ribbon Campaign
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Men working at EEAST are being called to arms to stand against violence towards women.
- Trust backs new acid attack guidance
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EEAST backs new NHS guidance for victims of acid attacks
- Paramedic JD consultation reminder
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Reminder to have your say on paramedic job description (band 6)
- End of life care for people with learning disabilities
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A guide to help improve end of life care for patients with a learning disability is available online.
- Disposable tourniquets are coming
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We will shortly be moving from our current blue fabric, reusable tourniquet to a single-use tourniquet.
- All about Eid al-Adha
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Eid al-Adha is a major celebration in the Islamic calendar, and begins on Friday. But what is the festival all about?
- You are invited to Harlow’s 999 open day
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A group of staff from West Essex, along with our Essex emergency services colleagues will be holding a 999 multi agency open day this weekend.
- This week’s leadership message comes from Chief Executive Robert Morton
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“We’ve got through another bank holiday weekend. I would like to thank everyone who worked hard, especially during the sudden rise in temperature, to provide the best care for our patients.”
- Shining a light on Patient Transport Service
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It is a service that drove the equivalent of 240 times around the world last year. The communications team will be shining a light on EEAST’s non-emergency transport service next week.
- How the Hepatitis B shortage will affect you
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A global shortage of Hep B vaccinations will result in changes to how EEAST staff get their immunisation.
- Delving further into the Herbert Protocol
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Area Clinical Lead Duncan Moore looks further into how we can best support our police colleagues with this national scheme to help them find patients with dementia as soon as possible.
- Changes to urology at Hinchingbrooke Hospital
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From Monday (4 September), the urology emergency service, at Hinchingbrooke Hospital will transfer to Peterborough City Hospital due to long-standing staffing issues.
- Changes to AED maintenance
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As per manufacturers’ recommendations, the clinical engineering team will no longer be servicing automated external defibrillators (AEDs).
- Vacancy and transfer list – 31st August
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This week’s HR e-zine, with the latest job vacancies, expressions of interest and transfer opportunities, has been published.
- ECAT team live and tweeting
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We’re pleased to welcome the Trust’s ECAT team to the twitterverse and to our expanding group of corporate social media accounts!
- Ambulance staff contribute to carnival spirit at Notting Hill
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A team of EEAST staff supported Notting Hill Carnival celebrations in London over the bank holiday weekend.
- Maintenance on estates helpdesk
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Essential upgrade work for the estates helpdesk will take place on Wednesday, 30th August.
- RIGHT-2 trial returns to James Paget Hospital
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The James Paget Hospital will be reopening to RIGHT-2 patients 24/7 on Monday, 19th September.
- The Ambulance Response Programme standards: an introduction
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We’ve been really encouraged by how many people have started to talk with teams and leaders about the Ambulance Response Programme and how it’ll be implemented at EEAST.
- One year on: our mental health pledge to you
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We are continuing our bid to rid the stigma of mental health, after signing a commitment to health and wellbeing last year.
- Family adventure day for Finnbar's Force
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Finnbar’s Force is holding a family adventure day at Eaton Vale Activity Centre on Sunday, 10th September
- Kind donation for Suffolk responder group
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A community first responder group (CFR) group in Suffolk has received a financial boost to help save more lives.
- Working for EEAST and the wider NHS: This week’s leadership message is from Head of HR, Karen Barry
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This week Karen reflects on situations that have happened to her and why she is proud to work for EEAST and the wider NHS.
- Update for student paramedics and NQPs
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The Trust and UNISON have been in negotiations over the delays to the student paramedic pathway and transitional arrangements over band 6 progression.
- Clinical update: use of ‘in-line’ nebulised salbutamol
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In September 2016, JRCALC and NASMeD published a joint statement, ceasing support for managing patients with life threatening or near fatal asthma with ‘in-line’ nebulisation, and who are requiring assisted ventilations through an endo-tracheal tube.
- Martin and the team complete their Arctic Circle mission
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A team of Suffolk emergency services colleagues have crossed the finish line of their gruelling trek through the Arctic Circle.
- ‘I have nothing but praise for the ambulance staff’
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Patients have expressed their gratitude to staff in recent patient surveys.
- Caring for dementia patients with the Herbert Protocol
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Essex Police and other police services across the country have adopted a national scheme known as The Herbert Protocol, to help police find them as soon as possible.
- Are you eligible for a long service award?
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Planning is underway for this year’s Celebration and Contribution Awards event to recognise our staff and their achievements.
- Vacancy and transfer list – 24th August
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This week’s HR e-zine, with the latest job vacancies, expressions of interest and transfer opportunities, has been published.
- Donation boost for Suffolk responder group
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A community first responder group in Suffolk has received a boost following the donation of two defibrillators.
- Introducing Public Health England’s One You app
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A new app to help adults keep healthy has been released by Public Health England (PHE).
- BBC Ambulance is back!
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A new eight-part series of Ambulance is back on BBC One this Thursday (24th August) at 9pm.
- We are YOUR comms team
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You hear from us on a regular basis; we can often be seen appearing in your stations and offices. But what can the communications team do for you?
- Praise for volunteers and staff following busy V Festival
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A huge well done to staff and volunteers for their hard work during V Festival.
- Urgent recall of Flextube valves
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Intersurgical have voluntarily issued a recall.
- JESIP newsletter looks at partnership with non-blue light partners
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The latest edition of the Joint Emergency Service Interoperability Programme (JESIP) newsletter is available online.
- Teleflex offers free Intraosseous and Airway Management lab course at the University Hospital Coventry
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Places available on workshop to empower practitioners with using the Arrow EZ-10 intraosseous access and airway management strategies
- CFR helps teach first aid to students in Zambia
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A CFR has combined her passion for helping people and first aid with her teaching skills to help students at a school in Zambia.
- Useful resource for University of Suffolk’s paramedic educators
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A helpful information resource is available to help paramedic educators who are training University of Suffolk student paramedics.
- Sad death of Brian Heard
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The Trust is saddened to hear retired Paramedic Supervisor Brian Heard has passed away after a battle with cancer.
- Second responder kit allows volunteers to help more people in Essex community
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Extra lifesaving help is now available to the people of Mersea Island thanks to the addition of a second community responder bag.
- This week’s message is from Chief Executive Robert Morton (17th August)
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"Hearing examples of our staff going above and beyond the call of duty is something I’m proud to say seems to be a regular occurrence for me – and this week is no exception."
- Auto dispatch goes live across the Trust
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From today (17th August), auto dispatch, a CAD function aimed to better support the dispatch team, will be live across the region.
- Guidance for paramedics administering prescription only medication
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Following on from the guidance released about accountability, we have put together advice on whether paramedics must travel with a patient when they administer prescription-only medication, including morphine
- New staff appraisal conversations coming soon
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The HR and Organisational Development teams, as part of the new leadership strategy, is looking at how we value, develop and manage our workforce across the Trust.
- Body cams and filming in emergency departments
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There has been recent confusion over the use of body-worn video camera in emergency departments across the Trust.
- Free online diabetes training
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Training for a free learning tool to demonstrate and support your knowledge surrounding diabetes is available online.
- EEAST staff joins forces with Police and Fire colleagues to pass on their coaching skills and you can take part
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A group of EEAST staff are working with Resound to complete their ILM (Institute of Leadership and Management) Level 5 coaching qualification – and volunteers are needed to practice the skills they have learned.
- Join College of Paramedics at two CPD events
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Places are available on two continued personal development (CPD) days, taking place next month.
- Transfer and Vacancy list - May 31st
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This week’s HR e-zine, with the latest job vacancies, expressions of interest and transfer opportunities, has been published.
- You’re invited to the National UK Health Show
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The National UK health show is back and will be coming to London next month!
- Giving the children at EACH the special ‘tree-tment’
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An ambulance with its loud siren and flashing lights can be extremely frightening and stressful for a lot of people, especially for children.
- “We need to have self-compassion”: This week’s leadership message comes from Head of Urgent and Scheduled Care, Liz McEwan
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“We need to have self-compassion. Self-compassion is taking time to notice how we feel and making sure we take care of ourselves. We are often so busy taking care of others we forget about ourselves.” Plus an update on the news from the patient transport service (PTS).
- Agile working: a better digital experience for all
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A massive programme of works to bring aging hardware and software up to date is taking place over the coming months – and the Trust needs your help to make this happen!
- New staff ID card and access form
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The staff ID card and access form has been updated by the Estates Access team.
- Staff join thousands of people at Brighton Pride
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Staff joined emergency services from across the country and with marched with Pride in Brighton last weekend.
- Places available on eALS course
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Places are available for staff on an e-advanced life support (ALS) course at the University Of East Anglia (UEA) on 4th November.
- ACA hopes to rope in more funds for charity
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It’s just five weeks to go until Ambulance Care Assistant Catherine Renew will take on her fear of heights and abseiling off the Royal London Hospital helipad for charity.
- New Total Rewards Statement is coming soon
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A Total Reward Statement is a personalised summary that shows you what benefits you have or may have as an employee of the NHS.
- Vacancy and transfer list – 10th August
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This week’s HR e-zine, with the latest job vacancies, expressions of interest and transfer opportunities, has been published.
- Chelmsford station is officially open!
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Today members of the public and dignitaries joined staff to mark the opening of the brand new facility off Chelmer Valley Road.
- Fakenham CFR group open evening: Wednesday, 9 August
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In a bid to raise awareness about the CFR role in their community and introduce people to first aid skills, our Fakenham CFRs are holding an opening evening at the Fakenham Community Centre from 4.30pm to 8pm tomorrow night.
- Trust celebrates ‘first class’ service in three PTS areas
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The non-emergency transport service has been praised (for being “excellent” and “first class” by patients in south Essex, Cambridgeshire and Great Yarmouth and Waveney.
- STP lead for Norfolk and Waveney steps down
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Norfolk County Council’s managing director, who leads the area’s sustainable transformation project (STP), is to stand down and hand the role to an NHS leader.
- Gearing up for Monday’s Raksha Bandan festival
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Raksha Bandan, a Hindu festival celebrating the bond between a brother and sister, falls on Monday (7th August).
- Supermarket savings available to NHS staff
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Save some pennies on your supermarket shopping by registering for PSdiscounts.
- New research in care homes
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Research into improving the health and care of care home residents has been published.
- Caring for others inside and outside of work: This week’s message comes from Robert Morton
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This week, Robert looks at the continuing work on the Independent Service Review and some fantastic staff stories across the Trust.
- Consultations begins on draft NICE guidelines
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The service delivery and organisation of emergency and acute medical care in over 16s is the focus of new National Institute of Clinical Excellent guidance.
- Award for Essex paramedic who stopped drink driver
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An Essex paramedic has received a police award for helping to apprehend a drink driver.
- Safer recruitment of volunteers
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A review group has been established to explore volunteer recruitment.
- Are you doing something for charity? We'd like to hear from you!
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Whether you’re cycling or running a race, shaving your head, holding an open day or doing anything for charity, we would like to honour all involved.
- Clinical update from the patient safety team: Ingestion of Superabsorbant polymer gel granules
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Click here to see the full update regarding Superabsorbent polymer gel granules.
- Transfer and Vacancy list (3rd August)
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This week’s HR e-zine, with the latest job vacancies, expressions of interest and transfer opportunities, has been published.
- Clinical update: Guidance from May’s STEMI bundle compliance review
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Following May’s STEMI (heart attack) bundle compliance review, some areas have been identified where there could be improvement.
- New changes at Hertfordshire hospital
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From today (1st August), a ward at Hemel Hempstead Hospital has switched ownership between two trusts from West Hertfordshire Hospital Trust (WHHT) to Hertfordshire Community NHS Trust (HCT).
- Norfolk charity event hopes to kick fundraising goals out of the park
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The Gressenhall Football Club will be holding its annual charity event, raising money for the British Heart Foundation and East Anglian Air Ambulance on Saturday.
- Vacancy and transfer list – 28th July
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This week’s HR e-zine, with the latest job vacancies, expressions of interest and transfer opportunities, has been published.
- Recognise an inspiring person with awards scheme
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If someone you work with demonstrates bravery, fundraising, courage or fortitude, then help them get recognised on a national platform.
- Charles puts his photography skills to good use
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More than £5,000 has been raised for the Alzheimer’s Society by Charles Joseph, who works for the patient transport service.
- Keep up to date with all the EOC news on Twitter
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If you’re a regular twitter user (like our 21,000 followers), then check out our EOC twitter feed.
- Martin Wales goes the extra mile when it comes to fundraising
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Education Training Officer Martin is set to take on his first charity run.
- Paramedic by day, reservist by night: a day in the life of Michael Rattigan, one of our St Ives based paramedics
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Michael is just one of the Trust’s dedicated and hard-working individuals who willingly give their own time to train and serve for the military alongside their full time work commitments.
- Suffolk school’s thanks for ambulance visit
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A Suffolk school received a “fascinating” visit from ambulance staff as part of a summer fair.
- New call handlers take to Control
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Two new recruits are ready and raring to help patients and take 999 calls after successfully completing their emergency call handler training in Norwich.
- This week’s leadership message comes to you from Chief Executive, Robert Morton
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This week Robert looks at the Annual Public Meeting (APM), some recent goodbyes and an amazing story about lending a helping hand overseas from South Cambridgeshire.
- Annual Public Meeting
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Yesterday, Wednesday 26th July, the Trust held its Annual Public Meeting with a focus on people and progress. Read all about it here.
- Final farewell for much-loved colleague Lance
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Final goodbyes were said to a beloved colleague in Cambridgeshire yesterday.
- South Beds waves farewell to DLO Stuart after 37 years
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Last week, EEAST said a fond farewell to Duty Locality Officer, Stuart Clarke after 37 years in the ambulance service.
- HCPC registration –time to renew today
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All registered paramedics have just five weeks left to renew their license with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC).
- Dispatcher Stewie set to climb 5,895m to the ‘top of the world’
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On 8th September, Stewart ‘Stewie’ Kirwan, a Dispatcher from Chelmsford EOC, will be taking on a lifetime challenge climbing Mount Kilimanjaro.
- Understanding patients living with dementia
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While we continue to work on our ambition to be a dementia-friendly organisation, the Social Care Institute for Excellence (SCIE) has developed a video about the emotional impact of living with dementia.
- Clinical trauma: learn more about treating patients with pelvic injuries
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As with other traumatic injuries, identified pelvic injuries that could be bleeding or causing pain from misalignment could benefit from splinting in order to alleviate symptoms and stem bleeding.
- CQC inspection at Colchester Hospital
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Starting from today (25th July), the Clinical Quality Commission (CQC) will begin a three-day inspection in Colchester Hospital University Foundation Trust.
- Cardiac arrest survivor, 26, thanks lifesavers
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A 26-year-old has thanked his lifesavers after suffering a cardiac arrest three months ago.
- Clinical equipment manuals available at the touch of a button
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As an ambulance service, we naturally use a wide range of clinical equipment every day, from defibrillators to Manger Elks.
- Health Hero Awards: Do you know a hero? Nominate your colleague
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Do you know a colleague who puts patient care first and is a true hero (and not just for one day…)?
- Steven dons his running shoes for MAGPAS
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Paramedic Steven Humphrey from Huntingdon regularly finds himself working alongside Magpas air ambulance and now he has decided it is time to give something back.
- Thanks for helping our Marston Moretaine CFR group win
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Community fund cash has been secured for a new kit bag for the Marston Moretaine CFR group.
- Norwich EOC pocket another gold
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It was a cause for celebration this week for one Norwich EOC call handler as Charlotte Walker achieved her Gold call handler award.
- EEAST staff take on the Arctic Circle
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Here at EEAST we love to share your stories, and this week is the turn of Waveney Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) Martin Grove.
- Join the clinical team for multi-agency training
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Are you interested in learning about managing complex incidents? Operational staff can get their hands dirty at a training course with the fire service next month.
- Video message from Director of Service Delivery, Kevin Brown
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This week our Director of Service Delivery, Kevin Brown, has recorded a special video message for staff
- "Leadership isn't a swear word": This week's leadership message comes from Head of Communications, Joy Hale
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Joy shares her thoughts on Leadership, and what motivates and inspires her
- Annual general meeting
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Next Wednesday is the Trust Annual Public Meeting and staff and volunteers are invited to attend
- Rest break and late finish trial
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Over the last week we ran a trial in south Essex and Norfolk and Waveney to test out some further measures to help more staff get a timely rest beak, reduce late finishes (including IX0) and improve our service to patients
- Improving the way we support new initiatives: the Business Development Gateway
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Do you have an idea for a project or scheme that can improve patient safety, quality or experience? Have you been approached to work in collaboration with partner providers to deliver our service differently?
- English Channel swim raises thousands for charity
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Colleagues in Suffolk have succeeded in raising thousands of pounds for charity after embarking on an intrepid challenge to swim the English Channel.
- Time to march with Pride
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A summer of Pride events are filling the calendar – and you are invited to get involved.
- Calling all carnival enthusiasts
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Have you ever wondered what it is like to be part of one of the biggest carnivals in the Country? Well, here is your opportunity!
- Patients to benefit from £325 million investment in NHS transformation projects
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Health Secretary Jeremy Hunt and NHS England boss Simon Stevens yesterday (19th July) announced £325m of capital investment for local projects that will help the NHS to modernise and transform care for patients.
- Vacancy and transfer list - 20th July
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This week's HR e-zine, with the latest job vacancies, expressions of interest and transfer opportunities has been published.
- Product recall of flextube valve
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The Trust has been notified of an incident where a ventilator circuit failed whilst in use.
- #24hoursinEOE is back!
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The EEAST communications team is running the fourth 24-hour Twitterthon on Thursday – '24 hours in the East of England’ will highlight the amazing work of staff and volunteers and the type and sheer volume of 999 calls we receive.
- Free research training available
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Addenbrookes Medical Library has now scheduled group training sessions in the Medical Library up until the end of October.
- West Norfolk cycle sportive
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Senior Emergency Medical Technician Richie Cullip is organising a cycle sportive to raise money for five great charities.
- This weeks Leadership message: Chief Executive Robert Morton
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This weeks message talks about recent visits, myth busting and the freshly announced ARP
- Meet Norwich EOC's new SEM
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Recently the Trust recruited two new senior EOC managers to the Norwich and Bedford offices. Today, Norwich Senior EOC Manager Paul Vinters introduces himself to those of you he hasn’t met yet.
- Are drones the answer?
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The Karolinska Institute in Sweden is currently trialling the use of a drone in treating patients in cardiac arrest, with the drone delivering a defibrillator to scene.
- Success for Norfolk EIV
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Hundreds have received extra support from a project to help Norfolk patients who have suffered a fall.
- Heaps of praise for ambulance service in latest survey
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The compliments were coming in thick and fast for all of you following the service you provided to patients in April.
- Anna and Simon's first three months as Guardians
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At the Public Board meeting in March, Simon Chase and Anna Price were introduced to the Board as the Trusts new Freedom to Speak Up Guardians.
- Wing walk raises over £2,000 in honour of Keith Marshall
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On Sunday 9th July, community first responder (CFR) volunteer Mary Marshall strapped herself to the wing of a plane and hurtled through the sky at speeds of up to 130mph to honour her late husband, Keith who sadly passed away in November last year.
- Vacancy and transfer list - 13th July
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This week’s HR e-zine, with the latest job vacancies, expressions of interest and transfer opportunities, has been published.
- Clinical alert for information - Finasteride
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Reports have been received of users suffering from depression, and in rare cases, suicidal thoughts when taking Finasteride 1mg (Propecia) for male pattern hair loss.
- Additional Essex fuel
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This week the Trust has completed the commissioning of two additional fuel tanks in Essex
- The new One Number: using ECAT for clinical advice, SPOC, and more
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The Clinical Support Desk (CSD), which has been a part of the Emergency Operations Control (EOC) room for several years, has recently seen a significant alteration in its scope and function.
- Award success at Royal Norfolk Show and public insight at Cromer station
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It was a bumper engagement week for Norfolk staff and volunteers thanks to two big events.
- Reminder about safety of Trust vehicles and equipment
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Following thefts from ambulances and cars targeting defibrillators in nearby regions, both from vehicles parked on station, we are reminding everyone about some simple security measures.
- Cambridge mother's thanks to 'amazing' life-savers
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Cambridge staff have met a former patient in an emotional reunion this week after she collapsed and went into cardiac arrest two months ago.
- Reminder to renew your HCPC license
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From 1st June, the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) began sending letters to all registered paramedics inviting them to renew their registration before 31st August.
- Free end of life care event
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All clinical staff are invited to expand their End of Life care skills at a free training day in Watford.
- This weeks leadership message comes from Chief Executive Robert Morton
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This weeks leadership message talks about the passing of a loved colleague, the Grenfell Tower fire, and the recent heatwave and much more.
- Staff survey - how often do you experience verbal or physical abuse?
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Work is underway on a new public campaign to highlight and raise awareness of the issue of physical and verbal abuse against EEAST staff.
- New focus on getting to grips with dementia pathway
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An NHS organisation which helps give practical support in gathering data, evidence and tools to help improve the way care is delivered has produced resources about dementia care.
- Heaps of praise for ambulance service in latest patient survey
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The compliments were coming in thick and fast for all of you following the service you provided to patients in April.
- Tops marks for Natalie
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Congratulations to Clinical Quality Manager, Natalie Mudge who passed her Mary Seacole NHS Leadership programme with merit.
- New process for recruiting temporary staff
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A new system to help combine the number of temporary staff agencies we use is being introduced.
- Sean and Nick complete epic golf challenge
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At the beginning of June, Sean Carroll and Nick Bennett, both staff members from Chelmsford EOC, embarked on an epic golf challenge.
- Oarsome Essex staff take part in raft race
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A team from south east Essex took to the water, in the first Southend Raft Race for over 20 years.
- Vacancy and transfer list - 6th July
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This weeks HR e-zine, with the latest job vacancies, expressions of interest and transfer opportunities, has been published.
- Fundraising for charity reaches new heights
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Would you strap yourself to the wing of a plane, hurtling through the sky at speeds of up to 130mph?
- Our new Quality Account: setting the pace for the coming year
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Thank you to everyone who has made such a massive contribution to improving clinical quality care – the successes of which have been outlined in the latest Quality Account.
- ePCR and EEAST: where are we now?
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Many of you will have followed the ePCR project closely, and thank you to everyone who has kept in contact about its implementation and progress.
- This week's leadership message comes from Head of Clinical Quality, Tracy Nicholls
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"We have the biggest heart of any NHS organization": this week's leadership message is from Head of Clinical Quality, Tracy Nicholls
- Motorcyclist's thanks to life-savers
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A motorcyclist, who was seriously injured in a horrific road traffic collision in Cambridgeshire, has thanked his life-savers.
- Free CPD seminars available at Emergency Services Show
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It’s not too late to register your free places for the Emergency Services Show.
- EEAST congratulates its very own award winner
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As well as working out on the front line, Rayleigh Senior Technician Dee Quinn also runs her own beauty business, Deelights.
- New dispatchers ready, set and able to join the ambulance airwaves
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Our Norwich EOC is pleased to welcome Callum, Brittany, Liam and Kevin into their new roles as dispatchers following the successful completion of their training course on Friday (23rd June).
- Free entry to Drayton Manor for emergency service staff
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Drayton Manor Park is proud to support patient facing emergency services for their continued bravery and commitment to helping keep their local communities safe.
- Remember to be extra vigilant after recent global cyber attack
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In light of the ongoing global cyber-attack, we are asking you all to be extra vigilant, around any emails you receive.
- North Norfolk community first responders celebrate National Lottery grant
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In what feels like a win of epic proportions, Stalham and Smallburgh community first responders (CFRs) have received £9,503 in grant funding from the Big Lottery Fund.
- Vacancy and transfer list - 29th June
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This week's HR e-zine with the latest job vacancies is available online.
- Calling paramedics: join an exciting stroke research study
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Are you a qualified (or soon-to-be) paramedic? Our research support services team is looking for more paramedics to participate in the RIGHT-2 stroke research study!
- Lance Cox
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It’s with great sadness that we share the news that our much-loved colleague Lance Cox has passed away.
- Changes to the Data Protection Act are coming
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A new data protection law to protect and strengthen people’s privacy will be coming out next year.
- Cromer station opens its doors to support children’s charity
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Early next month (July), it’s the annual Cromer ambulance station open day.
- Stay vigilant - safety of vehicles and equipment
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We have been contacted following several thefts from ambulances and cars targeting defibrillators. The thefts have happened to the vehicles whilst parked on stations/depots after dark.
- New HART vehicles
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Over the weekend, new Hazardous Area Response Team (HART) vehicles will be making their first journeys around the region, as they go on line from the Melbourn HART base.
- ACA Catherine takes on her fear of heights
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For anyone with a fear of heights, the thought of a charity abseil is enough to make you run away fast!
- This week’s leadership message comes from Kevin Brown, Director of Service Delivery
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This week Kevin remembers colleagues we have lost and thanks everyone for their tireless work over his last, very hot, week.
- Great success at Essex blood pressure event
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Staff, volunteers, and TUG members have been thanked for the efforts at an incredibly successful blood pressure event in Chelmsford this week.
- Clinical update: Rollout of new ECG electrodes
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As part of a national programme, we have been looking at some of the products we currently use and how we can collaborate better with hospitals to reduce duplication of product usage and purchase.
- Reminder: have you renewed your HCPC registration?
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All registered paramedics will need to renew their Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) registration.
- EEAST colleagues reach for their skies
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In little more than two weeks, EEAST Directors Lindsey Stafford-Scott and Chris Hartley will join Community Collaboration Manager Jon Needle and volunteer Mary Marshall in a wing walk to honour one of the our most active volunteers, Keith Marshall who sadly passed away in November.
- Guidance for low risk fumes on ambulances
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After reports from another Trust of ‘smokeless fumes in Mercedes vehicles’, our fleet teams have fully investigated the issue and can confirm the following…
- Vote now to help our Marston Moretaine CFR group win!
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In a bid to raise much needed funds toward a new kit bag, the Marston Moretaine CFR group have signed up to win £1,000 through the Calor Rural Community Fund project funding campaign.
- Vacancy and transfer list – 22nd June
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This week’s HR e-zine, with the latest job vacancies, expressions of interest and transfer opportunities, has been published.
- Keep hydrated through the summer heat!
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With more than 7,000 calls to the service over Saturday and Sunday, the summer weather is well and truly here to stay.
- New life saving Defibrillator for Kedington
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Another lifesaving community Public Access Defibrillator (cPAD) has been installed by the Haverhill, Kedington and Hundon community first responder (CFR) group.
- Christian Ambulance Network launched
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A new group has been set up for ambulance staff. Established by a group of Christians working in ambulance services it aims to support and encourage Christians in the work place.
- Stay safe on the railways
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When you think railway safety, what first comes to mind? Is it level crossings?
- EEAST staff invited to take part in ‘This is my Hand’ 999 walk
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Monday, 21st August will see the start of a 200 mile challenge, walking from Lee-on-Solent, through Hampshire, Berkshire, Buckinghamshire and Oxfordshire, finishing in Edmund’s Park, Didcot.
- National Ambulance LGBT Network Conference
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The second annual conference of the National Ambulance LGBT network is taking place on Friday, 4th August and all staff are welcome.
- #SaferSleep for Babies: join the campaign
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Essex council have launched a campaign to raise awareness about the dangers of poor sleeping conditions and co-sleeping risks for young babies.
- Spike in interest from future volunteer life-savers following successful National Volunteers’ Week celebrations
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Following a successful National Volunteers’ Week 2017 (1st-7th June), we have seen an incredible 360% spike in community first responder (CFR) registrations of interest.
- Vehicle security
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Given the recent terrorist events in the UK and the current threat level being at severe, which means that a terrorist attack is highly likely, this week we take a look at vehicle security and what we should all be doing to protect our safety and those of the public.
- Free family fun day at Clacton Pier
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Clacton Pier is hosting a free family fun day for front line emergency services staff, which is taking place this coming Saturday, 17th June.
- Supporting our EEAST and 999 family: this week’s leadership message comes from Chief Executive, Robert Morton
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“Here at EEAST, we are all part of one big 999 family. Many people tell me that EEAST is their work or second family. So hearing sad news is always a tough thing, and like any family, it’s important that we support our colleagues through both the bad times, as well as the good.”
- Securing patients
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Patient safety is something we’re all committed to and we want to ensure there is clarity about how important it is that staff are aware of their responsibilities in securing and transporting people travelling in the back of an ambulance.
- Trauma Pathway Awareness month
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Next month (July) will be our Trauma Pathway Awareness month – a time to refresh your minds on our processes for the most seriously ill patients.
- Stay cool and hydrated in the weekend sun
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Looks like the summer weather is here and over the weekend, temperatures are set to soar to the late 20s.
- Patient Transport Service achieve high satisfaction rates
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At the start of the year, patients who had used the Patient Transport Service operated by the Trust were asked to complete a patient satisfaction survey. See the results here!
- Trauma workshop
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All clinical staff are invited to an evening workshop at Watford General Hospital – discussing all things trauma related.
- North Kensington fire
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As you will be aware, in the early hours of this morning a Major Incident was declared in London following a very large fire in North Kensington. There has been a significant number of casualties and a number of likely deaths. Our thoughts are with all those involved
- This week's leadership message comes from Deputy Medical Director Dr Tom Davis
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London attacks, sad passing of a colleague and medicines management: this week's Executive message comes from Deputy Medical Director Dr Tom Davis
- Awards success for Trust's commercial arm group
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Members of a national networking group for NHS sustainability leads set up by our National Performance Advisory Group (NPAG) recently took home several accolades in an awards ceremony.
- EEAST take to the skies to honour much loved colleague
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EEAST Directors Lindsey Stafford-Scott and Chris Hartley will join Community Collaboration Manager Jon Needle and Mary Marshall as they take their lives in their hands and wing walk for charity to honour one of the ambulance service's most active volunteers, Keith Marshall who sadly passed away in November 2016.
- Updated safeguarding documents available online
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The safeguarding adults and children policies and the Trust safeguarding manual have been updated and are available on East24.
- Ready, steady, bake!
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The people of Southend station will be putting their best cakes forward next week in honour of the Alzhemier’s Society.
- You're invited to the public sector show
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The Public Sector Show is in London later this month and staff are invited to attend.
- Reminder: Clopidogrel supply at Cambridge hospital to stop
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From Monday, 12th June, Papworth Hospital will no longer provide a supply of the pre-packed drug Clopidogrel/Plavix 300mg.
- Archive
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News Archive ...
- Staff tee off for Macmillan Cancer Support
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Call Handler Sean Carroll and Dispatcher Nick Bennett will be taking to the Brentwood Golf Club in the name of charity.
- Martin Manning
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We are very sad to announce that a much-loved and long standing member of our Patient Transport Service, Martin Manning, has died aged 56.
- Time to renew your HCPC registration
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As of last Thursday (1st June), the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) will be getting in touch with all registered paramedics inviting them to renew their registration before Thursday, 31st August.
- Terrorist attack update for staff
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The tragic events at the weekend in London show how little is needed to cause catastrophic injury to innocent members of the public and how we all need to remain vigilant and report anything suspicious.
- Trust awarded cyber essentials accreditation
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After the cyber-attack last month, we are pleased to say that the Trust has been given Cyber Essentials accreditation.
- What is the accessible information standard?
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As an NHS organisation, there are a number of standards we need to meet when it comes to making sure everyone can access and understand any information we give out.
- First joint court injunction for frequent caller patient
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Whether you work out in the community or in one of our EOC’s, you will have come in to contact with some of the Trusts frequent callers.
- NHS Pensions Agency address has changed
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If you have any questions about NHS Pensions or would like to contact them via post, the address has now changed.
- Disposing Trust batteries
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Our clinical waste drivers will shortly be making routine healthcare waste collection to Trust sites.
- This week’s leadership message is from Karl Edwards, Deputy Director of Service Delivery for Norfolk, Suffolk and Essex
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“It has been a few months now since we moved to the new localities of east and west and I wanted to take the opportunity to reflect on the many changes that have taken place.”
- Calling support services: do you know how to save a life?
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For many in support services, saving a person’s life is not something we see every day. But would you know what to do in a life-threatening emergency?
- Bedfordshire man praises lifesaving medics
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The medics who heroically dragged a man to safety moments before his car exploded last year were reunited under much happier circumstances last week (Monday, 22nd May).
- Keep cool in the bank holiday sun
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Temperatures are set to soar into the high 20s over the bank holiday weekend and we’ve been giving out advice to the public to help them avoid suffering in the sun.
- Come and join Suzy’s charity fun run!
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Health and Wellbeing Project Support Officer, Suzy Oakley has organised a charity run – with fun being the key word!
- A tribute to Roger Ditcham
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Last month, we shared the sad news that Roger Ditcham, one of our longest serving community first responder passed away.
- New call handlers for Bedford
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Bedford EOC welcomed four new call handlers to the team, after they completed their initial classroom training to achieve their AMPDS Emergency Medical Dispatcher license.
- Funeral arrangements for much-loved Gary Lacey
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Earlier this month we shared news of the sad loss of Gary Lacey, our colleague and friend.
- Launch of the Trusts Leadership and Health and Wellbeing strategies: this weeks executive message comes from Director of People and Culture Lindsey Stafford-Scott
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This week sees a real focus on our people with the launch of the Trust's Leadership and Health and Wellbeing strategies.
- Revision to crew changeovers
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The crew changeover process has recently been revised to take into account learning from incidents reported on Datix.
- Praise for 'super' service
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Ambulance staff have been praised by patients for a “fantastic”, “professional” and “super service”.
- Can you help with Restart a Heart Day 2017?
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Thousands of students learnt to save to life last year during Restart a Heart Day.
- Volunteers' week 2017
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It’s only 1 week until Volunteers' Week 2017 kicks off and we can’t wait to showcase and thank our amazing volunteers!
- Ramadan begins this weekend - check out our guidance
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This year’s Ramadan will begin on Saturday, 27th May and last for 30 days.
- Practice based learning education event
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The University of Suffolk is hosting a Practice Education Based Learning conference in Suffolk and there are still places available for EEAST staff to attend.
- Acid attacks
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There has recently been a rise is acid attacks, which are often organised by criminal gangs. There has been no threat from any specific group or groups against the emergency services, but we will be called to deal with the aftermath and may not know the perpetrators whereabouts.
- Dementia strategy gains momentum
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As last week's dementia awareness week came to a close, it allowed me to review the progress of the Trust’s dementia strategy, along with a personal reflection of where we find ourselves in in supporting all affected by or living with dementia.
- Vacancy and transfer list - 25th May
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This week’s HR e-zine, with the latest job vacancies, expressions of interest and transfer opportunities, has been published.
- Security threat level raised
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Following this week’s devastating attacks in Manchester, the Government's emergency committee, COBRA, has raised the UK Security Threat Level to ‘Critical’.
- Latest public Board meeting for EEAST
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The wellbeing and mental health of our staff and volunteers will be the focus of the latest public Board meeting on Wednesday (24th May).
- Changes are coming to Ipswich Hospital's stroke pathway
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From Monday (22nd May), the way you activate the stroke team at Ipswich hospital is changing.
- Aftermath of the cyber-attack and looking ahead to the summer: it’s your executive update from Chief Executive, Robert Morton
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In this week’s Need to Know, Robert thanks the IT and on call teams, after last week’s cyber-attack, share exciting news on our stroke and mental health services and looks ahead to the next few months.
- Behind the scenes: Louise Mutter, Community Nurse at The Hospice of St Francis
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As part of end of life care month, it’s important to remember the fantastic work of the region’s hospices and charities. Working with them can help ensure the right care is given for any end of life patient.
- Fantastic teamwork and our pathway opportunities: this week's message comes from Chief Executive Robert Morton
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In his video message, Chief Executive Robert Morton talks about the loss of our much loved colleague Steve Sale, our recent NHS Protect audit and our current development opportunities.
- Chelmsford call handler gets the silver!
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Congratulations are in order for Chelmsford EOC Call Handler Daniel who has achieved his Silver Call Handling award.
- Joint emergency service commitment to unite against dementia
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Three national organisations have signed up to unite against dementia with the charity Alzheimer’s Society.
- Come along to air ambulance clinical governance day
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The Essex and Herts Air Ambulance Trust (EHAAT) will be holding its monthly clinical day on Tuesday, 18th April, and you are invited to join them.
- Vacancy and transfer list - 9th March
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This week’s HR e-zine, with the latest job vacancies, expressions of interest and transfer opportunities, has been published.
- Timesheets and guidance updated following your feedback
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Last month the Trust issued a new timesheet for you to record your working hours. Following feedback from colleagues, this has now been updated and you can find the newest version here.
- "Worth their weight in gold": what patients have been saying about you
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“Outstanding”, “very kind”, and “marvellous” were to name some of the many compliments made by respondents in our latest patient experience report when speaking about you.
- Hertfordshire careers expo event a huge success
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Staff and volunteers have been thanked for the efforts at a recent careers convention in Hatfield.
- Dave Mulloy
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The service is saddened to share news that ex-colleague Dave Mulloy, who worked with us in Chelmsford EOC from 2009-2012, passed away last month.
- Government accept 1% pay rise for all NHS staff
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The Government has accepted recommendations from the NHS Pay Review Body for a 1% pay increase for all NHS staff, which will come in to effect as of 1st April.
- Got a project idea that could improve patient care? Funding available through charity programme
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Have you got a project idea that could help improve patient care?
- If you knocked someone over in the street, would you say sorry?
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This week’s senior leadership message comes from Emma de-Carteret, Safety and Risk Lead
- Join your colleagues at 2017 Pride
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This summer sees the return of a number of Pride events across the country, and you can get involved to show your support across the region:
- We’re on ITV’s The Kyle Files!
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Back in November television presenter Jeremy Kyle did a ride-out with ‘team EEAST’ for a new prime-time show on ITV.
- Meet the quality improvement team
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Our quality improvement team is clinically led and focusses on improving outcomes for patients across the Trust.
- Share your views on our training and education
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Health Education England (HEE) will be visiting us next month to assess the quality of the education and training we provide, to make sure we provide the best quality of care to patients.
- 'On behalf of my family, thank you for saving me'
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Have you ever thought how you would leap into action if you were off-duty?
- Luton open day raises hundreds for charity
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Luton station opened its doors last weekend to give the public a behind the scenes peek at a working ambulance station – and all to raise money for charity.
- The importance of patient care records
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Providing the best patient care we can is always at the heart of everything we do as a service, and completing the patient care record for every patient is a vital part of this.
- Vacancy and transfer list - 2nd March
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This week’s HR e-zine, with the latest job vacancies, expressions of interest and transfer opportunities, has been published.
- Staff commend teachers for saving pupils life
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Four teachers at Castle Newnham School in Bedford have received commendations from us for their outstanding efforts in saving a young boy’s life at school.
- Trust’s ‘rare conditions handbook’: download your copy today
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The most rare diseases can affect only a handful, or even a single person in the whole of the country. So what happens if you’re called to provide care to that one person?
- The East of England Clinical Network - Diabetes Prevention & Treatment Conference
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Readers of Need to Know are invited to a conference next month which explores the current care programme and its outcomes for improving patient health.
- Places available for pre-hospital student conference
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A two-day conference, designed to enhance the quality of critical care, is taking place next month and students are invited to attend.
- New SORT training dates available
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If you would like to join our specialist operations response team (SORT), then new training dates are available over the next few months.
- Free event – The inaugural clinical entrepreneur’s forum
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The Eastern Academic Health Science Network, together with Health Enterprise East, is hosting its first ever clinical entrepreneur’s forum.
- Are you running the Virgin London Marathon? We want to hear from you!
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We are hoping to do a write up before and after the big event, to honour everyone taking part.
- An update from Robert Morton, Chief Executive (23rd February)
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An update on the Ambulance Response Programme (ARP), refining our current clinical outcome indicators and behind the headlines about the HSE improvement notices: it’s your weekly update from Chief Executive Robert Morton.
- Storing tough cut scissors on vehicles
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The clinical engineering team have recently seen a number of vehicles where crews are using the oxygen pipelines to store their tough cut scissors.
- Paramedic Nick’s challenge to end all challenges
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Our runners, swimmers and cyclists amongst us will know that training and completing an event can become a crazy obsession.
- Essex father-son duo raise more than £6,000 for CFR group
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Martin and Dennis Ford, who volunteer in Colchester, have raised a staggering £6,565 to buy new equipment for their group.
- Be vigilant! Increase in ‘phishing emails’ prompts warning
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Over the last few weeks, the IT team have notice an increase in ‘phishing’ emails and are asking staff to remain vigilant.
- Handing over patients at hospitals: a message from Director of Service Delivery, Kevin Brown
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We continue to work closely with the whole health system and regulators to try to resolve and reduce these delays.
- Opportunity to unlock and develop your leadership skills
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The region’s medical regiment is holding a two-day leadership development event and managers are invited to attend.
- Video message: Kevin Brown, Director of Service Delivery says thank you to you all
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In his first video message, Director of Service Delivery Kevin Brown talks about winter pressures, how we can all help and shares a big thank you to you all…
- Luton station to open its doors to the public for charity
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As part of a mammoth charity challenge, a group of staff from south Bedfordshire will be holding a station open day to raise money for charity.
- Thank you for #EOCtakeover week success
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A big thank you to everyone who contributed to and supported our EOC takeover week which finished on Sunday.
- On a student para pathway, prior to university? Survey still open!
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A Health Education England (HEE) survey, designed to help inform us of the quality of your taught education programme and the learning in practice, is still open.
- Karen's trek of a lifetime
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We’ve all heard of the charity Help for Heroes and the incredible work it does, but it has a particularly special place in one of our staff member’s heart.
- Minor injury services in Great Yarmouth and Waveney are changing
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As of Monday (6th February) the Beccles minor injury service will be provided by the Beccles Medical Centre, with the last patients being seen at the current Beccles Minor Injury Unit on Sunday (5th February).
- Free end of life care event
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An ageing unit is sharing the results of its Cambridge City over 75s cohort study at the end of this week - and you are invited to join them!
- Help challenge mental health discrimination – Time to Talk Day 2017
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The time has come for the fourth annual Time to Talk Day, and here at EEAST we want to do our bit. With more than 60%* of people saying that stigma and discrimination are as damaging as the actual symptoms of their mental health problem, now is as good a time as any to get talking!
- Vacancy and transfer list – 2nd February
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This week’s HR e-zine, with the latest job vacancies, expressions of interest and transfer opportunities, has been published.
- Single Point of Contact
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Due to capacity issues, you may experience delays getting through to SPOC today if you want to make a safeguarding referral or report an incident; please do bear with us as it is vital that these referrals and incident reports are still made.
- The quality roadshows are back!
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Over the next couple of months, the quality improvement and clinical teams will be hitting the road once again to hear first-hand from you about how we can improve the quality of what we do at EEAST!
- Please report all cases of violence and aggression
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In the event that you’re exposed to acts of violence and aggression in the line of duty, you’re required to report it on the DATIX system.
- Herts Valley launches end of life strategy
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A strategy to ensure the best possible care is provided to people nearing the end of their life has been launched in Hertfordshire.
- Need an appointment after an occupational health referral?
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Having listened to your feedback, we are making some changes to the way our private health occupier PAM contacts you after a referral.
- Your views wanted for the Quality Account
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The Quality Account – it’s a document published each year which sets out the standard of service we provide, and what we want to achieve clinically over the next year.
- Luton staff gearing up to cross the finish line
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A group of staff from south Bedfordshire will be swapping their greens for running gear as they take on the Milton Keynes festival of running to raise money for charity.
- Vacancy and transfer list – 26th January
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This week’s HR e-zine, with the latest job vacancies, expressions of interest and transfer opportunities, has been published.
- College of Paramedics membership continues to rise
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The College of Paramedics (COP) is delighted to announce, that the number of registered paramedics on full memberships in the region rose by 22% last year.
- New and updated policies on East24
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The following policies have been reviewed, updated and are available on the documents library on East24.
- What are ‘phishing’emails?
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‘Phishing’ emails are usually sent by fraudsters who masquerade as someone trusted (such as your bank) to gain information from you, e.g. your bank details or a username and password.
- Are your details correct on the Trust directory?
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We’re having a (very early) spring clean of the Trust directory, making sure all entries are up to date.
- Learning event: air ambulance trauma day open to colleagues
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The East Anglian Air Ambulance (EAAA) team is inviting EEAST colleague to attend their next clinical governance day – a free learning day focused on trauma care.
- Kelly Hussick
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It is with great sadness we announce the death of our friend and colleague Kelly Hussick.
- ‘First class’ ambulance staff praised in latest survey
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“Wonderful”, “excellent”, and “extremely professional” were just a few of the compliments made by respondents from our latest patient experience report when speaking about you.
- Free lecture looking into what causes sudden death
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Sudden deaths, particularly in our young patients, are the calls we don’t want to think about, but are becoming more common.
- Vacancy and transfer list –8th December
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This week’s HR e-zine, with the latest job vacancies, expressions of interest and transfer opportunities, is now available online.
- You’re invited to the November Board meeting
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The Trust’s next public Board meeting is being held on Wednesday, 30th November at Melbourn headquarters.
- You’re invited to EHAAT’s clinical governance day!
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The Essex and Herts Air Ambulance Trust (EHAAT) will be holding its monthly clinical day on 15th November – and all colleagues are welcome along.
- “Positive” mental health trial extended countywide
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Following a successful pilot, the First Response Service (FRS) has been extended to cover the whole of Cambridgeshire.
- Fraud alert – phishing police service email
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There is a phishing email currently in circulation that claims to be from a UK police service, offering financial compensation to victims of fraud.
- Cohorting guidance shared to help keep patients safe
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The safety of our patients must always be our highest priority; one of the highest risks of harm to our patients is in the community at times when we have no resources to send to them, and we have had a number of serious incidents reported, involving actual harm, that have been contributed to by hospital handover delays.
- NHS Change Day is back – with a new name!
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NHS Change Day is the biggest day of collective action for improvement in the history of the NHS. Now it is called Fab Change Day, and this year, will be coming to you on 19th October.
- Vacancy and transfer list – 6th October
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This week’s HR e-zine, with the latest job vacancies, expressions of interest and transfer opportunities, has been published.
- New volunteers supporting patient care
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Four new volunteer life-savers have joined the ambulance family after becoming community first responders (CFRs).
- Paras complete mammoth 19.1 miles in aid of mental health
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Two Essex paramedics joined emergency service colleagues to complete a 19.1 mile walk from Broughton to the Blackpool Tower, all in aid of mental health awareness.
- Securing and storing medication appropriately
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It is vitally important that you take reasonable care when handling medication, including making sure it is accounted for and stored appropriately.
- Latest IAPs look forward to getting in the driving seat
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Intermediate ambulance practitioners learning the ropes at Newmarket training centre will be on the road next week to start their driver training.
- John Styles
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It is with great sadness we announce the death of former west Essex paramedic John Styles.
- Phishing – what is it and how can we avoid it?
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The IT team have recently noticed an increase in ‘phishing’ emails.
- New way of capturing your feedback about EAAA
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The East Anglian Air Ambulance (EAAA) has launched an online form for your feedback on incidents they attend to improve standards and working relations.
- Infection, prevention, control: what is CPE?
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Hospitals in the UK have seen an increase in the number of carbapenemase-producing enterobacteriaceae (CPE) incidents.
- Stroke: the future of patient care in Norfolk
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A study day on the future of stroke care is being held at the Norfolk and Norwich Hospital on Wednesday, 12th October.
- Develop your skills at major trauma conference
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The Oxford Major Trauma and Pre-Hospital Emergency Medicine Conference will be taking place in November.
- Missing syringe pumps in north east Essex
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Please keep an eye out for any McKinley or CME Medical T34 syringe pumps that are missing.
- Junior doctor strike called off
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Strike action by junior doctors that was planned for the next three months has been suspended by the British Medical Association.
- Norfolk hospitals now following same medication procedure
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To clarify which medications should be taken into hospital with patients in Norfolk, all three hospitals have agreed the same procedure.
- Guidance for completing patient care records
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Completing a patient care record (PCR) is a vital part of everyday working for a majority of us.
- Recognising staff achievements and looking ahead to the winter months: update from CEO Robert Morton (27th September)
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Southend station’s grand opening, the start of flu season and final countdown to EEAST awards – it’s your weekly update from Chief Executive Robert Morton.
- Airway update - endo-tracheal intubation
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Airway management is an intervention that if done correctly can quite literally save lives. However, if done poorly, or without the relevant mechanisms for safety, it may actually cause harm to patients.
- Trust joins pilot that sees extra 999 call triage time
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Next week the Trust is joining a national pilot that aims to give patients a more clinically appropriate response to people who call 999 for our help.
- Safety on the tracks
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We get called to incidents on railway lines across the region, which are often in very difficult and challenging circumstances.
- Dates for diary: more mentor development workshops
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Places are still available for a series of one day workshops supporting mentor development.
- Southend ambulance station officially opened
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Staff in south east Essex welcomed local dignitaries to Southend station, which was officially opened by the Lord Lieutenant of Essex Lord Petre yesterday (26th September).
- Vacancy and transfer list – 29th September
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This week’s HR e-zine, with the latest job vacancies, expressions of interest and transfer opportunities, is now available online.
- Latest Trust Board held this week
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If you’re able to go to Wednesday morning’s Public Board meeting in Norfolk, you can find out all the info here:
- Stub out the habit and join the Stoptober challenge
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Stoptober, the 28 day quit smoking campaign, is back.
- Public Health England issues alert over infected ear piercing sites
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Clinicians should be aware of an increase in cases of severe pseudomonas aeruginosa infections following cosmetic piercing procedures.
- Infection, prevention, control: decontamination – why is it so important?
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Our back to basics look at infection, prevention and control (IPC) continues this week with decontamination.
- Celebrating our fantastic air ambulance charities and a rematch like no other: update from CEO Robert Morton (22nd September)
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A visit to PTS, Southend station’s grand opening and the clinical team take on the rest of the world – it’s your weekly update from Chief Executive Robert Morton.
- Save the date for 2017 EMS conference
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The annual EMS research conference will be held on 29th March at the At-Bristol Science Centre.
- Community defibrillators: what to do if used on scene
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We all know that early defibrillation can save lives, and with more than 800 community public access defibrillators (CPADs) in public spaces across the east of England, we’re playing our part in bettering the chance of survival.
- Behind the scenes with Vijay Loi, Information Analyst
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This week in the ‘behind the scenes’ hot seat is Vijay Loi, who has worked as an Information Analyst for nearly seven years.
- Excellent team working and fantastic Finnbar500 cross the finish line: Update from CEO Robert Morton (15th September)
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Talking collaborative working, excellent teamwork and Finnbar500 finish their mammoth 500-mile ride – your weekly update from Chief Executive Robert Morton.
- Could you help train or support our community responder schemes?
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We’re on the look-out for Trust colleagues to help train our community first responders (CFRs) across the region, and provide a clinical link between responder groups and the organisation.
- Mentor development workshops available to staff
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A series of one day workshops supporting mentor development will be taking place across the Trust in the next two months.
- Invitation to spooktacular fundraiser in memory of SJ
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Family and friends of beloved colleague Sarah-Jane Cunningham are holding a Halloween fundraising event in her memory.
- Trust honoured to support awards focused on equality and diversity
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We were honoured to be this year’s headline sponsor at a recent Bedfordshire awards ceremony, dedicated to supporting the Asian business community.
- Don’t forget to nominate in NHS awards
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If you know someone at EEAST who deserves an NHS Leadership Recognition Award, don’t forget to nominate them before 30th September.
- Vacancy and transfer list – 22nd September
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This week’s HR e-zine, with the latest job vacancies, expressions of interest and transfer opportunities, is now available online.
- Service sees demand spike during September heatwave
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New figures have revealed a spike in demand for our service during last week’s heatwave that swept across the region.
- It’s the final countdown to the Emergency Services Show
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We are counting down the days to this year’s Emergency Services Show, and with one week to go, you can still register for your free entry.
- Behind the scenes: Ruth Spencer, Commercial Services Contact Centre Manager
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Our ‘behind the scenes’ feature, where we highlight a person or team from within the Trust, continues. This week is the turn of Commercial Services Contact Centre Manager, Ruth Spencer.
- Jeremy Kyle does ride-out for new TV series
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Radio and television presenter Jeremy Kyle will be taking a look behind the scenes at EEAST this weekend as he joins us for a ride-out.
- Reminder: spare defibrillator pads
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Please remember to check your defibrillator carries a spare set of adult pads before starting your shift.
- Vacancy and transfer list – 15th September
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This week’s HR e-zine, with the latest job vacancies, expressions of interest and transfer opportunities, is now available online.
- Calling all mentors for Chelmsford development day
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Places for a development day in Chelmsford next month are available for mentors.
- Staff thanked after successful recruitment event in Bedfordshire
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Our recruitment team and willing volunteers from Kempston station buddied up to talk to budding ambulance life-savers at the Bedford Jobs and Apprentice Fair on Saturday (10th September).
- NHS awards: nominate someone who makes a difference
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This year’s NHS Leadership Recognition Awards are now open for nominations, and they’re on the lookout for leaders or teams who make an outstanding contribution to patient care and service excellence.
- Great Yarmouth walk-in centre closing
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At the end of this month, the Greyfriars walk-in centre in Great Yarmouth is closing.
- Five-day junior doctor strikes to include emergency care
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Junior doctors in the NHS have announced they intend to stage a number of strikes over the coming months.
- Register for public workshops in mid and south Essex
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The Mid and South Essex Success Regime is looking at how health and social care services can be provided for its residents in the future.
- Helping to support health campaigns
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September is a bumper month of awareness campaigns which resonate with our ambulance work and community ties, and we're asking readers to support where possible.
- Video: community engagement with the 999s
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Students paramedics Robert Hubbard and Emily Fitch swapped the ambulance station for the police station when they took part in the popular Bedfordshire Police open day at the weekend.
- Share a seatbelt selfie to support road safety
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Emergency service colleagues are being asked to share ‘seatbelt selfies’ on social media in support of a new police campaign.
- Tax reclaim company at hospital sites
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We’ve been notified that a company offering to claim tax back on behalf of healthcare colleagues may not be genuine.
- Clinically improving, EEAST awards, and the fantastic Team Finnbar: update from CEO Robert Morton (8th September)
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Talking Finnbar, MP visits, our CQC action plan, and getting better clinically – your weekly update from CEO Robert Morton.
- Internal career progression routes
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What internal career pathways are available for patient-facing colleagues here at EEAST?
- Spread the word about sepsis
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Add your voice to the thousands of others by tweeting and following #WorldSepsisDay on Twitter and sharing World Sepsis Day and the UK Sepsis Trust’s Facebook posts today.
- Clinical waste: what goes where, and new labels for use
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Making sure we put the right waste into the right bin is really important, because we can be fined if we get it wrong.
- GlucaGen MHRA recall: action required
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A number of GlucaGen Hypokit 1mg (glucagon) batches have been recalled by the Medicines and Healthcare Products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) after reports of needles becoming detached from the syringe.
- October training day for end-of-life care
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End of life care can be a difficult and emotive topic, so we’ve paired up with two hospital trusts to offer a free, one-day training session on 4th October.
- Just a few days left to order your remembrance wreath
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A number of remembrance wreaths, containing the EEAST crown badge, are available if you’re attending a service on behalf of the Trust.
- Vacancy and transfer list – 8th September
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This week’s HR e-zine, with the latest job vacancies, expressions of interest and transfer opportunities, is now available.
- Infection, prevention, control: why is ‘bare below the elbows’ important?
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It is widely acknowledged that being 'bare below the elbows' reduces the risk of transmitting infection - but what are the dos and don'ts?
- No smoking on Trust and NHS grounds
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After complaints by members of the public, we are reminding colleagues that the Trust follows a no smoking policy throughout the organisation.
- ‘Connect, communicate and care’ for World Suicide Prevention Day
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Next week's World Suicide Prevention Day serves as a call to action, and this year, the theme encourages us all to consider the role that offering support may play in combating suicide.
- Praise for ambulance ‘angels’
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Staff and volunteers have been praised after the Trust received an A* in its latest patient survey results.
- Jimmy Brownfield
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It is with much sadness that we share news of the death of James (Jimmy) Brownfield.
- Celebrating colleagues and achievements: an awards update
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We’re on the countdown to our next awards ceremony on 6th October at IWM Duxford in Cambridgeshire – and need your help to make it as special as possible!
- Thank you for your hard work during another busy bank holiday weekend
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If you worked or volunteered over the bank holiday weekend, you helped handle and respond to more than 9,100 emergency calls – 9% more than the 2015 August weekend.
- Infection, Prevention, Control: all you need to know about standard precautions
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Over the next few weeks, we will look into the basics of infection, prevention and control (IPC); basics which protect you and your patient.
- Help for handling intoxicated patients
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Guidelines on managing and caring for intoxicated patients in Norfolk and Suffolk and incapable to make their own decisions is available online.
- Alice’s fun day boosts Helimed coffers
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A fundraiser organised by Student Paramedic Alice Randell raised a huge £1,060 for the Essex Air Ambulance Trust (EAAA).
- Breaking down barriers: ambulance service visits Hertfordshire Minority Ethnic Forum
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The Patient and Public Involvement Team (PPI) have thanked staff for helping at a recent visit to the Minority Ethnic Forum in Hertfordshire, and want others to step forward too.
- Managing our medicines
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Making sure you have the drugs and medicines you need to do your job is vital.
- Painting a new picture: hearing from Director of Strategy and Sustainability Wayne Bartlett-Syree
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This week our exec message comes from new Director of Strategy and Sustainability, Wayne Bartlett-Syree. Six weeks into the new role, Wayne talks about his passion for healthcare, his goals, and that all important ‘strategy’ word…
- Temporary reconfiguration in senior service delivery structure
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As some staff may be aware, the new Sustainability and Transformational Plan (STP) footprints are now up and running nationally for the NHS, and six cover our region.
- Specialist paramedic development – you asked, we answer
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We’ve had lots of questions regarding the recently announced specialist paramedic role which launched at the beginning of this month (August).
- Life-saving milestone reached in Norfolk
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A life-saving landmark was celebrated this week when a new community public access defibrillator at Hempton Memorial Hall, near Fakenham, was installed.
- V Festival: Ambulance staff and volunteers hit the right note for care
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Staff have been commended for their professional attitude and exemplary care at this year’s V Festival in Chelmsford.
- Ambulance duo praised for children’s charity visit
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Two members of staff are ‘a credit to the service’ following their visit to an Ely children’s charity last week.
- Norfolk welcomes new ‘see and treat’ vehicle
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A new model of vehicle to remove the need for taking patients to hospital is being trialled in Norfolk.
- Vacancy and transfer list – 25th August
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This week’s HR e-zine, with the latest job vacancies, expressions of interest and transfer opportunities, is now available online.
- Meet our new counter fraud specialists
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A few months ago, the Trust awarded the contract for counter fraud services to TIAA ltd. Tracey Spragg and Gareth Robins are the counter fraud specialists who will be working with the Trust.
- Air ambulance cardiac arrest day open to colleagues
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A few weeks ago we shared the ‘save the date’ for the East Anglian Air Ambulance’s next clinical governance day (CGD).
- Do you work more than 48 hours a week?
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Under the provisions of the Working Time Regulations, if you want to work more than an average of 48-hours per week for the Trust (averaged over a 17 week period and where this is offered to you), you will need to sign an individual agreement to do so.
- Vacancy and transfer list – 18th August
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This week’s HR e-zine, with the latest job vacancies, expressions of interest and transfer opportunities, is now available online.
- Team Kempston take on 22 push-up challenge
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Colleagues from Kempston have completed the 22 push-up challenge in support of veteran suicide and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) sufferers.
- NHS England strengthens clinical leadership
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One of the country’s top urgent and emergency care consultants, Dr Clifford Mann, has been appointed by NHS England as Clinical Lead for the Accident & Emergency Improvement Plan.
- Places available on art therapy workshop
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During September, we have been invited to attend some art therapy groups which have been specially funded to support people with mental health issues in the Milton Keynes and surrounding areas.
- Hitchin ladies club learn more about calling 999
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The Trust’s patient and public involvement (PPI) team met with the Punjabi Ladies over 60s club in Hitchin last month, offering the group information about the service and what they need to do in an emergency.
- Deadline extended for NHS Innovation Accelerator
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A few weeks ago, the NHS Innovation Accelerator (NIA) launched for the second year running.
- Suffolk man thanks his ‘guardian angels’
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A Suffolk man has been reunited with his EEAST “guardian angels” after his heart stopped just weeks ago.
- Recall for ipratropium bromide
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The Trust has been made aware of a potential issue with ipratropium bromide nebules, of 250mcg/1ml, that we may have in stock.
- Update from Robert Morton: ‘outstanding’ care and the beautiful game (11th August)
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It’s with great sadness that I pass on the message that little Finnbar, whose story I shared with you last week, passed away at the weekend. I am so proud that the Finnbar500 cycle team are still intending to complete their 500-mile journey for this little man, and are continuing to raise money in support of his family.
- Please check blood glucose test strips
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The Trust has been made aware of a potential issue with our blood glucose measurement device and test strips.
- Funeral arrangements for beloved colleague Sarah-Jane
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Last month we shared the news that our much-loved colleague and friend Sarah- Jane Cunningham sadly passed away.
- Workshop: the ECP role now and in the future
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The Trust is on the lookout for emergency care practitioners (ECPs) to take part in a workshop about their role.
- Behind the scenes: Lisa Benstead, Business Support Manager, non-emergency services
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This week, the ‘behind the scenes’ spotlight shines on Lisa Benstead, Business Support Manager for non-emergency services. Lisa has been working for the patient transport service (PTS) for 13 years.
- Measles: increased cases and what to look out for
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Measles cases are on the rise across England, with 196 new cases reported since February. More than 10 of them are in our region.
- Volunteers needed for Suffolk college day
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The Trust’s patient and public involvement (PPI) team is looking for volunteers for a public event in Suffolk.
- Invite to the National UK Health show
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The National UK health show will be coming to London next month!
- Video: F1 driver takes on paramedic in Ferrari vs ambulance race
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A promotional video released by Shell V-Power has seen F1 driver Sebastian Vettel take on a UK paramedic on the race track – but with the world champion behind the wheel of an ambulance.
- Latest volunteer recruits roll out in Essex
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Essex has received another boost to its volunteer network with more than a dozen new members completing their training at the weekend (Sunday, 31st July).
- “Help, my goldfish is drowning”
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Colleagues have been thanked for supporting a public education campaign around the appropriate use of 999.
- Update from Robert Morton: new specialist practitioner role, and supporting team Finnbar
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This week Robert updates us on the new specialist practitioner role, his station visits to Mildenhall, Diss, Stowmarket and Braintree and supporting a worthy cause called the Finnbar 500.
- Datix: helping us keep patients safe
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We’ve all heard of Datix, but why is it important to what we do?
- Specialist practitioner role launched
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Applications are now open for a brand new specialist practitioner role, launched this week.
- Dispatcher Arlaine Bradshaw celebrates 30 years' service
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Back in June, Dispatcher Arlaine Bradshaw celebrated the amazing achievement of 30 years in the ambulance service.
- Vacancy and transfer list – 4th August
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This week’s HR e-zine, with the latest job vacancies, expressions of interest and transfer opportunities, has been published.
- Invitation to Essex fundraiser
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A family fun day, raising money for Essex Air Ambulance, will be taking place at Brantham Leisure Park in Manningtree.
- Places available on EZ-IO workshop
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A free training workshop on the use of EZ-IO will be taking place in Coventry next month, and is open to ambulance colleagues.
- Join EHAAT’s clinical governance day
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The Essex and Herts Air Ambulance Trust (EHAAT) will be holding its monthly clinical day on Tuesday, 16th August - and EEAST colleagues are welcome along.
- Late finishes and meal break Q&A
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Following the agreement between the Trust and UNISON over late finishes and meal breaks, we’ll be running a series of updates about the pilot and how it is progressing. First up, a Q&A about how it will work.
- You have 24 hours to nominate a colleague for the EEAST awards!
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Thank you to everyone for your nominations so far for the 2016 long service and celebration awards taking place in October – but we want more!
- Staff and volunteers praised following continuing patient care improvements
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The Trust is in the top three nationally for care bundle targets for elderly patients who have fallen, people with asthma, and those with a mental health issue.
- Annual public meeting
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A big thanks has been given to everyone who visited and took part in the annual public meeting on Wednesday, at the Hazardous Area Response Team (HART) base in Great Notley, Essex.
- New referral pilot begins in Cambridgeshire
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A referral pathway pilot for paramedics to refer patients with low acuity clinical conditions directly to the right specialist medical team is starting next week.
- New actions for the NHS: what do they mean for us?
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As you may have seen in the news, NHS England (NHSE) and NHS Improvement (NHSI) are taking significant steps to address the financial deficits and improve accountability of all NHS trusts to operate within the financial constraints made available by central government.
- Save the date for air ambo learning day
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The East Anglian Air Ambulance (EAAA) will be holding its September clinical governance day on Friday the 2nd – so get the date in your diary!
- ‘More than 4,000 jobs attended’, hear CFRs at engagement day
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Our community first responders (CFRs) descended on an engagement day on Sunday (24th July) to talk all things 999.
- Nominate a colleague for a ‘Pride of Britain’ award
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The ‘Pride of Britain’ awards are back, looking for inspirational winners over the last 12 months.
- Volunteer clinical waste drivers needed
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The estates team is looking for volunteers to help drive clinical waste from ambulance stations to incinerators.
- Ministerial update on health portfolios
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With the new prime minister Theresa May in post, new ministers have been introduced within the Department of Health portfolio.
- New JESIP newsletter available online
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The latest edition of the Joint Emergency Interoperability Programme (JESIP) newsletter has been released and is available online to download from their website.
- Behind the scenes: Mark Hayes, Commercial Training and Business Manager
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This week in our ‘behind the scenes’ hot seat is Mark Hayes, our newly appointed Commercial Training and Business Manager.
- Coming back to his roots: hearing from our new Director of Service Delivery, Kevin Brown
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This week our exec message comes from our new Director of Service Delivery, Kevin Brown. Now just four weeks into the role, Kevin shares his roots, his focus, and his first thoughts about EEAST and its people.
- Conquering three peaks for Cambridgeshire charity
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A north Cambridgeshire charity has received a boost after four ambulance staff completed the Three Peaks Challenge.
- Last chance to share your views on internal communications
-
A big thank you to everyone who has completed the national survey which aims to find out what you think of our internal communications.
- Stroke 60 target is improving
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Each month we are measured on our transport of stroke patients to a hyper acute stroke unit (HASU) for stroke thrombolysis.
- Reminder: labelling GlucaGen
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Please remember that GlucaGen medication is stored outside of refrigeration, which reduces the amount of time we can use the medication.
- RAF Marham attempted abduction: could you have treated a suspect?
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A suspect involved in the attempted abduction of an RAF serviceman in Norfolk could have sought medical treatment.
- Vacancy and transfer list – 28th July
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This week’s HR e-zine, with the latest job vacancies, expressions of interest and transfer opportunities, has been published.
- New dispatchers in Norwich
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A trio of dispatchers have joined the Norwich EOC this week to help boost the capacity in the control room.
- Joint consultation survey - end of shift and meal break pilot
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Please take a few minutes to complete this joint EEAST and UNISON joint consultation survey about the end of shift and meal break pilot.
- Security reminder following RAF incident
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Staff are being reminded to remain vigilant following the attempted abduction of an RAF serviceman in west Norfolk this week.
- Ondansetron 4mg/2ml solution ampoules
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We have received a drug alert from a supplier regarding the potential mis-packaging of Furosemide 40mg/2ml solution ampoules into Ondansetron 4mg/2ml solution for injection boxes.
- Tim Rawlinson
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The Trust is deeply saddened to share news today of Tim Rawlinson, retired chief ambulance officer (CAO) for Cambridgeshire has passed away
- Sarah-Jane Cunningham
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The Trust is deeply saddened to share the news that our much-loved colleague, Sarah-Jane Cunningham, passed away at the weekend.
- Wearing uniform following heatwave
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Due to the reduction in temperature, the decision has been made that the wearing of uniform shirts will return to normal as per Trust policy.
- As the heat rises, so do our calls: Update from CEO Robert Morton, 21st July
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It seems that our 999 calls rose with the temperatures at the weekend, as we saw our busiest 72-hours so far this year. Averaging 3,370 calls a day from Saturday to Monday, it was no easy time to work and I’d like to extend my personal thanks to all of you who were on shift.
- Operations guidance about associate ambulance practitioners
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Associate ambulance practitioners (AAPs) will soon be joining operational staff out on the road.
The guidance below details all you need to know when working with our new AAPs.
- Behind the Scenes: Adam Gretton, Media Officer
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This week we’re ‘behind the scenes’ with Adam Gretton, who works in the communications team as a media officer for Norfolk, Suffolk and Cambridgeshire (NSC)
- Guidelines for EMTs on adrenaline and diazepam
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Following some discussion amongst staff surrounding the use of 1:1000 adrenaline for emergency medical technicians (EMTs), it has become evident that some clarification regarding its use is required
- Invite to annual public meeting
-
Staff and volunteers are invited to join the Board and other colleagues at this year’s annual meeting on Wednesday (27th July) from 2pm.
- Vacancy and transfer list – 21st July
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This week’s HR e-zine, with the latest job vacancies, expressions of interest and transfer opportunities, has been published.
- Without them “she wouldn’t have made it”: Norfolk mum thanks crews
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“If the paramedics hadn't shocked Violet with the defibrillator she wouldn't have made it.”
- Norwich Pride set to hit city centre
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Next weekend, Norwich Pride will be taking to the city’s streets.
- Changes to OHIO
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As health and wellbeing re-establishes itself in the Trust, Health and Wellbeing Manager Debra Winterson has confirmed that all changes to the OHIO system, which cannot be handled at a local level, should be forwarded...
- The EEAST awards are coming – make your nominations now!
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The 2016 long service, graduation and celebration awards will be taking place in October – and we want your nominations!
- New volunteers hit the ground in Hertfordshire
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Hertfordshire has received a boost to its volunteers as a new batch of recruits have completed their community first responder training.
- “I am so grateful”: Mum thanks crew for spotting toddler’s sepsis
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A mum has thanked the ambulance team who rushed to her son’s aid when he suffered a serious blood infection.
- Wearing uniform during heatwave
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Due to the MET Office issuing a Level 3 heatwave instruction, the Trust has authorised the optional removal of green uniform shirts.
- Keep cool for the summer
-
It looks like summer is here and temperatures are set to soar to more than 30˚C – the highest seen so far this year.
- Update on Adrenaline 1:1,000 Ampoules
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There is a national shortage of pre-filled adrenaline 1:1,000 syringes.
- Joint statement from the Trust and UNISON
-
The Trust and UNISON has released a joint statement on late finishes and meal breaks.
- NHS Innovation Accelerator (NIA) launched for a second year
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Last year UCLPartners launched the NHS Innovation Accelerator (NIA), working with NHS England and the academic health science networks.
- Dementia research
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Dementia currently affects 850,000 people in the UK and is one of the Trust’s quality priorities for 2016/17.
- Would you like to join the bank team?
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If you are looking for some extra hours, the medical care service team is looking for qualified paramedics and techs to join the bank team.
- Nominate a colleague for a health hero award
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Do you know a colleague who is a true hero to both their patients and their team?
- Three peaks, 24 hours, one almighty challenge
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A team from north Cambridgeshire will be scaling the heights as they attempt complete the Three Peaks Challenge.
- Paramedic Mark takes on the ultra-marathon
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For most of us, running distances like a marathon seems like a daunting task. But Bury paramedic Mark is taking things one step further.
- For Lorna, and for Cade: an update from CEO Robert Morton, 14th July
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My thoughts have very been much with our Beds and Herts teams this week, as they come to terms with the loss of one of their own, Lorna Marriott.
- Celebration for Lorna Marriott
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We know that many of you would appreciate the chance to say goodbye to our much-loved colleague, Lorna Marriott, after the sad news of her passing.
- Know a potential winner? Make your nominations for the EEAST awards now!
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We’re delighted to announce that the 2016 long service, graduation and celebration awards will be held on the evening of Thursday, 6th October.
- Vacancy and transfer list –14th July
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This week’s HR e-zine, with the latest job vacancies, expressions of interest and transfer opportunities, has been published.
- Invitation to EHAAT clinical governance day
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The Essex and Herts Air Ambulance Trust (EHAAT) will be holding its monthly clinical day on Tuesday 19th July, and all Trust staff are welcome along.
- Training for two national clinical trials
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Paramedics are invited to take part in training sessions for two national clinical trials, Airways-2 and RIGHT–2, that we are involved with.
- Alert on use of plug socket covers
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The Department of Health has issued an alert this week about the use of plastic electrical socket inserts, which are protectors/covers sold as safety accessories.
- Free Health Service Journal subscription for colleagues
-
We’re delighted to have teamed up with the Health Service Journal, the go-to publication for healthcare professionals, to offer free membership subscription to all EEAST colleagues.
- Making clinical strides: a thank you for the past 12 months
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Colleagues have been thanked for their contribution to improving clinical care, as the latest Quality Account is published.
- Digital radio upgrade: working in open speech on 13th and 21st July
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With work on the digital radio upgrade underway, on 13th and 21st July we will not have access to the normal EOC digital radio. On these dates, EOC staff will be communicating through open speech.
- Behind the scenes: Sotu Marshall-Wyer
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Our ‘behind the scenes’ feature continues this week with our Patient and Public Involvement Manager, Sotu Marshall-Wyer.
- “We will forever be indebted to you” – Family thank staff after saving son’s life
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A family from Bedfordshire have praised staff from EEAST and lifeguards from a swimming pool after saving their son’s life when he suffered a cardiac arrest while swimming.
- ‘Brilliant, could not fault it’: staff praised in new survey
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‘First class’, ‘brilliant’ and ‘faultless’ are just some of the words used to describe staff by patients in a new report.
- Street Triage Team gets ready for launch
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A team of paramedics are joining police officers and mental health nurses to form the Mental Health Street Triage team in Bedfordshire.
- Lorna Marriott
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It is with immense sadness that I inform you that our dearest friend and colleague Lorna Marriott, Emergency Medical Technician, passed away peacefully at home yesterday morning (6th July).
- Cardiac arrest ‘bootcamp’ coming to a station near you
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We know that cardiac arrest survival is linked to lots of factors – good CPR at the right rate and depth is just the starting point.
- Cromer open day raises hundreds of pounds for charity
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Colleagues from emergency services across north Norfolk gathered for the Cromer ambulance station open day, raising funds for a local charity.
- Staff and volunteers launch Bury defib
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Staff and community first responders (CFRs) have come together to launch a new community public access defibrillator (CPAD) at Norton Village Hall in Bury.
- Reminder: heavy items in vehicle lockers
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We have been notified of incidents where staff have injured themselves due to heavy items falling from the top shelf of the ambulance side locker.
- Vacancy and transfer list –7th July
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This week’s HR e-zine, with the latest job vacancies, expressions of interest and transfer opportunities, has been published.
- Changes to the way you can report a crime
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Essex, Norfolk and Suffolk constabularies have made changes to the way you can report a non-emergency crime
- Alert card is a wizard in Oz for motorcyclists
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A pioneering but simple tool for motorcyclists and responders first launched with the Trust has made its way to Australia.
- Ambulance recruitment push at Hertfordshire jobs fair
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Staff have been thanked for helping to promote the latest roles at the service at a recruitment careers event last week.
- New call handlers join the Bedford EOC team
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We’re delighted to welcome four new emergency call handlers to Bedford EOC.
- Have your say: complete our two surveys online
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We currently have two surveys available online on for you to complete and voice your views– our cultural audit and what you think about our internal communications.
- Be vigilant on animal cruelty
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John Lee, a paramedic at Saffron Walden, is asking colleagues to be vigilant on animal cruelty – if you see it, report it.
- The EU Referendum: what does it mean for us and the NHS?
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In the 12 days since the EU Referendum, there has been much talk and discussion about what the result means for the NHS and its work.
- Invite to air ambo clinical day with EAAA
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It’s that time again! The East Anglian Air Ambulance (EAAA) is hosting its monthly clinical learning day this Friday (8th July), and as ever, EEAST colleagues are welcome to join them.
- Ops update: server upgrade in EOC
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From today (4th), we'll be upgrading the digital radio terminals and software in EOCs. Although normal digital radio functionality should be available throughout, it will result in a reduced number of staff being able to answer the radio.
- Disability pay protection
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Trust managers having been working in partnership with UNISON to respond to a collective grievance raised over the removal of pay protection for staff redeployed due to a disability as defined under the Equality Act 2010.
- Trust welcomes Mark as Medical Director
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We’re very pleased to announce Dr Mark Patten as our new Medical Director.
- Changes to stroke services at Bedford Hospital
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As of Friday, 1st July, Bedford Hospital South Wing is making important changes to its stroke services that will affect where we can convey stroke patients.
- DNACPR – you asked, we answer
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There are many myths and misconceptions amongst staff regarding do not attempt cardiopulmonary resuscitation (DNACPR) forms. So we thought we’d share some guidance with you, to clarify what your roles and responsibilities are.
- Awards bid for Trust communications
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Our communications team is celebrating after being shortlisted for two national awards in the field.
- Vacancy and transfer list –30th June
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This week’s HR e-zine, with the latest job vacancies, expressions of interest and transfer opportunities, has been published.
- From camera tech to Formula One: pre-hospital innovation conference
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Places are still available on an air ambulance conference completely dedicated to new innovations in pre-hospital emergency medicine.
- What happened before we had 999?
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It’s a staggering 79 years to the day since the 999 emergency line was introduced. But what happened before we had 999?
- Have you had a 999 call that takes the biscuit?
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Earlier this year, the Trust shared some of its most inappropriate 999 calls as part of It’s Your Call campaign.
- Man thanks crews for giving him a ‘second chance’
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A Cambridgeshire man has thanked staff and volunteers for giving him a “second chance” after saving his life six months ago.
- Teachers strike on 5th July
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As you may be aware the National Union of Teachers (NUT) has confirmed that it will be striking on Tuesday, 5th July. This is could cause disruption in schools.
- You are invited to march with Pride in Brighton
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The annual Brighton and Hove Pride will be taking place next month (August) and staff are invited to march alongside our ambulance colleagues from across the UK.
- Early bird offer for clinical conferences
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Staff wishing to attend two clinical conferences can take advantage of a discounted rate.
- Update to clinical waste labels
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The clinical waste labels, that are used on the side of soft-bagged clinical waste and locked sharps bins for disposal, have changed. This is due to a change in Environment Agency requirements.
- Reminder of no smoking policy to all staff
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The Trust follows a no smoking policy throughout the organisation to provide a completely smoke-free environment. This forms part of the Trust’s commitment to the safety, health and wellbeing of its staff.
- Hidden gems reaches new landmark
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Congratulations to more than 700 of you who have been nominated for a hidden gem!
- Your views wanted on internal communications
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What do you think of how EEAST does internal communications? A national survey wants to know!
- Culture survey now available to complete online
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Following your feedback, we've arranged for our culture survey to be made available online.
- Our Sign up to Safety story
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Today we’re saying a very happy 2nd birthday to Sign up to Safety!
- We shouldn’t be afraid to talk about performance: update from CEO Robert Morton, 23rd June
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In this week's update, Robert Morton looks at performance and gives a tribute to MP Jo Cox.
- Sign up to Safety: another year older and another year wiser
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Put safety first. A thought that, as an ambulance service, should be at the forefront of our minds every day. But what does that look like, and how do we know if we’re doing it?
- Ambulance lead for NHS sustainability plans announced
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The NHS is taking a new approach to help ensure that health and care services are built around the needs of local populations.
- Central Norfolk out of service letters
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Recently letters were sent to 99 staff in central Norfolk about the time it takes for them to become available after they have handed over their patient.
- Mentor development workshops available to staff
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A series of one day workshops supporting mentor development will be taking place across the Trust in the next month.
- Quality roadshows land in Cambridge and Basildon
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Over the last week the clinical team have been hitting the road and taking the quality roadshows to Cambridge and Basildon.
- Community first responder fundraising day hailed as ‘a fantastic success’
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A network of Hertfordshire community first responders (CFRs) has thanked the public for donations after an extremely successful fundraising event for new equipment on Friday (17th June).
- Congratulations to Paul and Tony’s 60 years of service
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This month two driver trainers from Barton Mills celebrated an amazing six decades of combined service.
- Vacancy and transfer list –23rd June
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This week’s HR e-zine, with the latest job vacancies, expressions of interest and transfer opportunities, has been published.
- Behind the scenes: Nicky Ward
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Our ‘behind the scenes’ feature, where we highlight a person or team from within the Trust, continues. This week is the turn of our Head of Business Development Nicky Ward who has worked with the ambulance service for 11 years.
- Places available on EZ-I0 training session
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A free CPD training session on the use of EZ-I0 is taking place in Ipswich, and is open to all staff.
- Guidance on needle stick injuries
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We have recently received reports from staff who have opened a sealed major incident pouch, containing anti-nerve agent, to find discharged atropine injectors coming out of their packaging.
- Two-thousand-pound donation boosts Sprowston CFRs
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Life-saving volunteers in Norfolk have received a donation boost from a supermarket.
- Promoting the College of Paramedics: Would you like to join them?
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The College of Paramedics is looking for non-elected volunteers to help promote its work and expand its membership.
- Ex-staff member suspended for Instagram photos
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An ex-member of staff has been suspended for a year by the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) after posting inappropriate photos on Instagram.
- You are invited to Cromer station’s open day!
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The annual Cromer ambulance station open day will take place next month.
- Sam and Rachel thanked for 100 blood pressure checks
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The patient and public involvement team (PPI) are saying a big thank you to colleagues who took part in our latest engagement event in Welwyn, helping to take 100 blood pressures from members of the public.
- Clinical waste: what to do with the paperwork
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When clinical waste is collected from our sites, three pieces of paperwork will be produced by the waste transfer operative.
- Woman jailed after assault on paramedic
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A woman has been jailed following an assault on a member of staff earlier this year.
- Clinical update: Potential corpuls ECG monitoring issue.
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It has come to the attention of the Trust that there have been a very small number of errors with the Corpuls during ECG Monitoring.
- ARU year two students and study leave
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The Trust has recognised the challenge that significant student abstraction has on our capacity and the impact that this has on colleagues. Having listened to feedback we have therefore recently written to our second year Anglia Ruskin students in relation to study leave.
- Beat stress, feel better: Men’s Health Week 2016
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We all get stressed. The question is - what do you do about it?
- Hundreds make the first step to becoming CFRs during volunteers' week
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Hundreds of people have taken the first step to becoming a volunteer life-saver in the East.
- Update from CEO Robert Morton
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My thoughts and condolences have been with the loved ones of the Orlando attack victims this week, as well as the 911 and volunteer medical agencies that no doubt faced a truly overwhelming and terrifying scene.
- Funding C1 licenses
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At the Staff Partnership Forum on 12th May, UNISON raised concerns about existing staff being asked to fund the cost of C1 licenses due to the Trust changing the type of patient transport service (PTS) vehicles being used.
- Restart a Heart Day needs you!
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We all know the life-saving benefits that immediate and effective CPR can have on a patient in cardiac arrest.
- Waveney in the running (man) for charity
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Dozens of Waveney-based staff have taken part in a dance challenge to raise funds for a charity close to their hearts.
- Dress for your diary Friday
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We’re pleased to share that, at colleagues’ request, ‘dress down Fridays’ are being reintroduced across the Trust.
- Yellow waste bags: what goes where?
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We all have a responsibility to dispose of waste safely and appropriately – particularly if it’s hazardous or clinical.
- Vacancy and transfer list – 16th June
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This week’s HR e-zine, with the latest job vacancies, expressions of interest and transfer opportunities, has been published.
- Boost for Essex CFR group will make ‘difference to people’s lives’
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Volunteer life-savers in Essex have received a boost after getting new equipment and training facilities.
- March with Northern Pride
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Next month, hundreds of people will take to the streets of Newcastle for Northern Pride.
- NHS England research on annual staff survey
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NHS England has commissioned a research agency, GfK UK, to do some interviews with staff about the annual NHS staff survey.
- New look this summer for Trust website
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The eagle-eyed of you who use the service’s website will have noticed a brand new fit-for-purpose version to help meet today’s digital demands.
- Norfolk CFR group to receive royal honour
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A community first responder group in Norfolk is celebrating after being honoured with the highest possible accolade.
- Top security tips to keep you and your colleagues safe
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The security of our staff and property is of the utmost importance - here we share some hints and tips to help keep each other safe.
- Take the go-karting emergency services challenge
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The Norfolk Fire and Rescue Service has organised an emergency services go-karting event - and is on the lookout for teams to don their racing gear and join the fun.
- Call-handling trio join team EEAST
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Our new recruits are ready take 999 calls as they finish their emergency call handler training in Norwich today (9th June).
- A thank you to our volunteers: update from CEO Robert Morton, 9th June
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Your weekly update from CEO Robert Morton. This week, Robert talks about the work of our volunteers in celebration of National Volunteers' Week, and looks at how we use private ambulance services.
- The end of the fleet programme is nigh!
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In June, 36 emergency vehicles will be replaced, taking the Trust’s fleet to 323 emergency ambulances.
- Places left on ‘laughology’ workshop
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There are just a few places left on our emergency services ‘laughology’ workshops – interactive sessions designed to give you real-life tips to improve your resilience and wellbeing.
- Shortage of atropine
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There is a national shortage of atropine minijets 1mg/10ml, which is affecting areas of the Trust.
- Vacancy and transfer list - 9th June
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This week’s HR e-zine, with the latest job vacancies, expressions of interest and transfer opportunities, has been published.
- ‘Wonderful’, ‘first class’ and ‘superb’: colleagues praised by patients
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Patient satisfaction rates are up again with 98% saying that they were very satisfied, satisfied or fairly satisfied with the overall service they received.
- Entering CAD numbers when using Corpuls
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Please remember to record a CAD reference number when using the Corpuls defibrillator units.
- HART paras take on gruelling charity challenge
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A team of hazardous area response team (HART) paramedics will be testing their limits in a gruelling three-day challenge in the name of charity.
- Rechecking of DBS records underway
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As part of the Trust’s commitment to safeguarding, human resources (HR) has commenced a rolling programme of rechecking all our DBS records.
- Norfolk’s newest CFR group set for launch event
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Norfolk’s newest community first responder group will be staging a launch event this weekend.
- Places still available for EHAAT’s aeromedical conference
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All qualified clinicians and students are invited to attend Essex and Herts Air Ambulance Trust’s annual aeromedical conference – ‘the trauma epidemic: adapting to the latest strain.’
- Update on 30-minute handover process
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Further to the announcements regarding the 30 minute handover process, to commence on the 6th June, the Trust and UNISON met yesterday (1st) to discuss what is required prior to go live implementation.
- Crossing the one million mark: update from CEO Robert Morton (2nd June)
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I want to take some time to talk about demand this week, but in some actual detail. We often say ‘demand is increasing’ and that it’s busier than it’s ever been before – but broken down, what does that actually mean?
- Presentation of benzylpenicillin is changing
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The Trust’s medicine management group has taken the decision to change the presentation of the benzylpenicillin sodium powder that we carry.
- Help us take on volunteer takeover week!
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The life-saving work of our community first responders (CFRs) will be celebrated next week.
- New date for emergency services mental health workshop
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Following on from our successful emergency services workshop last month, a new date has been set for Essex and places are now available.
- New lancets for taking BM
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The Trust is shortly changing its supply of BM lancets, used for capillary blood sampling.
- Risk of acute coronary syndromes with prior Kawasaki disease
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Kawasaki disease is a rare condition that mainly affects children under the age of five, with around eight in every 100,000 children developing it in the UK each year.
- Guidance on Ramadan
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Ramadan will start on Monday (6th), continuing for 30 days.
- Congratulations John on 30 years of service
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Critical Care Paramedic John McCusker, based at Watford station, will be celebrating an amazing 30 years with the ambulance service next month.
- Paramedic from SWASFT needs your help
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Kath Osmond, from South Western Ambulance Service, has been fighting cancer for the last five years.
- Participants needed for a new equality project
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Would you like to be part of a new project examining black and ethnic minority (BME) participation in paramedic science in the east of England?
- New search feature on Datix
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From Monday, 6th June, a new search feature will be introduced on Datix, changing the way an incident is documented.
- Cambs scheme allows more patients to be treated at home
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Hospital teams in Cambridge have started a 10-day ‘breaking the cycle’ campaign this week, all aimed at reducing unnecessary attendances and admissions to hospital.
- Join EAAA’s clinical day this Friday
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The East Anglian Air Ambulance (EAAA) is holding its monthly clinical governance day on Friday (3rd) in Bury St Edmunds – and Trust staff are invited to join them.
- Clinical update: naloxone in neonates
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Following a recent incident here at EEAST, it’s been identified that the Clinical Practice Guidelines are not entirely clear around the use of naloxone in neonates.
- Essex staff take on tough mudder
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A group of Essex staff got tough in the mud to raise hundreds of pounds for a hospice charity.
- Supply shortages of adrenaline 1:1000 pre-filled syringes
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We’ve been notified of a supply shortage for adrenaline 1:1000 pre-filled syringes.
- Update from CEO Robert Morton, 26th May
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I was very proud to sign our Time to Change employer pledge, along with Chair Sarah Boulton, at yesterday’s Trust Board meeting. The pledge is our commitment to increasing awareness, improving our services and challenging stigma when it comes to mental health here at EEAST.
- Challenging the stigma and discrimination around mental health
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Regular readers of Need to Know will be aware of the extensive work being done to increase awareness and improve services related to the mental health of our people.
- GP trial in EOC
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As you know, we are developing a new operating model for the Trust which will see us delivering care to patients in different ways...
- Have your voice heard: culture survey still open
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We’d like to say a big thank you to the 795 of you (as of Monday!) who have so far completed our culture survey.
- Wear orange tomorrow for sepsis
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It’s time to turn your life orange and help support sepsis.
- Vacancy and transfer list – 26th May
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This week’s HR e-zine, with the latest job vacancies, expressions of interest and transfer opportunities, has been published.
- RIGHT-2 stroke trial: a paramedic’s view
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A paramedic based in Peterborough has spoken about her experiences and thoughts of the two-year national stroke trial, RIGHT-2.
- When to contact security or fraud specialists
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If you have a security and fraud issue and don’t know who to call, this article provides a guide to ensure you get help straight away.
- You’re invited to the NARS charity ball!
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The Norfolk Accident Rescue Service (NARS) invites you to its charity ball at the Royal Norfolk Showground.
- Sign up to this year’s ambulance football tournament
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Entries for this year’s national ambulance football tournament are still open - and you’re still able to sign up!
- New safeguarding app has landed!
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A new safeguarding app has been launched and is available for colleagues to download – and it’s free!
- Hertfordshire community convert phone box into life-saving station
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A community in Hertfordshire have thanked EEAST for donating a public defibrillator and have switched on their creative minds by converting an old telephone box into a station for the life-saving device.
- Latest JESIP newsletter is available
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The latest Joint Emergency Services Interoperability Programme(JESIP) newsletter has been published and is available to download from East24.
- Book a place: EHAAT’s aeromedical conference
-
All qualified clinicians and students are invited to attend Essex and Herts Air Ambulance Trust’s annual aeromedical conference – ‘the trauma epidemic: adapting to the latest strain.’
- Hospital survey: safeguarding older people
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The Norfolk and Norwich Hospital and the University of East Anglia are exploring the knowledge, experience and training of healthcare professionals in relation to safeguarding older adults.
- What to say if approached by media at incidents
-
At our larger incidents, or for those in public places, journalists and the media may well take an interest and send a reporter to the scene.
- Staff show off their dance moves in running man challenge
-
Dozens of Norfolk staff put their best foot forward and raised hundreds of pounds for charity during a dance challenge.
- Messages of condolence for Gary Smithen
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After the sad loss of our colleague Gary Smithen, Gary's family have given us a book of condolence that they are happy for anyone who knew Gary to put messages in.
- Places available for end of life training day
-
The Trust has teamed up with Peace Hospice Care and The Hospice of St Francis to provide a specialist end of life training course just for ambulance clinicians.
- Labelling GlucaGen
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Prior to reconstitution, GlucaGen has a shelf life of 36-months.
- The future for ePCR: contract and use update
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From today, we are providing staff with new information about changes being made to the eCPR contract and its use in the next 18 months to two years.
- Do you have a work mobile phone?
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If you have a Trust mobile phone connected to the O2 network, you should have received a text message last week asking you to contact the IT Service Desk to confirm your phone is still in use.
- Bridging the gap: an update from CEO Robert Morton - 19th May
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Since I joined EEAST it has been very clear to me that we have a big capacity gap. Basically, this means that we do not have enough funding to recruit the staff we need to meet patient demand.
- New Board appointments to help to drive forward Trust
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The Trust has today announced the appointment of two new executive directors, who will help to create a stable executive team that will continue to drive the organisation forward.
- Vacancy and transfer list – 19th May
-
This week’s HR e-zine, with the latest job vacancies, expressions of interest and transfer opportunities, has been published.
- New early intervention vehicle introduced in Herts
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An early intervention vehicle (EIV) has been introduced as part of a scheme in north east Herts to help care for patients within their own home.
- Support mental health awareness week
-
This week (16-22nd May) is Mental Health awareness week.
- A week of positive feedback: update from CEO Robert Morton (12th May)
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I’ve been pleased to have the chance to meet and speak to Lord Prior, along with our Trust Chair Sarah Boulton, at our Longwater depot; Lord Prior is the Parliamentary Under-Secretary for the Department of Health and he was interested in particular in what we’re doing to build on our positive NHS staff survey results.
- ‘Second to none’ – 99% satisfaction for Trust in March
-
“From the moment I telephoned 999 the actions of everyone involved were second to none.”
- Stansted ambulance station is closed
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With immediate effect, Stansted Ambulance Station has closed until further notice.
- Have you used Language Line UK?
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Treating a patient where there is a language barrier can be tricky.
- Changes to accessing NHS.net email
-
This month NHS.net email changed and is no longer supported within Microsoft Outlook or mobile device apps.
- Suffolk man thanks life-savers after collapse at Ipswich match
-
Staff at EEAST and the Emergency Medical Doctors Service (EDMS) have been praised after saving the life of an Ipswich football fan during Ipswich Town’s penultimate home game (Tuesday, 19th April) - after he collapsed and went into cardiac arrest.
- New call handlers set for control
-
Five new recruits are ready and raring to take 999 calls as they finish their emergency call handler training on Friday (6th May).
- Being approached by journalists on scene
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At our larger incidents, or for those in public places, journalists and the general media will usually take an interest and may send a reporter to the scene.
- Vacancy and transfer list – 12th May
-
This week’s HR e-zine, with the latest job vacancies, expressions of interest and transfer opportunities, has been published.
- Dying matters: why we need to have the big conversation
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It’s a sad reality that, despite our best efforts, sometimes as a service we can’t save everyone; death or end-of-life care is something that our patient-facing teams have to deal with and face on a regular basis.
- Scheme in West Suffolk gives new training opportunities for staff
-
West Suffolk is currently running an innovative scheme to allow staff a chance to train and develop their skills.
- Guidance for collection of blood samples in Norfolk
-
Guidance on the collection of blood samples in Norfolk is now available on East24.
- Sun safety as Britain hots up
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Sun Awareness Week runs until Monday (16th May) and with more than 2,000 deaths in the UK from malignant melanoma it’s even more important to take precautions – even when the sun’s rays are tucked behind the clouds.
- Places left on emergency services mental health workshop
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As we try to increase and improve our wellbeing service for everyone in the Trust, we are working with the charity Mind and other organisations to get the best support and guidance we can.
- Taking the next step on the clinical career path
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Congratulations to the group of eight emergency care assistants (ECAs) who have recently completed their course to emergency medical technicians (EMTs).
- National ambulance football tournament
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Entries to take part in this year’s national ambulance football tournament are still open.
- Emergency exercise hailed as ‘huge success’
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An emergency exercise, led by Trust staff, has been hailed as a huge success.
- Business continuity week: Loss of IT
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This week (16th-20th May) is Business Continuity Awareness week. Organised by the Business Continuity Institute, the week aims to raise awareness of the importance of business continuity and resilience in organisations such as ours.
- Would you like to become an equality, diversity and inclusion champion?
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You could be part of the new Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) sub group, helping staff members belonging to the nine protected characteristics within the Equality Act 2010, feel valued and included.
- The ins and out of virtual crew rooms
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Virtual crew rooms are closed EEAST Facebook groups which are only open to members.
- Using Trust-issue equipment – it’s tried and tested
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The equipment we carry every day is what allows us to do our jobs properly – without it we simply can’t provide high-quality care to our patients.
- Business continuity week: Loss of electricity
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This week (16th-20th May) is Business Continuity Awareness week. Organised by the Business Continuity Institute, the week aims to raise awareness of the importance of business continuity and resilience in organisations such as ours.
- Business continuity week: Loss of staff
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This week (16th-20th May) is Business Continuity Awareness week. Organised by the Business Continuity Institute, the week aims to raise awareness of the importance of business continuity and resilience in organisations such as ours.
- Business continuity week: Fire
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This week (16th-20th May) is Business Continuity Awareness week. Organised by the Business Continuity Institute, the week aims to raise awareness of the importance of business continuity and resilience in organisations such as ours.
- Business continuity week: Loss of premises
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This week (16th-20th May) is Business Continuity Awareness week. Organised by the Business Continuity Institute, the week aims to raise awareness of the importance of business continuity and resilience in organisations such as ours.
- Datix maintenance on Tuesday (17th)
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At 9am on Tuesday (17th May), Datix will be undergoing some system maintenance.
- GRS issues reported
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GRSWeb is currently not working as expected when accessed from an external computer, tablet or mobile. We are working on solution and will let colleagues know when it has been resolved.
- Did you see? New Clinical Quality Matters published
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Our 'complex patients' issue of Clinical Quality Matters was published at the end of April. Have you downloaded yours yet?
- John Gates
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The Trust is saddened to share news today of John Gates, former ambulance colleague, who has sadly passed away.
- Today's Datix maintenance completed
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Today's scheduled maintenance to the Datix system has now been completed.
- Charity recycling scheme in west Essex
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Do you have any used stamps or inkjet cartridges lying around? They may no longer be of use to you, but they could be to The Lullaby Trust.
- Support World Lupus Day
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Today (10th May) is World Lupus Day.
- Well done to our ambulance care assistants!
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Congratulations to our six ambulance care assistants (ACAs) who have passed a new emergency driving course at Barton Mills.
- Behind the scenes: Matthew Best, Dispatcher
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This week, the ‘Behind the scenes’ light shines on Matthew Best, a dispatcher for Norwich EOC.
- Marathon man Martyn crosses the finish line
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Congratulations to Martyn Pollard, who has run his first marathon and raised more than £2,000 for charity!
- Trust joins healthcare job expo for new recruits
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No potential candidate is being left undiscovered thanks to the Trust’s latest drive to get more people on the ambulance front line.
- Robert joins prestigious RAF Lakenheath as honorary commander
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An ambulance officer will be helping to improve relations between ambulance and military personnel after being awarded a prestigious honorary commander role.
- Equipment fails and near-misses
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Had an equipment failure or near-miss? Please remember to report it on Datix.
- Dozens learn life-saving skills at Norfolk event
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Dozens of people learnt life-saving skills at a south Norfolk village at the weekend.
- Under pressure: this week's leadership message from Sandy Brown, Director of Nursing & Clinical Quality
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This week's leadership message from Sandy Brown, Director of Nursing & Clinical Quality
- Fire co-responding trial launching for cardiac arrests
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Next week will see the launch of a new co-responding pilot with the fire service that will bolster our response to our most seriously ill patients.
- Lease cars: behind the headlines
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Colleagues may have picked up on some media coverage over the weekend about lease cars.
- A rock and a role-model: one team’s thanks to retiree John
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Most people open presents or have a spot of cake to celebrate their birthday, but John Giblin decided to buck the trend back in 2002 and start a new job. Luckily for us, that job was in our Bedford control room.
- ECG won’t send? Please report it on Datix
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Patient-facing teams will know that our defibrillators can be used to send copies of a patient’s ECG electronically.
- Cultural survey – have you had your say?
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Our cultural survey will be winging its way to you very soon – and some of you may have even received yours already!
- Why is hand hygiene important?
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Today (5th May) is World Hand Hygiene Day – a day declared by the World Health Organisation (WHO) to raise the awareness of hand hygiene.
- Cambs defib event hailed as 'huge success'
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A public education event has been hailed as a “huge success” after dozens of villagers learnt life-saving skills in Cambridgeshire.
- GRS offline on Tuesday (10th) for updates
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The GRS and GRSWeb systems will be unavailable from 9am-3pm on Tuesday, 10th May, due to a software upgrade.
- Datix maintenance on Monday (9th)
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At 9am on Monday (9th May), the facility for uploading documents to Datix will be temporarily unavailable.
- Trust receives 8% increase in May Day bank holiday calls
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The Trust received just over 9,000 emergency calls during the three day May Day bank holiday – 8% more than last year.
- Behind the scenes: Anne Wright, Local Security Management Specialist
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Our ‘behind the scenes’ feature, where we highlight a person or team from within the Trust, continues. This week is Anne Wright, who is our Local Security Management Specialist. Anne has worked with the ambulance service for 28 years.
- Allergy awareness week
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Last week was allergy awareness week!
- Participants needed for a new equality project
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Would you like to be part of a new project examining black and ethnic minority (BME) in the east of England?
- Acting medical director
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We are pleased to announce that, whilst we continue our recruitment process for a permanent appointment, Dr Tom Davis has taken up the role of Acting Medical Director.
- Herts CFR group receives welcome equipment boost
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A community first responder (CFR) group has received vital new equipment donated by a bookshop club in Hemel Hempstead.
- Patient feedback to help us improve our service
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As part of a series of information we’re putting out about 2015/16 facts and figures, we’ve been taking a look at the amount of feedback we receive and what it means for us.
- Please remember Shoreline
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Please ensure all vehicles are attached to the shoreline system when available, to make sure all the medical devices on board are charging.
- Ahead of an undoubtedly busy bank holiday: an update from CEO Robert Morton (28th April)
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"We’ve now completed the unannounced phase of the Care Quality Commission (CQC) inspection process, which ended on Monday (25th April), with the unannounced inspections in locations as far apart as Peterborough and Southend."
- Are you eligible for your long service award this year?
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As the planning for this year’s Trust awards gets underway, a quick tally of years served by staff eligible for their long service awards comes in at more than 1,900 years so far!
- Help us champion mental health awareness
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As we try to increase and improve our wellbeing service for everyone in the Trust, we are working with the charity Mind to get the best support we can.
- Teams thanked for blood pressure events in Suffolk and Essex
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Staff, community first responders (CFRs), and graduate paramedics have been thanked after attending two annual blood pressure events in Felixstowe and Hadleigh which saw more than 360 blood pressures measured.
- Volunteers’ week is coming!
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In just over a month, the claxon will be sounded for Volunteers’ Week 2016.
- Vacancy and transfer list – 28th April
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This week’s HR e-zine, with the latest job vacancies, expressions of interest and transfer opportunities, has been published.
- ‘Putt’ your best foot forward for ambulance golf competitions
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This year’s National Ambulance Strokeplay is being played at The Hearsall Golf Club on Monday, 6th June, and our aspiring golfers are invited!
- Be an equality, diversity and inclusion champion
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Would you like to be part of the new Equality, Diversity and Inclusion sub-group?
- Our 2016/17 priorities: an update from CEO Robert Morton (21st April)
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I want to start by congratulating our EOC teams this week, as in March we had the third lowest 999 call connection delays in the country. Given that last month we were battling an exceptional surge in demand, and following on from the implementation of a new CAD, this really is to be applauded.
- 30 years and counting: Calvin’s story
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At the end of March, Duty Manager Calvin Scott celebrated a staggering 30 years in the ambulance service.
- Reflective feedback available for year 1 student paras
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Planning on writing your first-year reflective essay? Why not get feedback on your draft version?
- Are you running the London marathon this weekend?
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We are hoping to do a write up after the big event and would love to hear from you!
- Staff praised after saving man’s life after cardiac arrest in Suffolk golf centre
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A man who collapsed and went into cardiac arrest in a golf centre car park has thanked crews from EEAST and golf centre staff after a happy reunion this week (Monday, 18th April).
- New email signature available for download
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As part of the corporate re-branding process to include our visions and values, we are asking all staff to visit East24 and download our new email signature template.
- Vacancy and transfer list – 21st April
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This week’s HR e-zine, with the latest job vacancies, expressions of interest and transfer opportunities, is now available to view online.
- Forty-eight hour junior doctor strike to affect emergency care
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As you’ll no doubt be aware, there is a 48-hour junior doctor strike starting next Tuesday (26th April) at 8am.
- Intelligent conveyance scheme ends
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Our intelligent conveyance scheme, designed to help manage pressure at acute hospitals, will no longer be continuing as the pilot has not been extended into the new financial year.
- New BM meters coming to a station near you!
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The latest batch of replacement BM meters has arrived and will be rolled out by area in the coming months.
- PTS success in Cambridgeshire
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Following a highly competitive tender process, we were informed yesterday (19th April) that we are the successful bidder for the provision of patient transport services (PTS) in Cambridgeshire.
- Behind the Scenes: Lizzie Martin, Call Handler and CFR
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This week we’re going ‘behind the scenes’ with Lizzie Martin, a call handler based in Norwich EOC.
- Paramedic arrhythmia recognition study
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Are you interested in taking part in an online research study into whether paramedics are able to identify cardiac arrhythmias?
- New trial for medicines management audits is coming
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Software that will allow you to submit audits for medicines management online is being trialled next month.
- ‘Truly amazing’ staff praised in latest patient survey
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Staff have been highly commended in EEAST’s latest survey which has included comments such as: ‘very professional’, ‘absolutely brilliant’, and ‘amazing’.
- Free CPD cardiac arrest lecture
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We know that high quality chest compressions hold the key to success in cardiac arrest.
- Corpuls defibs being upgraded across the Trust
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Starting this week, we’ll be upgrading our Corpuls defibrillators. Amongst other benefits, the upgrade will improve the ECG function and include a 3G modem.
- Monitoring blood pressure
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Monitoring a patient’s blood pressure is a ‘staple’ when we care for patients – and the patient-facing among us will take a blood pressure almost every day.
- Updates to medicines management policy
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Patient-facing colleagues are asked to familiarise themselves with the Medicines management policy which has been updated with a few minor changes.
- Update from CEO Robert Morton: CQC inspection – the story so far…(14th April)
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Last week we completed the formal inspection phase of the CQC inspection process. This follows previous stages including the submission of a portfolio of evidence (some 19,506 pages), regional focus groups, and stakeholder engagement.
- Training opportunity: an evening of ECGs
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Want to improve your knowledge of ECGs?
- New Director Lindsey gives her take on her first two weeks at EEAST
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Last week, we extended a warm welcome to our latest Board member Lindsey Stafford Scott who has joined us as the new Director of People and Culture.
- Death in benefits scheme
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When losing someone close to you, having extra support can be greatly needed at what is a very difficult time.
- New feature available on Datix
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A new addition to Datix has been added, which will allow users and investigators to identify which panels contain data on records.
- Southend ambulance station is moving!
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Colleagues in Essex have been thanked for their work in preparing the ‘go live’, for the new Southend ambulance station.
- Essex clinicians –help needed for public event
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Can you spare a couple of hours to provide blood pressure checks and promote EEAST in your patch?
- Pre-election period: NHS guidelines
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You may be aware that some local elections are taking place on 5th May both in councils and for Police Crime Commissioner posts.
- Vacancy and transfer list – 14th April
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This week’s HR e-zine, with the latest job vacancies, expressions of interest and transfer opportunities, is now available to view online.
- Do you know about our social media policy?
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The Trust has a detailed policy that covers what you can do when it comes to social media, both in and out of work.
- Cultural survey rolled out across Trust
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Our new cultural survey will be landing on door mats in the next few weeks!
- Global action called to improve care for people with diabetes
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The number of people living with diabetes has almost quadrupled since 1980 to 422 million adults, with most living in developing countries.
- Could you name our patient care bundles?
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Our ambulance quality indicators (AQIs) and national clinical performance indicators (NCPI) identify key clinical areas of practice and assist us to identify where we can look to further improve the care we give to our patients.
- Raising awareness of bowel cancer screening this month
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April is bowel cancer awareness month which this year is focusing on the need for better screening.
- How we respond at multi-agency incidents: JESIP wants your feedback
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The emergency services will usually be the first to arrive at the scene of a major incident.
- Suffolk CFRs receive 'phenomenal' donation
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Suffolk community responders have received a big helping hand in the form of a £2,500 donation.
- Clinical equipment manuals available online
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Thanks to a handy new system, you can now view and download the user manuals for those medical devices online.
- Places still available on police abuse workshop
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Have you ever suffered abuse from a patient in the line of duty, or know someone who has?
- "I cannot thank them enough": patient's heartfelt reunion with crews
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A west Norfolk man will feature on a new television programme next week after ambulance and air ambulance crews saved his life.
- What do you think of EEAST's culture?
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We have been working to develop a cultural audit to look at the best way to improve our culture.
- Vacancy and transfer list - 7th April
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This week’s HR e-zine, with the latest job vacancies, expressions of interest and transfer opportunities, is now available.
- Behind the scenes: Stuart Woolley - Specialist Practitioner
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This week we’re going ‘behind the scenes’ with Stuart Woolley, Specialist Practitioner in primary care. Stuart has worked with the ambulance service for 13 years, two of those with EEAST.
- Here's to the future: an update from CEO Robert Morton - 7th April 16
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"So, our inspection by the Care Quality Commission (CQC) is now well underway, with inspectors visiting stations, offices and EOCs across the patch over the last few days. "
- Trust 'delighted' to welcome new patient transport service
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The Trust is ‘delighted’ that its new patient transport services (PTS) contract launched in north Essex on Friday (1st April).
- Helping the service to become future fit
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A big thanks has gone out to Essex staff for their contribution to a busy careers fair earlier this month.
- Antimicrobial resistance: grabbing the nation's headlines
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With no new class of antibiotic developed in the last 30 years, and a continued rise in their prescription, it’s of little surprise that antimicrobial resistance has started to grab the nation’s headlines.
- A reminder for storing your medicines
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When we deal with medicines every day, it’s our responsibility to make sure we keep them in the right place, and more importantly, ensure they’re secure.
- Keeping patient care records confidential
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Confidentiality and security of medical records is vital, whether paper or electronic formats; we’re dealing with people’s personal data, and it’s important we safeguard it in the right way.
- Vehicle servicing and mileage
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With one of the most modern emergency and non-emergency ambulance fleets in the country, our fleet team does a lot to make sure our vehicles are well looked after, including making sure they are regularly serviced.
- GlucaGen label reminder
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As a reminder, GlucaGen medication is stored outside of refrigeration within the ambulance trust.
- Medical devices: make sure it's safe and in date
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We all know that medical devices must be serviced and ‘in date’ to be safe.
- Corpuls web is no longer in use
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With immediate effect from the 1st of April ‘Corpulsweb’ will no longer be available.
- Safety netting: using the non-conveyance checklist
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Ensuring appropriate safety netting for patients that we don’t convey is vital, and an important part of discharging your duty of care.
- Medicine Management and POM disposals
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We get a lot of questions about prescription only medicines (POMs) disposal, so we thought we’d share some of the top Q&As here for you.
- Special edition of CQM published today
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Another special edition of Clinical Quality Matters, looking at how we learn from serious incidents (SIs) and complaints, has been published today (1st April).
- Getting ready for our inspection: Update from CEO Robert Morton
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As you know, next week we are undergoing a rigorous inspection by the Care Quality Commission (CQC). You can read more about this on the Exec update we issued this week and the CQC Visits: Guide for Staff (which is also available on Need to Know and East24).
- Vacancy and transfer list – 31st March
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This week’s HR e-zine, with the latest job vacancies and transfer opportunities, is now available to view online.
- REAP is changing
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From tomorrow (1st April), national REAP guidance is changing.
- Funeral home worker says thanks to Norfolk crews
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A funeral home worker has thanked the ambulance staff who helped save his life.
- Executive update: CQC inspection starting next week
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On Tuesday (29th March), Chief Executive Robert Morton issued an executive update to colleagues with information about the forthcoming Care Quality Commission (CQC) inspection starting next week.
- Further changes to the sudden death policy in Bedfordshire
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From now on, police sergeants and detective sergeants (and ranks above only) from Bedfordshire Police may recognise that life is extinct
- Raising concerns, whistleblowing and Speak out guardians
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The Trust has been reviewing the key recommendation of the Francis Review in connection with a single national whistleblowing policy that should be adopted to “normalise the raising of concerns”.
- Three CFRs from Norfolk presented with awards
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Three volunteers have been recognised for their long-running commitment to saving lives in Norfolk.
- Helping hands needed for PPI events
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The Trust’s patient and public involvement (PPI) team regularly meet with the public at events and shopping centres in the region, offering free blood pressure checks and healthcare advice
- A woman from Rayleigh thanks crews after rare cardiac arrest
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Essex crews including paramedics Tracey and Kevin have been reunited with a woman after saving her life.
- Laryngoscope issue reported
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We’ve been made aware of a potential issue with our laryngoscopes, whereby the light doesn’t work properly when used.
- National ambulance football tournament
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Entries to take part in this year’s national ambulance football tournament are now open.
- Behind the scenes: Steve Chivers, Hospital Ambulance Liaison Officer
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This week in our ‘behind the scenes’ hot seat is Steve Chivers, who is a Hospital Ambulance Liaison Officer (HALO), seconded to Broomfield Hospital.
- Scarlet fever: increased cases and what to look out for
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Scarlet fever is a disease spread through close contact with people carrying the organism (often in the throat)...
- Calling all East Suffolk clinicians – help needed for event in Felixstowe
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Are you available for a couple of hours to provide BP checks and health promotion in your patch?
- Trust experiences 17% increase in Easter calls
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Staff and volunteers have been thanked for their hard work after a 17% increase in demand over the Easter weekend.
- Update from CEO Robert Morton
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I know all our thoughts will be with our 999 colleagues in Brussels this week, and those affected by the tragic incidents. It really is emergency care at its most challenging, and can appreciate only too well what difficulties the teams over there will have faced in the last 72-hours.
- New PGD for paramedics: sign yours today
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This month our paramedic patient group direction (PGD), which details what drugs paramedics are able to give, was updated.
- Survey: how confident do you feel about maternity incidents?
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How confident are you when attending maternity related incidents?
- Vacancy and transfer list – 24th March
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This week’s HR e-zine, with the latest job vacancies and transfer opportunities, is now available to view online.
- Medicines Management and controlled drugs disposals – you asked, we answer
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We get a lot of questions about disposing controlled drugs (CDs), so we thought we’d share some of the top Q&As here for you.
- Quality assurance or ‘QA8’ forms – what are they?
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The Trust is currently working on ways of improving our clinical knowledge and standards of care.
- “Exemplary, calming, and very caring” staff praised in a new survey
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More than 100 patients who received emergency treatment in January (the busiest start to a year on record), completed feedback questionnaires - with 98% being very satisfied, satisfied or fairly satisfied with the service.
- Accessible Information Standard – the ins and outs
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Guidance on the Accessible Information Standard is available online.
- Essex police workshop: book your place today
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Colleagues are invited to join a police workshop about options they have if they suffer abuse in the line of duty.
- Health Enterprise East competition now open
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The Health Enterprise East (HEE) innovation competition is now open - and you could win a voucher up to the value of £2,500 to progress your idea.
- Paramedic Graham appointed to join College of Paramedics council
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Our congratulations go to one of our own this week who has been chosen as a new council member for The College of Paramedics.
- Vacancy and transfer list – 17th March
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This week’s HR e-zine, with the latest job vacancies and transfer opportunities, is now available to view online.
- Reminder – selling Trust uniform and equipment
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In the last few months, we’ve seen items of Trust uniform being sold on eBay. In some of these cases, the sellers have been identified as members of staff.
- Behind the scenes: Anna Price, named professional for safeguarding
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Our ‘behind the scenes’ feature, where we highlight a person or team from within the Trust, continues.
- New GCP training available to staff
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A new learning module on Good Clinical Practice (GCP) is available to all staff online.
- Update from CEO Robert Morton: Some big ticket items – 17th March
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"I want to start this week’s message by thanking everyone who came to our colleague Gary’s funeral on Friday (11th March). So many of you came to pay your respects and it showed in very real terms, how respected Gary was by many of his colleagues. "
- NHS staff to receive 1% pay rise
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It was announced last week that the Government has accepted a 1% pay-rise for all NHS staff.
- Elderly trauma training
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Places are available for a half day training course in Birmingham on elderly trauma.
- Colleagues needed for V-Festival
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We’re on the lookout again for colleagues to work at this year’s V Festival.
- Oral paracetamol and ibuprofen approved for EMTs
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Following the removal of co-codamol 30/500mg tablets, the Trust introduced paracetamol and ibuprofen, which were initially for paramedic use only.
- The results are in for the friends and family test
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Since the rollout of the Friends and Family Test (FFT) last year, the Trust has received more than 2,000 patient responses.
- New upgraded thermometers available on vehicles
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The tympanic thermometers we carry have been replaced with a newer model.
- The top 10 for IPC
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Take a look at our top 10 for infection prevention and control (IPC)!
- Behind the scenes: Ross Filby, Clinical Co-ordinator
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We are continuing our ‘behind the scenes’ feature, where we showcase a person or team from within the Trust.
- Agency colleagues supporting patient-facing services
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As you may have seen in last week’s recent exec update, we’re increasing our use of private ambulance services (PAS), and are also trialling using agency paramedics on a limited number of vehicles in parts of Hertfordshire and Essex.
- Changes to the state pension
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The current state pension is made up of two parts: the basic state pension and the additional state pension (the additional state pension is sometimes called the state second pension, or SERPS).
- Trust policy and procedure updates
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The following policies and procedures have been reviewed and updated this month (February).
- EEAST attends successful emergency care conference
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Our research support services colleagues attended the 18th 999 EMS Research Forum in Newcastle this month (1st March), an event which promotes research and evidence based practice in emergency healthcare.
- Spotting the sick child e-learning
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A learning tool to help health care professionals spot children with serious illnesses is available online.
- “I was glad they were there to catch her”: Norfolk mum thanks crew after baby delivery
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A Norfolk mum has been reunited with the crew who delivered her daughter during a dramatic home birth.
- Managing morphine and other meds: what you've been asking
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We get a lot of questions about the dos and don’ts of medicines management, particularly around morphine, so we thought we’d share some of the top Q&As here for you.
- Improve your health and wellbeing by supporting NHS campaign
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Public Health England (PHE) has launched its ‘One You’ campaign, to help adults avoid future illnesses from everyday habits and behaviours.
- Interviewees wanted for university research study
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What are your views on ambulance performance measures? Would you be happy to share them?
- Volunteer Linda receives a royal invitation
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A life-saver has spoken of her delight after receiving a Royal Garden Party invitation in recognition of more than 10 years volunteer work.
- Staff engagement forum – POSTPONED
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As you know EEAST is currently under tremendous pressure....therefore we have had to take the difficult decision to postpone the staff engagement event which was going to take place on Thursday.
- Guidance for needlestick and splash incidents
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Occupational exposure incidents are where a member of staff has been exposed to blood or body fluids.
- CQC inspection - have your say
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We are just four weeks away from our Care Quality Commission (CQC) inspection. Have you booked your place at one of the CQC focus groups?
- Tackling 13,000 additional calls: an update from CEO Robert Morton, 10th March
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"I hope that most of you will have seen the update sent out to colleagues yesterday about the relentless increase in demand that we’ve been experiencing." Your weekly update from CEO Robert Morton.
- Essex mum thanks 'fantastic' crews after dramatic home birth
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Our crews have been hailed as ‘fantastic and professional’ after delivering a baby following a dramatic home birth.
- Sarah Boulton reappointed as Trust Chair
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The NHS Trust Development Authority (NHS TDA) has today confirmed the re-appointment of Sarah Boulton as our Trust Chair.
- Vacancy and transfer list - 10th March
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This week's HR e-zine, with the latest job vacancies and transfer opportunities, is now available.
- Exec update: the relentless increase in demand
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Yesterday Chief Executive Robert Morton issued an executive update to colleagues about the relentless increase in demand, and the impact it’s having on staff.
- Reminder: Get involved in CQC focus groups
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We are just four weeks away from our Care Quality Commission (CQC) inspection – and now you have the opportunity to give direct feedback to the CQC!
- Press release: Use 999 wisely - plea after surge in demand
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Press release issued to public and media to use 999 wisely after surge in demand.
- Managing morphine and other meds: what you’ve been asking
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If you work in a patient-facing role, it’s likely that you manage medicines every single day.
- ‘Everyone is under pressure’: an update from CEO Robert Morton
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We’ve talked for a long time at EEAST about the tremendous pressure that we’re under as a service. In fact, that pressure has been so consistent that it’s feels like it has become the norm rather than the exception for all of us.
- Scheme to change A&E destination rolled out across Trust
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With the continued challenges that we are experiencing around handover delays at hospital, and following discussions that Chief Executive Robert Morton has had on this issue with acute trust CEOs today, the Trust has taken the decision to extend its ‘intelligent conveyance’ (IC) pilot across the region, effective tomorrow (Saturday, 5th March).
- Vacancy and transfer list – 3rd March
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This week’s HR e-zine, with the latest job vacancies and transfer opportunities, is now available to view online.
- Funeral arrangements for beloved colleague Gary
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As we’re sure you’re aware, our beloved colleague and friend Gary Smithen sadly passed away last month.
- Reminder: reporting sickness and short notice absence
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On 9th March, a new interface between GRS and OHIO (the online occupational health system) will go live.
- Cleric CAD live in Chelmsford EOC
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On Wednesday (2nd March) morning the new Cleric CAD successfully went live in Chelmsford EOC.
- Bank contracts
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For those leaving any patient facing roles, the Trust is able to offer shifts via the bank (casual worker arrangements).
- ePCR and incident numbers
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Now that the whole Trust is operating successfully on the new CAD system, staff will be aware that there has been a change to how incident numbers are formatted.
- Super Steve attends 50th school visit
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A Cambridgeshire technician has attended his 50th public engagement event.
- Disposing of out of date drugs
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Updated guidance of how to dispose of out of date drugs and denaturing controlled drugs is available on East24.
- Changes to policy regarding patients with mental health
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The capacity to consent policy has been recently updated and is available on East24.
- New software coming soon for IPC audits
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The Trust is changing the software that allows you to submit audits for infection, prevention and control (IPC).
- Successful prosecutions after assaults on staff
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A man who threatened and hit a member of staff with a walking stick has been fined and ordered to pay compensation.
- Upcoming stock takes
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Please note stock takes for all three supplies centres will be taking place on the week commencing 21st March.
- Prescription reminder for ECPs
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If you are supplying a patient with medication that requires a prescription charge, a form will need to be filled out at the time.
- New Trust templates for corporate use
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In line with the visions and values materials, we have produced some new templates for colleagues to start using.
- New Clinical Quality Matters published: long-term & rare conditions
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Our latest issue of Clinical Quality Matters, our clinical e-magazine, is out now! This issue looks at long-term and rare conditions.
- North east essex PTS contract
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The patient transport services (PTS) contract in north east Essex will start on Friday, 1st April.
- Expressions of interest for a clinical opportunity
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An opportunity to be seconded to the Clinical Quality team has become available.
- Improving and forever changing’: an update from CEO Robert Morton
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The NHS staff survey results were published this week and it was great to see the improvements we have made, especially in staff engagement and motivation scores and with more people recommending EEAST as a place to work or receive treatment.
- New assessment hub live at North Walsham Hospital in Norfolk
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A Clinical Assessment and Treatment Hub (CATH) has gone live at North Walsham Hospital, open 9am – 6pm, seven days a week.
- New Deputy Medical Director appointed
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Dr Tom Davis has been appointed as the Trust’s new Deputy Medical Director, and will join us on 29th February.
- Clinical focus: a look at neutropenic sepsis
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What is it?- Neutropenic sepsis is caused by a condition known as neutropenia.
- Get involved and register your place at the EEAST staff engagement forum
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Since Robert Morton joined us as Chief Executive he has been hosting a number of engagement forums with staff, clinicians, managers and volunteers to get their views about EEAST. And our next one is scheduled for Thursday, 10th March.
- Resus council wants your views on emergency care plan
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There’s just a few days left to have your say on the Resuscitation Council’s Emergency Care and Treatment Plan (ECTP) consultation.
- Staff invited to EAAA’s clinical day
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The East Anglian Air Ambulance is inviting colleagues here at EEAST to attend its monthly clinical governance day.
- Discount for staff at military and vintage show
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Temple at War is a military and vintage show taking place at Cressing Temple Barns on 14th and 15th of May.
- Winners announced in staff survey prize draw
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Twenty lucky winners have been announced this week from our 2015 national staff survey prize draw – congratulations!
- Essex paramedic shaves head in charity event
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Tasha Clarke, a paramedic from Clacton, has publicly shaved her head in a pledge which has seen £10,000 raised for a colleague’s wife, following her diagnosis of a rare form of breast cancer.
- Shining a light on PTS and beyond: and update from CEO Robert Morton
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I want to start this week by paying my respects to our much revered colleague Gary Smithen, who sadly passed away at the weekend
- Vacancy and transfer list – 25th February
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This week’s HR e-zine, with the latest job vacancies and transfer opportunities, is now available to view online.
- Date set for Chelmsford EOC move to new CAD
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Following the successful roll out of the new Cleric CAD to Bedford and Norwich EOCs, we’re due to complete the final roll-out to Chelmsford next week.
- Respiratory week: treating paediatric patients for respiratory conditions
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This week, we have been promoting respiratory care as part of our winter wise campaign.
- Our NHS staff survey results published
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Our 2015 NHS staff survey results have been published today (23rd February)!
- Vacancy and transfer list - 18th February
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Find out the latest exciting opportunities within EEAST.
- Cleric CAD now live in Norwich EOC
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On Wednesday (17th February) morning the new Cleric CAD system successfully went live in Norwich EOC.
- Reminder: shortage of atropine minijets
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As published on last week’s Need to know, there is a national shortage of Atropine minijets 1mg/10ml.
- Security plea after nitrous oxide thefts
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We’re asking colleagues to be extra vigilant with the storage and security of nitrous oxide cylinders this week, after reports that thieves in Essex have been targeting hospitals to steal the gas containers.
- Safeguarding: more than 2,000 referrals made
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One of our key commitments and responsibilities to our patients and staff is to ensure their safety at all times whilst in our care and to protect them from harm.
- Ops instruction: securing the patient via trolley-cot and harness
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A recent court case, not in our region, found the driver of an ambulance guilty of causing death by dangerous driving after they neglected to properly secure a patient to the trolley-cot in their ambulance
- NHS commits to mental health care with help for a million more people
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The NHS in England this week (15th February) committed to the biggest transformation of mental health care across the NHS in a generation...
- Update on a national ambulance uniform
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In 2013, the Trust, with all other NHS ambulance services, took part in an exercise to find a common ambulance uniform that all ambulance staff nationally would wear.
- Patient management post-ROSC
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Cardiac arrests are stressful events for all concerned and if a ROSC is achieved there is cause to celebrate - but in many ways this is only the first step in achieving a positive outcome.
- Driving up patient experience in Herts
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We’re saying well done to the north east Herts team this month, who are celebrating a massive reduction in complaints over the last year.
- ‘Drawing a line in the sand’ – weekly update from CEO Robert Morton, 11th February
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I was shocked to hear news this week that one of our community first responders was assaulted with a weapon on Monday night whilst attending an emergency call. This is the latest in an unfortunate string of incidents – one of our Norfolk colleagues suffered at the hands of an assault recently too.
- Vacancy and transfer list – 11th February
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This week’s HR e-zine, with the latest job vacancies and transfer opportunities, is now available to view online.
- Norwich EOC gearing up for new CAD
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The new Cleric CAD is due to be implemented in Norwich EOC in the early hours of Wednesday morning (17th February).
- Latest stroke study opens at EEAST
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Last week saw 53 paramedics across Peterborough, west Suffolk and north Essex go live for EEAST’s latest clinical research study!
- Stroke update: reminders and tips to improve our care
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Following on from the Trust’s stroke week, guidance on stroke care has been released by the clinical team.
- ALF2016 Awards: EEAST celebrate two winners
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Two staff members from EEAST have won nationally recognised awards at the Ambulance Leadership Forum (ALF) Awards.
- Register your interest for ‘shaping the future’ event hosted by CEO
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Since Robert Morton joined us as Chief Executive he has been hosting a number of engagement forums with staff, clinicians, managers and volunteers to get their views about EEAST.
- Patient care records guidance
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Guidance about the importance of patient care records has been released by the Trust.
- Our cultural audit
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The Trust recognises that there are many staff and behavioural related issues throughout the region that currently need addressing.
- New MIND course launched for coping with stress
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Mental health charity MIND has announced new dates for a resilience training course in Essex, which is now open to applications from EEAST staff and volunteers.
- Student para Joanne gears up for London marathon
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With 38,000 runners, the London marathon is considered to be one of the world’s biggest and best running events.
- ‘You are stars’: staff praised in latest survey
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You, our staff, have been commended as 'completely professional', 'the safest in the country', and 'amazing' in our latest patient satisfaction latest survey.
- Zika virus
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A public health emergency of international concern has been declared by the World Health Organisation (WHO) following the recent cluster of Zika virus infections in South and Central America and the Caribbean.
- Importance of clinical waste disposal
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Last December saw a 40% rise in clinical waste output from the Trust – rising to over 7,000kg!
- An update from the CEO Robert Morton: Time to reflect
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“When we are so busy and under constant pressure with ever increasing demand for our services, it is often easy to forget the progress we have made. And we have made some real and significant progress over the last five months and I wanted to just take some time to reflect.”
- Essex Success Regime: progress update
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Staff in mid and south Essex are being briefed on the latest news about the Essex Success Regime, one of three programmes in the country which are part of the NHS Five Year Forward View.
- Vacancy and transfer list – 3rd February
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This week’s HR e-zine, with the latest job vacancies and transfer opportunities, is now available to view online.
- Stroke week
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This week have are promoting stroke care as part of our winter wise campaign.
- Chelmsford call handler receives award
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Congratulations to Chelmsford EOC Call Handler Emma Farkas for achieving her silver award for consistent call handling excellence.
- “Wonderful”, “professional” and “first class” staff praised in a new survey.
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More than 100 patients filled in questionnaires, with 95.5% very satisfied, satisfied or fairly satisfied with the service they received from the Trust in October.
- Time to talk about mental health
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Thursday 4th February is ‘Time to Talk’ day, a day dedicated to the awareness of mental health.
- New clinical career pathway proposed by Board
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A new development pathway for our clinical care staff has been shared this week that will provide clear progression opportunities internally here at EEAST.
- ‘Becoming more people focused’: what was said at last week’s Board meeting
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Talent management, leadership programmes and an exciting new clinical career pathway were all tabled at last week’s Board meeting in Hertfordshire.
- Changing our culture
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Last year the Board recognised that we need to challenge and change our culture and the first part of this was launching a new set of vision, values and expected behaviours
- Shortage of minijets
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Please be aware that there is a national shortage of Atropine minijets 1mg/10ml.
- Developing our EOCs and better supporting staff
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Our EOCs are nearly always the first point of contact and sometimes the first point of care for our 999 patients.
- Changes to the Datix system
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From Monday 8th February, the way that documents are created (merged) within the Datix system will improve for users.
- Voluntary CPD clinical courses: Book your place
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A range of clinical courses will be available to staff next month (March).
- “I wanted to meet the people that saved my life and shake their hands”: Norfolk man meets his lifesavers
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A Norfolk man has been reunited with the ambulance staff who helped save his life.
- Paramedic recruitment event a “huge success”
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More than 180 paramedic science students attended a recruitment event which has been hailed as "extremely useful".
- Trust policy and procedure updates
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The following policies and procedures have been reviewed and updated this month (January).
- New standards of conduct, performance and ethics for paramedics launched
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The health and care professions council (HCPC), the body that regulates and registers paramedics, last week launched revised standards of conduct, performance and ethics that paramedics are expected to adhere to.
- Costessey CFRs need your help in fundraising appeal
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A community first responder group in Norfolk is calling on your help for a fundraising appeal.
- Trust directory: Have you checked your details?
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It may be a bit early for spring cleaning, but all entries within the Trust directory are currently being reviewed, to make sure the most up-to-date information is listed.
- New Board appointments announced
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CEO Robert Morton updates us regarding two new appointments to the executive team
- Update from the CEO: getting back to clinical learning (28th January)
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“My thoughts continue to be with our student paramedic colleague that I emailed you about earlier this month. Sadly, they suffered very serious injuries after being hit by a vehicle whilst on duty, but I’m pleased to report that they are making a really positive recovery and continuing to improve every day.”
- Vacancy and transfer list – 28th January
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This week’s HR e-zine, with the latest job vacancies and transfer opportunities, is now available to view online.
- The professional accountability of paramedics
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The guidelines focus on identifying when it is appropriate for a paramedic to either not travel (in the case of an RRV) or not be in the patient care compartment (such as driving).
- Important change to clinical manual: end-of-life care
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We have received an update to national guidance around ‘do not attempt CPR’ (DNACPR) and ‘advanced decision to refuse treatment’ (ADRT) forms.
- Change to sudden death process in Bedfordshire
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Bedfordshire Police is making changes into the way it deals with sudden deaths, which will affect us.
- End of life care training: book your place
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Places for a training day on end of life care in Watford are available for all staff.
- Director thanks Craig and James after freak cycle injury
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Valerie Morton has witnessed the care and professionalism of ambulance staff in her role as a non-executive director time after time.
- Man sent to prison after hitting EMT
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A man has received a prison sentence after hitting and spitting at an ambulance technician.
- Hidden gems reaches new milestone
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More than 600 people at EEAST are now ‘hidden gems’!
- EAAA mud-run race needs volunteers
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‘Only the Brave’ is a five to 10-mile mud-run full of madness, mayhem and man-made obstacles, and it’s all in aid of our colleagues at the East Anglian Air Ambulance (EAAA).
- Get cashback on everyday spending with NHS Black Card
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The PScashback Black Card is an exclusive benefit available to NHS staff, allowing you to get cashback on your everyday purchases.
- Take care of your own health this winter
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As we continue over the unpredictable and ever changing winter period, it’s important for you to make sure you’re looking after your health.
- Teaching Hertfordshire School to use life-saving defib
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A life-saving awareness session for teachers at a Rickmansworth school has been hailed a ‘great success’.
- An update from CEO Robert Morton: triage, deployment and pressure (21st January)
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This week CEO Robert Morton updates us on the latest volunteer engagement event, EOC takeover week and changes on the horizon.
- Changes to stroke services at PAH
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As of Monday, 25th January, the Princess Alexandra Hospital (PAH) in Harlow is making important changes to its stroke services that will affect where we convey certain stroke patients.
- Vacancy and transfer list – 21st January
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This week’s HR e-zine, with the latest job vacancies and transfer opportunities, is now available to view online.
- Late finishes, morale and wellbeing: you said, we did
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At the tail end of last year we ran a survey to get your views on late finishes, wellbeing, and morale.
- Video: taking a look at our GP triage line
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In aid of our EOC takeover week Dr Helen Alefounder explains our 999 clinical support service where GPs are giving extra support to ambulance crews.
- Talking all things ‘volunteer’ at engagement event
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Volunteers from all three disciplines of the Trust’s schemes gathered at the Belfry in Cambourne on Saturday (16th January) to talk strategy, support, and issues with senior leaders.
- Video: the importance of speaking up
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Patient safety should be the number one concern of all us who work in the NHS. But would you know what to do if you had a concern about patient safety?
- Patient safety alert – what to do when a patient is restrained
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Although the Trust does not train any member of staff to restrain, you may find yourself in a situation where a patient is being restrained manually or mechanically by others.
- Anglia Ruskin SP programme recommended for approval
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We’re pleased to share the news that the Anglia Ruskin University (ARU) programme for our student paramedics has now been recommended for approval, having met all the required HCPC conditions.
- Peterborough paramedic Pasqualina delivers
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Pasqualina Potter and Kirsty Barber had met many times during their work for the NHS.
- Reminder – selling Trust uniform
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Items of Trust uniform and equipment have been spotted for sale on eBay. In some of these cases, the sellers have been identified as members of staff.
- Join Health Service Discounts and save your pennies
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From holidays, gym memberships, home appliances and meals out – you can get great deals by signing up to Health Service Discounts.
- Behind the scenes: David Allen, Area Clinical Lead
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We are continuing our ‘Behind the scenes’ feature, where we showcase a person or team from within the Trust. This week in the hot seat is Area Clinical Lead, David Allen.
- Reminder: use of the ePCR lap dock
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When using the ePCR to input details of the patient you are conveying, please make sure to use the docking station provided while the vehicle is in motion.
- Norfolk CFRs receive a big funding boost
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The Mulbarton Community First Responder (CFR) group has received a boost following a donation from a Norfolk insurance broking firm.
- Support your colleagues through Blue Monday
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This year, ‘Blue Monday’ is on 18th January.
- Do you know someone who is a hidden gem?
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Hidden gems are members of staff or volunteers who exemplify the Trust’s values.
- Fentanyl patches – awareness for clinicians
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Fentanyl is a pain relief, usually used to help prevent pain after surgery or other medical procedure.
- Clinical update: removal of EZ-IO trigger guard
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We have been advised by the supplier that when the EZ-IO is stored in its yellow case, the trigger guard should be removed.
- In-patient ward changes in Beds and Luton
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The following changes to mental health wards in Bedford and Luton Hospitals have taken place
- Essex CFRs to receive local ‘unsung heroes’ award
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Congratulations to the Manningtree Community First Responders (CFRs) who are to be honoured at the Pride of Tendring awards next month.
- Be vigilant on security at stations and offices
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Recently, a smartly dressed man tried to enter business in Essex, claiming to be from a company called Bortec.
- Vacancy and transfer list – 7th January
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This week’s HR e-zine, with the latest job vacancies and transfer opportunities, is now available to view online.
- A new focus for the new year: an update from CEO Robert Morton (7th January)
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As we move into a new year I wanted to reflect on some of the main challenges facing us over the next few months
- Bedfordshire school trained to save lives
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Teachers at a Harrold school have completed a life-saving awareness session with EEAST that has been hailed as an ‘extremely beneficial’ event.
- A reflection on the year (31st December)
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So tonight we approach what is traditionally our busiest night of the year.
- Blood pressure workshop in Cambridge: book your place today
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Places for a workshop dedicated to tackling high blood pressure in Cambridgeshire are available for all staff.
- Press release: plea to public following abusive calls
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The majority of people calling 999 know that it’s a vital lifeline and not to be misused – but sadly, many still feel it’s acceptable to turn to 999 at the wrong time or mistreat the call handlers helping them.
- For attention of CFRs: issue with defib pads
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We have been advised that a batch of defibrillator pads for the G3 Cardiac Science automated external defibrillators (AEDs) may not function correctly.
- There’s still time to get your flu jab!
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As the temperatures continue to drop, it’s well worth remembering that flu jabs are still available.
- An update to guidance for duplicate calls
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There has recently been a change to national guidance on reporting of duplicate calls.
- Department of Health survey of NHS staff
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The Department of Health (DH) is conducting a survey on staff awareness of and attitudes towards national policies that affect the NHS.
- New ambulances are coming!
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Christmas may be over, but the Trust has delivered a belated gift in the form of new ambulances across the region.
- Reminder: Be extra vigilant on security at stations and offices
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There have been several incidents reported recently where members of the public appear to have been paying an unusually high amount of interest at some of our Ambulance Stations.
- Supporting each other: an update from CEO Robert Morton (14th January)
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I hope that you will by now have read my email about the sad incident on Friday whereby one of our own was struck by a vehicle whilst on duty. I want to thank each and every one of you who has offered support to our colleague, their family and to each other during what is a very difficult time.
- Datix is back online
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Following yesterday’s upgrade, the Datix system is now back online and functioning fully.
- GP triage gets thumbs up from staff
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A project that places GPs in the control rooms has been given the thumbs up by staff.
- New dates added for MIND training
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New dates have been added for the Blue Light manager training programme, which is a national initiative that aims to better support the mental health of people working in the emergency services.
- Chief asks people to get 'winterwise' after high new year demand on 999 service
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Demand on our 999 ambulance service peaked on New Year’s Day - and bosses are urging the public to be ‘winter wise’ to help support their own care as winter takes a hold.
- Next week is our EOC takeover!
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The important work of the Trust’s emergency operations centre staff will be celebrated next week during an EOC ‘takeover’.
- Cleric CAD roll-out agreed for Norwich & Chelmsford
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Following the successful roll out of the new Cleric CAD to Bedford EOC in November, we are currently planning to roll out the new CAD to Norwich EOC on the 17th February, and to Chelmsford EOC on the 2nd March.
- Vacancy and transfer list - 14th January
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This week’s HR e-zine, with the latest job vacancies and transfer opportunities, is now available to view online.
- Survey: would you use a MIND helpline?
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The mental health charity MIND has introduced an information helpline, the Blue Light Infoline, to support emergency staff, volunteers and their families.
- Potential fault with IM needle packaging: please check your stores
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A Datix has been logged where a drawing-up needle was reportedly missing, despite the packaging still being fully secure.
- Contacting the CQC
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The Care Quality Commission (CQC) is responsible for regulating health and social care services.
- Carbon monoxide: be aware and safe
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After an incident in Lancashire earlier this month, we would like to remind staff to be aware of the dangers and symptoms of carbon monoxide.
- Employee assistance programme: support when you need it
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With pressures at work and at home, we all need some extra support from time to time.
- The state pension is changing
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The Government is making changes to the state pension on 6th April.
- Happy New Year
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Wishing all our staff and volunteers a very safe and happy New Year!
- Passed with flying colours: our latest ECA - EMTs
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Congratulations to all those on our latest ECA – EMT course in Hertfordshire, who have all passed with flying colours!
- A Christmas challenge for staff and volunteers
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Ambulance bosses have praised staff and volunteers for helping thousands of 999 callers and patients this Christmas.
- College of Paramedics 2016 conference
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Following the success of its 2014 conference, the College of Paramedics is delighted to announce its 2016 national conference 'We are not alone! - Working together to provide the best possible care'.
- Scarlet fever - the beginning of a new season
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Early indications for 2015 to 2016 suggest we may be entering a third season of high numbers of scarlet fever infections.
- Managing our controlled drugs
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The safe management of the controlled drugs (CDs) we use is vital to the Trust – in the wrong hands they could cause serious harm.
- Chelmsford EOC in the Christmas spirit for charity
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Chelmsford EOC was rocking around the Christmas tree last week as the teams’ donned the best of their festive knitwear for charity.
- Vacancy and transfer list - 25th December
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This week’s HR e-zine, with the latest job vacancies and transfer opportunities, is now available to view online.
- Merry Christmas!
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From everyone on the Need to Know team - wishing you all a very merry Christmas!
- Wishing you all a very merry Christmas: a message from Robert Morton (24th December)
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As I write this, I note that it’s four months to the day since I took up my post as Chief Executive here at EEAST. Part of me wonders where the time has gone, with the other part feeling like I must have been here for longer.
- Are you reviewing your patient care records?
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Completing a patient care record (PCR) is part of the day-to-day working for many of us.
- What a difference a day makes: #24HoursInEoE
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To coincide with Black Friday, last week we held our first ever 24-hour ‘twitterthon’ – where we tweeted live from all our EOCs and an ambulance for 24 hours.
- Taking a look at frequent callers, and how you can help us
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We know that a vast majority of the calls we get are for people who really need us, and often haven’t ever called 999 before. But there is, albeit a very small, group of service users who use our 999 service a lot more frequently.
- Have a clinical question? Call CAL!
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Unsure about whether to convey a patient or not, or what medication to administer? Or perhaps you just want to run a clinical decision past another clinician? Remember to call the clinical advice line (CAL)!
- Clinical waste collections this week
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There will be no clinical waste collections from Trust sites on the following dates:
- Essex staff donate gifts to those in need
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Two mid-Essex staff have been blown away by the generosity of colleagues following their efforts to help a Chelmsford charity.
- Brian Shipley
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We are extremely saddened to report the news this week that Brian Shipley, former director of finance and deputy chief executive for Essex Ambulance Service, has passed away after a brave fight against illness.
- New cardiac issue of Clinical Quality Matters published
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The first full edition of our newly re-launched Clinical Quality Matters is now available to download – and this issue focuses on cardiac care.
- Acting locality director appointed for Essex
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Following a competitive recruitment process, Karl Edwards has been appointed as the acting locality director for Essex. Karl is taking up the post with immediate effect.
- Our busiest time of year: An update from CEO Robert Morton
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December and the festive period is always our most demanding time of the year and tomorrow we go into what is traditionally known as ‘black Friday’.
- Vacancy and transfer list – 17th December
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This week’s HR e-zine, with the latest job vacancies and transfer opportunities, is now available to view online.
- Highlighting our work to the public: Black Friday twitterthon
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For those of you on Twitter and who follow @EastEnglandAmb, please support our ‘24 Hours in EoE’ marathon on Friday and Saturday – the first of its kind.
- Man punished for assault on EMT
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A man has been convicted of common assault after spitting at a member of staff.
- Major milestones for volunteers in Beds and Herts
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Leighton Buzzard’s community first responders (CFRs) were flying the flag for our volunteers last month as they visited 10 Downing Street for a reception with the Prime Minister.
- Charity gift collection for Luton hospice
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Bedford EOC are supporting a local hospice by collecting charitable gift donations – and need your help.
- “I cannot thank them enough”: Norfolk man says thank you to his rescuers
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A west Norfolk man has been reunited with his life-savers after he suffered a heart attack at home.
- New student paras pass their training
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Congratulations to our latest group of student paramedics, who all passed their training this month in Welwyn Garden City.
- A refresher on STEMI and right ventricular involvement
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Here’s a quick refresher from the clinical team on managing patients suffering a STEMI with right ventricular involvement (RVI)…
- All things social media
-
More than two billion people worldwide now have social media accounts, but do you know the dos and don’ts for using it at work and home?
- Latest JESIP news is now available
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The latest edition focuses on the findings of the Joint Organisational Learning (JOL) arrangements.
- How we provide the best care for patients: An update from CEO Robert Morton
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The majority of people seeking healthcare generally access it through their local GP (also called primary care), 999, 111 or the Emergency Department (ED).
- Vacancy and transfer list – 10th December
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This week’s HR e-zine, with the latest job vacancies and transfer opportunities, is now available to view online.
- Research study: interviewees wanted
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Would you be happy to share your views on ambulance performance measures?
- Staff win at Norfolk and Waveney awards
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The dedication of ambulance staff and volunteers was celebrated last week at the Stars of Norfolk and Waveney awards.
- Essex & Herts air ambo’s clinical day: EEAST staff invited
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Our colleagues at the Essex & Herts Air Ambulance Trust (EHAAT) are holding their monthly clinical governance day next week – and they’ve invited us to join them!
- New pilot to help manage pressure at acutes
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From 14th December, EEAST will be running a pilot in Essex called ‘intelligent conveyance’ with the aim of managing pressures at the county’s five acutes.
- Student paramedic update
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Every student paramedic in cohort 1 should have received an email earlier this week with details about how to apply online to UEA, guidance on the completion of the APEL, some useful UEA information and an invite letter for an interview.
- Survey: standardised drugs bag & changes made from your feedback
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As reported previously on Need to Know - we’re creating a ‘make-ready’ model for our drugs bag.
- Cambs staff head back to college
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Cambridgeshire students were given an insight into the work we do during a talk from two members of staff.
- The region’s “amazing” ambulance staff have been praised in a new report.
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More than 100 people who received emergency medical help in September responded to our feedback questionnaires - with 97.1% saying they were very satisfied or satisfied with the service they received.
- Saving money and reinvesting in patient facing services
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As a Trust we get given a set amount of money every year form our clinical commissioning groups , the people who decide how taxpayers’ money is going to be spent on NHS services in their local area. We then have to decide how we spend that to provide the best possible service to patients.
- Reminder: using the phone function within digital radios
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The Airwave terminals, or digital radios, that we have on our vehicles have the capability to call any UK telephone number. That means you can use them to make SPOC referrals etc., rather than using your personal phones.
- New mental health training sessions available in Essex
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North Essex Partnership is holding free training events for mental awareness in the new year, aimed at GPs, nurses, healthcare assistants, emergency services and staff from ambulance and acute sectors.
- Wanted: volunteer PTS drivers
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You already work in the ambulance service, but have you thought about becoming a volunteer car driver?
- Please check nebuliser masks
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Yesterday (9th December) a Suffolk crew found an adult nebuliser mask to be missing the loose, internal baffle diffuser plate, rendering the mask useless.
- Behind the scenes: Dan Phillips, Area Clinical Lead
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Last week we introduced our ‘behind the scenes’ feature, where we showcase a person or team from across the Trust to tell you a bit more about who they are and what they do. This week we’re welcoming Area Clinical Lead Dan Phillips to the floor…
- The British National Formulary (BNF) app now available
-
Want to access the BNF on your mobile or tablet? Download the NICE apps. Unlike the print BNF, they are updated monthly, making them the easiest way to keep up-to-date.
- Ibuprofen and paracetamol tablets: update for non-paramedic colleagues
-
Last week the Trust removed co-codamol from its approved drug suite, recalling all stock. Following this update there has been a number of queries raised by our non-paramedic staff surrounding the rational as to why these are paramedic only medicines.
- Interim Director of Service Delivery announced
-
Over the last few months, the
Board and executive team
have been reviewing the
executive structure to assess if it
is the right structure to deliver our
future plans.
- Vacancy and transfer list – 3rd December
-
This week’s HR e-zine, with the latest job vacancies and transfer opportunities, is now available to view online.
- Well done to new ACAs and PTDs
-
Congratulations to a new group of Ambulance Care Assistants (ACAs) and Patient Transport Drivers (PTDs) who have passed their training.
- Paracetamol and ibuprofen tablets introduced
-
Following the recall of co-codamol from our drug suite, the Trust has introduced ibuprofen (200mg) and paracetamol (500mg) tablets to our drug bags.
- Co-codamol removed from approved drugs list
-
The Trust has taken the decision to recall and remove co-codamol tablets (30/500mg) from our approved drug list with immediate effect.
- New mum thanks call handler Anna
-
A call handler has been praised for her calm and reassuring words during a sudden home birth.
- Reminder: Searching for CAD incidents
-
With the introduction of the new CAD into Bedford EOC, the way you search for CAD records in portal has changed for incidents in Bedfordshire and Hertfordshire.
- Public board meeting
-
The Board met in public last week (Thursday 26th November) and discussed a range of topics including the culture within the Trust, the make ready concept and clinical quality.
- UEA student paramedic update
-
Following a recent visit, the UEA Diploma programme for our student paramedics has been recommended for approval.
- Trust moves to REAP level 4
-
Today (4th December) the Trust has moved from REAP level 3 to level 4.
- Searching for student paramedics in Ipswich
-
Staff and volunteers braved the wet and windy weather at the weekend for a student paramedic recruitment event in Suffolk.
- Behind the scenes with clinical: Ash Richardson
-
Welcome to our first ‘behind the scenes’ feature in Need to Know!
- Nominate a colleague for the 2016 AACE Awards
-
Do you know a colleague who has gone above and beyond the call of duty?
- Lost property form available
-
If you are approached by patients or their families who have lost some items, please direct them to the ‘lost property’ section of our website.
- Changing our culture: An update from CEO Robert Morton (26th November)
-
Ever since I joined the Trust I have met hundreds of staff and received many emails with your thoughts, ideas and concerns.
- Vacancy and transfer list – 26th November
-
This week’s HR e-zine, with the latest job vacancies and transfer opportunities, is now available to view online.
- Geoff Follett
-
It is with great sadness that we share the news of Geoff Follett, chaplain to Potters Bar ambulance station, who died on Wednesday 18th November, after a period of illness.
- Staff attend successful CCP training day
-
More than 30 clinicians attended the Critical Care Paramedic (CCP) training day at Magpas Headquarters, Huntingdon on Thursday 19th November.
- Make Ready concept approved by Board
-
The Trust Board have approved the concept of starting to move to a Make Ready service at the Board meeting today (Thurs 26th November) in Great Notley.
- Bedford goes live with Cleric
-
On Wednesday (18th November) morning the new Cleric CAD system went live in Bedford EOC.
- Please Make Sure That You Check Your Adrenaline Doses
-
It has been identified by the Patient Safety Team over the past few weeks that there may be some confusion over the dose of intra-muscular Adrenaline 1:1000 for paediatric patients suffering with life-threatening asthma or anaphylaxis.
- New CFR group launched in Cambridge
-
A trailblazing scheme was celebrated last week with the official launch of the country’s first student and community first responder group.
- Paramedic pre-degree experience pilot
-
The Trust, Health Education East of England, Anglia Ruskin University and the University of East Anglia won a joint bid to take part in the Health Education England Paramedic Pre-Degree Pilot scheme commencing in January 2016.
- Norfolk man reunited with his life savers.
-
Anthony Frost’s world was turned upside on the morning of 20th June when he collapsed at his home in Gorleston, Norfolk.
- Launch of the new Patient Care Record Policy
-
The Trust have reviewed, amended and updated the PCR policy.
- Timesheets, Overtime and Expense Claims
-
Completing timesheets, overtime and expense claim forms correctly is vital.
- Clinical Variations Level 2 Peer panels members needed.
-
If you would like to be considered for this role please send an expression of interest to Nicola Irons at Nicola.irons@eastamb.nhs.uk along with a brief professional resume.
- Applications for Carol Furber award are open
-
The College of Paramedics would like to invite staff to apply for the 2016 Carol Furber Award.
- Policy on standards of business conduct
-
It is the time of the year when you may get offered gifts and hospitalities as part of the festive season.
- Reminder: Come and join the emergency services carol service
-
The Norfolk Emergency Services Carol service will be taking place at Norwich Cathedral on Monday 7th December at 7.30pm and all staff are invited.
- Staff survey: final week to have your say
-
The deadline for staff to complete and submit their staff survey is fast approaching. Completed questionnaires have to be submitted by this Friday (27th November)
- Bob Walker
-
It is with great sadness that we share the news that Bob Walker, a former EEAST paramedic died on Saturday 14th November.
- Staff speak out against violence from patients
-
Staff have spoken out about the impact of violence from the people they help after new figures revealed an increase in the number of physical assaults.
- Improving performance and quality: An update from CEO Robert Morton (19th November)
-
I want to start this week by expressing my respect and solidarity to our colleagues in Paris who provided the emergency response following the atrocious terrorist attacks last week.
- Wise up for winter: the Trust’s new seasonal campaign
-
‘Winter is coming’ so goes the famous line from Game of Thrones, and EEAST like all other NHS trusts are putting a campaign in place to help communicate some of the main themes of the season.
- Reminder: Message in a bottle
-
The ‘Message in a Bottle’ scheme, run by The Lions Club, is designed to encourage people to keep their personal and medical details on a standard form and in a common location – the fridge.
- Vacancy and transfer list – 19th November
-
This week’s HR e-zine, with the latest job vacancies and transfer opportunities, is now available to view online.
- Blue light partnership celebrated
-
The grand opening of the new shared Bury St Edmunds base for Suffolk Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS) and the Trust was celebrated on Monday.
- Kerry and Iain Colquhoun, and daughter Maisie
-
Unfortunately, Norfolk SLM Di Chan had to share sad news this week that our colleagues Kerry and Iain Colquhoun’s daughter Maisie passed away peacefully in her sleep on Friday (13th November) at home, aged 17.
- Reminder: Your views wanted on standardised drug bags
-
You can still have your say on plans for a new ‘make-ready’ model of drugs bag that will be standardised across the Trust.
- Student paramedic update
-
We continue to work with the University of East Anglia (EUA) and Anglia Ruskin University (ARU) who are going through the application process with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) for their paramedic courses as prior to any programme starting it must be approved HCPC.
- Keeping safe and well from norovirus
-
As we enter the winter months, norovirus, like other infectious diseases sees a rise on the number of outbreaks.
- Essex woman reunited with “life-saving” ambulance crew
-
An Essex crew have been hailed as life-savers after treating a patient who suffered a heart attack earlier last year.
- Ambulance service charity launches pledge campaign
-
Are you planning to run a half marathon, do a sponsored challenge or ‘give something up’ for charity?
- Staff invited to Cambridge trauma conference
-
After two successful years, the third annual Cambridge trauma conference will be taking place in March.
- Trust clinical waste update
-
Clinical waste is now collected by Trust staff and not by contractors which means there is now no need for a staff member to sign consignment notes.
- Raising support for CALM
-
CALM, the campaign against living miserably, is a charity dedicated to preventing male suicide.
- World COPD Day!
-
Today (Wednesday 18th November) is World COPD Day which aims to raise awareness for chronic obstructive lung disease (COPD) and improve care for its sufferers.
- CQC update
-
Recently a message was circulated to staff encouraging people to contact the Care Quality Commission (CQC) as an inspection of the Trust was due to take place soon.
- Invite to air ambulance clinical governance day
-
The Essex and Herts Air Ambulance (EHAAT) charity is holding its monthly clinical governance day on Tuesday (17th November) at 10am and Trust staff are invited along.
- Quality Development Team
-
The aim of the team is to develop and manage quality improvement and assurance in commissioned services to fulfill statutory duties on behalf of and in collaboration with Executive team.
- You said we did: thank you letters to be sent directly to staff
-
A few months ago some of you contacted us via Need to Know to say that you’d like any thank you letters to be sent to you directly rather than via your management team.
- Changing patient care, developing our strategy and reviewing our culture
-
Over the last week I have met a number of our important stakeholders including our commissioners and NHS Trust Development Authority colleagues.
- Trust takes part in Remembrance Day commemorations
-
The Trust has paid tribute to service men and women in Remembrance Day commemorations across the region.
- Vacancy and transfer list – 12th November
-
This week’s HR e-zine, with the latest job vacancies and transfer opportunities, is now available to view online.
- EEAST standardised drug bags: your views wanted
-
We’re working towards a ‘make-ready’ model for a drugs bag that will be standardised across the Trust.
- Giving your feedback on critical care
-
Staff have been thanked for using a new feedback tool which helps build a better understanding between EEAST and one of our critical care teams.
- Support for staff
-
For any members of staff who are involved in external formal court cases, the Trust can offer individuals support during this process.
- Cleric CAD go live – 18th November 2015
-
The new Cleric CAD is due to be implemented in Bedford EOC in the early hours of Wednesday morning (18th November).
- Meet the Board
-
The next board meeting will be on 26th November at Great Notley station in Essex, from 10am – 12.30pm.
- Late finishes survey
-
Thank you to everyone who completed the late finishes survey, we had more than 400 responses in total.
- World Diabetes Day - EEAST hypo education referral pathway
-
Did you know there are about 300,000 people with diabetes in our region and each year EEAST receives about 10,000 emergency calls from people having a diabetes emergency?
- Staff survey: have your say!
-
There is still time for you to complete your staff survey if you have not done so already.
- Come and join the emergency services carol service
-
Staff are invited to the Norfolk Emergency Services Carol service at Norwich Cathedral on Monday 7th December at 7.30pm.
- Update on mandatory assessment
-
Changes have been made to the multiple choice answer sheets needed to complete mandatory assessment.
- First World Antibiotics Awareness Week
-
It’s the first World Antibiotics Awareness Week starting today (16th November).
- Trust secures extra funding
-
The Trust has secured £45,000 in funding from Health Education England (HEE) to support outcomes within the Equality Diversity System and the Workforce Race Equality Standards.
- Reminder for staff with Trust laptops
-
All staff, particularly HALOs, should log their laptops onto the Trust network at least once a month.
- Ops update: CAD go live
-
We are planning to move Bedford EOC to the new CLERIC CAD in the early hours of 18th November 2015.
- Models of care: an update from CEO Robert Morton (5th November)
-
In my message about the development of a Trust strategy in October, I indicated that our next strategic plan would need to expand on our models of care..
- Reminder: patient safety alert – naloxone
-
Naloxone is a highly effective antidote for opioids and opiates.
- Hospital pre-alerts: recording yours could help shape ambo responses nationally
-
A number of England’s ambulance services are currently trialling new emergency response times in an attempt to see if it helps them to reach the most serious 999 cases more quickly and cut wasted use of resources.
- ECA to EMT courses – the latest info
-
A number of you have been in touch with Need to Know, the training team, and Chief Executive Robert Morton about our ECA to EMTs courses. Here we try and provide a short update to share the latest news with you…
- Heartfelt donation to ambulance service
-
The loss of a loved one is always a dark time for a family, and there is sometimes little we can do apart from showing compassion and sensitivity in those sad situations.
- Vacancy and transfer list – 5th November
-
This week’s HR e-zine, with the latest job vacancies and transfer opportunities, is now available to view online.
- Fond farewell to silver star Lorraine
-
The EOC clinical team said a fond farewell to Lorraine Forrest in Norwich EOC, who retired last week.
- Well done to students on ECA to EMT pathway
-
Congratulations to students from two ECA to EMT courses who have passed their training.
- Coaching available for managers
-
Do you need extra support with your career or work?
- Two off-duty members of staff praised
-
A hearty well done to two members of staff who have recently leapt into action to care for others whilst off-duty.
- Trust Board update: what we’re working on
-
Last Thursday, the Board had a workshop day and discussed a range of things including leadership, strategy and CAD implementation.
- New appointments to the safeguarding team
-
The Trust is pleased to announce two appointments to the safeguarding team.
- Survey for all staff: your views wanted on late finishes, wellbeing and morale
-
Over the last few months, we have been working closely with our people, including union colleagues, to develop ideas to reduce late finishes.
- Vacancy and transfer list - 24th September
-
This week’s HR e-zine has been published with the latest Trust vacancies.
- Update from Robert Morton - 24th September 2015
-
Your weekly update from CEO Robert Morton.
- September Board meeting: you're invited!
-
The Trust's next public Board meeting is being held on Monday, 28 September at Norwich City Football Club, Carrow Road, Norwich.
- New ambulance station opened in Hemel Hempstead
-
A new era began in Hertfordshire on Friday with the opening of an ambulance station.
- The UK student paramedic conference is coming!
-
The annual UK Student Paramedic Conference (UKSPC) will be taking place in Birmingham on Saturday, 31st October.
- Do you have a Trust smartcard?
-
The support and issue of smartcards is now the responsibility of the workforce planning and information team.
- Claire is the Pride of Peterborough
-
Our huge congratulations go to Paramedic Claire Squires who won a Pride in Peterborough award this week.
- Videos: best practice for CFRs and co-responders
-
Community first responders from across the East have starred in a series of videos to promote the Trust’s new volunteers’ policy.
- Are you fearless enough to handle Only the Brave?
-
The East Anglian Air Ambulance is looking for competitors for Only the Brave - 5/10km mud run full of obstacles and challenges!
- CEO visits - w/c 28th September
-
Our Chief Executive Robert Morton is continuing his station and office visits around the patch to meet with as many staff as he can.
- Vacancy and transfer list – 1st October
-
This week’s HR e-zine has been published with the latest Trust vacancies.
- Changes to recruitment approval process
-
From today (1st October), if you have a team vacancy that sits within your agreed structure and budget you can recruit to it without getting executive management board (EMB) approval.
- Out of service
-
You may have seen the recent article in Need to Know about booking out of service.
- Aaron beats the Spartan race for little Iyla
-
With 30 obstacles through woodland, lakes and across steep hills, Suffolk’s 25km Spartan race is recognised as being one of the hardest race events in the UK.
- New stroke research trial is coming to Peterborough
-
The Right-2 is a UK-wide ambulance-based study exploring whether lowering blood pressure at the acute onset of stroke (<4 hours), reduces death and disability.
- Changes to clinical waste collections
-
When clinical waste is collected from our sites, a member of the Trust needs to sign a ‘hazardous waste consignment note’ before it can be taken away.
- Free wellbeing training for managers
-
The Blue Light programme is a national initiative that aims to better support the mental health of people working in the emergency services.
- EOC’s ‘perfect storm’: an update from CEO Robert Morton (1st October)
-
So we continue to be challenged in delivering the expectations of our commissioners.
- CEO visits – w/c 5th October
-
Our Chief Executive Robert Morton is continuing his station and office visits around the patch to meet with as many staff as he can.
- Late finishes survey: one week left
-
You’ve got just over a week left to complete our survey on late finishes, well-being and morale.
- Staff thanked for 999 pick-up time improvements
-
Our call handlers and IT teams have been thanked this week for their part in improving our 999 call pick-up times by nearly 20 seconds in under a year.
- Need your car washed? Garry is your man
-
Garry Clark, Senior Paramedic from Brentwood, will be trading his stethoscope for suds this month in aid of a charity car wash in Brentwood.
- Reminder: bay doors broken? Call for help!
-
We have had instances recently of staff attempting to free garage doors when they have failed due to a mechanical or electrical fault or vehicular impact.
- Ambulance charity launches rehab pilot
-
The Ambulance Services Charity (TASC), which provides support to ambulance staff and their families, has launched a rehabilitation pilot to help staff who have been injured return to work.
- New to critical appraisal?
-
Do you want to be able to critically appraise a journal article but don’t know where to start? Do you want to find the latest published evidence in pre-hospital clinical practice?
- Catch up on September’s Board meeting
-
Missed the Board meeting on Monday (29th September)? Catch up on what happened by looking over our tweets…
- You are invited to the Shaping the Future: Staff and Leadership Event
-
Places are still available on our Shaping the Future event, where our Chief Executive Robert Morton will be setting out his vision for the Trust and we will be asking delegates for their thoughts, views and experiences.
- Vacancy and transfer list – 8th October
-
This week’s HR e-zine has been published with the latest Trust vacancies.
- New grads make the grade
-
Congratulations to our latest group of graduate paramedics who passed their induction training with us last Friday (2nd October).
- New QA8 form for using clinical trauma kit
-
Please be aware that there’s a new version of the ‘critical care clinical practice quality assurance form’, or ‘QA8’...
- Inappropriate calls – part II
-
Earlier this year, the Trust shared some of the most inappropriate 999 calls of 2015 with the public.
- Flu jab programme up and running
-
Influenza, or flu, is a highly transmissible and serious infection. Last year, 1,184 people in the UK were admitted to intensive care because of it, and more than 10% of those people lost their lives.
- Do you know a star in Norfolk and Waveney?
-
The deadline is looming for the Eastern Daily Press’ annual Stars of Norfolk and Waveney Awards.
- CAD progress: Bedford go-live planned next month
-
Implementation plans for our new CAD system, called CLERIC, are well underway and we are aiming to go live in Bedford EOC in the early hours of Wednesday, 18th November.
- Patient focus: A look at lupus
-
October is lupus awareness month!
- New EOC initiatives introduced
-
There are two trials, aimed at improving responses and better patient outcomes, starting in EOCs.
- Looking to the future: update from CEO Robert Morton (8th October)
-
It is fitting that I start this message by paying tribute to all those whom have worked tirelessly to progress our recovery and support the community through a very difficult time in the organisation’s lifetime.
- Payroll documentation requests
-
Over the last few months the payroll team has been receiving an increasing number of requests from staff for copies of their payslips to help with things like tax returns and mortgage applications.
- CEO visits – w/c 12th October
-
Chief Executive Robert Morton is continuing his station and office visits around the patch.
- Student paramedics: requests for university documentation
-
Recently students have been requesting copies of their course assessment documentation.
- NHS staff survey 2015 is available
-
The annual staff survey is now available for staff to complete online.
- A snapshot of social media: the latest on Twitter and Instagram
-
We’ve launched several new accounts on Twitter to help complement our main @EastEnglandAmb account and help us to further engage with different audiences
- Infection prevention and control: the what, why and who
-
What is infection prevention and control?
- ‘Cool as a cucumber’ Sasha awarded for 999 call
-
A Norfolk girl has been praised for keeping a cool head in an emergency when she found her mum unconscious.
- Do you know somewhere that needs a defib?
-
The British Heart Foundation (BHF) and the Department of Health have launched a £1m scheme to make public access defibrillators and CPR training more available across England.
- Interview dates for ARU students
-
Anglia Ruskin University has now supplied dates for interviews as part of the APEL process.
- World Thrombosis Day: would you recognise a pulmonary embolism?
-
Today marks World Thrombosis Day - but would you recognise a pulmonary embolism?
- World Thrombosis Day: one patient’s heartfelt thanks to 999 paramedic four years on
-
‘I don’t think I feel too well.’ Those were the last words that Paul Westerman spoke before he collapsed and almost died four years ago.
- World Thrombosis Day: Trust trial sees improvement on PE recognition
-
An EEAST project to improve the pre-hospital recognition of pulmonary embolism (PE) is being hailed a success after seeing an 11% improvement.
- World Thrombosis Day: the numbers behind the condition
-
It's World Thrombosis Day today - here we take a look at some of the facts and stats behind thrombosis conditions.
- Welcome back to Clinical Quality Matters
-
It’s with great pleasure that we welcome back Clinical Quality Matters this month – an EEAST publication dedicated 100% to clinical learning.
- SPOC number changing next month
-
The prefix for the Trust’s single point of contact (SPOC) number is changing.
- Developing our people – an update from CEO Robert Morton (15th October)
-
Over the last week I have visited a number of stations, including Royston, Welwyn and Stevenage and met some of our MPs in Westminster.
- IPC – what are standard precautions?
-
Continuing on from last week’s infection prevention and control (IPC), this week we will be looking into standard precautions.
- First group of EMT to paramedics pass university course
-
Congratulations to the first intake of emergency medical technicians, who have completed the paramedic pathway at the University of Northampton.
- Are you taking the Stoptober challenge?
-
Stoptober is the campaign challenging smokers to go through October without sparking up.
- Welcome to our area clinical leads
-
We’re really pleased to announce our new area clinical leads, who will be working alongside you as staff to advance all things clinical in your area!
- Do something different for stress awareness day!
-
It’s National Stress Awareness Day today!
- Supplies catalogue 2015
-
You can now download a copy of our supplies catalogue from the ‘quick links’ page on East24.
- Training for national clinical trial
-
Paramedics are invited to take part in a training session for a national clinical trial, Airways-2.
- Reminder: changing personal details on GRS and ESR
-
Whenever you need to change your personal details like your name, address or marital status, you need to complete a HR2b form.
- Keep safe on the roads!
-
As the dark winter nights draw in, the Trust is urging all staff to stay safe on the roads when travelling to and from work.
- "These heroes saved my life"
-
It’s the kind of scenario you’d be hard pushed to write as fiction, let alone fact. Welwyn Garden City resident Geoff Poore spent 10 years teaching CPR - but little did he know that three of this students would one day save his own life.
- Work continues for CAD update
-
We will be implementing the new Cleric CAD in Bedford EOC in the early hours of Wednesday, 18th November.
- Ward moves for mental health in Beds and Luton
-
The following temporary ward moves have taken place in Bedfordshire and Luton.
- Nurse revalidation – have you been contacted?
-
All nurses and midwives will have to revalidate to maintain their registration with the Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC).
- New resuscitation guidelines
-
New resuscitation guidelines have been published today (15th October) by the Resuscitation Council UK.
- Invest in staff, give us good leaders, and make us sustainable: what you told us at our engagement event
-
With healthy eating classes, mindfulness workshops and post-it notes galore, last week’s ‘Shaping the future’ engagement event was a fun-filled and interactive day.
- New law around the reporting of FGM
-
New legislation has been brought in this month to better protect women and girls from female genital mutilation (FGM) abuse.
- Entonox stolen in Watford
-
Earlier this week our Entonox store at Watford station was broken into and emptied.
- Happy birthday to the Five Year Forward View!
-
On the first anniversary of the Five Year Forward View, the NHS Confederation has produced a visual guide to show what three areas of change the landmark document focuses on.
- CEO visits - w/c 2nd November
-
The CEO visits for this week.
- Save your pennies with NHS offers
-
For staff working in Norwich, Bikram Yoga Norwich offers very generous discounts to all NHS workers.
- Moving in the right direction: an update from CEO Robert Morton (29th October)
-
A few weeks ago I talked about the pressure facing our patient-facing staff with the increasing numbers of 999 calls, especially red calls.
- Paramedics wanted for new cardiac arrest trial
-
Do you want to be at the forefront of cardiac arrest research?
- Free coroners court training
-
Working in healthcare, it’s fairly likely that you’ll be asked to attend coroner’s court at some point in your career.
- World Stroke Day: our role and our research
-
It’s World Stroke Day today (29th October)!
- Carrying controlled drugs in belts and pouches
-
The security of our controlled drugs is paramount - in the wrong hands, the medicines and drugs we use could do more harm than good.
- Nearly 83% of you haven’t yet had your say
-
So far just 17% of you have completed your staff survey – meaning only 17% are in with a chance of winning £250 worth of gym, spa and training vouchers!
- Have a say on the future of ECPs and CCPs
-
Are you an EEAST specialist practitioner like an ECP or CCP?
- Vacancy and transfer list – 29th October
-
This week’s HR e-zine, with the latest job vacancies and transfer opportunities, is now available to view online.
- Talking all things paramedic in Ipswich
-
Staff and volunteers have been thanked for their involvement in a successful recruitment event in Suffolk at the weekend.
- Missing medicines? Report them via our anonymous helpline
-
Earlier this year Need to Know reported that some medicines were going missing across the Trust.
- Ambulance duo inspire the next generation of lifesavers
-
- GRS will be offline Tuesday 9am-1pm
-
The GRS software is being upgraded on Tuesday (27th), so will be offline from 9am - 1pm.
- Vacancy and transfer list - 23rd October
-
The latest vacancy and transfer opportunities here at EEAST.
- Swapping greens for gowns for Sandra and Jemma
-
Two members of staff from the Essex locality swapped their greens for gowns when they recently graduated from the NHS Leadership Academy programme.
- Empowering our people: update from Robert Morton (22nd October)
-
You are this service’s most valuable resource – quite simply our people are what make our ambulance service.
- Medicines management is changing: standardised drug bags on the horizon
-
Making sure that patient-facing staff have the drugs and medicines they need to do their jobs is vital.
- Share your views on EEAST’s GP advice line
-
The University of East Anglia is evaluating the GP advice line and enhanced triage scheme, to look into developing future alternative patient care pathways.
- Taking a patient directly to a ward?
-
As a gentle reminder, when conveying a patient directly to a hospital ward please remember to press the ‘other’ button rather than the ‘A&E’ one on the MDT.
- John Littledyke
-
It’s with great sadness that we share news of John Littledyke, an ex-EEAST paramedic, who died on Monday, 12th October after a period of illness.
- The latest on ePCR
-
Back in May our electronic patient care record (ePCR) system was upgraded to Windows 7.
- Employee assistance programme: support when you need it most
-
Did you know that the trust offers a free and confidential service, offering extra support whenever you need it?
- Norfolk man jailed for damaging ambulance trolley
-
A man has been jailed after damaging an ambulance trolley in west Norfolk.
- Trolley dash raises funds for CFR group in Norfolk
-
A Supermarket Sweep-style event has raised hundreds of pounds for a life-saving group in Norfolk.
- Mandatory training handbooks are on their way
-
The new 2015-16 Mandatory Training Handbook and Assessment books are now arriving at locations across the Trust.
- New motorways guidance available online
-
The National Ambulance Resilience Unit (NARU) has released new advice on attending incidents on the motorway network.
- Free wellbeing training for managers – last few places
-
There are only a few places left for the Blue Light manager training programme, which is a national initiative that aims to better support the mental health of people working in the emergency services.
- Congratulations to our Open University students
-
Well done to the Trust’s Open University (OU) students who passed their module 7 course at Barton Mills last week.
- Congratulations to new student paramedics
-
Well done to the Trust’s latest group of student paramedics who have passed their initial clinical training at Welwyn Garden City.
- All about awards for Norwich EOC
-
The excellence of two ambulance control room staff has been celebrated!
- And the winner of the CPR competition is…
-
Congratulations to Dave Thurgood, Community First Responder from Harlow, for winning the best two minutes of CPR as part of a series of cardiac fun days across the Trust.
- Watford student para completes his first half marathon
-
Congratulations to Student Paramedic Luke Hindmarch who has completed his first half marathon.
- Andy honoured by ambulance colleagues
-
Last Friday (9th October) ambulance personnel from across the country came together to pay their respects at the funeral of our much-missed colleague, Andy Ashman.
- One step closer to becoming EMTs
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A group of ambulance staff have cause to celebrate after progressing to the next stage of their clinical careers.
- Have you received your NHS staff survey email?
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More than 300 of you have completed the annual NHS staff survey since it was emailed out to the Trust last week – a big thank you to those who have completed it so far.
- Vacancy and transfer list – 15th October
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This week’s HR e-zine has been published with the latest Trust vacancies.
- EEAST wins north Essex PTS contract
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We are delighted to announce that we have won the patient transport service (PTS) contract for north Essex.
- University approval and APEL workshops: the latest for SPs
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Both our partner Universities are still progressing to gain approval the programmes with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC). This week we will have the Anglia Ruskin University (ARU) approval event on Thursday and Friday so we should know more in around a months’ time.
- Life-saving project in the running for Innovation of the Year
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The recent region-wide CPR-athon to equip hundreds of members of the public with the practical skills to save a life has been shortlisted in the 2015 Air Ambulance Awards of Excellence.
- Staff survey: to win – fill it in!
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Those who complete this year’s staff survey could be in with a chance of winning £250 worth of gym and training vouchers.
- Miles’ close shave for charity
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Paramedic Miles from Longwater has lost his locks raising more than £160 for Macmillan Cancer Support – a charity close to his heart.
- Volunteers needed for major incident exercise
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The Essex and Herts Air Ambulance charity is running a major incident exercise on Tuesday, 27th October from 10am - 4pm.
- Up and coming mental health awareness training
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North Essex Partnership is hosting a number of training events in October and November which are primarily for the benefit of GPs, staff in acute or emergency services, and other health professionals.
- Clinical visits – what you’re telling us
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The clinical teams have continued to travel the region’s 7,500 square miles over the past few weeks, with Watford being the latest station to receive a visit.
- Learn ECG interpretation from an expert
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Places are available for two ECG courses being run by an Essex based doctor.
- Update for SPs: workshops and uni accreditation
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Firstly, we’d like to say thank you for your feedback from the APEL workshops that some students have been undertaking. We appreciate the comments along with concerns and will be working to provide further answers and importantly additional support and guidance.
- Calling paramedics for a new stroke research study!
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The RIGHT-2 is a 2-year stroke trial that tests the pre-hospital administration of GTN patches vs. sham patches by paramedics in FAST positive patients with a score of two or three.
- “We can’t thank Zoe enough”: call handler helps deliver ‘little miracle’
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A call handler has been thanked for her part in helping to deliver a ‘little miracle’ into the world.
- Social media & email – do you know the policy?
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The Trust has detailed HR policies which govern staff use of social media and email.
- Six counties and 7,500 miles: An update from CEO Robert Morton
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It’s been more station visits for me this week as I steadily make my way around the 7,500 square miles of our region. Compared to making my way around the 370,000 square miles of my old patch in south Australia, this seems like a more favourable challenge!
- Corpuls3 success down to ‘enthusiasm and determination’ of staff
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The successful roll-out of our new Corpuls3 defibrillators is down to the ‘enthusiasm and determination’ of staff say the project team.
- Let’s talk about organ donation
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On average, three people die every day waiting for an organ transplant. And it weren’t for this wonderful, generous act, this number would be much higher.
- Come and join the CPR-athon
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A first of its kind CPR-athon will be taking place this Saturday, teaching members of the public basic lifesaving skills.
- Community first responders urged to stay secure
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On Tuesday (8th September), one of our community first responders (CFRs) had their CFR kit stolen from the back of their car.
- September stock-take dates
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This month’s confirmed stock takes are...
- Attention of student paramedics: reimbursement of fees (£150)
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"Since I joined the Trust three weeks ago, a number of you have shared some very real concerns with me about the monthly fees you’ve been paying as part of your student paramedic (SP) training programme, and what your money was being used for." CEO Robert Morton.
- Staff survey coming soon
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The annual NHS staff survey launches this month - and this year every one member of staff will be given an opportunity to share their views.
- CAD: the next steps
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As you may have seen a few weeks ago, Cleric has been selected as the new supplier for our CAD, and the implementation programme is now underway.
- Trust top performers for call pick-up
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The latest call pick-up figures are in - and EEAST continues to have the best performing EOC in the country.
- Training for end of life care
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Paramedics are invited to a study day on end of life care.
- Save the date: paramedic society conference
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The Canterbury Christ Church Student Paramedic Society (CCCSPS) Conference will be taking place on the 21st November in Canterbury, Kent.
- Chelmsford shoppers receive free health checks
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Mini health checks were given to more than 150 people by the ambulance service last week at High Chelmer Shopping Centre.
- CEO visits – w/c 21st September
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Our Chief Executive Robert Morton is continuing his station and office visits around the patch to meet with as many staff as he can.
- Staff and MIND make successful mental health training day
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More than 25 ambulance staff took part in a successful mental health training day in Luton last week.
- First CPR-athon a big success!
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A huge thank you to staff and volunteers who were involved in last week’s CPR- athon.
- Student paramedic queries
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A message to student paramedics from CEO Robert Morton
- CS gas incidents reported in overseas lorries
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During the last few months there have been a number of incidents across the country where workers at retail stores have been affected by an ‘unknown chemical’ whilst unloading goods from lorries that have recently entered the UK from abroad.
- Anonymous helpline for reporting missing medicines launched
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Anonymous helpline for reporting missing medicines launched
- ‘Whatever we do, we’ve got to get it right’: update from CEO Robert Morton
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On my very first day here at EEAST (only 19 working days ago would you believe!) I shared with you my views on the operational performance targets we’re tasked to meet. It’s my absolute belief that we should be measured on clinical outcomes for our patients, and on my visits this week there’s been a lot of talk about these national targets – the eight minute one in particular.
- Norfolk grandmother reunited with life-savers
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A family has praised the ambulance staff who helped save the life of a west Norfolk grandmother.
- Vacancy and transfer list - 18th September
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This week’s HR e-zine has been published with the latest Trust vacancies and transfers.
- Free stroke study day in Norfolk
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Want to learn more about stroke from the experts?
- Watford SP in the running for half marathon
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A student paramedic based in Watford is gearing up for his first half marathon to raise money for charity.
- Joe Lomax
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It is with much sadness that we share news today that Joe Lomax, one of our dedicated volunteer drivers, passed away unexpectedly on Friday (18th September).
- Diabetes education event in Ipswich
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The Trust’s diabetes and hypoglycaemia education event, held in conjunction with the Eastern Academic Health Science Network (EAHSN), will be taking place on Monday, 5th October.
- Final chance to win a trip to Norway
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This is your last chance to let your CPR skills do the talking and win a free trip to Norway.
- Proton pump inhibitors – risk of rare skin condition
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Healthcare agencies have reported cases of a rare dermatosis caused by sunlight in patients who are using proton pump inhibitors (PPIs).
- CEO visits – w/c 14th September
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Our Chief Executive Robert Morton is continuing his station and office visits around the patch to meet with as many staff as he can.
- Vacancy and transfer list – 10th September
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This week’s HR e-zine has been published with the latest Trust vacancies.
- Don't miss out - last few days for NHS Leadership Award nominations
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The closing date for nominations for the east of England NHS Leadership Awards has been extended until Sunday (13th September). Don’t miss out – get your nomination in now!
- Fifteen years of saving lives on two wheels
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Cyclists with the training and equipment to save hundreds of lives every year are being celebrated in the latest campaign by the Trust this week.
- Andy Ashman
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It’s with great sadness that we share news of Andy Ashman, an Educator working with us at EEAST, who tragically lost his life on Saturday morning whilst competing in the Clipper round-the-world yacht race.
- Essex volunteers receive kind donation
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The Harlow Community First Responders have been awarded a cheque for £500 from security company G4S.
- New service launched to help victims of crime
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A new national information service that’s give crime victims quick and easy access to support has been launched by the Government.
- What is a 'serious incident'?
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We deal with thousands of patients every day and have a responsibility to make sure we’ve got measures in place for safeguarding them, as well as our people, property, resources and our reputation.
- Extra support from employee assistance programme
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With pressures at work and at home, we all need some extra support from time to time.
- Vacancy and transfer list - 3rd September
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This week’s HR e-zine has been published with the latest Trust vacancies.
- Bank holiday calls rise by 7.8%
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Demand was up again this bank holiday weekend as the Trust saw a 7.8% rise in emergency calls.
- Reminder to sign your PGD suite
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Last month our paramedic patient group direction (PGD), which details what drugs paramedics are able to give, was updated.
- "If not for them I would not be here today" - mother thanks ambulance crews
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A mother-of-three has said thank you to the ambulance staff who saved her life after she collapsed at a Suffolk pub.
- CEO visits - w/c 7th September
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Our Chief Executive Robert Morton is continuing his station and office visits around the patch to meet with as many staff as he can.
- Vacancy and transfer list - 20th August
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This week’s HR e-zine has been published with the latest and current Trust vacancies - including transfer opportunities.
- Update from Robert Morton - 3rd September 15
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It’s now almost two weeks since I joined the EEAST family, and what a week this one has been been.
- 100% of patients happy with ‘world class’ ambulance staff
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Ambulance staff have been described as “faultless”, “exemplary” and “super kind” in the latest patient survey.
- Leadership Academy courses: all you need to know
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The NHS Leadership Academy is now recruiting for their leadership programmes.
- St Neots becomes defib capital of the east
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People in Huntingdonshire have shared their community spirit by funding their eighth defibrillator in 18 months.
- Caution issued about amiodarone and hepatitis C drugs
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The Government has released a drug safety alert this week about the use of amiodarone in patients who are also taking hepatitis C drugs.
- Ten million responses to the NHS Friends and Family Test
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The NHS Friends and Family Test (FFT) reached a memorable milestone last week by achieving its 10 millionth piece of feedback from patients.
- Reimbursements for criminal damage
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When our property, equipment or vehicles are criminally damaged by someone, we’re entitled to be reimbursed for any repairs.
- Diazepam versus midazolam
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Diazepam has been a treatment option available to paramedics for years. But what about midazolam?
- Norfolk 111
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Earlier this year the Norfolk Clinical Commissioning Groups decided to award the Norfolk 111 contract to a different provider, and disappointingly our contract comes to an end next week (31st August).
- CEO visits – w/c 31st August
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Our Chief Executive Robert Morton will be visiting stations and offices over the coming weeks to meet and talk to staff.
- Vacancy and transfer list – 27th August
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This week’s HR e-zine has been published with the latest and current Trust vacancies.
- V Festival no treble for EEAST
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Staff and volunteers have been praised for their hard work during a ‘very successful’ V Festival in Chelmsford.
- Volunteers needed for Chelmsford event
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We're looking for volunteers to help us at events across the region.
- Charity run to help fund new Norwich CFR group
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A community first responder (CFR) is set to take part in an inaugural road race this weekend to help save more lives in Norfolk.
- Chief Executive Robert Morton: first hello
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- Leadership awards: who will you nominate?
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Do you have a leader who you think deserves some recognition? If so, why not nominate them for an NHS Leadership Recognition Award?
- New CRASH cards available for Suffolk motorcyclists
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A road safety initiative has been re-launched for motorcyclists in Suffolk that seeks to help the emergency services in the case of an accident.
- Survey: are you getting the flu jab this year?
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There’s still time to complete our flu survey if you haven’t already done so.
- CEO visits - w/c 24th August
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Chief Executive Robert Morton will be visiting stations and offices over the coming weeks to meet and talk to staff; here you can see the planned visits for this week.
- Choose Me Not A&E campaign hits Kings Lynn
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More than 200 people were given free blood pressure checks in King’s Lynn earlier this month, as part of a campaign to ease pressure on the Queen Elizabeth Hospital’s A&E.
- New west Herts station up and running
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The new station in west Hertfordshire, which combines crews from St Albans and Hemel Hempstead stations, is now up and running.
- “What we’re here for”: Call Handler Zoe helps to save patient’s life
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It is the call that no one wants to make for a loved one. But when Barry Salisbury collapsed at home on 9th April after complaining of chest pain, his wife Tracey knew something was seriously wrong.
- ‘Absolutely brilliant’ staff praised in patient survey
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Crews have been described as ‘absolutely brilliant, professional and friendly’ in the latest patient survey.
- It’s a fairway for Adrian to win!
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Senior Paramedic Adrian Sampson from Colchester station was the recent winner of the London Ambulance Service Open Golf Competition at Bushey Hall Golf Club.
- Update from Sandy Brown - 20th August
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"We’ve been out and about again this week as our clinical visits have gotten underway; we’ll be making our way around the entire patch over the next few months to talk to you about what we’re focusing on clinically this year, and listening to what you have to say about it."
- Missing drugs reports on the up
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It’s a familiar scenario; at the start of every shift, you check your vehicle to make sure you have all the equipment, medicine and drugs you might need for the day ahead. But what if you find drugs missing, broken or unusable?
- Checking amidarone
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We’ve had an alert from colleagues at South Western Ambulance Service (SWAS) about an issue with their amiodarone ampoules.
- Paramedics: renew your registration today
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Paramedics have just two weeks left to renew their registration with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC).
- Places left at ambulance service national conference
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Places are still available for the 2015 patient safety conference, which sees ambulance staff from across the country come together to talk clinical practice.
- Marching with Pride at Brighton and Hove
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More than 130 ambulance staff took part in this year's Brighton Pride march, the biggest turn out to date, to show their support for the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) community.
- Top of the crops: Lorna's close shave nears £1,000 for charity
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Last Friday dispatcher Lorna said so long to her locks in memory of her cousin Shiona, who lost her battle with cancer just a few months ago, and she’s managed to raise nearly £1,000 for Cancer Research UK in the process.
- Stroke, heart attacks and sepsis - what we're looking at this year
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Director of Nursing and Clinical Quality and Deputy CEO Sandy Brown talks us through our clinical priorities…
- Not just a 999 service: ‘takeover week’ to focus on patient transport
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We’ll be proving we’re more than just a 999 service when we shine a light on some of our non-emergency operations this week.
- Free oncology conference
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Macmillan Cancer Support is offering free places at its National Acute Oncology Conference in October – and ambulance staff are invited to attend.
- Grants available for healthcare projects
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Has your community or voluntary group been working to involve patients and the public in improving health care services?
- Nitrous oxide stolen in Beds
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Thefts of nitrous oxide are on the up, Bedfordshire Police has warned.
- Free quality improvement course: enrol today!
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NHS Improving Quality, the University of Jönköping and Qulturum, have joined forces to create a new and innovative online course for those in healthcare.
- Safeguarding referrals at highest ever
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Safeguarding referrals were at the highest ever recorded last month, with a staggering 1,712 logged by staff.
- Ward moves for Beds mental health
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Some improvements are currently being made to the Luton and Central Bedfordshire Mental Health Unit on Calnwood Road, and to wards at the Weller Wing, the mental health inpatient unit for Bedfordshire.
- Betty Riches
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Tributes have been paid this week to Betty Riches, a much-loved former colleague, who has sadly passed away aged 84.
- Update from Sandy Brown - 13th August
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I start this message with exciting news, as Robert Morton has been announced as our new Chief Executive.
- Calling all paramedics - have you signed your new PGD suite?
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On 1st August, our paramedic PGD suite was updated, which means all our paramedics now need to sign a new copy.
- Staff idea for late finishes launching next week
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As of Tuesday (18th August), we will be implementing a pilot of an idea put forward from some frontline and EOC staff.
- Clinical team coming to a station near you
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The clinical quality team is hitting the road this month to meet as many of EEAST’s people as possible.
- Grading the cords in intubation
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A few weeks ago we published an article about mandatory capnography, and a few of you got in touch to say that you weren’t sure how to grade the view of the cords in intubation. So we asked Chris Martin, the Trust’s Trauma Lead, to write a short refresher guide for you.
- Trial planned to have GPs in EOC
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A project that has placed GPs in the Norwich control room is set to expand across the region later this year.
- Vacancy and transfer list - 13th August
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The latest HR e-zine has been published with the latest and current Trust vacancies - including a new clinical lead role.
- Online submissions available for SPs
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Our student paramedics can now submit their critical reflection work electronically, including any resubmissions.
- New chief executive announced
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The Trust is pleased to announce that Robert Morton, a paramedic and community first responder, has been appointed as our new chief executive.
- Unis due HCPC visits in next eight weeks
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The work with the universities has progressed well, and both have now submitted work to the HCPC in advance of their respective planned visits.
- Capacity in intoxicated patients
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A question was raised at the clinical briefing last week about whether someone has capacity if they are intoxicated.
- Trust uniform found at charity shop
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Some Trust branded uniform was left at a charity shop last week – breaking not only Trust policy but the law as well.
- Running a rainbow for Oscar
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A group of PTS and HR staff have helped brighten the future of a former colleague’s son thanks to an after-hours activity with a difference.
- Latest Trust & transfer vacancies - 6th August
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This week’s HR e-zine has been published with the latest and current Trust vacancies - plus transfer opportunities.
- Update from Anthony Marsh - 6th August
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Update from CEO Anthony Marsh (6th August).
- CEO recruitment and deputy chief executive
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The Board has completed final interviews for the permanent CEO post and is in the process of agreeing final terms and arrangements with a chosen, preferred candidate. In the interim Director of Nursing and Clinical Quality Sandy Brown, who has been announced as deputy chief executive, will be covering the chief executive post.
- Trust hopeful for new CAD by end of year
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We are one step closer to a new CAD system this week, as Cleric Computer Services has been announced as our new provider.
- Flu survey: become a vaccinator and tell us what you think
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It might still be the height of summer, but we’re already looking ahead to influenza season and the free flu vaccinations we offer to you.
- Practical ways to stay well - new dates added for Blue Light courses
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It’s important to take care of your mental health; one in four people develop a mental health problem every year, and mind research shows emergency services personnel are even more likely to be affected.
- 'Always keep an open mind': Paramedic Claire helps discover patient's bone cancer
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When Tracey Goodacre first met paramedic Claire Squires, she was at her lowest ebb.
- Paediatrics: sudden infant death syndrome
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Cases of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) affect more than 300 babies in the UK every year, but they can be some of the most distressing incidents that ambulance staff attend.
- Confidential Care: the Trust’s employee assistance programme
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Since January 2014, the Trust has offered all employees and their family members free access to emotional and practical support through an employee assistance programme (EAP), Confidential Care.
- Successful start to Friends and Family Test rollout
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Following the rollout of the Friends and Family Test (FFT) in March, the Trust would like to thank staff for their support in its successful start.
- Emergency care redesign “focus” in 2015-16 says NHS chief
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NHS England Chief Executive Simon Stevens has said that emergency care redesign needs to be focused on nationally in 2015-16.
- A reminder on MERS-CoV
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Following the suspected case of Middle Eastern Respiratory Syndrome (MERS) in Manchester this week, we would like to remind staff of the advice on recognition and treatment and infection prevention and control measures published in April.
- Operational support team helps nearly 50 staff in west Norfolk
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In September last year, a dedicated Operational Support Team (OST) was created in west Norfolk to support student paramedics and staff on progression pathways.
- Suffolk man reunited with life-savers after serious road traffic collision
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Two years ago, Dean Osborne was fighting for his life after a serious road traffic collision.
- Update from Anthony Marsh - 30th July 2015
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Your weekly update from the Trust Chief Executive.
- Clinical instruction: mandatory use of capnography
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A ‘preventing future death outcome’ has been issued by HM Coroner for Nottinghamshire.
- Clinical briefing hailed “a huge success”
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Openness, honesty, transparency and the importance of learning were all celebrated at the Trust’s clinical briefing yesterday, which was attended by more than 150 members of staff.
- Cambridgeshire incident featured on BBC programme
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The Trust’s HART team and a call handler have featured on a BBC programme called ‘Close Calls: On Camera’ following their involvement in an incident in Melbourn, Cambridgeshire last year.
- Safeguarding focus: female genital mutilation (FGM)
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The Department of Health has written to all NHS trusts to warn that the start of the school summer holidays coincides with the weeks also known amongst anti-FGM campaigners as the ‘cutting season’.
- Hotel bookings for students
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There has been several occasions recently when hotel confirmation forms have not been submitted to the appropriate team at the Trust, which has resulted in hotels not being paid for student accommodation.
- Dispatcher shaving hair for Cancer Research
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Lorna Riach will be shaving her hair at Chelmsford EOC on 14th August to raise money for Cancer Research in memory of her cousin.
- Latest HR e-zine published - 30th July 2015
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This week’s HR e-zine has been published with the latest and current Trust vacancies.
- Late finishes: a July update
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Over the last few weeks we have been gathering raw data from June on late finishes to enable us to better understand the issue and start developing new ways forward.
- CEO recruitment in final stage
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The Board is in the process of recruiting a new chief executive. The final interviews have been completed and the Trust is in the process of agreeing final terms and arrangements with a preferred candidate.
- Summer 2015 innovation voucher competition now open!
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Health Enterprise East is again offering innovation vouchers up to the value of £5,000 for staff in the east Midlands, east of England and north-east London, to help progress an idea for a new piece of medical technology or software.
- Update on organisational development
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Following last week’s article on what is organisational development, the team would like to update staff on what is specifically happening under this new area of the Trust.
- CFR uniform guidance
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New guidance on uniform for community first responders has been published by the Trust.
- Schoolchildren add a splash of colour to Norwich base
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Pupils from Kinsale Junior School submitted 180 pieces of artwork after they were invited to take part in a competition to brighten up the reopened Hellesdon ambulance station.
- Safeguarding adults handbook
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A new Trust version of the safeguarding adults handbook has been published and will soon be issued to every staff member.
- Compliments received at stations
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If any member of staff receives a compliment letter or card directly to their station, please let the patient services team know.
- Revalidation for nurses and midwifes
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The National Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC) is expected to launch revalidation for all nurses and midwifes in October.
- Cambs supervisor gearing up for triathlon
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A station supervisor is gearing up for his first triathlon in the hope of raising hundreds of pounds for a cancer charity.
- Helping holidaymakers in Norfolk
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An initiative to improve the response to holidaymakers needing emergency medical help in the Great Yarmouth and Waveney areas has gone live.
- Update from Anthony Marsh - 23rd July 2015
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Your weekly message from the Trust Chief Executive.
- Clinical update: new EOC tool for infectious diseases
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Following the recent MERS-CoV outbreak in South Korea, the way we screen for infectious diseases in EOC is changing.
- Fuel savings: a thank you to staff
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One of the Trust’s priorities for 2015/16 is to reinvest funds into the frontline, and some of that comes from savings we can make.
- Improvements made with occupational health provider: an update from Ruth McAll
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Director of HR, Ruth McAll, details the recent work with PAM on improvements to the service they provide and how to access it in the most effective way, following staff feedback.
- Clinical briefing next week – last few places
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There are only a handful of places left for the Trust’s clinical briefing next week in Cambridgeshire – so if you want to go, book your place now!
- Will you be at the annual public meeting?
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Milestones including the recruitment of 400 student paramedics and the modernisation of the ambulance fleet will be celebrated next week during the Trust’s annual public meeting.
- Comms team scoops national award
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The communications team’s trophy cabinet has had another boost after scooping a national award for its internal communications.
- Latest HR e-zine published - 23rd July 2015
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This week’s HR e-zine has been published with the latest and current Trust vacancies.
- What is organisational development?
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Organisational development (OD) is about changing how we, as individuals and as a team, deliver our services to patients, partners and colleagues.
- Workshop opportunity: diversity in the ambulance service
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We treat patients from all walks of life on a day to day basis, but how often do we think about diversity in our own workforce?
- Thousands of patients’ data found by member of the public
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East Sussex NHS Trust has written a letter of apology to more than 3,000 people, after a memory stick containing their personal information was found by a member of the public outside a trust building.
- Treating the unwell child
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Almost every clinician experiences the same worry, doubt and cautiousness when dealing with paediatric patients – especially with the additional challenges this group of patients present.
- Patients harmed by heroin and synthetic cannabis
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NHS England has warned services this week after the number of patients seriously harmed from using synthetic cannabis has skyrocketed.
- Essex staff head back to school for new education initiative
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A team in Chelmsford EOC has been taking youngsters through what to do in an emergency in a new initiative.
- Invitation to air ambulance governance day
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Staff are invited to the Essex and Herts air ambulance clinical governance day on pre-hospital care on Tuesday 21st July.
- Updated appraisal forms
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Updated appraisal forms are now available on East24.
- Revised policy on standards of business conduct
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The Trust’s policy on standards of business conduct has been revised, so please familiarise yourself with how this covers interests, gifts, hospitality, sponsorship, advertising and partnership arrangements.
- Update from Anthony Marsh - 16th July 2015
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Your weekly message from the Trust Chief Executive.
- Phil Bonnett
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The Trust is saddened to share the news that Phil Bonnett, a retired EEAST technician, has passed away after a period of ill-health.
- Praise for 'brilliant' service
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Staff have been thanked for providing a “brilliant” service to patients across the east of England, in the latest patient survey.
- Pictures and video from awards published
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All of the official pictures from the Trust’s Long Service and Excellence Awards in Ipswich have been published – as well as a video commemorating the evening.
- Hundreds of students learn CPR and how to use defib
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Students from Soham Village College, Cambridgeshire have been praised after learning new life-saving skills.
- How can our Trust user group help you?
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You have just a few days left to complete our questionnaire on the Trust User Group (TUG) - we'd love to hear what you think!
- Treating an unwell child for respiratory conditions
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One of the most common causes of 999 calls for paediatric patients, along with fever, is for children with breathing problems.
- Latest HR e-zine published - 16th July 2015
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This week’s HR e-zine has been published with the latest and current Trust vacancies.
- Capacity, consent and the family
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In the second of our articles focussing on paediatrics, we look at the guidelines around safeguarding this potentially vulnerable group of patients.
- Jeremy Hunt’s latest message to NHS staff
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The latest message from Secretary of State for Health, Jeremy Hunt, is on the subject a new deal for GPs and how this will deliver better services for patients.
- Pre-alerting stroke patients at Lister
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The Lister Hospital has requested that all suspected stroke patients are pre-alerted prior to arrival via the pre-alert number: 01438 357745
- Money raised for call handler’s daughter to have sensory room
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Staff from Chelmsford EOC have completed the 5K Colchester colour run to raise money for call handler Matt Harvey’s daughter Iyla.
- Student paramedic’s charity night raises more than £4,500
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Helen Harbar’s charity night in Biggleswade at the end of last month has raised more than £4,500 for leukaemia and lymphoma research.
- The 2015/16 clinical manual arrives
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The 2015/16 clinical manual has been delivered to the Trust and will shortly be arriving at stations for each member of staff.
- Cambs Sergeant wants your help for water safety scheme
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A police officer has been commended for a water safety scheme that uses signs to help pinpoint the locations of drowning emergencies – but now he needs your help to expand it.
- Update from Anthony Marsh - 9th July 2015
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Your weekly message from the Trust Chief Executive.
- Have you booked your place at EEAST’s clinical day?
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Less than half of the available places are left for the Trust’s clinical briefing day – so make sure to book yours today if you want to come.
- Guidance for major incidents
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Following a number of recent large-scale incidents across the region, the resilience team has provided the following guidance for all frontline staff and managers.
- Quality account published
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Staff have been thanked for their contribution to improving clinical quality care, as the latest Quality Account is published.
- Heat related illnesses
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Following last week’s warm weather and in advance of more of the same, it is important to identify the difference between heat stress, heat exhaustion and heat stroke.
- Essex first responder group celebrates 15th anniversary
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The South Woodham Ferrers Community First Responders (CFRs) are celebrating their 15th anniversary – attending more than 3,400 life-threatening medical emergencies since going live in June 2000.
- Clarification on the wearing of wrist watches
-
The best infection, prevention and control (IPC) practice is for all clinicians is to be ‘bare below the elbows’ during patient care.
- Book now for National Patient Safety Conference 2015
-
You are now invited to register for a free place at this year’s National Clinical and Patient Safety Conference to be held at the National Motorcycle Museum, Solihull on 9th September.
- Latest HR e-zine published - 9th July 2015
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This week’s HR e-zine has been published with the latest and current Trust vacancies.
- Student paramedic accreditation update
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We are continuing to work closely with our Universities and Health Education East of England for accreditation of the programme that will lead to eligibility to apply for registration with the Health and Care Professions Council.
- Deaf awareness event
-
Signs4Life, a deaf equality, diversity & disability training consultancy, has set up an introductory workshop in deaf awareness to help communicate and engage with deaf and hard of hearing colleagues and patients in Suffolk.
- New JESIP newsletter released
-
The latest Joint Emergency Services Interoperability Principles (JESIP) newsletter has been published following the launch of Joint Organisational Learning (JOL), the arrival of a new team and a new work programme.
- Resilience manager wins gold after Women’s Tour
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The Women’s Tour wasn’t the only highly anticipated event in Clacton-on-Sea on 18th June; a cycle race between the emergency services also took place – and we are delighted to announce that Resilience Manager Bob Mearns clinched the gold medal for EEAST!
- Locality Director commends brave 12-year-old
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Locality Director for Bedfordshire and Hertfordshire Dave Fountain has commended a 12-year-old girl from Luton for staying calm in an emergency he attended in March.
- Rain doesn’t dampen success at charity cricket match
-
Despite the British weather doing its best to stop play, the rain didn’t dampen the success of the Clacton charity cricket match last month.
- Your CPR skills could win you a free trip to Norway
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A trip to Luton ambulance station this month could win you a trip abroad – if you can prove your CPR skills.
- ECP medication audit
-
We are performing an audit of the usage of ECP-specific medications across the Trust and need your help to do this.
- Minute's silence at midday
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The Trust is supporting the minute’s silence being held across the UK today (3rd July) at midday to remember the 38 people – including 30 Britons – who lost their lives in Tunisia last week.
- Recruitment update
-
The Trust has recruited 244 student paramedics since the beginning of the financial year, and by the end of July, 86 will be working on the frontline.
- Update from Anthony Marsh - 2nd July 2015
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Your weekly message from the Trust Chief Executive.
- Long service and excellence celebrated in Ipswich
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The outstanding contributions to patient care and remarkable careers of EEAST staff were the focus of a special awards ceremony of celebration last night in Ipswich.
- Death of former EMT
-
The Trust is sad to share the news that Roy Oakley, who worked as an emergency medical technician at Thurrock station for 38 years until he retired in the mid-nineties, has passed away.
- TIA pathway is now live across the whole region
-
Following the initial roll-out of the transient ischaemic attack (TIA) pathway in 2012, the Trust has now secured links at Addenbrookes Hospital to refer patients in south Cambridgeshire.
- EAAA clinical day tomorrow in Bury
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East Anglian Air Ambulance is holding its monthly clinical governance day tomorrow (3rd July) in Bury St Edmunds – and Trust staff are invited to join them.
- Cromer station open day
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A charity that supports bereaved children in Norfolk is being supported by an ambulance service open day this Sunday (5th July).
- Watford station contact numbers change
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The contact numbers at Watford station have been changed.
- Latest HR e-zine published - 2nd July 2015
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This week’s HR e-zine has been published with the latest and current Trust vacancies.
- Issue with door access system
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We are experiencing problems with the VEREX door access system and we are working with IT to resolve the problem.
If you are locked out of a station please contact EOC and they will issue you with a code so that you can access the station.
- Airways-2 launches today
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The Airways-2 study launches today which will evaluate the differences between i-gel and intubation for patients in cardiac arrest.
- Advanced medical life support courses
-
The College of Paramedics is holding two advanced medical life support courses with South Western Ambulance Service and the National Association of Emergency Medical Technicians.
- Do you work alongside a great leader?
-
If your colleague has demonstrated excellent leadership this year, why not nominate them for an east of England NHS recognition award?
- Meningitis survivor thanks staff
-
As part of our clinical focus on meningitis, staff in mid-Essex meet an inspiring meningitis survivor.
- Focus on face masks- what is the difference?
-
Following feedback from staff on fit testing for FFP3 face masks, the infection, prevention and control team would like to clarify when you should use which mask and what protection each mask will give you.
- Tri-service review of JESIP
-
Police, fire and ambulance staff have been asked for their opinions on how well the Joint Emergency Services Interoperability Principles (JESIP) have been embedded into the three blue light emergency services.
- National Ambulance Clinical and Patient Safety Conference
-
You can now book your free place for the highly recommended annual clinical and patient safety conference, which will be held on 9th September at the National Motorcycle Museum, Solihull.
- Helping us help you!
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We’re appealing for staff to get in contact with the communications team after attending incidents which could attract public attention.
- Opportunity for mentors
-
The University of Hertfordshire, in conjunction with the Trust, is offering two training/update days for mentors and perspective mentors.
- Update from Anthony Marsh - 25th June 2015
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Your weekly message from the Trust Chief Executive.
- Paediatric month: trauma
-
Following on from the series of trauma articles published last month, we move into our next clinical focus on paediatrics and meningitis.
- HCPC renewal requirement – professional indemnity
-
The Government has introduced legislation which requires you to have a professional indemnity arrangement in place as a condition of your registration with the Health and Care Professions Council.
- East Anglian Air Ambulance
-
The Duke of Cambridge has joined the East Anglian Air Ambulance as a HEMS pilot.
- Changing your talk group when dealing with ICD incident
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If you are working on an incident being dealt with by the Incident Command Desk (ICD), you may be asked to move channels on your radio so the dispatcher can focus solely on providing support to that incident.
- Reminder: do you have a Trust mobile device?
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If you have a Trust device, please remember that the IT team need to know to ensure it will be transferred to a potential new mobile network provider.
- HealthAssure scheduled maintenence
-
HealthAssure will be taken offline for scheduled maintenance today between 5 – 7pm.
- Latest HR e-zine published - 25th June
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This week’s HR e-zine has been published with the latest and current Trust vacancies.
- How Language Line can help you
-
If you are helping a patient who doesn’t speak English, remember how the Trust’s telephone interpreting service, Language Line, can help you either on scene or in the control room.
- Share your views on patients and alcohol
-
The Institute of Alcohol Studies (IAS), an independent research body, is conducting research into the impact alcohol has on emergency services in England and has designed a survey specifically for ambulance staff.
- Make your nomination for the national air ambulance awards
-
The Association of Air Ambulances has called on the UK ambulance community to nominate an individual or team for this year’s Air Ambulance Awards of Excellence.
- JESIP e-learning now available
-
The Joint Emergency Services Interoperability Programme (JESIP) has launched an e-learning module to teach staff about the principles of the programme and how to apply them on the scene of an incident.
- Crucial Crew hits Ipswich
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Hundreds of children from Ipswich have been taught about the role of emergency services during the annual ‘Crucial Crew’ fortnight.
- New recruits apply after CFR takeover week
-
The CFR takeover week is expected to boost our volunteer numbers, with more than 60 direct downloads of the application form from the Trust website and 20 expressions of interest received, as well several successful open evenings held during the week.
- Bedford call handler achieves gold standard
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Maria Moore, a call handler from Bedford EOC, has been recognised for 100 consecutive audits of high compliance and has achieved her gold award.
- Update from Anthony Marsh - 18th June 2015
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Your weekly message from the Trust Chief Executive.
- Sudden death of volunteer car driver
-
The Trust is extremely sad to announce that Colin Osborne, a volunteer car driver from Waveney, passed away on Friday (12th June).
- More than 600 referrals in six months
-
Frontline staff have referred 617 patients to the new diabetic pathway since it launched – making a huge difference in the way patients manage their condition.
- Out-of-service code changes
-
Following feedback from staff, a number of new out-of-service codes have been established to better support staff.
- REAppropriate study
-
The research support services team would like to say a big ‘thank you’ to all staff who have participated in the international REAppropriate study.
- Driving and speed limits
-
All staff are reminded that they are to comply with the posted speed limit for the class of vehicle they are driving.
- The ID challenge
-
The security of our staff and property is of utmost importance. Do you know who has just followed you through the door, or who has just gone into the crew room?
- Final bow for “amazing” Brightlingsea community first responders
-
Community life-saving stalwarts John and Pat Eaton are retiring from active duty after 13 years with the Brightlingsea first responders.
- Latest HR e-zine published - 18th June 2015
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This week’s HR e-zine has been published with the latest and current Trust vacancies.
- Showing what it takes to save a life
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Have you got a couple of hours to spare on 12th September to help educate the public on CPR and saving lives?
- Island volunteers rally to help a patient in need
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Community first responder Christine Cheetham has been praised after finding herself at the centre of an unusual island rescue.
- New mum thanks Emma and Geoff after surprise delivery
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A Hemel mum has said a huge thank you to the staff involved in the birth of her third child, who was born in an office car park last month.
- Learn more about pre-hospital care with Harefield Hospital
-
The ninth Harefield Primary Angioplasty Live will be focussing on pre-hospital care on the first day of the event, which will be particularly relevant for ambulance clinicians.
- Warning issued over legal high
-
The Norfolk Drug and Alcohol Partnership has issued a public safety alert to warn anyone who has consumed the legal high ‘Vertex’ to seek medical help immediately.
- Bedford shoppers receive free health checks
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Free blood pressure checks were offered to the public in the Harpur Shopping Centre in Bedford last week.
- Update from Anthony Marsh - 11th June 2015
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Your weekly message from the Trust Chief Executive.
- More opportunities for ECAs to progress this year
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The Trust is extremely pleased to announce that an additional 60 places for ECAs to progress to EMT have been created for this year, via the six-week block course route.
- Clinical quality and excellence on the agenda
-
Now is the time to book your place for the Trust’s clinical briefing on 29th July, which offers staff the opportunity to spend the day immersed in clinical quality and excellence.
- Learn how you can be part of Airways-2 study
-
There is still time for you to be trained to take part in the national clinical study, Airways-2 and be part of improving care for patients who have an out-of-hospital cardiac arrest.
- Complaint taken to Ombudsman after internal delay
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A complainant has gone to the Parliamentary and Health Service Ombudsman (PHSO) after a delay in dealing with their letter, which was found to have been sent to a different Trust department and not passed to the patient services team for some time.
- Do you have a Trust device?
-
If you have a Trust device, the IT team need to know to ensure it will be transferred to a potential new mobile network provider.
- Latest HR e-zine published
-
This week’s HR e-zine has been published with the latest and current Trust vacancies.
- Pilot project to overcome mobile phone 'not spot' issues for CFRs
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As announced during last week’s community first responder (CFR) takeover week, a pilot project has been launched to improve the way volunteer responders are dispatched to medical emergencies.
- Has your station passed its IPC audit?
-
Recent infection, prevention and control (IPC) audits have found some excellent working practices across the Trust – but also some habits that need to be changed to ensure we are delivering the same standard across the organisation.
- Latest research update published
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Issue 26 of the Pre-hospital Emergency Services Current Awareness Update has been published.
- Round up of trauma articles
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May was trauma month at EEAST and we have a round-up of all of the articles that were published during the month.
- A special thank you to CFRs
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As part of our community first responder takeover week, Chief Executive Anthony Marsh has recorded a video message for our volunteers to thank them for their hard work and commitment.
- Team Bandage complete third Tough Mudder event
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Following their success last year, a group of staff have completed another Tough Mudder event to raise money for a leukaemia charity.
- Update from Anthony Marsh - 4th June 2015
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Your weekly message from the Trust Chief Executive.
- Visions and values update
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Following the consultation with you in February, a focus group has developed the Trust’s vision and values based on the feedback received from 700 members of staff and volunteers.
- HCRT desk implementation in control rooms
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With the introduction of the health care referral team (HCRT) to the 999 service, a new dispatch desk will be staffed in Bedford and Chelmsford control rooms to deploy these resources.
- Clinical briefing – book your place now
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The Trust is pleased to announce the details of this summer’s clinical briefing, which will be held on 29th July in Bar Hill, Cambridgeshire.
- The NHS in Essex
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Yesterday, NHS England Chief Executive Simon Stevens announced yesterday that Essex would be one of three areas in England where local health and care organisations will work more closely together to make improvements for patients as part of a new ‘Success Regime’.
- Fraud - would you know what to do?
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Everyone knows that committing fraud and bribery is illegal, but what exactly is fraud and what should you do if you have suspicions about it going on at work?
- Guidance for fuel levels on ambulances
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Following the news that a paramedic in Northern Ireland had his Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) registration removed for allowing an ambulance to run out of fuel on an emergency call, the Trust wants to clarify the expectation for EEAST staff.
- Access fobs - the dos and don'ts
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Here are some common questions answered about the new access fobs, including information on what to do if you lose your fob, how to get one for a new member of staff, and what to do with any old ones.
- Focus on Freedom of Information
-
The Freedom of Information (FoI) Act granted the right for anybody to request recorded information from public sector organisations. Requests can be on any subject, and we are required to reply to requests promptly. For this reason it is important that all staff are aware of the requirements of the Act, and the need to assist the FoI Officer in responding to requests when necessary.
- Punishments handed out for assaults on staff
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In two recent separate prosecutions for assaults on Trust staff, a man has been sentenced to prison for four weeks and a woman has been given a 12-month conditional discharge, with a £100 compensation order.
- Information governance e-learning
-
As part of the annual mandatory information governance training, staff can undertake an interactive e-learning refresher module using the NHS information governance (IG) training tool.
- Fleet update
-
An update from the fleet team on the additional ambulances, the delivery of the new Skoda Scout rapid response cars and a Mercedes Benz van converted ambulance trial.
- Rumour busting
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The Trust has set up a ‘rumour busting’ email address to try and clarify some of the most talked about issues. If you have heard something that you think may not be right, please email rumourbusting@eastamb.nhs.uk and we will respond with the correct information.
- New developments from the communications team
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The Trust’s internal and external communications teams have been developing the way they work to improve how we share and publicise news from the service.
- New proposed operations structure
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An update from Chief Executive Dr Anthony Marsh on the new proposed operational structure, following a meeting with 150 of our operations and clinical managers.
- Patients with antibiotic-resistant bacteria infections
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Public Health England has notified healthcare providers about a new group of bacteria that have become very resistant to antibiotics, known as carbapenemase-producing enterobacteriaceae (sometimes called CPE).
- Solutions to urgent and emergency care published in new report
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A report published on Monday (March 10) in response to the pressures facing urgent and emergency care services in England proposes that ambulance services can take a greater role in the system.
- SPOC: when something is just not right
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The safeguarding team have reviewed the set of questions used when staff call SPOC; as a result, some changes have been made to make sure the information gathered is useful, correct and relevant.
- Update from Dr Anthony Marsh - March 6, 2014
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- MPDS code review
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All MPDS codes which are generated through ProQA (the call coding system we use in HEOC) are currently being clinically reviewed as part of the Trust’s ongoing commitment to ensure the most appropriate response is given to patients.
- Children's drawing competition for 2014
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Children in the east of England are invited to enter the Trust’s second annual drawing competition, which has been launched again for 2014 following a successful first year.
- New service in Cambridgeshire
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EEAST is working with Uniting Care Partnership on an exciting new business development opportunity in the Cambridgeshire and Peterborough area.
- BOC medical gas cylinders
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With the control systems for BOC medical gas individual cylinders well-established, all staff are asked to remember that it is vital the coloured neck collar is not removed from the cylinder.
- High scores for patient experience
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The Trust has been praised by patients who used the service in December, with 83% saying they would be extremely likely to recommend the service to friends and family.
- Pre-filled syringes
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The Trust is rolling out pre-filled syringes with needles for adrenaline 1:1,000. Further information can be found in the clinical bulletin on East24 and from home.
- Protecting your identity in referrals
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Details of how the Trust protects your identity after you make a safeguarding referral.
- EEAST supporting Pride events
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EEAST will be attending Gay Pride events in Norwich, London and Brighton this year and would like to invite staff to support the LGBT community, represent the ambulance service and promote the value of equal opportunities.
- Listening into Action round up
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The Listening into Action programme has now been drawn to a close but staff engagement remains an important priority.
- V Festival – we need you
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The Trust will be providing the emergency cover at this year’s V Festival in Hylands Park, Chelmsford for four days from August 15 – 18, with the aim of avoiding hospital admissions and treating patients at the event where possible.
- Hotel and rail bookings
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Due to changes in staffing, the procurement team will be dealing with all requests for hotel and rail bookings once a week, instead of on an ad-hoc basis.
- Call auditing changes have arrived
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The newest version of the MPDS audit policy was implemented in the HEOCs at the beginning of February. This version incorporates the newest performance standards from the International Academies of Emergency Dispatch and sees a shift from compliance scoring in percentages to the introduction of compliance categories.
- Counting the cost with business continuity
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Business continuity awareness week is an international event organised by the Business Continuity Institute. This year’s theme is ‘counting the cost’ – looking at the potential consequences of not having an effective business continuity system in place.
- Requests to IT service desk
-
If you have a problem with your IT or need to request a service from the IT team, please make sure you make your request via the service desk. This is so that requests can be properly allocated and tracked to ensure that they are completed.
- Update from Dr Anthony Marsh - March 13, 2014
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Your weekly update from the Chief Executive Officer
- Update from Dr Anthony Marsh - March 27, 2013
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Your weekly update from the Chief Executive Officer.
- Death of former fleet colleague
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The Trust is sad to share the news that Malcolm Wilkinson, who retired at the end of last year after more than eight years working in the fleet team, has passed away.
- New success for ECA to tech pathway
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More than 200 emergency care assistants (ECAs) have successfully passed their pre-entry exam to progress on the pathway to become a technician.
- Revised system for morphine books
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The Trust is implementing a fully electronic system for the request and issue of individual morphine passbooks (red books) using SharePoint, a Microsoft application, from April 1.
- Scarlet fever cases rising
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Cases of scarlet fever are on the rise across England, with Public Health England reporting more than 3,500 new cases since September – almost a 50% rise in the same period for the last 10 years. This season’s outbreak is the highest since 1989.
- IPC audit form change
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A new form for infection, prevention and control (IPC) audits will be introduced on April 8, which will make the process quicker and easier to complete.
- Signing up to save 6,000 lives
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“There can be no greater breach of the trust between clinician and patient than when a patient is harmed unnecessarily,” Jeremy Hunt, Secretary of State for Health.
The NHS has begun a new campaign which aims to halve avoidable harm and save up to 6,000 lives in the next three years.
- Revised system for requesting and issuing morphine passbooks
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The Trust has implemented a fully electronic system for the request and issue of individual morphine passbooks (red books) using SharePoint, a Microsoft application, from April 1.
- HEOC / HQ programme
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An update from Dr Anthony Marsh on the HEOC / HQ review programme.
- Pre-filled syringes introduced
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The Trust is introducing prefilled 0.9% sodium chloride 10ml syringes, which are for the flushing of IV cannulas only and not for the preparation of medication.
- Performance improvement action plan
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The Trust's performance improvement action plan was officially ratified at the March Board meeting. Read more about Dr Marsh's priorities and how they will be actioned.
- Student paramedic courses
-
The Trust’s recruitment of 400 student paramedics is gaining pace, with nearly a quarter of this number attending a course in the next four months.
- Top of the charts for Chelmsford
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Congratulations to Chelmsford HEOC, which has achieved the lowest call handling delay figures in the country (999 calls that take more than two minutes to answer) for 2013-14.
- Changes to procedure for detained mental health patients
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Changes to section 136 of the national Mental Health Act protocol came into force on Tuesday (April 1) at EEAST, meaning the ambulance procedure has changed for patients detained by police under the Mental Health Act.
- Update from Dr Anthony Marsh - April 10, 2014
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Your weekly update from the Chief Executive
- The first day of a new career for ambulance recruits – and 100th offer is made
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Twenty-two new student paramedic recruits joined our ranks on Monday (7th), as they began the Trust’s first training course in Norwich.
- Safety walkabout audits
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The Trust’s process of regularly checking staff views, known as the ‘safety walkabout audits’ can now be submitted via Datix in an updated form.
- Do not adjust your screens: ECA to EMT has landed
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As you will have seen previously in Need to Know, more than 200 emergency care assistants (ECAs) have successfully passed their pre-entry exam to progress on the pathway to become a technician.
- IPC audit forms now live
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As stated in a previous issue of Need to Know, a new form for infection, prevention and control (IPC) audits was introduced on 8th April.
- New go-live for Lister’s 24/7 PPCI
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As of 8am on Monday, 28th April the PPCI service at the Lister Hospital will be expanded to become a 24/7 service.
- New order for emergency ambulances
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A message from Dr Anthony Marsh on the order for 120 new emergency ambulances.
- NHS.net downtime Friday 18th April
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NHSmail support will be carrying out maintenance work tomorrow on all nhs.net mailboxes.
- VIDEO: Leading the way on resilience training
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EEAST is leading the way in a Home Office initiative which will see emergency teams at the heart of major incidents work better together.
- Technician course launches
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The first ECA to technician course is getting underway this month, with more planned throughout the year.
- England’s motorways ‘get smart’
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This week the Highways Agency launched its ‘smart motorways’, which make use of new technology to vary speed limits and help traffic in response to what’s happening on the road.
- Recharging the batteries: check your Zoll
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Our Zoll defibrillators are one of the most important pieces of equipment we use. At the moment, different versions have different batteries – please make sure to read the below so you know how to check yours.
- Welcome to your new Need to Know
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It’s here – welcome to the launch of your new Need to Know website!
- Results and progress: an update from CEO Dr Anthony Marsh 17th April
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Your weekly update from the Chief Executive Officer - 17th April
- Interrupting a meal break
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There have been some concerns raised in both A&E operations and the emergency operations centres (EOC) around meal breaks; in particular, sections 4.3 and those members of staff who opt to be interrupted on break for serious calls and therefore don’t get a full 30-minute break.
- The new Clinical Manual has arrived
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It is often said that ‘knowledge is power’, and safe clinical practice is definitely based upon the ability to put theory into practice. With this in mind, we are pleased to officially launch the second edition of our Clinical Manual.
- Five thousand cases and rising
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Cases of scarlet fever are continuing to rise with 883 new cases being reported in the last week of March – the highest weekly total since records began.
- Security at stations
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A man has been gaining access and filming at fire stations in the West Midlands, so please could all staff remember to be vigilant about security.
- Press release: Busy bank holiday weekend
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Read the latest press release from the Trust on the rise in 999 calls over the Easter weekend.
- Blowing the whistle at work
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Raising concerns about poor practice, as part of people’s day-to day work, should be the norm.
- IT equipment changes to save money
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As part of the Trust's efforts to save money to put back into frontline services, IT have changed the equipment options for new starters.
- Fourth student paramedic advert closes
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The fourth advert for student paramedics closed on Monday (21st April) with more than 700 applications.
- Amended guidance for fuel levels on Trust ambulances and cars
-
The Trust has amended the guidance about the amount of fuel left in ambulances and response cars at the end of shifts, following staff feedback.
- Update from Dr Anthony Marsh - 24th April, 2014
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Your weekly update from our Chief Executive Officer
- Press release: Patients praise 'excellent care and service' in latest survey
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The latest press release from the Trust on praise received from patients in a recent survey.
- Guest blog - progressing from an EMT to a paramedic
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On 7th April, 24 emergency medical technicians started their funded foundation degree in paramedic science at the University of Northampton. Vicki Gilbey tells us how it's started...
- Smart motorways - all lane running guidance
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Further to the article published last week, there is additional guidance now available for staff attending any incidents on motorways with 'all lanes running'.
- Last week in figures, 14th-20th April
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Here we take a look at last week (14th - 20th April) in figures, and compare it to the same week last year...
- PPCI entrance closure at Papworth Hospital
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The normal PPCI entrance at Papworth Hospital will be closed on Wednesday 30th April from 6 – 9pm and crews should use the Christopher Parish entrance instead.
- Rumour busting...
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The Trust has set up a ‘rumour busting’ email address to try and clarify some of the most talked about issues in the service. Here we look at just a few of the latest Q&As…
- Filming at Luton police station
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Bedfordshire Police is working with Garden Productions – who created the series ‘24 Hours in A&E’ – to make a fly-on-the-wall documentary series for Channel 4, based at Luton police station.
- ‘Brilliant’ ambulance design unveiled
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Innovations in ambulance design were the showpiece of a Suffolk community event to help the NHS learn more about improving services to patients.
- Copper theft at station
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Following the theft of copper from one of our stations, staff are asked to be extra vigilant.
- new page 11
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The Fire Brigade Union (FBU) is taking planned industrial action in May and the Trust has put in place the following contingency plans.
- EEAST tests major incident response in Hertfordshire exercise
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Read about EEAST's involvement in a major incident exercise at the Galleria shopping centre in Hatfield, Hertfordshire on Sunday night.
- Spreading the news far and wide: update from CEO
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Your weekly update from Dr Anthony Marsh
- Managing poisoned patients
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The UK National Poisons Information Service provides advice on the management of poisoning via its internet clinical toxicology database TOXBASE® and 24-hour telephone helpline.
- Using e-cigarettes at work
-
A question was recently raised by a member of staff about whether e-cigarettes, which the majority of people say they use to reduce smoking, can be used at work.
- Staff feedback on ambulance trial
-
Thank you to all staff who provided feedback following the trial of the two ambulances from the West Midlands Ambulance Service in February.
- Giving evidence in court is changing...
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The first ever case allowing vulnerable witnesses to give evidence ahead of, rather than in, a court-room trial begun last week.
- More volunteers join ambulance ambassador group
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The Trust welcomed nine more volunteers to become ambulance ambassadors this week and gave them specialised training to enable them to reach out to their communities.
- Depression: struggling to cope
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One in three people struggle to cope at work and to coincide with Depression Awareness Week, the Trust provides advice on how to find help.
- Have you booked onto JESIP?
-
Make sure to take your place on a JESIP course to train in the new joint emergency services approach to major incidents.
- Calling single point of contact (SPOC)
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Advice for crews who need to contact SPOC from a radio or mobile phone.
- Press release: busy bank holiday weekend
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Press release issued by the Trust yesterday on the busy bank holiday - a big thank you to all staff who worked over the weekend.
- Women’s Tour race starts today
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The Women’s Tour is landing in our region today as the race makes its way through our patch.
- More staff passing module seven courses
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The latest group of student ambulance paramedics (SAPs) completed their module seven course in Melbourn on Friday.
- Head of EOC announced
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We’re pleased to announce that Gary Morgan has been appointed as the Head of Emergency Operations Centres (EOC).
- Video message from Dr Anthony Marsh
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As it's the Trust's long service awards tomorrow (9th May), this week's message is a special video edition.
- Herts councillors praise service improvements
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- Different drugs for anticoagulation
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A message to staff about newer, different forms of anticoagulants that are prescribed to patients.
- Figures show dramatic rise in expert care
-
More doctors, air ambulance crews, hazardous area response teams (HART) and advanced paramedics are coming to the aid of seriously injured casualties than ever before.
- Awards ceremony celebrates staff
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The great, the brave and the good have been honoured by the Trust in a special ceremony of celebration.
- Changes to the Care Quality Commission and evidence reporting
-
The Care Quality Commission (CQC) will be making changes to how organisations will be assessed. To meet those changes, the Trust is introducing a new way of gathering evidence and reporting.
- Press release: Praise from MP is ‘welcome boost’ for crews, says ambulance chief
-
The latest press release from the Trust following MP Priti Patel's visit to Witham station.
- Learn more about sepsis in cancer patients
-
There are still spaces available for a College of Paramedics evening course in how to recognise neutropenic sepsis in cancer patients tomorrow (Wednesday 14th May) in London.
- Calling Papworth Hospital
-
Staff are kindly reminded that Papworth Hospital should only be contacted to activate the PPCI pathway, not for clinical advice.
- Trust paramedic given national award
-
One of our very own paramedics has gained national recognition with an award for ‘going beyond the call of duty’ at a ceremony which celebrates people working in the pre-hospital care sector.
- From 123 to 123+
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A new initial operational response (IOR) to a CBRN (chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear) incident has been created.
- Update from Dr Anthony Marsh
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Your weekly message from the Trust's Chief Executive.
- "Sepsis now accounts for three out of 100 ambulance journeys"
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Tracy Nicholls, the Trust’s Head of Quality Governance, reports from the pre-hospital sepsis conference in Newcastle on Tuesday (13th May).
- Trust developing paramedic degree programme
-
The Trust is working with several universities to develop a three year Bachelor of Science (BSc) degree in paramedic science.
- Cycle to work scheme
-
Many of you have been in touch recently to ask about the cycle to work scheme and whether there has been any update on the Trust’s position.
- Graduate paramedics enjoy day at EEAST
-
Graduate paramedics have described an introductory session to the Trust as “really well organised” and a “very friendly, fun day.”
- Update from resilience / special operations
-
In what will be a regular feature on the new Need to Know site, the Trust’s resilience and special operations team bring you an update on the latest news from their area of the organisation.
- Keep track of your commander experience
-
The resilience team have developed a new document which will allow you to keep a record of the courses you attend and the experience you have gained as either a gold, silver or bronze commander or loggist.
- Dr Anthony Marsh on BBC Radio Cambs
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Chief Executive Dr Anthony Marsh answered people's questions on the mid-morning show on BBC Radio Cambridgeshire on Monday.
- Responder bag stolen in Essex
-
A paramedic responder bag, which included oxygen and a full drugs bag, was stolen from the back of an ambulance last night in mid-Essex.
- Business dress for non-uniform staff
-
With an increasing amount of external visitors to Trust premises, to both offices and stations, it’s important to seize every opportunity to give a good first impression and emphasise the high professional standards we have at EEAST.
- News from EOC
-
An update from new Head of EOC, Gary Morgan.
- This month's payslips
-
Please be aware that if you are at the top of your pay band, you will receive an additional payment of one per cent of your salary from April this year.
- Looking forward to another bank holiday weekend
-
Further to the spike in demand over the busy bank holiday at the beginning of May, we would like to reiterate our gratitude to staff for their hard work and to thank them in advance for being equally responsive and dedicated over the weekend bank holiday.
- Intruder at station
-
Last weekend, a crew returning to an ambulance station in Bedfordshire found a member of the public leaving the premises, who had entered through a door that had been left open.
- Update from Dr Anthony Marsh - 22nd May
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Your weekly update from the Trust's Chief Executive.
- Are we getting rid of ePCR?
-
A question recently came into rumour busting about the Trust’s commitment to ePCR. Here Dr Marsh responds with his views.
- May Board meeting: you're invited!
-
We’re holding the May Board meeting next Wednesday (28th May) in Harlow, Essex.
- HR e-zine week ending 23rd May
-
The latest HR e-zine, which includes a list of Trust vacancies, has been published.
- What would you improve with £50,000?
-
This year’s regional innovation fund has just opened its doors, and a prize fund of up to £50,000 is up for grabs for the most inventive NHS projects.
- What can we do about flu?
-
With parts of the country enjoying BBQs and balmy temperatures, right now winter seems an age away. But we’ve started our planning and preparation for this year’s flu-season – and we want to know what we can do differently this time around.
- Sales reps: what should you do if you’re approached?
-
Whether it’s a knock on the door, a phonecall or even getting stopped in the street – we’ve all experienced ‘sales patter’ at one time or another.
- Death benefits scheme
-
The death benefits scheme is set up to enable a payment to be made to the family or nominated beneficiary of any employee that dies while employed by the Trust, providing that they are a member of the scheme.
- Press release: Continued praise for high standards of service in latest survey
-
The Trust has issued a press release following the latest ambulance patient satisfaction figures.
- Locality Director appointed for NSC
-
We’re pleased to announce that Matt Broad has been appointed at Locality Director for Norfolk, Suffolk and Cambridgeshire.
- Need a picture? Check Flickr!
-
Photos are being added to the Trust’s Flickr account on a regular basis, so if you need up to date pictures of staff, ambulances and equipment please remember to check the site.
- Compliments and complaints: who should you speak to?
-
How would you respond to a patient or family member if they asked you how they could pass a compliment to a member of staff? Or if they asked you how to make a complaint?
- Norfolk 111 scores full marks
-
Staff have been praised following a ‘full achievement’ mark it the Norfolk 111 assessment.
- John heads to Harvard for the Leadership Academy
-
John Martin, interim Director of Patient Safety and Clinical Standards, is moving State-side this month after gaining a place on a prestigious leadership scheme.
- Trust secures £16m extra funding
-
The Trust has secured more than £16.4m of transformational funding from commissioners to make necessary changes to improve patient care.
- Update from Dr Anthony Marsh - 29th May 2014
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Your weekly update from the Trust's Chief Executive.
- A new era for life-saving equipment
-
The next generation of defibs will soon be on our ambulances following a familiarisation day at Barton Mills last week.
- Help us recognise our volunteers
-
To coincide with National Volunteer Week, this week we are celebrating and highlighting the excellent work of our volunteers.
- 'Ambulance service - okay tell me exactly what's happened'
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The Trust will soon be investing in regional telephony so that 999 calls can be moved between our control rooms automatically.
- Changes to childcare vouchers
-
The way we manage the childcare voucher scheme has changed – to make it easier for you to use and update.
- Middle East Respiratory Syndrome coronavirus
-
There have been various public health alerts relating to passengers travelling by air from countries affected by the Middle East Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus (MERS-CoV).
- May Board reflections
-
Being ambitious about performance expectations and an excellent paramedic recruitment drive were some of the highlights emerging from last week’s Board meeting (28th May).
- “I just want to get out there and treat real patients now”
-
The Trust’s first student paramedics have completed the classroom part of their course, with all 22 passing their assessments.
- The Tour is coming!
-
The Tour de France is coming to our region; read about how the Trust is planning for the big event.
- New ambulances and response cars delivered a month early
-
The 147 new Mercedes Sprinter ambulances and 68 Skoda Scout response cars are now all on the road, ahead of the planned completion date of the end of June.
- Update from Dr Anthony Marsh - 5th June 2014
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Your weekly update from the Trust's Chief Executive.
- How the Trust is reacting to surge in 111 calls
-
Following a recent increase in the volume of 111 calls in Cambridgeshire, we want to assure staff of the actions being taken in response.
- Ambulance service suffers serious data breach
-
Another ambulance service in England hit the headlines this week after it accidentally published the sensitive personal details of almost 3,000 staff members online.
- L&D starts coronary programme
-
The Luton and Dunstable Hospital will be starting a coronary intervention programme on 11th June, to treat elective and urgent patients.
- Man jailed for assault on paramedic
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A man has been jailed after sexually assaulting a Trust paramedic last year.
- Celebrating our community first responders
-
Since Monday, we have been celebrating the work of our community first responders (CFRs) to coincide with National Volunteer Week.
- HR e-zine - published 6th June
-
The latest Trust vacancies have been published in the HR e-zine.
- New JESIP newsletter released
-
The latest edition of the Joint Emergency Services Interoperability Programme (JESIP) newsletter has just been released, with news of the agreement with ministers about the legacy of the programme, the rapid rise in training numbers and a visit from the Home Secretary.
- More industrial action planned this week for FBU
-
The Fire Brigade Union (FBU) is planning more industrial action this month, starting with a 24-hour strike from 9am on Thursday (12th June) to 8.59am on Friday (13th June).
- Handle with care
-
The new manual handling guide books have been distributed to all operational staff and an electronic version is also available for non-operational staff on East24.
- Planning for summer
-
The east of England is set to sizzle this summer with the highest temperatures of the year so far expected by the end of the week.
- CFR takeover week success
-
Last week the Trust promoted community first responders (CFRs) to coincide with National Volunteer Week and said thank you for their commitment and dedication to the role.
- MP calls rideout ‘inspiring and eye-opening’
-
Priti Patel, MP for Witham, Essex has described her observer shift on Thursday (6th June) as 'inspiring and eye-opening’.
- Full marks in latest patient survey
-
EEAST crews have been described as going ‘above and beyond’ in a recent patient survey.
- Update from Dr Anthony Marsh - 12th June 2014
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Your weekly message from the Trust Chief Executive.
- Staff thanked after resilience exercise
-
Crews from EEAST attended a multi-agency incident exercise in Bedfordshire on Sunday (8th June) involving a minibus crash on a railway line.
- When you should be deploying HART
-
HART is not just in existence for the large jobs, it is here to support regular incidents which involve hazardous situations or where their equipment will add value to the delivery of patient care.
- ECAs pass first stage with flying colours
-
A group of 11 emergency care assistants (ECAs) have all passed the first stage of their pathway to becoming emergency medical technicians.
- College of Paramedics National Conference
-
You can now book your tickets for the first College of Paramedics National Conference, which is based on ‘Unlocking the Potential of the Paramedic Profession’.
- GRS outage on Tuesday
-
GRS (Global Rostering Services) will be unavailable from 5pm tomorrow (Tuesday 17th) until 1am on Wednesday 18th.
- New resource allocation and dispatch guidelines launched
-
The Trust is implementing new resource allocation guidelines from Tuesday, 17th June.
- JESIP validation exercise needs you!
-
If you have completed your Joint Emergency Services Interoperability Programme (JESIP) operational or tactical training and would like to put it to the test, the Trust’s first validation exercise is on 16th July.
- Selling Trust uniform
-
Recently we’ve seen items of Trust uniform and equipment being sold on eBay and in some cases the sellers have been identified as members of staff.
- Seven-hour fire strike planned for Saturday
-
The Fire Brigade Union (FBU) is planning a seven hour strike from 10am – 5pm on Saturday (21st June).
- Cyber attacks and what you can do
-
You may have seen coverage in the national media recently about an ‘impending global cyber attack’ - whilst technical buffs will know minor attacks are the daily norm, from time to time a serious one like this comes along and it reminds us to be vigilant about securing our technology.
- New number for Whipps Cross Hospital
-
Whipps Cross Hospital has a new number for alert calls: 0208 556 1988.
- Reducing pressure on A&E during the World Cup
-
Extra medical cover was provided in Chelmsford city centre when England played Italy on Saturday night to help reduce 999 calls and pressure on A&E at Broomfield Hospital.
- Next stage of operational restructure starts
-
The next phase of the operations restructure continues and is expected to be concluded by the end of this month.
- Norfolk 111 in the news
-
Local media in Norfolk have picked up on a story that the Health Service Journal recently ran, regarding the Norfolk 111 service that we run and suggested the Trust could pull out of the contract.
- Spike in serious incidents
-
There has been an increase in the number of serious incidents (SIs) in June, with 11 being declared already, compared to three last month.
- Update from Anthony Marsh - 19th June 2014
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Your message from the Trust's Chief Executive.
- VIDEO: new student paramedics join the team in Essex
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Meet the 16 students at our Chelmsford training centre, in their fourth week of their course.
- Forced marriage becomes an offence
-
On Monday (16th June) forcing a person into a marriage was made a criminal offence and the Trust has received safeguarding advice from police colleagues on what to do if you suspect someone may be a victim.
- Update on Tour De France plans
-
Advice and news on the Trust's plans for the Tour De France, which will be in our region on 7th July.
- Positive media coverage on the rise
-
Across the region, the media are now reporting more positive news stories about the Trust, when compared to last year.
- Unused door fobs needed!
-
Due to a manufacturing issue, the Trust’s supply of door fobs is running low; could all unallocated fobs be returned to estates as soon as possible.
- Innovation competition closes in three weeks
-
There is only three weeks left to enter the Health Enterprise East (HEE) Innovation Awards 2014 to have your chance of winning £2,000 prize money to progress your idea.
- NHS issue urgent alert in wake of new-born case of Legionnaires’ Disease
-
NHS England has issued an urgent health alert after a baby was admitted to intensive care suffering from a confirmed case of Legionnaires’ disease.
- Help with event in Ely needed
-
The Trust's PPI team need volunteers to help at Ely Aquafest - are you free?
- Management of stations in Bedfordshire and Cambridgeshire
-
Due to the changes in the operational structure, the management of several stations in Bedfordshire and Cambridgeshire is changing.
- Countdown to Le Tour
-
It is now just 11 days until the Tour de France starts in this country and on Monday 7th July, the Tour will begin in Cambridge and travel through Essex on its way to the finish in London.
- First group of student paramedics hit the road
-
The Trust’s first group of student paramedics are taking a momentous step in their careers this week as they join the frontline to treat patients.
- Update from Anthony Marsh - 26th June 2014
-
Your weekly update from the Trust Chief Executive.
- Advice for treating patients during Ramadan
-
Ramadan, the period of fasting and reflection for Muslims, starts on Saturday (28th June) until 28th July.
- Personal issue morphine: are you covered?
-
Our Medicine Management Group would like to provide some reassurance to paramedics about their personal issue supplied of injectable morphine sulphate.
- New, changed and removed medications for ECPs: latest guidelines published
-
Our specialist practitioners will be able to administer new medications for patients this month following the revision of our patient group directions (PGDs).
- An estimated 1.2 million cases and 135,000 deaths worldwide each year
-
It's meningitis awareness week! Meningococcal disease is the leading infectious cause of death in early childhood - here we take a look at what it is, the symptoms, and how we treat it.
- Latest rumour busting question answered
-
The Trust has set up a ‘rumour busting’ email address to try and clarify some of the most talked about issues in the service. Here is the latest Q&A…
- AACE project to understand increasing 999 demand
-
The Association of Ambulance Chief Executives (AACE) is investigating changes in how ambulance services are used, by seeking the views and experiences of people who have used 999 in the last three months.
- Nominations open for air ambulance awards
-
Nominations opened for the prestigious Air Ambulance Awards of Excellence last week to give special recognition to those in the air ambulance field.
- Tour de France 2014
-
The Tour de France is almost upon us!
- Ebola outbreak in west Africa
-
An outbreak of Ebola virus disease (EVD) was first reported in March 2014 in Guinea, and has since involved three countries in west Africa: Guinea, Liberia and Sierra Leone.
- Update from Anthony Marsh - 3rd July 2014
-
Your weekly update from the Trust Chief Executive
- NHS issue patient safety advice for pregnant women
-
Testing for the presence of protein in urine is part of the standard care for pregnant women with suspected or confirmed hypertension and pre-eclampsia.
- ECA progression update
-
If you have passed the pre-entry exam for the emergency care assistant (ECA) to technician course, you will be told if you have been allocated to a course in 2015/16 by 29th August.
- “Quality is not an act, it is a habit”
-
We often talk about providing a service to patients of a ‘good clinical quality’ – but what does this actually mean? What does quality clinical care look like, how do we measure it, and what is our clinical focus over the next year?
- JESIP exercise needs you!
-
The Trust’s second Joint Emergency Services Interoperability Programme (JESIP) exercise is on 16th July in Stevenage and tactical and operational commanders are needed to take part.
- Clinical articles published in research update
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The latest issue of Pre-hospital Emergency Services Current Awareness Update, commissioned by the National Ambulance Research Steering Group, has been published on East24.
- Patient history: stop look and listen
-
A look at patient assessments by Emma Hicks, Paramedic at Waveney.
- IT upgrade in Norwich on 9th July
-
The IT team will be upgrading the admin network ‘Core Cisco Stack’ on Wednesday (9th July) from 2-3am.
- Nominate a leader for NHS award
-
Do you know an NHS leader who deserves recognition for their outstanding contributions to patient care and service excellence?
- Fire service strike going ahead tomorrow (10th July)
-
The Fire Brigade Union (FBU) is planning a nine hour strike from 10am – 9pm on Thursday (10th July).
- Risk, safety and staff: a message from the Secretary of State
-
The Secretary of State for Health talks about a number of new initiatives launched this week to strengthen patient safety in the NHS.
- NHS saves lives of hundreds more trauma victims just two years after changes to care
-
NHS England Chief Executive Simon Stevens has this week applauded “a major NHS success story” as new figures show about 600 more patients are surviving major trauma since the introduction of Major Trauma Networks in April 2012.
- New radio rollout ahead of schedule
-
New Airwave radios are being rolled out in Essex ahead of schedule, with operational staff in the rest of the region all now using the new handsets.
- Cycle team supports Tour De France in Cambridge
-
The Trust’s cycle response unit (CRU) treated 15 patients in Cambridge during stage three of the Tour De France on Monday (7th July), as the world’s largest annual sporting event weaved its way through our region.
- Terms and conditions update on mileage
-
New revised national mileage allowances contained within section 17 of the National Terms and Conditions came into force on 1st July.
- Update from Dr Anthony Marsh: 'it's time to make it happen'
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Your weekly message from the Chief Executive
- Time to make a change
-
Last week was ‘step change week’; when we really made a difference to support you and resolve issues, immediately, to improve your working lives and our service to patients.
- Professional updates begin following successful training events
-
This year’s professional update (PU) has begun, after more than 65 staff were trained to deliver the two-day clinical programme.
- Busy times for training team
-
It has been a week of starts and finishes for the Trust’s students and training team.
- Patients praise staff in hear and treat survey
-
A survey carried out by the Care Quality Commission (CQC) on the ‘hear and treat’ service of ambulance trusts in England has found that patients rated EEAST as 10/10 for the clarity of the instructions given for what to do if their situation changed.
- Series of FBU strikes
-
A series of strikes by the Fire Brigade Union are scheduled every day next week.
- Clinical focus: a look at Addison’s disease
-
Addison’s disease is a disease where the adrenal gland is damaged and so cannot respond to crisis situations where an increase in adrenaline or the steroid cortisol is required.
- Fire alarms and staff safety
-
Please make sure that, if the fire alarm goes off in your station or office, you follow the correct procedures and evacuate the building.
- New JESIP newsletter released
-
The latest edition of the Joint Emergency Services Interoperability Programme (JESIP) newsletter has just been released and is available to view on the JESIP website.
- Kitchen chemistry and forensics: get involved
-
Have you ever wondered why we’re seeing an increase in the use of homemade explosives in the UK, or why the police need to gather forensics immediately at the scene of a crime?
- New contact for waste issues
-
With immediate effect the first point of enquiry for all waste matters, including clinical waste, is your estates office.
- Call for abstracts
-
The College of Paramedics is inviting research abstracts until 1st August, as they make original research across paramedic practice the focus of their first ever national conference.
- Punishment handed out for assault on paramedic
-
A man has been given a 12-month conditional discharge, fine and £100 compensation order after assaulting a paramedic in Bedfordshire.
- Trust offers clinical mentor qualification for staff
-
The Trust is looking for clinical staff to become qualified mentors to help guide and support our new student paramedics.
- Electronic record system installed at Harlow Hospital
-
On Friday (18th July) a new electronic patient record system is being fitted at the Princess Alexandra Hospital in Harlow, Essex.
- Six grads go through after assessment day
-
Chief Executive Anthony Marsh introduced graduate paramedics to the Trust on Friday (11th July), as part of their assessment to join the service.
- Heatwave hits and temperatures soar to 30+˚C
-
The region is set to sizzle this week with temperatures of 30˚C expected tomorrow – the highest seen so far this year.
- Star launches Channel 202
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One of Hollywood's best-known British exports is helping to ensure staff know which way to turn when they think their patient needs critical care support.
- New Trust appointments
-
The Trust is pleased to announce two new appointments.
- Update from Anthony Marsh - 17th July 2014
-
Your weekly message from the Trust Chief Executive.
- Sickness on the up
-
The Trust’s sickness figures rose considerably in the last week of June, with 70% of staff who were on sick leave suffering with cold and flu symptoms or diarrhoea and vomiting.
- Patients 100% satisfied with your care
-
Patients were 100% satisfied with the care we gave them in April, according to the latest survey figures.
- New call handlers for Bedford!
-
Congratulations to our five new Bedford EOC call handlers who joined the EEAST team this month.
- Increase in sharps injuries
-
In the past month there has been a marked increase in the number of sharps injuries reported, with incidents occurring due to drug ampoules shattering upon opening (with different drugs) and disposing of contaminated sharps.
- Sepsis – the syndrome
-
The clinical focus this week is on sepsis, a life-threatening condition where the body's response to an infection injures its own tissues and organs.
- Staff praised in Norfolk report on dementia
-
In a report from Norfolk Public Health on the needs of dementia patients in the county, focus groups have described their “high satisfaction with the quality of service received” from the Trust.
- Congratulations to our Chelmsford student paras
-
Huge congratulations to our Chelmsford student paramedic course, who all passed the first part of their training today!
- 'Changing culture': a message from the Secretary of State
-
The Secretary of State for Health talks about the latest milestones in his drive to create a more transparent culture across the NHS.
- Annual public meeting 2014
-
Staff are invited to attend the Trust’s annual public meeting, taking place on 30th July at Trinity Park in Ipswich from 2pm.
- Trust cleaning contract change
-
The Trust will be employing a new cleaning contractor from 1st August, with Churchill taking over from Initial.
- Garage or bulk? Use the right fuel
-
As part of our goal to reinvest funding into frontline staffing and make savings across the Trust, we would urge you to utilise bulk fuel at ambulance stations as much as possible.
- Got an IT problem? Contact the service desk
-
If you have a fault with your IT or need to request a service from the IT team, please make sure you make your request via the service desk. This is so that jobs can be appropriately allocated and tracked to ensure that they are completed in a timely manner.
- Advanced cardiac care conference
-
The Canterbury Christ Church Student Paramedic Society is holding their inaugural conference on advanced cardiac care on 13th September.
- Shortage of minijets
-
Please be aware of a national shortage of minijets and subsequent advice.
- Need to Know wins national award
-
The Trust’s Need to Know site, the first-of-its-kind for ambulance staff, has won a national Award of Excellence from the Institute of Internal Communications.
- New referral staff to deal with urgent calls
-
A new healthcare referral team (HCRT) is about to be launched to transport lower acuity 'urgent' patients.
- Busiest weekend of 2014
-
The Trust received 6,424 emergency 999 calls on Saturday and Sunday, making it the busiest weekend of the year so far.
- Step change success
-
Last week’s step change week has been hailed as a success by locality directors and the chief executive, following lots of discussions with staff across the region on how working lives can be improved.
- Update from Anthony Marsh - 24th July 2014
-
Your weekly message from the Trust Chief Executive.
- Local clinical protocol for dexamethasone
-
Following the review of the patient group direction for specialist paramedics, we have produced a local clinical guideline for the use of dexamethasone.
- Coroner imposes regulation for staff to wear correct epaulettes
-
A coroner has issued a regulation 28 order, which is an action to help prevent deaths, for all staff at EEAST to wear the correct epaulettes with their skill level and the name of the Trust.
- Changes to approved drugs list
-
Following the publication of the 2013 Clinical Practice Guidelines (CPG), a review has been undertaken against the approved drug list for the Trust.
- Relief staff opportunity
-
Senior locality managers will be contacting all relief staff to ensure they are offered sufficient shifts to earn their unsocial hours allowance.
- Become a PU Trainer in NES
-
Applications are invited from all non-emergency patient transport staff within Cambridgeshire, Essex, and Suffolk to become a trainer for the annual PU (professional update) programme.
- Bedfordshire partnership reaches last eight for award
-
A Bedfordshire partnership involving Trust staff reached the last eight for a prestigious National Patient Safety Award for the end of life category.
- Terms and conditions at EEAST
-
The Trust’s terms and conditions handbook details how we apply NHS national terms and conditions.
- Additional funding confirmed
-
As mentioned in Anthony Marsh’s update last week, the Trust is in line for approximately £2million in additional funding to help us deal with winter seasonal pressures.
- HART scales new heights at exercise in Cambs
-
The Trust’s hazardous area response team (HART) joined firefighters from Cambridgeshire Fire and Rescue Service last week for an exercise which simulated a collision between two tower cranes in Cambridge.
- Latest student paramedics pass clinical training
-
The Trust’s latest group of student paramedics have passed their clinical training at Melbourn and are now moving on to the next stage on their pathway to become paramedics.
- Clinical focus: neck of femur fractures
-
With an unexpectedly high mortality rate, neck of femur (NoF) or hip fractures are a major public health issue with our ageing population.
- Update from Anthony Marsh - 31st July 2014
-
Your weekly update from the Chief Executive.
- Keep safe in rapid response cars
-
A recent incident with a rapid response car has led to publishing this safety advice.
- Treating febrile convulsions in children
-
The most recent figures on how ambulance services used the correct care bundle for treating febrile convulsions in March has been published by the National Ambulance Service Clinical Quality Group.
- Introducing your board
-
This week, Need to Know will be introducing you to the Trust Board so that you can get to know the people behind the strategic decisions of the service, and their work to improve patient care.
- Nominate your colleague for outstanding service
-
The Association of Ambulance Chief Executives (AACE) is inviting nominations for members of staff who have provided ‘truly outstanding service’ to be awarded at a dinner in Leeds on Tuesday 18th November.
- Do you have some news you’d like to see on Need to Know?
-
If you are taking part in a charity challenge, are involved in a new innovation or project at EEAST or have some news that you want to celebrate, please email the Need to Know team using the contact us section on the site.
- Health Foundation innovations to improve health care
-
The Health Foundation, an independent charity working to improve the quality of healthcare in the UK, is looking for projects that aim to improve healthcare delivery and/or the way people manage their own healthcare, as part of their new Innovating for Improvement programme.
- Useful links
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Useful links including: DATIX, GRS, JRCALC guidelines and Portal.
- Clinical update: Ebola claims 700 lives
-
The Ebola virus has been hitting the headlines this week as the World Health Organisation announced funding for a large scale operation to help treat the outbreak in West Africa; Ebola has caused more than 700 deaths since February in an outbreak affecting four west African countries.
- Introducing your Board: Locality Directors
-
This week, Need to Know is introducing you to the Trust Board so that you can get to know the people behind the strategic decisions of the service, and their work to improve patient care.
- Introducing your Board: non-exec directors Sheila, Judith and Peter
-
This week, Need to Know is introducing you to the Trust Board so that you can get to know the people behind the strategic decisions of the service, and their work to improve patient care.
Today we introduce Sheila Childerhouse, Judith Lancaster and Peter Kara - three of our non-executive directors.
- One day to go: Cambridgeshire is moving
-
Tomorrow morning (7th August) at 7am, Cambridgeshire is due to move back under the direction of Norwich EOC.
- Introducing your Board: non-exec directors Valerie, Dean and Andrew
-
This week, Need to Know is introducing you to the Trust Board so that you can get to know the people behind the strategic decisions of the service, and their work to improve patient care. Today we introduce Valerie Morton, Dean Parker and Andrew Egerton-Smith MBE.
- Cambridgeshire has moved!
-
We’re pleased to say that on Thursday morning (7th August) Cambridgeshire was successfully moved back under the direction of Norwich EOC as planned.
- National Ambulance Clinical and Patient Safety Conference 2014
-
This year’s national ambulance clinical and patient safety conference, supported by the College of Paramedics, is on Wednesday 10th September at Villa Park, Birmingham.
- FBU strikes from Saturday
-
The Fire Brigade Union (FBU) is planning a series of strikes over eight days, starting from Saturday (9th August).
- New recruits are introduced to the Trust
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More clinicians hit our roads this week, with nine paramedics and an emergency medical technician passing their induction training in Chelmsford on Friday (1st August).
- Inaccurate news: Chief Executive Anthony Marsh
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Following a number of inaccurate news articles regarding Chief Executive Anthony Marsh, the Trust would like to ensure that staff have the facts.
- Update from Anthony Marsh - 7th August 2014
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Your weekly message from the Trust Chief Executive.
- Student paramedics heading for Norfolk, Suffolk and Essex
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The latest group of student paramedics have passed their clinical training in Norwich and will be boosting the frontline in Norfolk, Suffolk and Essex after completing their driver training.
- Research study into how you manage airways
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The research support services team will shortly be looking for up to 400 qualified paramedics to participate in an exciting study that will evaluate airway management methods for an unconscious patient.
- Campaign to bring patient’s medication to hospital
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Addenbrooke’s Hospital has been working with the Trust to ensure that patients are bringing their medication when coming into hospital, to help get an accurate picture of a patient’s current drug history and to avoid missing any doses.
- Clinical focus: a look at epiglottitis
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Epiglottitis is an intense swelling of the epiglottis and surrounding tissues caused almost exclusively by haemophilius influenza type B.
- What to do if you suspect Ebola
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The World Health Organization (WHO) has today declared the spread of Ebola in west Africa an international health emergency. Ebola is one of the worst viral haemorrhagic diseases known and is a Category Four pathogen. There is currently no known prevention or cure and it is said to have up to a 90% fatality rate.
- Laura achieves compliance award
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Laura Palmer has become the first person in the Trust to be awarded for consistent compliance for the clinical support desk (CSD), after achieving 25 consecutive audits of 98 – 100% compliance.
- Tea and coffee for staff
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Following reports that staff in areas of Bedfordshire will be providing their own teas and coffees at their base station from September, staff are being assured that arrangements are not being changed.
- Opportunities to further your clinical development
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If you are interested in taking a course to further your clinical development, there are several options currently available.
- Operational restructure update: phase two and three
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The second phase of the operational restructure is currently ongoing; with the interview process mostly completed and a number of duty locality officers, duty EOC officers and operations cell officers in place.
- New dispatcher training course
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A new dispatcher training course is underway in Norwich Emergency Operations Centre (EOC) with the first students due to hit the Trust’s radio airwaves this week.
- Open your eyes to human trafficking
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Cambridgeshire Constabulary are running a Get Closer campaign in August, which focuses on tackling human trafficking and are asking for your help to raise awareness of the issue.
- We can make a difference to trauma patients
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At the recent East Anglian Air Ambulance clinical governance day, Simon Lewis, Clinical Director of the East of England Trauma Network gave a presentation about the regional trauma network and the importance of our role.
- Trust Chair closes first HCRT course
-
The first 13 healthcare referral tier (HCRT) staff have finished their training and are now ready to transport ‘urgent’ patients to hospital.
- Updates to resource allocation guidelines, including RRV back-up
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Further work has been undertaken to build on the resource allocation guidelines to support emergency operations centre (EOC) dispatch staff.
- Update from Anthony Marsh - 14th August
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Your weekly message from the Trust Chief Executive.
- Tuning in for V Festival
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This weekend the Trust will be providing medical cover at the V Festival in Hylands Park, Chelmsford, with the aim of dealing with all calls from the event on-site.
- New bariatric PTS vehicles
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Five new patient transport service (PTS) vehicles, which have been developed by PTS staff and the fleet team to have specific bariatric capability, will be on the road within the next three weeks.
- Operational instructions
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A new operational and EOC instruction template will be launched soon and will appear in a similar PDF format to our clinical bulletins and urgent updates.
- Flag up incidents for media coverage
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The communications team has been working hard to publicise the good work of our staff in the local media, but we need your help.
- Student paramedic conference
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The second annual student paramedic conference is being held in Hatfield, Hertfordshire on Saturday 1st November, following the sell-out success of the 2013 conference.
- Datix maintenance Wednesday morning
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The scheduled maintenance for today's Datix upgrade has been successfully completed, and the system is now back online.
- Home Office launches free training on FGM
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The Home Office has launched an online training package for frontline professionals in identifying and helping girls at risk of female genital mutilation (FGM).
- Staff praised for actions as 35 patients discovered in shipping container
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Thank you to all staff involved in the Tibury Docks major incident on Saturday (August 16), that saw 35 patients needing treatment after being discovered in a shipping container.
- Looking after suction units
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The failure of suction units has been fundamental in two recent serious incidents, so all staff are asked to ensure their unit is functioning properly at the beginning of every shift.
- Mobile improvements to benefit 999
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Manufacturers have been piloting new technology in smart-phones that will help us to locate patients more quickly.
- Ambulance staff 'amazing individuals' says patient survey
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Our ambulance staff are ‘amazing individuals’, a ‘true inspiration’ and ‘the hardest working people in the UK’ according to a new patient survey.
- Success at the fest
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Ambulance service staff turned out in force to help look after music fans at this year’s V-Festival, which took place over the weekend.
- Hoax threats in Suffolk
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Over the past week, a number of public organisations within Suffolk have received written letters indicating that there is a bomb at their premises and that the establishment should be evacuated.
- Another 12 pass ECA to EMT programme
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Congratulations to our 12 students on the ECA to EMT programme – who this month passed their practical assessments and five IHCD exams. This brings the total no of ECAs trained to EMT to 23.
- Would you recognise a pulmonary embolism?
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Sixty-thousand people are estimated to die of a pulmonary embolism (PE) every year in the UK alone. Add in five other European countries* and that number tops 300,000 – and 59% of those deaths were following undiagnosed venous thromboembolism. But would you recognise it?
- Two wheels and no engine: cycle charity event raises £1,600
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When Ash McPherson’s younger brother Greg was involved in a tragic motorcycle accident in June, he was left with life-changing spinal injuries and is still receiving long-term rehabilitation treatment at the Princess Royal Spinal Unit in Sheffield.
- Air ambulance conference 2014: book your place today
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The National Air Ambulance Conference is the pinnacle in the annual calendar of events for the air ambulance community.
- Pay bandings for paramedics and EMTs
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A few months ago we began discussions regarding pay bandings for operation paramedics and EMTs, as reported in the UNISON April newsletter. Discussions have continued between the Chief Executive Anthony Marsh and Fraer Stevenson, Unison Branch Secretary.
- Update from Dr Anthony Marsh: 'the incredible side of the ambulance service' - 21st August
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I think it’s fair to say that every week in the ambulance service we deal with difficult jobs; whether it’s someone in cardiac arrest, a patient in an RTC or someone who has fallen and can’t be easily moved, our day-to-day work can be a challenge...
- Vote for Kaine!
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Son of EMT Amazing dancer Kaine Ward is competing in Sky One’s Got To Dance, and is through the Friday's live final!
- Update from CEO Dr Anthony Marsh: 'seven months on'
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Your weekly update from CEO Dr Anthony Marsh, 28th August.
- Fuji success in Ipswich vs. Norwich showdown
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It was the daddy of all derbies as Ipswich Town took on Norwich City at the weekend in a rival match like no other.
- The Acts: mental capacity and mental health
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The Mental Capacity Act (MCA) and the Mental Health Act (MHA) are acts of law, but make very different statements from one another about what we are expected to do to support patients.
- ECA-EMT course allocation
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Unfortunately there will be a slight delay in announcing the allocations to courses for 2015/16.
- ECA-EMT pre-entry exam
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The next round of ECA to technician pre-entry exams will be held in October, with dates and locations set to be published next week.
- Testing the Laerdal suction unit
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Your ‘how to’ list in checking the Laerdal suction unit…
- EMT - paramedic pathway open for submissions
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The next intake for the emergency medical technician (EMT) to paramedic pathway will be March 2015; being run with Northampton University, it will follow the same structure as the current programme (which is block release). There will be 25 places available.
- Drug fridges on station
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As we’re now in the run up to flu vaccination season, please can you contact the IPC team if you have any drugs fridges in your office, station or EOC (both used and unused).
- National ambulance conference
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With more than 500 people already registered, there are just a few free places left for this year’s National Ambulance Clinical and Patient Safety Conference.
- Beds & Herts PTS contract
-
The Beds and Herts PTS contract came up for tender some time ago and we submitted a bid as we believe we are the best placed organisation to run these services.
- Warning after 'selfie' tweeted
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All three emergency services are investigating the publication of a ‘selfie’ showing ambulance and fire staff at the scene of a crash in Yorkshire.
- Got an IT issue? Report it the new and easy way.
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A new system has been launched that makes it much easier for you to log and track any problems with your IT.
- Taking two minutes for safeguarding
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We’re all familiar with the term ‘safeguarding’, but how many of us fully understand what it means, what our responsibilities are in the ambulance service, and what we’re obliged to do to help protect vulnerable people?
- Peterborough paramedics take on 'rock solid' challenge
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The two-week countdown has almost begun for Peterborough paramedics Chris McGregor and Ollie Brook as they prepare to take on 'hurdles from hell' and other obstacles as part of their Rock Solid Challenge.
- Clinical focus: a look at sick sinus syndrome
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Sick sinus syndrome is a generalised abnormality of cardiac impulse formation causing sinus node dysfunction, so the atrial heart rate is either too low or too high to maintain adequate cardiac output.
- New EOC instructions released
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Over the past few weeks a number of new EOC instructions have been released - make sure you're up to date.
- Press release: compliments up, complaints down
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A press release on the Trust's latest compliments and complaints figures was issued to the media yesterday.
- Staff partnership forum: SAP non-consolidated lump sum agreed
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Following a request from Unison, the staff partnership forum has agreed to implement a local agreement on non-consolidated lump sums for SAPs.
- Allocations for ECA to EMT 2015/16 courses complete
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The 60 successful ECAs who have been allocated to a technician course in 2015/16 have now all been emailed, which completes the allocations for next year.
- New proficiency standards for paramedics published
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The Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) has published revised standards of proficiency for paramedics, which must be met by every paramedic to remain on the HCPC register.
- Update from Anthony Marsh - 4th September 2014
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Your weekly message from the Trust Chief Executive.
- Clinical focus: Kawasaki disease
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Kawasaki disease is one of unknown origin, probably infectious, but with autoimmune and genetic elements that affect children.
- Update from EOC from Daniel Gore
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Transformation Director Daniel Gore updates us on the latest EOC news, CAD upgrades and the regional telephony project.
- Staff seize learning opportunities
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Every year the Trust provides mandatory training and professional updates to staff, but there is a wealth of other learning opportunities that the Trust offers to staff to help them build their portfolios, skills and continuing professional development (CPD)
- Ensuring staff safety: flagging violent incidents
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Violent warning markers are a means of identifying and recording individuals who pose, or could possibly pose, a risk to members of staff who come into contact with them. But they only last for 12-months.
- Secretary of state meets staff in west Norfolk
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Elizabeth Truss, Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs and MP for south west Norfolk, met staff in Swaffham last week to learn more about the service.
- Congratulations to our latest Module 7s!
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Congratulations to our latest Module 7 course, who all passed the last stage of their paramedic training this week!
- Minister joins Trust to install defibrillator in Norfolk
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The Minister of State for Care and Support, Norman Lamb MP, joined Trust staff and members of the public to launch a new defibrillator in a Norfolk Broads village last Friday (29th August).
- Outstanding contribution awards Nov 14: nomination form
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- Next round of ECA to EMT pre-entry exams
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Another seven dates have been confirmed in October for the pre-entry exam for the emergency care assistant (ECA) to emergency medical technician (EMT) course.
- Back to basics: the facts behind the flu jab
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More than 900 people were admitted to intensive care during last year’s flu season. Around 89% of those people were under the age of 65, and more than 10% of them lost their lives. These figures are high for a disease that is largely preventable through vaccination.
- Reviewing end of life choices
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The Government has set up a review of choices in end of life care to inform and shape national options about how, when and where people receive this care.
- Press release: have you had your blood pressure checked?
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Paramedics are urging people to have their blood pressures checked after referring 10% of people to their GP during free health checks at events across the region.
- Vascular pathway in east Suffolk
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Earlier this year, the Trust set up a pathway for patients who are suspected of having an abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) to go to the most appropriate hospital in the east Suffolk area, following the removal of vascular surgery at Ipswich Hospital.
- EEAST awards: nominations now open
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The second awards ceremony of the year is being held in November – and staff and volunteers can play their part in honouring colleagues for outstanding work and support this year.
- Survey: pulmonary embolism and Wells - what do you know?
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Contact ...
- Please lock your doors
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On Tuesday (9th September) a female member of staff on standby in Essex was approached by a male member of the public who proceeded to make inappropriate comments towards her.
- ECA - EMT progession: your questions answered
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Following recent articles on Need to Know, many emergency care assistants (ECAs) have been in touch to ask questions about future courses, allocations for 2015/16 and the process of deciding who goes on courses and when.
- Update from CEO Anthony Marsh 11th September: 'supporting staff'
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"I have spoken before about how it is of the upmost importance to me to support all staff at the Trust, whether you work on the frontline, in support services, in a control room, primary care and 111 or in PTS..."
- Ops instruction: officer levels on CAD
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Having reviewed the new officer level arrangements in line with the resource allocation guidelines (ESOP 25), guidance has been produced to improve the way the CAD shows availability of on-duty officers.
- Coroner issues national regulation for ambulance staff
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A Surrey Coroner has raised concerns about where ambulances are parked during incidents on multi-lane roads or motorways, following the death of a man earlier this year.
- It's World Sepsis Day
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It’s World Sepsis Day today (13th September) and it’s coincided with the release of a patient safety alert from NHS England to all hospitals, GP surgeries and ambulance services, to advise them of the need to make screening tools available to staff.
- MDT software upgrade: trial starting next week
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In preparation for the upgrade to the Trust’s computer aided dispatch system (CAD), the Trust will be rolling out a regional software model for the mobile data terminals (MDTs) to replace three slightly different models in use currently.
- Patient safety notice: cutting in-line catheters
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An incident has occurred recently where an in-line (or closed) suction catheter was left in the endotracheal tube (ET tube) by mistake.
- Forty student paras start training
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This month more than 44 student paramedics have started their clinical training in Cambourne and Melbourn!
- Schools granted permission for emergency inhalers
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From 1st October, UK schools will be allowed to keep a salbutamol inhaler for use in emergencies when a child with asthma cannot access their own inhaler.
- Eight tips for managing life-threatening asthma
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Critical care paramedic Chris Neil shares some top tips to consider if you go to a patient having a life-threatening asthma attack.
- iCAD upgrade
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In November we will be upgrading our iCAD to the latest version available.
- Latest HR e-zine published
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The latest issue of the HR e-zine, which includes new and current vacancies, is now available.
- The best care for treating elderly falls patients
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Responding to elderly patients who have fallen makes up a huge proportion of the 999 calls the Trust attends and can have a huge impact on the quality of life and the future health of the patient.
- Survey: the impact of JESIP
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Since the Joint Emergency Services Interoperability Programme (JESIP) began over a year ago, 10,000 staff have received commander training, but what impact is it having?
- Nominations sought for College of Paramedic Fellows
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The College of Paramedics is seeking nominations from members for fellows; someone who is making an exceptional contribution to the furtherance and reputation of the ambulance professions.
- Free tickets to Newmarket Races
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Newmarket Races, in partnership with Dubai, are offering free grandstand and paddock admission for all emergency services personnel and their families on Friday, 17th October for their Dubai Future Champions Day.
- Update from CEO Anthony Marsh: 'some well deserved recognition'
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This week Dr Marsh shares some celebratory news about two of our EOC staff - well done to Jenny and Becca!
- New defibrillator roll-out started
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Staff from clinical, operational, fleet, clinical engineering and technology and telecommunications are working together to ensure the successful rollout of the Trust’s new defibrillators, which started last week in Letchworth.
- Patient care records
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All staff are reminded of the importance of PCRs...
- Double success at industry awards
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An emergency operations centre (EOC) call handler and clinical support desk (CSD) clinician have been recognised at a national awards ceremony for their work in Chelmsford and Norwich EOCs.
- Kitchen chemistry: book your place
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An explosives expert from the Royal Navy will be holding a training session about the risks of home-made explosives and showing how easily these can be made from normal household products later this month.
- Regional telephony goes live
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Today we saw the go live of regional telephony, meaning 999 calls can be moved between our control rooms automatically if all the call handlers in the original EOC are busy.
- PU workbooks – clinical and non-clinical mandatory training
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The professional update (PU) workbooks are currently in the process of being printed and will be delivered to the Trust within the next few weeks.
- Pensions choice
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The NHS pensions choice exercise began in January 2010 and gave eligible members the chance to move their pension from the 1995 section of the scheme to the 2008 section.
- Smokers encouraged to swap fags for gags
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Stoptober 2014 has enrolled the country’s top comedians to help smokers get through this year’s 28-day quitting challenge and help them quit for good this October.
- National Air Ambulance week
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Next week is National Air Ambulance Week, a week to celebrate and support our local air ambulances in the east of England – East Anglia Air Ambulance, Essex and Herts Air Ambulance and Magpas.
- Bay doors broken? Call for help
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We have had instances recently of staff attempting to free garage doors when they have failed due to a mechanical or electrical fault or vehicular impact.
- EOC priorities
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In line with the Trust’s performance improvement action plan, six specific priorities have been drawn up for the emergency operations centres (EOCs).
- Changes to our freepost
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From 7th November, all current pre-paid Royal Mail envelopes will be unusable and need to be replaced.
- Update from CEO Anthony Marsh: 'sharing a vision' (25th September 2014)
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"I think it would be fair to say that we all embarked on a journey at the start of this year; a journey of change, a journey of new beginnings, and a journey of huge scale..."
- New telephony system goes live
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Since our new regional telephony system went live our call pick up rate has improved by more than 6% compared to the rest of September. In fact, since go live we have answered more than 96% over our calls within five seconds of connection to the EOCs.
- Paramedic takes on Everest challenge
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Paramedic Dave Gregory, from Bury St Edmunds, is taking on a 17-day challenge to trek to Everest base camp to raise money for The Railway Children charity.
- BT maintenance on Friday from 6.30pm
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Please note that BT will be carrying out some maintenance work on Friday 26th September from 6.30pm – 1.30am, which will impact the Trust’s card management system (CMS) service.
- A thank you to Norfolk PTS
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The 1st October will be the first day with ERS Medical for a number of our PTS staff.
- The latest on pay bandings for paras and EMTs
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I had a very productive meeting on Tuesday with Fraer Stevenson, Unison Branch Secretary, to progress our work on pay bandings for operational paramedics and EMTs.
- Staff development pathways – the latest numbers
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Find out how the Trust is getting on with internal progression routes.
- Channel 202 project shortlisted for award
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The Channel 202 project, which has promoted the various critical care resources available to frontline staff to help with seriously ill patients, has been shortlisted for a national air ambulance award of excellence.
- PU workbooks delivered to Trust
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The Trust has now received hard copies of the professional update (PU) workbooks for clinical and non-clinical mandatory training.
- Learn how to sing - for free!
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If being a solo artist isn’t your thing and you’d like to learn how to sing bass, baritone, lead or tenor, there is a new course for you: learn to sing – and it’s free!
- JESIP moves on – special edition of newsletter
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A special edition of the Joint Emergency Services Interoperability Programme (JESIP) News has been published, as the first phase of the programme draws to a close with 10,000 personnel trained to work more effectively at the scene of major incidents.
- New reforms for victim support
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The Government has announced a set of reforms to improve victim support, which will be enshrined in law by next year.
- You can view Need to Know from anywhere!
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Remember, your Need to Know is now a website – meaning you can access it from a computer at home, on your smart phone or even a tablet, not just at work.
- Have your say in the staff survey
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The annual NHS staff survey launches today and this year every member of staff at the Trust will be given an opportunity to share their views.
- HCPC members and clinical trials
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The Health and Care Professions Council have issued a short paper outlining their support for members taking part in clinical research trials.
- Have you got an innovative idea?
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The NHS Innovation Challenge is now open for applications, with a total prize fund of £650,000 to recognise and reward frontline innovation and drive adoption across the NHS.
- Press release: new volunteers flock to Norfolk roadshow
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A press release issued this week on the CFR roadshows across Norfolk in September.
- Cambridgeshire mental health ward move
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The Lucille Van Geest ward, part of the Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Foundation Trust, will be moving from the old Peterborough District Hospital site to the Cavell Centre, Bretton Gate, on Friday, 3rd October.
- End of paper tax discs for vehicles
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With effect from 1st October, the Driver Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) will cease producing tax discs for all vehicles in the UK (except those based in Northern Ireland).
- Blackberry server maintenance
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Essential Blackberry server maintenance will be carried out on Monday (6th October) from 10am – 4pm.
- Trust raises more than £600 for Macmillan
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Staff at the Chelmsford and Bedford offices have raised more than £600 for Macmillan by taking part in the World’s Biggest Coffee morning on Friday (26th September).
- Update from Dr Anthony Marsh: 2nd October
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Your weekly update from the CEO.
- Senior paramedic and senior EMT
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At the end of August I updated you over discussions between myself and Fraer Stevenson, UNISON Branch Secretary, over a pay banding agreement for Paramedics and Emergency Medical Technicians.
- Your IT equipment and printing
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In line with the Trust’s priority to direct more resources into frontline services, the IT team will be changing the way some things currently work.
- Get involved in hypo awareness week
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Every year colleagues across the organisation manage more than 9,000 patients having a hypoglycaemic event and many more who are diagnosed with either type 1 or type 2 diabetes.
- Winter preparation: HALO role returns
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A significant proportion of the Trust’s additional winter funding will be spent on hospital ambulance liaison officers (HALOs), to work closely with our acute colleagues to deliver consistently excellent patient care.
- Drunk pastor sentenced for assault
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Lee Stephens, a pastor from Northern Ireland, has been given a 16-week suspended prison sentence, after threatening to have paramedics who came to his aid “murdered by the IRA.”
- Patient satisfaction high with 111
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The Norfolk 111 service, which is run by EEAST, was praised in feedback from those who had to use the service in July.
- Kitchen chemistry goes with a bang
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On Tuesday (29th September), Lt Commander Gaffney delivered a training session to Trust staff, at the Melbourn HART base, around the risks of homemade explosives.
- Bronze for CSD staff
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Two members of emergency operations centre (EOC) staff have been awarded for their consistent high levels of quality assurance compliance.
- Engaging care home staff in Norfolk
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Last week the Trust held two engagement evenings for care home managers and staff to explain the differences between our 111, out of hours and 999 services.
- Latest research update published
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Issue 24 of the Pre-hospital Emergency Services Current Awareness Update has been published.
- General advice for reversing
-
There are a significant number of reversing-related vehicle accidents each year at the Trust, and recently more than normal, which are often costly to the organisation and impact on service delivery.
- Do not attempt cardiopulmonary resuscitation [DNACPR] forms
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In the east of England, there is a standard DNACPR policy and form which was rolled out to all sectors and care settings in 2011.
- MP to be a CFR following visit
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Andrew Selous, MP for south west Bedfordshire, has agreed to volunteer for the ambulance service following his visit to Leighton Buzzard station on Tuesday (7th October).
- Saw-injury patient thanks staff
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Paramedics from Melbourn were thanked in person on Thursday by patient Richard Game, who is still recovering from a horrific arm injury caused by a circular saw in June.
- Coming soon to a station near you: new ambulances!
-
The rollout of the 120 new ambulances has begun, with 12 already delivered to stations across the region; meaning we are on course to have a fleet of vehicles all under five years old by the end of March.
- Update from Anthony Marsh - 9th October 2014
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Your weekly message from the Trust Chief Executive.
- Industrial action - 13th October
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As you will be aware, a number of unions have indicated that they will be asking their members to strike from 7-11am on Monday (13th October), in response to the 1% non-consolidated pay rise.
- “Brilliant results” from hospital conveyance audit
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A four-day audit at Broomfield Hospital, Essex has found that our crews made the correct decision to take a patient to hospital 96% of the time.
- Bank fines distributed to emergency services
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Last Friday the Government announced that nearly £10m of LIBOR fines will be given to emergency services charities, including the Ambulance Service Benevolent Fund (ASBF).
- CFR awarded for lifesaving work
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A community first responder (CFR), who has been a Suffolk village’s only lifesaver for more than a year, has scooped a special 999 award.
- Changes to the CAD system upgrade
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The Intergraph CAD system upgrade is a significant project for the Trust, involving a critical system with direct impact on service delivery and patient safety.
- PTS audit success!
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An external audit of Great Yarmouth and Waveney patient transport services (PTS) has resulted in a continued positive certification, with all aspects being described as “very satisfactory”.
- Congratulations to new student paramedics!
-
Well done to student paramedics on courses in Cambourne, Chelmsford and Norwich, who have all passed their clinical training in the last few weeks!
- Move to REAP level 4
-
Due to an increase in activity pressure and further forecasted rises in demand on the service, the Trust has moved from REAP level 3 to REAP level 4.
- CEO thanks staff after industrial action
-
The boss of the East of England Ambulance Service is thanking staff for their efforts during this morning’s industrial action.
- Non-clinical workbooks now available
-
Non-clinical workbooks are now available for PTS, EOC, operational support, primary care/111 and all other non-operational staff.
- Using money wisely: filling up with fuel
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The next time your ambulance or response car needs filling up with fuel, please remember to think about your closest Trust fuel site first.
- Payroll cut-off date
-
After several recent instances of paperwork being received after cut-off dates, payroll would like to make all managers aware of the cut-off dates for payments.
- New recruits ready to take calls
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Eight new recruits are ready, set and raring to begin taking 999 calls, after they finished their emergency call handler training on Friday (10th October).
- MPDS codeset change
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This week several codes have been updated in the Trust’s MPDS (Medical Priority Dispatch System) system, as per national requirements and following a trial.
- Updated 111 pathway to identify ebola symptoms
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To help with the early identification of suspected ebola patients, the Trust’s 111 service in Norfolk has updated pathway questions to investigate potential symptoms.
- Latest Ebola advice
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Following the recent cases of imported ebola in Spain and the USA, the Department of Health has emphasised the need to remain vigilant for possible cases of viral haemorrhagic fever (VHF) in this country.
- Update from Anthony Marsh - 16th October 2014
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Your weekly message from the Trust Chief Executive.
- Labelling of 12-lead ECGs
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Heart attack centres we work with have told us that they are not always able to identify a pre-hospital ECG due to the lack of patient detail.
- NHS staff survey arrives
-
Paper copies of the NHS staff survey are being delivered to stations this week – so make sure you have your say and take part in the annual organisation-wide review.
- MHRA drug safety update
-
Each month the MHRA (Medicines and Healthcare Products Regulatory Agency) publishes key information and learning related to medicines. In a recent edition, they highlighted two areas that can be considered relevant for ambulance clinicians.
- Flu vaccinations are go!
-
Moving into winter can only mean one thing – it’s flu season. We encourage all our staff to get the flu vaccination every year, and we’re working hard to increase the uptake this winter.
- Staff Q&As on senior roles
-
Further to the recent article on senior paramedic and senior EMT roles, several staff have emailed in with their questions. Here we share some of the most asked questions, and more importantly their answers!
- Make sure to RSVP to your awards invite!
-
The invitations have been sent, the preparations are being made and excitement is building – the Trust’s awards ceremony is now less than a month away!
- Clinical research: ATLANTIC results
-
Did you ever wonder what happened with ATLANTIC, the study EEAST participated in which evaluated the safety and effectiveness of paramedic-led ticagrelor for STEMI patients?
- NHS chief sets out future plan
-
Simon Stevens, the new chief executive of NHS England has set out a five-year plan for the NHS today.
- New student paramedics hit the road
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The Trust’s latest groups of student paramedics finish their course tomorrow (24th October), meaning there will be 41 more frontline staff on the road next week.
- Change to maternity packs
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In line with best practice and national recommendations the swabs within the maternity packs will be changing.
- Stickers introduced to label glucose
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Following two further cases where 10% glucose has been given in place of 0.9% saline solution, all bags of glucose will have a red sticker applied to the back of the pack to assist with identifying the product.
- Serious incident in Ely
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A message from interim Director of Clinical Quality, Tracy Nicholls.
- Ebola: action cards for staff
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As mentioned in the latest ebola advice article last week, action cards have been produced for all staff who may be involved in dealing with a patient with suspected viral haemorrhagic fever (VHF).
- Update from Anthony Marsh - 23rd October 2014
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Your weekly message from the Trust Chief Executive.
- ‘Would you recommend this service?’ Friends and family test arrives at EEAST
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The NHS Friends and Family Test (FFT) is a feedback tool which allows people who use health services to provide feedback on their experience, which should be used to improve services for patients.
- Cakes were baked and bellies ached in aid of GOSH
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Paramedic David Dixon has raised more than £400 for Great Ormond Street Hospital (GOSH) by selling cakes across Bedfordshire.
- Improvements in how we treat limb fractures
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The way we treat patients with single limb fractures has improved from February to July, according to the latest clinical performance report.
- UK advanced airway care survey
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High quality airway care remains one of the most fundamental skills of any out-of-hospital practitioner, but how this should be achieved, and what skills and equipment should be available to paramedics practicing within the UK, remains a controversial subject.
- Case study: diabetes
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The following case comes from London Ambulance Service and is used to illustrate the need to consider the patient in a holistic manner, and not just from the aspect of their presenting symptoms.
- Congratulations to Norwich call handler
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Call handler Tom Mcrae has achieved his silver award for consistent call-handling excellence, which means he has passed 50 consecutive call audits.
- Norfolk prepared app
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The Norfolk Local Resilience Forum, which EEAST is part of, has launched a free phone app to help the public know what to do before, during, and after an emergency.
- New display and functionality for MDT
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As you will have recently seen, we are migrating to a new regional model for the display and functionality used on our mobile data terminals.
- Pensions choice
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The NHS pensions choice exercise began in January 2010 and gave eligible members the chance to move their pension from the 1995 section of the scheme to the 2008 section.
- Warning as thief gang strikes NHS again
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A gang of thieves, known by police as the Falcons, have been targeting NHS premises to steal belongings from staff.
- Sign up to Safety
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Sign up to Safety is a national patient safety campaign announced by the Secretary of State for Health. The aim is for the NHS to reduce avoidable harm to patients by 50% in the next three years, which would save an estimated 6,000 lives.
- Don’t get flu: clinics available near you
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This year’s flu vaccinations have now been delivered to the Trust and are working their way around the region, so look out for a clinic at your station soon.
- Fire Brigade Union strikes
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The Fire Brigade Union (FBU) is planning a four-day continuous strike from 6pm on Friday (October 31) until 6pm on Tuesday (November 4).
- Meeting room at Barton Mills
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Please note the middle room used for meetings at Barton Mills will not be available from the 1st November until further notice, due to on-going refurbishment.
- Changes to talk groups in Essex
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Following the introduction of the new healthcare referral team desk in Chelmsford EOC, there will be some changes to talk groups.
- Update from Anthony Marsh
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Your weekly message from the Trust Chief Executive.
- The passing of Trevor Hearn, Ambulance Fleet Assistant
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The Trust is very saddened to report that our colleague Trevor Hearn, an ambulance fleet assistant at Peterborough, passed away on Sunday after a period of illness.
- NHS staff survey update
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Nearly 300 of you have completed your annual NHS staff survey since they were delivered to the Trust last week – a huge thank you to those who have completed it so far.
- Paramedic in Sierra Leone Ebola mission
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Pete Simpson, a paramedic from Thorpe Marriott, Norfolk, has travelled to Sierra Leone to join the emergency aid mission fighting Ebola in west Africa.
- More than 70 PTS staff join HCRT
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Today (31st October) the Trust’s ninth health care referral team (HCRT) course ended, bringing the total number of patient transport service (PTS) staff who have been upskilled to 78.
- More PTS audit success
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Hot on the heels of the external audit success of patient transport services (PTS) in Great Yarmouth and Waveney earlier this month, Essex has shared similar success and been awarded a positive certification.
- Clinical focus: cool the burn, warm the patient - a refresh on treating burns
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Globally, about 11 million people seek medical treatment, and 300,000 die, from burns each year. But how should we deal with burns?
- Update on PPE for suspected Ebola cases
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In light of this week's case of a healthcare-worker being treated in Glasgow after contracting Ebola, please take the time to look again at the information published on the relevant personal protective equipment (PPE).
- Reference requests
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If you receive a reference request for a member of your staff, please ensure it is sent through to HR services to ensure we reply in the standard format.
- Tenth student paramedic group begin life out on the road
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The Trust’s tenth group of student paramedics finished their training last week and today (3rd November) are beginning life on the frontline.
- Research success
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Larissa Prothero, the Trust’s Research Paramedic, has been given a National College of Paramedics prize for best poster.
- Flu clinics in east Suffolk
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Please note the following dates for flu clinics in east Suffolk.
- Flu clinics in Waveney
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Please note the following dates for flu clinics at Waveney depot.
- Flu clinics in Cambridgeshire
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Please note the details of the flu vaccination clinics for north Cambridgeshire this year.
- Flu clinics for Norwich EOC
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- Diabetes survey - thank you!
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The research support services would like to thank all staff who have completed the impact diabetes survey, which aimed to find out more about the barriers and facilitators to diabetes referral pathways.
- Using social media
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The Trust maintains an active Twitter and Facebook presence to help us reach a different audience in a more immediate setting, and we invite support from staff to help us engage and educate the public in this way.
- Graduate paramedics finish induction
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A group of graduate paramedics finished their four-week clinical induction to the Trust last week in Chelmsford.
- Update from Anthony Marsh - 6th November 2014
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Your weekly update from the Trust Chief Executive.
- EEAST signs declaration on mental health in Cambs
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Senior leaders from across Cambridgeshire signed a declaration this week setting out how to support patients experiencing a mental health crisis.
- “I would be lying if I said I wasn’t a little scared to be here” – second instalment from Sierra Leone
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Paramedic Pete Simpson has updated his blog from west Africa, where he has joined the emergency aid mission fighting Ebola.
- Clinical focus: report reveals difficulties of children transitioning into adult health services
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Earlier this year, the Care Quality Commission (CQC) published a report on the transition of children to adult health services, called ‘from the pond into the sea’.
- Have you seen clinical practice that might need support?
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Last month, the statutory Duty of Candour, which arose as one of the recommendations from the Francis Report, became a standard requirement for all NHS providers.
- Press release: Trust launches Wise Up For Winter campaign
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Read the latest press release from the Trust about the 2014 winter campaign.
- Volunteer earns mayor's approval
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The hard work and dedication of Essex community first responder (CFR) Dave Spiceley has been recognised by the Mayor of Chelmsford.
- Casual worker arrangements for bank staff
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Following a review by the Staff Partnership Forum, the casual worker arrangements for bank staff have been amended and new pay arrangements put in place.
- Hydrocortisone shortage
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Due to a national shortage of prepared hydrocortisone ampoules, the presentation is changing.
- Trust takes part in Remembrance Sunday commemorations
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The Trust has paid tribute to service men and women in Remembrance Sunday commemorations across the region, including the parade in Chelmsford and the service in Luton.
- Bariatric project lead shortlisted for award
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David Sexby, the Trust’s Complex Patient Support Lead and Quality Improvement Fellow, has been shortlisted for an award for quality in education and training from Health Education East of England.
- Update from Anthony Marsh - 13th November 2014
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Your weekly message from the Trust's Chief Executive.
- Industrial action – 24th November
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The health trade unions involved in a pay dispute with the Government, have announced that they will stage a further period of strike action on Monday 24 November from 7 - 11am.
- Staff survey – only a few weeks left to have your say
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The deadline for your NHS staff survey to be submitted is fast approaching, so make sure you have your say before 28th November.
- What to do with out-of-date drugs
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Please ensure that medicine management at station level is robust and all out-of-date (OOD) drugs are returned to stations and never administered to a patient.
- Newly qualified technician hits the road in mid-Essex
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The Trust’s latest emergency care assistant (ECA) to qualify as an emergency medical technician (EMT) through the Trust’s internal programme says he is now in a much better position to help patients.
- Norfolk Forum thanks staff
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The Chairman of the NNOPF (North Norfolk Older People’s Forum) has written to the Trust Chief Executive to thank Stuart Pegg and Dale Meacham-Roberts, who attended a meeting on Monday (10th November) to explain how the ambulance service works.
- Kate acknowledges Trust support as debut book is published
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Kate McGuire, an emergency operations administrator working in Hertfordshire, will have her first book published on 27th November and is donating the proceeds of the sales to the charity Forces Children’s Trust.
- Retired paramedic Roy Seagrave passes away
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It is with great sadness that the Trust announces retired Norfolk paramedic Roy Seagrave passed away at the weekend.
- Trust staff support Biggleswade fire crews to raise money for charities
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Staff from Biggleswade station joined fire service colleagues and volunteers on Sunday (16th November 2014) to help pull a fire engine more than two miles to raise money for five charities.
- “The ambulance team was fantastic, I am unable to rate them highly enough”: patients give us their feedback
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The Trust has experienced an improvement in patient satisfaction levels, according to the latest survey.
- Paramedic hosts festive fundraiser on Saturday
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Lorraine Cason, a paramedic from Longwater, is holding a festive fundraiser in Norfolk on Saturday to raise money for the charity Autism Anglia.
- Staff honoured in Trust’s Excellence Awards
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Some of our most inspiring staff and volunteers have been honoured in the year’s second special celebration of patient care and outstanding work.
- Update from Anthony Marsh - 20th November 2014
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Your weekly message from the Trust Chief Executive.
- Industrial action on Monday
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As you will be aware, a number of unions have indicated that they will be asking their members to strike from 7-11am on Monday (24th November), in response to the 1% non-consolidated pay rise.
- Last week to complete your staff survey!
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A huge thank you to staff who have completed their NHS annual survey – our completion rate is currently at 20%.
- Clinical focus: a look at antibiotics
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Antibiotics are medications used to treat, and in some cases prevent, bacterial infections.
- Upgrade for MDT units
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Following feedback from staff, Terrafix has developed software to fix some of the issues with the new MDT regional model. This software update now needs to be accepted on each vehicle.
- Using technology and sharing info, from the Secretary of State
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The Secretary of State for Health talks about the importance of using technology and information to improve patient care and public health.
- National ambulance uniform
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Last year the Trust, along with all other NHS ambulance services, took part in an exercise to find a common ambulance uniform that all ambulance staff nationally would wear.
- CPD opportunity: law and the paramedic
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The College of Paramedics has organised a continued professional development (CPD) event in December on the role of the paramedic and the relevant areas of law, including consent and capacity.
- Today’s industrial action
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Following this morning’s industrial action, Chief Executive Anthony Marsh has thanked staff for their commitment to patient care during the four-hour strike and for helping us maintain a safe 999 service
- HR services and payroll documentation
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HR services are receiving forms in relation to payroll that need to be sent through to operational HR in the first instance.
- Clinical focus: a look at cauda equina
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A closer look at this condition, which causes compression of the spinal cord due to a back injury, and how to recognise it.
- Even our vehicles are wrapping up for winter!
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This winter we are purchasing a large number of snow ‘socks’ for our ambulances, cars, HART vehicles and some of our patient transport services fleet.
- New trauma equipment: the EZ-IO
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The Trust’s latest trauma equipment will be coming soon to a station near you – with training being delivered locally in how to use the EZ-IO intraosseous infusion system, trauma packs, traction splints and a new glucose meter.
- New NHS pension scheme
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As you may be aware, the Government has announced new pension arrangements, which will be introduced into all public sector pension schemes, including the NHS scheme, from 1st April.
- Friends and family test pilot goes live
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The pilot of the NHS friends and family test has now gone live in Norfolk and Waveney for A&E and primary care, and in Suffolk for PTS, with 130,000 questionnaires sent to ambulance stations for staff to give to patients.
- Our paramedic wins a Star of Norfolk award
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Allison Muffett, a paramedic from Sprowston, Norfolk has spoken of her pride after winning a Stars of Norfolk award.
- Peterborough group of ECAs all pass technician course
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Twelve ECAs have successfully completed their six-week course to become technicians and are now going back on the road to complete their skills portfolio.
- Update from Anthony Marsh - 27th November 2014
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Your weekly message from the Trust Chief Executive.
- Press release: Cambridgeshire ambulance manager's pride at national award
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Read the Trust's press release following Duty Locality Officer Phil Parr's award at the Ambulance Leadership Forum’s Outstanding Service event.
- Boots fundraiser to raise money for St. Albans CFRs
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Staff at the Boots store in St Albans are holding a fundraising event this Friday and Saturday (28th and 29th November) to raise money for community first responders (CFRs).
- Cardiac arrest survivor thanks Trust paramedic
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A cardiac arrest survivor says he will forever have a ‘special bond’ with the off-duty paramedic who saved his life.
- New CFR groups in Essex and Cambs
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Two new community first responder groups in Cardea, Peterborough and Harlow, Essex have started responding to patients, after going live at the beginning of the month.
- Commercial services audit success
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An external audit of commercial services at the Trust has found all aspects to be “very satisfactory” and has been given a positive certification as a result.
- Patient safety alert: risk of distress and death from inappropriate doses of naloxone in
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Risk of distress and death from inappropriate doses of naloxone in
patients on long-term opioid/opiate treatment.
- Health Boards’ serious data breaches a reminder to us all
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Grampian Health Board has been ordered by the Information Commissioners Office (ICO) to take action to ensure its patients information is better protected, following six data breaches within a thirteenth month period.
- "Transparent, safe healthcare": a message from the Secretary of State
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"As part of our determination to make the NHS the safest and most transparent healthcare system in the world, I want to tell you about two new important regulations that came into force yesterday."
- New volunteer lifesavers join Norfolk CFRs
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A network of lifesavers in Norfolk has been boosted after the latest volunteers completed their training to enable them to attend emergencies in their communities.
- FBU strike on 9th December
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The Fire Brigade Union (FBU) will be taking part in a 24-hour strike starting at 9am on Tuesday 9th December.
- George Osborne confirms extra £2bn for NHS
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As you’ll no doubt have seen in the media this week, Chancellor George Osborne has announced that he will put an extra £2.2 billion into the NHS in 2015/16 - of which £1.95 will be allocated to England.
- Your new-look East24
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East24, the Trust’s intranet has undergone a makeover!
- Bariatric project leader scoops national award
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David Sexby has won the award for quality in education and training from Health Education East of England (HEE), following his nomination last month.
- New trauma equipment rolls out in Bedfordshire
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More than 50 paramedics completed their training on how to use the Trust’s new trauma equipment in Luton last week, the first frontline staff in the service to do so.
- Update from Anthony Marsh - 4th December 2014
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Your weekly message from the Trust Chief Executive.
- Another Trust paramedic set to join the fight against Ebola
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A second paramedic from Norfolk has spoken of his hopes and fears as he prepares to join the fight against the Ebola epidemic in west Africa.
- Luton health watchdog praises crews
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Healthwatch Luton has been “impressed” by the “professionalism and care” shown to patients in their first experience with emergency crews.
- Calling our military reservists
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Are you part of the military reserves? If so, we’d like to hear from you.
- New trauma equipment: TRUEresult BM monitor
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In the second of a series of articles on the new equipment which is being rolled out across the Trust, the focus is on the new glucose meter.
- CQC launches consultation on how it regulates ambulance services
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The Care Quality Commission (CQC) is changing the way it regulates, inspects and rates ambulance, dental and independent acute healthcare services – and they want to know what you think of their plans.
- Time to think Ebola: a thank you from Sir Bruce Keogh and Dr Anthony Marsh
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A message from Professor Sir Bruce Keogh, National Medical Director and Dr Anthony Marsh, Chairman, Association of Ambulance Chief Executives.
- Tail lift safety
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Over the past couple of months there has been an increase in incidents of trolleys falling off the tail lifts on ambulances when it is in the raised position.
- Next step taken for paramedics to prescribe
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In 2010, a consultation began looking into including paramedics as one the professional groups authorised to prescribe medicines independently.
- Leaver checklist: what to do when a member of staff leaves
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When a member of staff leaves the Trust, their line manager has a responsibility to make sure all relevant checks are completed and the relevant documents sent to HR.
- Staff survey 2014 – thank you!
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A huge thank you to everyone who has taken part in the annual staff survey this year – more than 1,000 of you have given your views, which is 27% of our total staff number.
- Mental health crisis care agreement signed in Bedfordshire
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This week Trust staff joined colleagues from police, fire, local authorities, drug and alcohol support services from across Bedfordshire and Luton to sign the mental health crisis care concordat.
- Mind seeks your views for wellbeing programme
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Mind has invited emergency services personnel to a focus group in Cambridgeshire next week to help shape a national programme of mental health and wellbeing support.
- Staff donate Christmas gifts to those in need
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Two paramedics have been ‘overwhelmed’ by the generosity of colleagues following their rallying call to help an Essex charity.
- Trust staff honoured in EDP thank you evening
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Crews and officers were honoured on Friday evening (5th December) by the Eastern Daily Press (EDP) for our response to the floods in Norfolk a year ago.
- Update from Anthony Marsh - 11th December 2014
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Your weekly message from the Trust Chief Executive.
- Incident command desk coming soon
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Following a rigorous selection process, five dispatchers have completed an initial course in incident command management and have been promoted to incident command desk supervisors.
- Trust comes 8th in NHS table for Twitter
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Last week the Trust’s Twitter account came eighth in the top 50 of NHS accounts nationally and in the top four of ambulance services, in the first comprehensive analysis of social media use in the NHS.
- New airway management skills log for paramedics
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By July 2015, every clinician in England and Wales will have to maintain an airway management skills log, as a result of a coroner’s preventing further deaths report.
- Silver for call handler Topaz
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Congratulations to Bedford EOC call handler Topaz Micallef for achieving her silver award for consistent call handling excellence.
- Trust research published in Emergency Medical Journal
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A peer-reviewed article, partly written by Research Paramedic Larissa Prothero and Elderly Care Lead Phil Lumbard, has just been published in the Emergency Medical Journal.
- Spider bites
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A patient in Essex was taken seriously unwell last month after being bitten by a False Widow spider in their home, and a nest was later found in the property.
- First Trust paramedic returns from Sierra Leone
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Paramedic Pete Simpson says the time he spent fighting Ebola in Sierra Leone was both eye-opening and ‘tinged with sadness’.
- Clinical focus: Meningitis
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Meningococcal disease is the leading infectious cause of death in early childhood.
- Richard Denman
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The Trust is sad to report the death of paramedic Richard Denman.
- Product recall of Niko-fix dressing
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We're asking all stations, vehicles and spare cannulation modules are checked for affected batches of the Niko-fix dressing, which may not be sterile.
- New diabetic referral pathway in Norfolk
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There is a new referral pathway for patients who have had a diabetic hypoglycaemic event in Norfolk, Great Yarmouth and Waveney.
- Boots event raises nearly £900 for CFRs
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The two day event at Boots in St. Albans last month raised nearly £900 for community first responders (CFRs).
- Proposed review of administrative posts
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We have had several queries from employees regarding the proposed review of administrative posts within the organisation and what is currently happening, and would like to give you an update.
- Chief Executive recruitment update
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The Board has confirmed that it will look to start a recruitment process for a new Chief Executive in 2015, although at this stage no date for this has been agreed.
- Praise for service from Herts councillors
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Councillors who put healthcare under the microscope have praised the Trust following a visit to see its operations earlier this month.
- Update from Anthony Marsh
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Your weekly message from the Trust Chief Executive.
- Clinical waste labels replaced
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All orange clinical waste labels will now be replaced with white ones, saving the organisation thousands of pounds every year.
- Winter resilience video published
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As part of the Wise up for Winter campaign, a video with Senior Specialist Operations Manager Steven Moore was published at the weekend about how the service copes with seasonal demand.
- Hospital reminder about patient’s medication
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A hospital in our region has found that not enough patients are bringing their medication when taken to hospital by Trust staff.
- The importance of PPCI activations
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A message from Consultant Paramedic Marcus Bailey on the importance of appropriate activation of the PPCI pathway.
- Fifty-two students, 80 years’ service and a sprinkling of hard work: the recipe for mentorship success
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Read about the south Bedfordshire mentorship scheme – a programme based in Luton that’s been hailed as a shining example to the whole service.
- New defibs in Norwich and Billericay
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Two community defibrillators in Billericay and one in Norwich have been installed in the last couple of weeks, which have been funded by local people.
- "First class" Norfolk 111 service praised in latest patient survey
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Almost 90% of callers were satisfied with the 111 service run by the Trust in Norfolk, latest patient survey results have revealed.
- Catch up on our EOC Twitterthon!
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As part of our Wise Up for Winter campaign, we tweeted from Norwich EOC last Thursday, to show our followers the types of calls we get and how we deal with them.
- Graduate paramedics finish induction in Norfolk
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A group of 12 graduate paramedics passed their induction to the Trust on Friday in Norwich.
- A CFR Christmas success story
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Thanks to a training initiative between South Woodham Ferrers community first responder (CFR) group and local health visitors, the parents of a two-year-old child who had a febrile convulsion knew exactly what to do.
- Implementing living wage at EEAST
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The ‘living wage’ is an increase in the minimum wage, which helps people afford the basic living costs in the UK – and the Trust has been working alongside UNISON to bring this in for our staff in the new year.
- Update from Anthony Marsh - 25th December 2014
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Your weekly message from the Trust Chief Executive.
- Jeremy Hunt: thank you to NHS staff
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End of year message to all NHS staff from the Secretary of State for Health.
- Don’t forget Channel 202 this Christmas
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Following the successful campaign launch earlier this year, please remember how Channel 202 can help with critically injured patients during the festive period and beyond.
- Parents thank call handler after delivery of two Christmas babies
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New EEAST call handler Jordan Clarke-Rivers is on cloud nine after helping to make not one but two very special pre-Christmas deliveries.
- HCRT desk implemented in all control rooms
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The health care referral team (HCRT) dispatch desks are now operational in all three EOCs; to deploy resources to urgent calls and all private and voluntary services.
- Elderly Rayleigh motorcyclist thanks "angels" who saved his life
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A man who lost his leg after a life-threatening motorcycle accident has received an early Christmas visit from the “angels” who saved his life.
- Appraisal training for managers
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Learning support and development is available for all managers involved with completing staff personal development reviews (PDRs).
- Button battery ingestion: a medical emergency
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Everyone has them in their home, but button batteries (also known as coin or lithium batteries), can cause serious harm and death if they are ingested.
- Meeting rooms at Cambourne
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From 12th January, there will no longer be any meetings rooms, or working space available within the Cambourne Training Centre, due to the high number of students on courses.
- Anna receives prestigious award from police colleagues
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Our congratulations go to Anna Nicholls, Emergency Operations Administrator in Luton, who has been given a prestigious award for her volunteer work supporting her community with Bedfordshire Police.
- Have you got an innovative idea?
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The Health Enterprise East (HEE) innovation competition is now open – and you could win a voucher up to the value of £5,000 to progress your idea.
- Accidental needlestick injuries: what to do
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A guide on what to do if you receive a needle-stick injury and/or splash to the mucous membranes.
- National journal publishes clinical manager's work
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An article co-authored by Clinical Manager Lewis Andrews has been published in the peer-reviewed journal, Trauma.
- NHS Mandate announced for 2015/16
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The NHS mandate for 2015/16 was published in December, in which the Government provides direction and ambitions for the NHS for the next financial year.
- Funeral arrangements for beloved colleague Richard
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Earlier this month we shared news of the sad loss of Paramedic Richard Denman, our colleague and friend.
- Top marks in latest patient survey
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Patient satisfaction with our service hit the 100% mark for the second month in a row, according to the latest survey.
- Update from Anthony Marsh: a new year but the same dedication from staff
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I would like to wish you all a very happy new year and hope that you have had a safe and peaceful start to 2015.
- Press release: busy New Year for ambulance staff
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The region's ambulance service thanked its staff and volunteers for their work in dealing with more than 1,600 999 calls during a busy New Year's Eve into 2015.
- Case studies, discussion and learning: invite to air ambulance day
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The East Anglian Air Ambulance are inviting colleagues here at EEAST to attend their clinical governance day – a day completely dedicated to case studies, discussion, and joint learning.
- Golden boy Matt receives EOC accolade
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Congratulations to Norwich EOC Call Handler Matt Shaw for achieving his gold award for consistent call handling excellence.
- Richard Denman's funeral tomorrow
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A reminder of the details of colleague Richard Denman's funeral.
- Suffolk Police warning on dangerous drug
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Suffolk Police are urging people not to take the ‘Superman’ ecstasy (MDMA) pill, which is believed to be linked to the recent death of three people in the Ipswich area.
- Choose where our new 1,000 defibs go!
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The Trust has launched an ambitious project to save more lives in the region by funding 1,000 new defibrillators – and we need your help in identifying locations for this life-saving equipment.
- Update from Anthony Marsh - 8th January 2015
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Your weekly message from the Trust Chief Executive.
- Salvation Army fundraising boost for Leighton Buzzard CFRs
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The Salvation Army has given proceeds from their annual carol service to community first responders in Leighton Buzzard.
- Patient care record policy – changes from recent incidents
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The patient care record policy is currently under review; please ensure you adhere to the following two points until the new policy is published.
- Staff make donations to Norfolk food bank
-
A food bank in King’s Lynn will receive a second boost following the generosity of our staff over the festive and new year period.
- Clinical focus: croup
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Croup is a respiratory condition that most commonly affects children between six months and six years old.
- More staff fighting flu than last year
-
More staff have already had the flu jab this winter than last year – and if you haven’t been vaccinated yet, you still can before the end of January.
- New FERNO track chairs
-
A new FERNO track chair, which makes it easier to transport patients downstairs, has been put on every new ambulance that was brought into service in 2014.
- Be vigilant on animal cruelty
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"We work for this service because we appreciate life and always do our upmost to save it – I am asking fellow colleagues to extend this outlook and be vigilant on animal cruelty which may be happening in the thousands of homes we visit every day" - John Lee, paramedic
- Paramedic launches fourth defibrillator in St Neots
-
A St Neots paramedic has launched another community-funded defibrillator in the Cambridgeshire town with the people who helped make it happen.
- Passing of Rod Goodwin
-
It is with great sadness that we report the passing of a much loved character Rod Goodwin who died suddenly and unexpectedly on 1st January.
- Call re-grading: BBC reports
-
You may have seen reports in the media this week about changes to 28 call codes within the Trust; from 18th December 2013 to 19th February 2014, seven codes were given a higher priority response and 21 were changed to a lower priority.
- Staff gather for colleague’s funeral
-
Members of staff from the Trust formed a guard of honour, led by our Chief Officer, on Friday at the funeral of Richard Denman.
- Important: paper PCR forms
-
All stations are asked to please make sure that they are using the most up-to-date version of the paper patient care record (PCR) forms.
- EEAST is best in the country for answering 999 calls
-
In December BT recorded only three 999 callers experiencing a delay for their call to be answered, making EEAST the best service in the country for this target.
- Unsocial hours – inaccurate reporting
-
A national newspaper’s claims that there were plans to change the way unsocial hours in the ambulance service are paid are simply not accurate.
- Update from Anthony Marsh - 15th January 2015
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Your weekly message from the Trust Chief Executive.
- Diabetes education event
-
The Trust is holding a second diabetes education event later this month in Hertfordshire, which is open to all clinicians.
- Learning from serious incidents: importance of sitreps
-
The Trust is keen to share learning from serious incidents (SIs) to recognise how and why something has gone wrong.
- Chelmsford fundraising for call handler’s daughter
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Call Handler Matthew Harvey from Chelmsford EOC has thanked colleagues and the Trust for their support in fundraising for his daughter, Iyla.
- Do you have a Cambourne door access fob?
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As we will be vacating the Cambourne premises later this year we need to recover all door access fobs that belong to the landlord.
- Trust cleaning contract
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Due to the appointment of a new cleaning contractor in August, some adjustments were made to cleaning arrangements across the organisation.
- Summary guide to NHS five-year forward plan
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Health Education East has produced a summary guide to the NHS five-year forward plan, which is available to download from the Need to Know site
- Sixth ECA to EMT course started
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The Trust’s sixth ECA to EMT course started in Chelmsford on Monday (19th January), with 13 ECAs beginning their journey to become technicians.
- 999 response pilot announced
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On Friday the Secretary of State for Health, Jeremy Hunt, announced a pilot at two ambulance trusts to possibly change the way services respond to 999 calls, starting in February.
- Using Trust email to share patient data
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We are aware of a number of incidents recently where staff have emailed personal identifiable data of patients using their eastamb email accounts.
- Update from Anthony Marsh - 22nd January 2015
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Your weekly message from the Trust Chief Executive.
- New defibrillators on ambulances in west Essex
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The Trust’s brand new Corpuls Defibrillators are now available for staff to use in west Essex.
- Increased hours at minor injuries unit, Ely
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The minor injuries unit located at the Princess of Wales Hospital, Ely has extended its opening times and is now open from 8am to 8pm, Monday to Sunday.
- Norfolk mum's thanks to staff that saved her baby's life
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A Norfolk mum has said an emotional thank you to the crew involved in saving her daughter’s life during a dramatic home birth.
- Out-of-hours GP service in Norfolk receives high levels of patient satisfaction
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Norfolk’s out-of-hours GP service has been praised in the latest patient survey, with more than 95% of people satisfied with the care they received.
- National report highlights EEAST service
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A report by the British Geriatrics Society (BGS) and the Royal College of General Practitioners has highlighted the Trust’s collaborative venture, Acute Geriatric Intervention service (AGIS), with Cambridgeshire Community Services as an example of best practice.
- More flu circulating than last three seasons and mutated strains?
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Public Health England has reported that there is more flu circulating this winter than in the past three seasons – and has also responded to media reports about a mutated strain that is making the vaccine ineffective.
- Calling all call handlers and EOC staff
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The EEAST communications team is looking for your stories of some of the most memorable inappropriate 999 calls you have received.
- Industrial action suspended across the NHS
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Due to the national negotiations over NHS pay and an offer being made that members will be balloted on, unions that were planning to take industrial action this week, including UNISON, have suspended both the full industrial action and action short of strike.
- Discussion and learning event: invite to air ambulance day
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The East Anglian Air Ambulance are inviting colleagues here at EEAST to attend their clinical governance day – a day completely dedicated to case studies, discussion, and joint learning.
- Praise for frontline staff in latest patient survey
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Frontline staff have been praised for their professionalism and “superb” care in the latest patient survey.
- Ebola: identify, treat, care and transport
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Following the ebola outbreak in Sierra Leone, Liberia and Guinea , EEAST has put in place full procedures to identify, treat and care for and transport a patient with any stage of ebola.
- Changes to GRS – thank you for your feedback
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Last week, some changes were made to GRSWeb which meant staff could no longer view the daily posting sheet or advanced shift planner.
- Together, we can make a change
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A lot of organisations talk about having vision and values, but what are they and why do we need them?
- Update from Anthony Marsh - 26th February 2015
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Your weekly message from the Trust Chief Executive.
- Update from Anthony Marsh – 29th January
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Your weekly message from the Trust Chief Executive.
- MIND survey to develop new programme to support blue light staff
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Mind, the mental health charity, is developing a new programme to support the mental health of blue light personnel.
- A picture is worth a thousand words
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On 1st February we are launching our latest social media tool help keep our followers as up close to the action as possible. We’re joining the popular photo sharing app - Instagram!
- Public Health England update on Superman drug
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Police and Public Health England are urging people not to take the ‘Superman’ ecstasy pill, which is believed to still be in circulation after being linked to the deaths of four people over the Christmas and New Year period.
- NHS England launches £11.5M strategy to wipe out tuberculosis in the UK
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NHS England has announced, along with Public Health England, a £11.5 million investment to decrease the number of tuberculosis cases and ultimately eliminate tuberculosis as a public health problem in England.
- National threat level
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As you are probably aware, the current national threat level is at severe which means that a terrorist attack is highly likely. It is now even more essential that you are extra vigilant regarding security of Trust premises, vehicles and equipment, including uniform.
- Reminder of Trust’s no smoking policy
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The Trust follows a no smoking policy throughout the organisation to provide a completely smoke-free environment.
- Latest JESIP News
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The ninth edition of JESIP News has been published and is available to download from the Need to Know site or from the JESIP website.
- Standard operating procedures for new equipment
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Standard operating procedures for the Trust's new trauma equipment are now available on East24.
- Pre-hospital research: questions at the cutting edge of emergency care
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The College of Paramedics is holding a research event in Hertfordshire for practitioners who are already engaged in research, as well as for those who want to get started in research.
- Remember patient details when using Corplus
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Following the launch of the new defibrillators in west Essex the project team please remember to input the patient details (name and date of birth) and CAD reference into the Corpuls3 whenever it is used, and not just when completing a 12-lead.
- Trust receives reservist award at prestigious Tower evening
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The Trust was invited to a prestigious Ceremony of the Keys evening last week in recognition of its support for the reserve forces.
- Diabetes education event in Cambridgeshire
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The Trust’s third diabetes education event, held in conjunction with the Eastern Academic Health Science Network (EAHSN), is on Thursday 26th February in Huntingdon.
- Student paramedic pathway update
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We have been working with Health Education East of England to commission the second year of the student paramedic pathway.
- Passing of former colleagues Bill and Albert
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The Trust is sad to inform staff of the passing of former colleagues Bill Tillett, from Essex, and Albert Forder, from Norfolk.
- Trust and UNISON agree wage increase for lowest banded staff
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We’re pleased to announce that the Trust has been working alongside UNISON to increase the minimum wage that we pay our lowest banded staff.
- Survey: what do you stand for?
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What do you stand for? We all have values that determine our decisions and what we think is important. But what is important in this organisation, here at EEAST? What values should we have as an ambulance service?
- Update from Anthony Marsh: values, prograssion and praise (5th February 2015)
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What do you stand for? That’s the question I, and the rest of the Board, will be asking you over the next few weeks; we all have values that determine our decisions and what we think is important, but we want to know what values you think we should have as an ambulance service.
- Dispatch Dilemma video scores a thousand hits in first few days
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Within three days of the premiere of our latest video, Dispatch Dilemma, more than a thousand people have watched it on YouTube.
- New research – public NHS satisfaction levels rise with dissatisfaction at all-time low
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Research suggests satisfaction levels with the NHS are on the up – rising from 60 to 65% – while dissatisfaction levels dropped to an all-time low (15%).
- Message to staff from Bedford HOSC
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On Tuesday evening, Locality Director Dave Fountain attended Bedford borough health overview scrutiny committee and received the following message for staff.
- Calling all staff in Hemel Hempstead
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The Urgent Care Centre in Hemel Hempstead is holding an open morning next Wednesday for Trust staff, to give more information on the wider range of patients they will now treat.
- Incident in Broxbourne: using specialist equipment to test for carbon monoxide
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Read about a recent incident involving a family in Hertfordshire who were treated for carbon monoxide poisoning.
- Newspaper salutes CFR co-ordinator
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Pam Biggs, a Community First Responder (CFR) Co-ordinator from Hitchin has been nominated for a Comet award for tireless work in her community.
- REAP level change
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Due to stabilised demand, the Trust has today moved from REAP level 4 to REAP level 3.
- Jeremy Hunt: a message to NHS staff on whistleblowing
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"Two years ago, Sir Robert Francis published his public inquiry report on the failures of care at Mid Staffordshire NHS Foundation Trust. His findings shook the NHS to its core, and I made it my priority as Health Secretary to work hand-in-glove with all of you to ensure that such an unspeakable tragedy could never occur in our NHS again."
- UNISON mediators
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The mediation policy has recently been updated to allow staff to request a UNISON mediator.
- Change to patient experience module in Datix
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The Datix patient experience module has now been configured to send out automatic notifications to the person/s selected in the main chosen investigator, and additional investigator, fields.
- Reminder of NHS pension choice deadline
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On 1st April, a new NHS pension scheme will be introduced that will have a normal pension age (NPA) that is the same as the individual’s state pension age (SPA).
- Emotional reunion sees great-grandfather meet his life-savers
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A great-grandfather has been reunited with his life-savers after he suffered a cardiac arrest in a Cambridgeshire shopping centre.
- New transfer process for emergency ops and EOC
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As you might be aware, the Trust overhauled the transfer process to make it simpler, quicker and more effective in July 2013.
- Modular ECA to Tech course launches in Essex following your feedback
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The first modular ECA to technician conversion course is being launched in Essex next month, giving staff a new way of progressing through the organisation.
- Putting our best foot forward: EEAST reintroduces Magnum boots
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Staff will soon be stepping out in new Magnum boots as the specialist emergency-service footwear makes a return to the Trust.
- A better place to work, step-by-step: your weekly update from our CEO
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The weekly message from Anthony Marsh.
- Risks of fluid/food thickening powder: an alert from NHS England
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NHS England has issued a patient safety alert following an incident where a care home resident died following the accidental ingestion of thickening powder that had been left within their reach.
- Waste office in Hellesdon
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Please be aware that the waste office at Hellesdon, Norwich has now closed and correspondence will no longer be accepted there.
- New advice on treating gastro-oesophageal reflux disease
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The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) has issued new advice to healthcare professionals to be alert to red flag symptoms, which may suggest gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GORD) or other disorders.
- Golden duo receive EOC award
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Praise has been heaped on two of Bedford’s call takers for reaching an important landmark in providing excellent 'customer service’.
- New study funds carbon monoxide screening on scene
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An idea that originated from our frontline staff has turned into a funded, 15-month study into the need for carbon monoxide screening on scene.
- Diabetes referral success
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Following a campaign to ‘Think Hypo-Think Referral’, there has been a 400% increase in primary care hypoglycaemia referrals in north Norfolk, Norwich and Waveney.
- Patient-focused, passion and professionalism – your top three so far
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Last week we launched our values survey, so we’ve been collating your votes on what you stand for and what values you think we should have as an ambulance service.
- Medicine management SOPs
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The Trust has approved a number of standard operating procedures (SOPs) for the safer management of medicines.
- Colin Grundy
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We are extremely saddened to report the news that our colleague Colin Grundy, a QSAP at Kings Lynn, has passed away after a period of illness.
- EEAST Burnham baby born!
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Congratulations to Paramedic Caroline and Station Supervisor Paul Harrison, both based at Burnham station, on the birth of their baby boy, Hugo.
- Paramedics donate AEDs as part of Trust’s 1,000 project
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Student Paramedic Helen Harbar and her Paramedic Mentor Carl Batchelor visited a school in Bedfordshire last week to donate one of the Trust’s 1,000 new automated external defibrillators for our region.
- Albert Forder’s funeral
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Following the sad news of former colleague Albert Forder’s passing earlier this month, his funeral has been arranged for Monday 2nd March.
- Vehicle daily inspections – some of your FAQs answered
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Following the article on protected time for vehicle checks last week, the Trust responds to your questions on the subject.
- FBU strike on 25th February
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The Fire Brigade Union (FBU) will be taking part in a 24-hour strike starting at 7am on Wednesday 25th February.
- Upgrade to smartcard system this weekend
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A new management system for Trust smartcards will go live between 19th – 23rd February.
- New director of nursing and clinical quality starts
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The new Director of Nursing and Clinical Quality, Sandy Brown, joins the Trust next week.
- Successful prosecution for paramedic attack
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A paramedic, who was the victim of a horrific attack, has welcomed the conclusion of a court case brought against a young woman who assaulted an EEAST crew last year.
- Policy changes offer more staff support
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A range of new, supportive policy changes have been agreed by the Trust and UNISON.
- Update from Anthony Marsh - 19th February 2015
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Your weekly message from the Trust Chief Executive.
- Ten-year-old Hadleigh girl commended after horrific road crash
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Paramedics have praised a girl from Essex for remaining calm and composed after seeing her mum involved in a horrific road traffic collision.
- Having the ‘Freedom to Speak Up’
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If you had a concern about patient safety and care, would you raise it?
- Scientists on target with dementia cure
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Scientists are on target to develop a cure for dementia within the next 10 years, Alistair Burns, NHS England’s national clinical director for dementia has said.
- HART paramedic takes on 70k trek
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Paramedic Mark Wheaton is taking on a 70k trek in the Grand Canyon to raise money for a cancer charity in Essex.
- Calling all HCPC registered paramedics!
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My name is Lyn Scillitoe, I am a paramedic from Essex who has been studying for a MSc in Paramedic Science for the past five years. I have finally reached the home straight where I have to write my dissertation which is where I need some help!
- Scarlet fever rise sees 300 cases reported last week
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Scarlet fever cases are on the rise again across England, with 1,265 new cases reported in just the first six weeks of this year – and more than 50 in our region.
- Third kitchen chemistry session
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An explosives expert from the Royal Navy will be holding a training session next month about the risks of home-made devices and showing how easily these can be made from normal household products.
- Investigating complaints
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As part of the Trust’s ongoing commitment to the duty of candour and being an open and transparent organisation, we recognise and understand the importance of learning from people’s experiences.
- IT maintenance: access to I:Drive on Wednesday (25th)
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Some IT maintenance is being carried out tonight (17th March) between 9pm and midnight; this means some users won’t be able to access shared folders on the I:Drive on Trust PCs and laptops during this time – particularly in Essex where the server is based.
- Links to recent quality improvement webinars
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As advertised in Need to Know last month, a series of free webinars about quality improvement have been developed, as part of the IMPACT-ASCQI research project.
- Innovation for pre-hospital emergency care conference
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South East Coast Ambulance Service is hosting a two-day conference in Brighton on pre-hospital emergency care, which is CPD accredited.
- Advanced EZ-IO workshops
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Teleflex, the Trust’s EZ-IO supplier, are holding two training workshops on how to use the EZ-IO in March and April and have offered free places to EEAST staff.
- Emergency oxygen event in Cambridge
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An opportunity to discuss best practice at this one-day event in Cambridge.
- New NHSmail feature
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You are now able to send secure emails from your NHSmail account to users of non-accredited or insecure email services such as Hotmail, Gmail, Yahoo and those ending in .nhs.uk.
- Government Ministers praise Trust after visit to Witham station
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Health Minister Rt Hon Earl Howe and MP for Witham Priti Patel joined a crew on Friday to experience first-hand what working on the frontline is really like for our staff.
- Listening to staff
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Over the last few weeks hundreds of staff have been giving their feedback and thoughts to the Trust and UNISON.
- Feet first into your new Magnum boots
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Following the news that Magnum boots are making a return to the Trust’s uniform provision, the Trust is pleased to publish which styles are available and how to order them.
- New legislation for frontline staff wearing seatbelts
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An amendment to legislation means frontline staff are exempt from the requirement to wear a seatbelt when providing urgent treatment to patients in the back of an ambulance from 2nd March.
- EEAST wins west Essex PTS contract
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We are delighted to announce that we have won the patient transport service (PTS) contract for west Essex.
- Colin Grundy's funeral service
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- Estimated 30 million affected by ‘rare diseases’
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It’s Rare Disease Day on Saturday (28th February) – the one day each year that aims to increase awareness of the circa 6,000 conditions classed as ‘rare diseases’ worldwide.
- New number for driver training
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Please be aware that the phone number for the Trust’s Driver Training Unit has changed – you can now reach the team on 01638 582212.
- Press release: Grandfather pays tribute to 'amazing' lifesavers after golf course cardiac arrest
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The latest press release on a patient meet-up in Gorleston.
- What do you want to see in the quality account?
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Every year the Trust sets quality priorities, which are published into a quality account, setting out the standard of service we provide.
- Tell the CQC what you think
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The Care Quality Commission (CQC) has launched a survey to find out what frontline health and social care staff think of their organisation.
- Remember how SPOC can help you
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Following a recent dip in referrals, the single point of contact (SPOC) team would like to remind you how they can help with delivering the best care to patients, with a range of referrals.
- Paramedic running marathon for children’s cardiac charity
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A paramedic from Luton is running the London marathon to raise money for a cardiac charity for young people, following his son’s open heart surgery before Christmas.
- Salary sacrifice
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The introduction of the 2015 NHS pension scheme has important implications for members with salary sacrifice arrangements and those considering them in the future.
- Upgrade to Beds and Herts admin network
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On Thursday night, an essential upgrade to the Bedfordshire and Hertfordshire admin network will take place between 8 – 10pm.
- Upcoming stock takes
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Please note the following stock takes are scheduled in Chelmsford, Norwich and Dunstable this month.
- Change in email address for DLOs in Norfolk
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Please note the DOMEastNorfolk email address is no longer in use.
- International aid company unable to take consumables
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Unfortunately the international aid company that makes good use of the Trust’s out of date consumables can no longer take them due to storage capacity.
- Staff share learning at trauma conference after boy’s A47 coach fall
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Paediatric trauma incidents are some of the most difficult we attend as an ambulance service – both clinically and emotionally for the staff involved.
- Staff and CFRs join up to launch defibrillator in St. Albans
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On Friday (27th February), staff and CFRs launched a new automated external defibrillator (AED) at Boots in St Albans, alongside County Councillor Sandy Walkington.
- A “nail-biting week ahead”: graduate paramedics flock to HQ for assessment day
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They came, they saw – and now they want to join us!
- Response to staff feedback on new ambulances
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The Trust’s head of operations support has answered some questions about features on the new ambulances, following recent staff feedback.
- Staff say a poignant farewell
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Tributes have been paid to a dedicated member of staff who passed away after a battle with cancer.
- The Friends and Family test needs you!
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Following the successful pilot, the roll out of the Friends and Family test (FFT) is now underway across the region.
- Staff survey 2014 results published
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The 2014 staff survey results show that more than 70% of EEAST staff feel satisfied with the quality of patient care they are able to deliver, a 7% increase from the previous year.
- Protected time agreed for vehicle checks
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We all know the importance in our line of work of having the right vehicle with the right equipment on it; vehicle inspections make sure that the vehicle you’re working on is safe for you, and for your patients and this is an issue that both Unison and staff have raised and commented on.
- Update from Anthony Marsh - 5th March 2015
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Your weekly message from the Trust Chief Executive.
- Patient safety alert from NHS England: low molecular weight heparins
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NHS England has issued a patient safety alert following more than 70 incidents where low molecular weight heparin was given to patients despite known contraindications, 16 of which resulted in severe harm or death.
- Use of low power mode for emergency lights
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The Trust has received complaints from other road users that they have been dazzled by on-coming emergency vehicles driving under emergency conditions.
- Additional info for IV paracetamol administration
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Further to the clinical bulletin on IV paracetamol last month, please read some additional advice for administration.
- Proposals to introduce independent prescribing by paramedics
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In recent years, the NHS has allowed a wider range of allied health professions (AHPs) to prescribe or supply and administer medicines to patients.
- How much do you know about information governance?
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The information governance team want to find out how much you know about data protection, confidentiality and information security to help you in the future.
- Jeremy Hunt: message to NHS staff on Morecambe Bay investigation
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The Secretary of State for Health talks about the investigation into care provided by the maternity and neonatal unit at Morecambe Bay.
- NHS Change Day: do something better together
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NHS Change Day is the simplest thing in the world: we give ourselves permission to make the changes we can make, share them, and inspire others.
- Webinars from PAM
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Our occupational health provider, PAM, is hosting a series of webinars for managers and users of OHIO.
- Calling all staff from west Hertfordshire
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The team behind a review into healthcare in west Hertfordshire want to hear from frontline staff for your thoughts into proposed changes aimed at improving care in the area.
- A refresher on information governance
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A helpful reminder of the most important elements of information governance (IG) and your responsibilities in this area.
- Sign up to Safety webinars
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The Sign up to Safety campaign holds a variety of regular webinars, including ones hosted by experts on specific safety topics.
- Faulty batteries in laryngoscope handle
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The Trust supplies department has learnt of several faulty or damaged batteries found in laryngoscope handles.
- Change to Ipswich pre-alert number
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Please be aware that from 9am on Wednesday, 1st April, the pre-alert number for Ipswich Hospital A&E will change.
- Importance of clinical waste disposal
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A recent audit has found that clinical waste is not being disposed of correctly across the Trust and the legal requirement to fill in waste labels is not being completed.
- Airway management in cardiac arrest research opportunity
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Paramedics from EEAST have been invited to take part in a national clinical trial to determine the best method of airway management in pre-hospital cardiac arrest.
- Student paramedic web chat sparks huge interest
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Our digital channels were inundated with questions from potential student paramedics during a joint web chat on Twitter and Facebook on Tuesday evening.
- Staff praised in latest patient survey
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More than 98% of patients treated in December were satisfied or very satisfied with the service they received – from call to care.
- Update from Anthony Marsh - 12th March 2015
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Your weekly message from the Trust Chief Executive.
- Health Assure maintenance
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HealthAssure will be taken offline for scheduled maintenance on Thursday 12th March between 5pm and 7pm.
- Theft of medical gas cylinders
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With the music festival season approaching, NHS Protect has issued an alert to warn about thefts of medical gas cylinders.
- Rumour busting: ECA to EMT pathway
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There have been a lot of questions and rumours making their way around the Trust about the ECA to EMT development pathway – here Chief Executive Anthony Marsh sorts the fact from the fiction!
- New combined ID / access cards
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To increase Trust security and lower administrative costs, the Trust is moving towards a combined ID and access card.
- Save on meals out to holidays with Health Service Discounts
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Previously known as NHS Discounts, Health Service Discounts has exclusive money saving offers for NHS employees, and their friends and family as well!
- Stalham CFRs celebrate 10 years’ service
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Managers and volunteers came together on Friday evening to celebrate 10 years of community first responders (CFRs) in Stalham, Norfolk.
- Increase in needle-stick and splash injuries
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Following an increase in the number of occupational exposure incidents during February, we would like to remind staff about the importance of following standard precautions.
- Loss of enhanced protection and fixed protection in 2015 pension scheme
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If you have or are building a large pension pot, please note that the NHS 2015 pension scheme may affect your lifetime allowance.
- Atropine back in stock at some hospitals
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Please be aware that atropine in pre-filled syringes is back in stock at some hospitals in the region.
- "Miracle" baby reunited with lifesaving paramedic years on
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A case of mistaken identity led to a surprise reunion for paramedic Steve Salter and a child he delivered in an extremely challenging birth seven years ago.
- Trust praised at recent HOSC meetings
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Senior managers have reported excellent feedback and praise for staff from recent health overview and scrutiny committee meetings in Norfolk, Cambridgeshire and central Bedfordshire.
- Update from Anthony Marsh - 19th March 2015
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Your weekly message from the Trust Chief Executive.
- New pay charts published for NHS staff
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The pay offer made by the Government for NHS staff in England has now been accepted by the NHS trade unions.
- Have your say on our vision
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Over the past few weeks we’ve been finding out what’s important to you, what values you think we should sign up to, and what you think our organisations should be aspiring to achieve.
- Changes to drug driving law
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On 2nd March the drug driving law changed to make it easier for the police to catch and convict drug drivers.
- Clinical red flags: observations and conditions
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Some patients are being left at home despite having a clinical red flag, so a thorough assessment is essential to identifying the right care for your patient.
- Student paramedic materials
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In order to support student paramedics in their studies, the Trust will be providing some key reference material.
- Press release: Student paramedic set for Cameroon charity quest
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Read about student paramedic Michael Holgate's trip to central Africa in the Trust's latest press release.
- Love digital? Tell us what you think
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With Britons spending more time on tech than asleep and a third of the UK population checking Facebook every day, the Trust is seeking the views of staff, volunteers and the public on how we do digital.
- Death in service payment
-
Following the death of colleague Colin Grundy, who was a member of the Trust’s death in service scheme, a payment has been to his estate.
- “Fantastic response” to research opportunity
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There are only a few places left for paramedics to take part in a national clinical trial to determine the best method of airway management in pre-hospital cardiac arrest.
- Join our specialist operations response team
-
All ambulance trusts have developed specialist operations response teams to help decontaminate casualties at incidents – and now we’re looking for members to join ours.
- Trust launches life-saving community campaign
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A cardiac arrest survivor has backed the Trust’s new campaign Their Life, Your Hands, which aims to take the fear out of using a life-saving defibrillator if someone collapses nearby.
- Update from Anthony Marsh - 26th March 2015
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Your weekly message from the Trust Chief Executive.
- Bedfordshire MP graduates with new CFR recruits
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Following Andrew Selous’ visit to the Trust in October, the Bedfordshire MP has now completed his community first responder training, alongside 18 fellow new volunteers.
- Clock changes this weekend
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On Sunday morning the clocks go forward by one hour at 0100. In line with previous
agreements, for staff that finish at 1am, 2am or 3am when the seasonal clock change occurs they will work their contacted number of hours.
- Staff surprise child caller
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Call Handler George Lock and Student Paramedic Georgina Kell surprised 10-year-old Tyler D’Arcy-Jones at his school assembly on 13th March with an award for outstanding care when he called 999 for his dad.
- Safety walkabout audits
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The safety walkabout audit tool has been reviewed and questions on training and mentorship, capacity to consent and prophylaxis have been added.
- Political activity ahead of the General Election
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As the countdown starts to the 2015 General Election, we’ve put together a staff briefing to indicate how we need to engage with all politicians in the in the pre-election period known as ‘purdah’.
- Call handler helps deliver two babies in one shift
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Chelmsford Call Handler Lisa McGee helped deliver two babies in one shift, in a story that has been reported in the press and captured social media.
- Trust update: improving working conditions
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Last week a joint working group, made up of managers and UNISON staffside met.
- Disabling IT accounts
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The Trust is reviewing old user accounts and will be identifying and disabling any account that has not been logged into in the nine months since 13th April.
- Blue bin-it!
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It’s a story that we see in the news all too often – confidential or sensitive documents lost or stolen, people’s details being leaked and shared, and a huge fallout in the public eye for the individuals or companies involved.
- Ambulance stalwart retires after 44 years
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Friends and colleagues gathered last week to wish a very fond farewell to much-loved Steve Grimes, as he retires from the Trust with a staggering 44 years of service.
- New control desk provides one on one support to crews
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A new control desk has been launched region-wide to help provide dedicated support to crews at ‘unusual’ incidents.
- Praise for 'first class' service in patient survey
-
The Trust has been described as “first class in every way” after achieving 100% satisfaction in January’s patient survey.
- All above board for Chris’ innovative idea
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A duty locality officer in Southend has won £500-worth of funding after coming highly commended in an innovation competition.
- Award wins for staff
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The Ambulance Service Institute (ASI) has announced the results of their 2014/15 national awards and there are six individual winners from EEAST!
- Update from Anthony Marsh - 2nd April 2015
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Your weekly message from the Trust Chief Executive.
- Staff visit new ambulance station in west Hertfordshire
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More than 40 staff attended an open day at the new station for St Albans and Hemel Hempstead to see how building work is progressing, ahead of the official opening in June.
- Don’t forget Datix
-
A number of recent serious incidents have not been reported on Datix, meaning a delay in the investigation, a lack of learning and on occasions, the same incident being repeated.
- V Festival 2015
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The Trust will be providing the emergency cover at this year’s V Festival in Hylands Park, Chelmsford for four days from 21st – 24th August.
- Have you ordered a new ID badge and not received it?
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After reading the article on Need to Know a few weeks ago, a number of you got in touch with us to say that you’d previously ordered replacement ID forms but hadn’t yet received them.
- Rachel set for marathon challenge in memory of her mum
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Rachel Acamon-Carbonelli, a health care referrer with the Trust, is hoping to raise hundreds of pounds for Action on Addiction when she runs the London Marathon next month in memory of her mother.
- Building the NHS of the Five Year Forward View - NHS England Business Plan
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Ten new priorities have been set out by NHS England to ensure patient safety and quality of care this year.
- The paramedic view: Nick shares hypo learning
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“Think hypo, think referral.”
That’s the message from a Suffolk paramedic after attending one of our diabetes learning events last month.
- Invite to EAAA's clinical air ambulance day
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The East Anglian Air Ambulance is once again inviting colleagues here at EEAST to attend their latest clinical governance day – a day completely dedicated to case studies, discussion, and joint learning.
- Ed’s in the running for charity
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The Brighton Marathon is one of the UK's favourite 26.2-milers. With a stunning backdrop of the sea in one of the country's most vibrant cities, the race gets bigger and better every year.
- Celebrations all round for Pam’s “wonderful award”
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A member of the Trust’s User Group, Pam Morris, has been recognised for her outstanding contribution as a volunteer by Harpenden Council.
- Trust delivers on 1,000 defibrillators scheme
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The huge project to improve the life-saving capabilities of communities across the region has been hailed a success, with 1,000 defibrillators delivered in the east of England over the last three months.
- Paramedics take part in training for national research study
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By the end of the week almost 100 paramedics will have been trained to take part in the Airways-2 clinical trial, the prestigious national study to determine the best method of airway management in pre-hospital cardiac arrest.
- Update from Anthony Marsh - 9th April
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Your weekly message from the Trust Chief Executive.
- “Excellent” out-of-hours service receives high praise
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The Trust’s out-of-hours service in Bedford has been praised in a new patient survey, with 100% of people surveyed ‘very satisfied’ or ‘satisfied’ with the experience they received.
- South Beds sees 150 staff Corpuls trained – in just four weeks
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South Bedfordshire is leading the way for training after delivering Corpuls sessions to 150 staff in just four weeks – and it’s all down to a “can do attitude” according to the project lead.
- Stars of Norfolk awards
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The Eastern Daily Press has launched its annual Stars of Norfolk and Waveney Awards – who would you like to see follow in Allison Muffett’s winning footsteps?
- Ambulance Services Charity is launched
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The Ambulance Services Charity (TASC), which has replaced the Ambulance Service Benevolent Fund, was officially launched at the beginning of the month.
- Supply maintenance at Norwich EOC
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Power supply work is due to be carried out in Norwich EOC tomorrow (15th April), starting at 10.30am, which means the CAD system will be powered by the national grid mains only.
- Gaining entry to a patient’s property
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On occasions, crews may need to gain entrance to a property if they believe it is necessary to save a life and / or someone is reasonably believed to need medical help.
- Staff and CFRs launch defibrillator in Leighton Buzzard
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On Saturday, staff and CFRs launched a new community public access defibrillator at the local library in Leighton Buzzard as part of a community event promoting the devices.
- Happy birthday Need to Know!
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Tomorrow marks the first year anniversary of the Need to Know rolling news site – and since then the award-winning site has had more than 1.2 million page views!
- How regional telephony is improving response to patients
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Last year we saw a significant change in our control rooms with the implementation of regional telephony and whilst this has been a big adjustment for all of our EOC staff, the change has led to a big improvement in our service to patients.
- Update from Anthony Marsh - 16th April 2015
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Your weekly update from the Trust Chief Executive.
- Press release: Top of the league for response to most critically ill patients
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Read the Trust's press release issued this week on our Red 1 performance in February.
- Marauding firearms incident: knowing what to do
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If we received a 999 call to say that a roaming gunman was on the loose, would you know what to do?
- What is MERS-CoV?
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Middle Eastern Respiratory Syndrome (MERS) is a viral respiratory infection caused by coronavirus (MERS-CoV).
- Are you eligible for a long service award?
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So far our invitees to this year’s Long Service and Excellence Awards have clocked up a staggering 2,645 years of service between them – and there’s still time to add your number to the list if you think you’re eligible.
- May is trauma month
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Throughout May there will be a clinical focus on trauma on Need to Know and gathering of information to share with the Trauma Network – and we want to know what you would like to read and see during the month.
- Summary of CFR strategic meeting
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In a new quarterly feature, you can read about what happened at April’s community first responder strategic group meeting at Trust headquarters in Melbourn.
- Reporting failures of medical devices
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Please ensure that if a medical device fails or a problem develops when using it, you report it via Datix so it can be investigated thoroughly.
- Graduation day at Chelmsford training centre!
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Multiple celebrations took place on Friday at Chelmsford training centre, as 18 student paramedics and five direct-entry paramedics finished their courses.
- New clinical non-executive director appointed
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A nurse who has previously been a CEO of community mental health and learning disability NHS trusts has been appointed as a non-executive director at EEAST.
- Inappropriate calls released
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Emergency operations centre colleagues have been thanked for their involvement in the latest Trust video and media release.
- Chief Executive recruitment update
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The recruitment advert for a new Chief Executive will be published tomorrow (Friday, 24th April).
- Update from Anthony Marsh - 23rd April 2015
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Your weekly message from the Trust Chief Executive.
- HCPC fees consultation
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The Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) has launched a consultation on proposals to increase its registration fees this year.
- Work completed to improve Barton Mills
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The Trust’s workshop at Barton Mills has undergone a major refurbishment to increase teaching capacity at the driver training school and improve the facilities for Trust staff.
- Cardiac arrest survivor reunited with Trust staff and CFR
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Cardiac arrest survivor Richard Knapp was this week re-united with the community first responder and staff from EEAST and Basildon and Thurrock University Hospital who saved his life.
- PPI team report “good feedback” in Welwyn Garden City
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Dozens of shoppers visited the patient and public involvement team at the Howard Centre in Welwyn Garden City last week, and told them how good they thought the service was.
- Toughbook security
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As part of the current upgrade to the Trust’s ePCR, toughbooks will be issued to all new ambulances and rapid response cars, to include the recent increase in our fleet.
- Video: HART put through their training paces
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The communications team joined HART at Great Notley recently to see them test their working at height and use of breathing apparatus skills, in their annual refresher training.
- Accessing emails from home
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Don’t have time to log onto a work computer to check your emails? Remember, if you want to you can check your emails from home/your phone by logging into Outlook via our website.
- Psychosis site is valuable mental health resource, say researchers
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A website detailing the causes, treatment and care of psychosis has been recommended for frontline staff wanting to know more about the condition.
- Calling all ECAs!
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Are you an emergency care assistant (ECA) currently working in a frontline role with the Trust? Have you been thinking about your career development and starting your journey to becoming a paramedic?
- Thirteen on their way to EMT success
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It might be an unlucky number for some, but 13 of our ECAs have cause to celebrate this week after taking the next step towards becoming emergency medical technicians (EMTs).
- Update from Anthony Marsh - 30th April 2015
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"I start my message with good news as we’re a step closer to our new vision and values this week".
CEO Anthony Marsh
- Late finishes update
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The Trust Board, along with UNISON Branch Secretary Fraer Stevenson, yesterday discussed the issue of late finishes for staff. All agreed that urgent action needs to be taken to reduce late finishes, reduce some of the pressure on staff and make EEAST a better place to work.
- Emotional first marathon for Rachel
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Congratulations to Rachel Acamon-Carbonelli who completed her first marathon at the weekend in memory of her mother.
- Praise for "first rate" service in latest patient survey
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Our staff have been praised yet again for their professionalism and “first rate” care in the latest patient survey.
- Three-hundred miles for the Sick Children's Trust
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Lisa Ardley, a QSAP from Waveney, cycled from London to Paris earlier this month to raise money for a charity that has been helping a colleague during his son’s treatment for leukaemia.
- Essex stalwart retires after four decades in public services
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After dedicating 40 years to public services, ambulance-man Keith Coleman is hanging up his uniform and looking forward to a new life in the Spanish sunshine.
- Vehicles to be audited monthly for infection prevention and control
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Our infection prevention and control (IPC) audit schedule is currently being reviewed to ensure that it continues to meet requirements for IPC auditing.
- Accessing Barton Mills
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As of Wednesday (6th May), accessing our site at Barton Mills out of hours will become a lot easier!
- Air ambulance learning: invite to this month's EAAA day
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The East Anglian Air Ambulance is inviting colleagues here at EEAST to attend their May clinical governance day – a day completely dedicated to case studies, discussion, and joint learning.
- Final module 7 course finishes
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The final five clinicians have finished the Trust’s last module seven course and taken huge strides towards becoming registered paramedics.
- Remember the PE questionnaire?
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Last year in Need to Know we asked about your knowledge of pulmonary embolism (PE) and we are pleased to tell you what action has been taken based on what you told us.
- How sure are you that your positive is a negative?
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This month our clinical focus is on trauma, so we are starting with the East of England Trauma Network (EoETN), as a reminder of how it can help you with our most seriously-injured patients.
- Completion of time sheets
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Frontline staff claiming incidental overtime for a late finish need to put the last four numbers of the CAD number which caused the late finish on their overtime sheet.
- Communications team shortlisted for four awards
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The Trust’s communications team has been shortlisted for four UK Public Sector Communications Awards this year.
- Luton paramedic delivers ECG sessions for colleagues
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More than 40 staff of all clinical levels took part in advanced ECG interpretation sessions at Luton station last week – and the paramedic who organises them is hoping to run further sessions and make them available to others in the Trust.
- Update from Anthony Marsh - 7th May
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Your weekly message from the Trust Chief Executive.
- Work is progressing to reopen Norwich ambulance station
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The Trust’s Hellesdon base has not been used as a station since 2007; however it will become operational 24/7 later this month.
- Equality, Diversity and Human Rights week
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Next week is Equality, Diversity and Human Rights week and the theme is ‘linking our thinking’.
- Would you like to give your opinion concerning cardiac arrest resuscitation practice?
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Calling all qualified paramedics and technicians – your views are needed for an international research study exploring the prevalence of the perception of inappropriate CPR and its impact on health care providers.
- ePCR damage
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Following damage to toughbooks costing a thousand pounds in the last two weeks, please remember that units shouldn’t be placed within the trolley mechanism when transferring patients into hospital.
- Trauma month: immobilisation and packaging of trauma patients
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Spinal immobilisation is a much-debated topic and there is a changing thought process surrounding the care of patients with possible or suspected spinal injuries; this article identifies the current standard for immobilisation and draws attention to some possible changes in the future.
- ePCR upgrade
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The upgrade to the Trust’s ePCR software will be completed with the switch-over to the latest version overnight on Tuesday.
- Trauma month: pre-hospital care
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Major trauma makes up less than 5% of the entire workload of the ambulance service, meaning the average ambulance crew will only be exposed to a major trauma patient a couple of times a year.
- Vehicle vandalised in Sudbury
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Staff are being urged to be vigilant after a rapid response vehicle (RRV) was vandalised in Suffolk at the weekend.
- Update from Anthony Marsh - 14th May 2015
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Your weekly message from the Trust Chief Executive.
- Nearly 200 blood pressure checks taken at PPI events
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Shoppers in Cambridge and Chelmsford were given free blood pressure checks last week, with four being referred to their GP for follow-up.
- Latest HR e-zine published
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This week’s HR e-zine has been published with the latest and current Trust vacancies.
- Sharing links on Need to Know
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We celebrated Need to Know’s first birthday a few weeks ago; since it launched it’s grown in popularity, with more than 1.2 million page views on the site in just 12 months.
- Successful SPOC referral for diabetes patient
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A referral to the new diabetes pathway by an EEAST crew has resulted in a patient and his wife feeling much more confident about managing the condition in the future.
- National ambulance golf competitions
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The West Midlands and National Ambulance Services Strokeplay competitions are coming up in the next month.
- Message from Secretary of State
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Secretary of State for Health Jeremy Hunt MP has written a message to all NHS staff following his reappointment after the general election.
- When to contact security or fraud specialists
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If you are confused or don’t know who to contact with a security or fraud issue, this article provides a guide to ensure you get the help you need straight away.
- Trauma month – management of traumatic cardiac arrest
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Although rare, patients who have a traumatic cardiac arrest (TCA) are on the whole previously fit and well, until the point of injury that has caused the arrest.
- Latest HR e-zine published - 21st May
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This week’s HR e-zine has been published with the latest and current Trust vacancies.
- Teaching the next generation how to use 999
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Emergency Care Practitioner Paul Davis met pupils from Little Gaddesden Church of England Primary School in Berkhamstead last week to teach them more about the service.
- Canvey ECP retires after 30 years in service
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Nigel Davies pulled on his green uniform for the final time last week after a 30-year career in the ambulance service.
- Is it getting hot in here?
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The Trust is taking part in an Association of Ambulance Chief Executives temperature mapping project to ensure medicines are being kept at the correct temperatures in emergency vehicles.
- Staff take up learning opportunities in west Norfolk
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A programme of intense learning has been delivered in west Norfolk, with staff completing their training on new trauma equipment and the new Corpuls defibrillators within six weeks.
- Late finishes update
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Over the last few months, we have been working closely with UNISON to develop proposals to help reduce late finishes.
- Update from Anthony Marsh - 21st May 2015
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Your weekly message from the Trust Chief Executive.
- Call handler praises Cambridgeshire girl
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Trust Call Handler Mandy Knapman was reunited with 11-year-old Maddison Hunter this week to recognise the school girl’s calmness when she called 999 after her mum suffered a seizure at home.
- Care bundles: improving patient outcomes
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The concept of care bundles was developed in 2001 by the Institute for Healthcare Improvement, as part of an initiative to improve patient outcomes in intensive care units.
- Five reasons to reduce carbon at EEAST
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We all need to do our bit to reduce carbon at the Trust, so here are the reasons why you should...
- Update on ebola
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Since the World Health Organisation declared it an international public health emergency in August 2014, the NHS has done an enormous amount to support the fight against Ebola.
- Giving statements to police
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A recent case has highlighted the need for us to manage the situation around operational staff giving formal statements to police officers.
- Trauma month – haemorrhage control
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With the ongoing rollout of the new trauma equipment across the region, we want to recap on what equipment is available to help patients, as part of trauma month.
- Is your clinical role on your epaulettes?
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All staff have been asked to ensure they are wearing their correct clinical role on their epaulettes, so that it is easily identifiable by ambulance and hospital colleagues alike.
- Latest HR e-zine published - 28th May
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This week’s HR e-zine has been published with the new and current Trust vacancies.
- CFR takeover week
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The life-saving work of community first responders will be celebrated next week.
- Renewing your HCPC registration
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From Monday (1st June), the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) will begin sending letters to all registered paramedics inviting them to renew their registration before 31st August.
- MIND resilience course available for all EEAST staff
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Following the allocation of bank fines to support emergency services staff nationally, the mental health charity MIND has designed a personal resilience course which is now open for all EEAST staff to apply for.
- Late finishes pilot launches
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We have been with working with UNISON to develop a pilot to help reduce late finishes and the impact these have on staff. As a result of this work, we are now in a position to launch the first phase of the pilot.
- Update from Anthony Marsh - 28th May 2015
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Your weekly message from the Trust Chief Executive.
- Locality director impressed with the next generation of paramedics
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Locality Director Matt Broad met the first paramedic science students at University Campus Suffolk, in Ipswich last week, who will joining EEAST on their placements later this year.
- Trauma month: tips on how you can best manage your patient
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An innovative approach to managing adverse incidents in the aviation world is being adopted by ambulance services to help deal with traumatic incidents.
- Trauma month: optimising care for the major trauma patient
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For patients suffering a major trauma, time is of the essence but there is a fine balance to be found between staying on scene to optimise care and getting the patient to hospital as quickly as possible.
- Former footballer thanks staff
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A former professional footballer has said a heartfelt thank you to the staff who saved his life.
- Volunteers pay tribute to ‘amazing’ Janet after award
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A founder member of the Manningtree community first responder group, Janet Webb, has been honoured with a local hero award at an awards ceremony in Colchester on Thursday.
- Trauma Month: what next
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In the last article of trauma month, we are going to look at how we can further support our patients once initially managed, packaged and transferred into an ambulance.
- Move for rapid access clinic in west Essex
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The rapid access clinic (RAC) based at St Margaret’s Hospital, Epping has moved to the Princess Alexandra Hospital (PAH) in Harlow.
- Student paras being approached by media
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We know that the BBC is trawling through LinkedIn and other social media sites to identify student paramedics (SPs) and ask them for comments on the letter sent our to SPs last week. If you are approached please simply ask them to contact the Trust's press office, which is handling this.
- Staff invited to free Chelmsford trauma conference
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Would you like to learn more about HEMS and how they can help you at trauma incidents?
- Promoting a learning culture: An update from CEO Robert Morton
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I am delighted that following a recent visit, the UEA Diploma programme for our student paramedics has been recommended for approval.
- Marathon man Tim thanked for charity fundraising efforts
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Marathon runner Tim Wigginton received a rapid response to his plea for donations to support The Ambulance Services Charity for completing the London Marathon in April.
- CFR receives unsung hero award
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A community first responder from Weston in Hertfordshire has received an outstanding award from her parish council for the support and care she has given to the community.
- Staff taking part in charity cricket match next Friday
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Staff from north Essex are ironing their whites and practicing their spin in preparation for a charity cricket match on Friday 12th against Relay for Life, Clacton.
- Latest HR e-zine published - 4th June 2015
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This week’s HR e-zine has been published with the new and current Trust vacancies.
- Essex heart attack survivor reunited with life-saving Trust staff
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Grandfather Bernard Green has been reunited with John Claridge, Neil Ashford and Geoff Baulch last week, who helped save his life almost a year ago to the day.
- Completing your mandatory training workbook
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If you have successfully completed your mandatory training workbook or e-learning modules, you will be compliant until the anniversary of the date you completed it.
- Accreditation of student paramedic course
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Since we launched our student paramedic programme last year, we have worked with Health Education East of England who commissioned two Universities to design and deliver the programme that leads to eligibility to apply for registration with the Health and Care Professional Council.
- Revalidation for nurses and midwifes
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The National Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC) is expected to launch revalidation for all nurses and midwifes in October; this means all nurses and midwives on the NMC register will be required to revalidate every three years to ensure they are safe to practice.
- Datix will be offline on Monday (4th Jan)
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On Monday (4th January), the information team will be making an upgrade to our Datix system.
- Can you banish the booze for January?
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With the start of a new year, why not kick off the resolutions by giving up alcohol for Dry January?
- CAD markers: the new flags / warnings
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Sometimes we mark extra information on our computer aided dispatch (CAD) system in relation to certain patients or addresses.
- Save the date: national ambulance Remembrance service
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The seventh national ambulance Remembrance service will take place on Thursday, 18th September at the National Memorial Arboretum in Alrewas, Staffordshire (DE13 7AR).
- Reviewing how we respond to calls
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Over the past month we have set up a group to review how we respond to 999 calls, specifically exploring how we can better use our staff and resources and provide the patient with the most appropriate response to their needs.
- Reminder: administering paracetamol to sepsis patients
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As previously published in Need to Know, sepsis is a life-threatening condition triggered by an infection.
- Polite reminder for parking at Ipswich
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Please be aware that parking availability at Ipswich station is very limited; all colleagues are politely asked to only park at the station if they are part of the operational team based there.
- Busy start to 2016 continues with 21% increase in calls in March
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New figures have revealed the scale of the demand we’re facing following a 21% increase in emergency calls.
- Vacancy and transfer list – 5th May
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This week’s HR e-zine, with the latest job vacancies, expressions of interest and transfer opportunities, has been published.
- Vacancy and transfer list – 2nd June
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This week’s HR e-zine, with the latest job vacancies, expressions of interest and transfer opportunities, has been published.
- Update from Robert Morton
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I want to take a moment this week to reflect on the commitment and support of our volunteers, be they community first responders, co-responders, chaplains, ambulance car drivers or trust user group members.
- Update from CEO Robert Morton: Support services - supporting us and supporting patients (7th July)
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In this week's update, Robert shares his time with the fleet team and makes a special dedication as London marks the 11th anniversary of the 7/7 bombings today.
- Behind the scenes: Jenna Braddick, Clinical Learning Environment Lead
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This week’s ‘behind the scenes’ spotlight shines on Jenna Braddick, our new Clinical Learning Environment Lead who is just a few months into her role.
- Vacancy and transfer list – 11th August
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This week’s HR e-zine, with the latest job vacancies, expressions of interest and transfer opportunities, is available online.
- Queue announcement added to 999 line
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This week we have introduced new technology into EOC; it is important that EOC and operational colleagues are aware in case a patient mentions this to you.
- Staff march with Pride in Brighton
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Staff joined ambulance services colleagues right across the country to take part in the annual Brighton and Hove Pride march.
- “You are heroes to me” – Essex man thanks lifesavers after cardiac arrest
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An ambulance crew from Essex have been praised after saving the life of a man from Henham who went into cardiac arrest earlier this year.
- #24HoursinEoE is back!
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This Friday (19th August) sees the return of our 24-hour ‘twitterthon’ – #24HoursinEoE, the summer edition!
- First intermediate ambulance practitioners set to join the Trust
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Congratulations to the seven new recruits who have become the Trust’s first intermediate ambulance practitioners (IAPs).
- #24HoursInEoE and a weekend of V – update from Robert Morton (18th August)
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I know many of you will be familiar with the programme ’24-Hours In A&E’. It’s a really popular programme because, believe it or not, the public really like to see behind the scenes of the health service; the drama, the care, the emotion, and the people all seem to make TV gold. So tomorrow (19th August), we’ll be running our own version - 24-hours in the east of England (or 24-hours in EoE for short).
- Accessible Information Standard – all you need to know
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Last month the Accessible Information Standard went live across all NHS organisations.
- Places available for new mental health awareness training
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North Essex Partnership is hosting two mental health awareness sessions in September which are primarily for staff in acute or emergency services, GPs, and other health professionals.
- Learn from others at the Emergency Services Show
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A free seminar on lessons learned from major UK incidents like the Shoreham air tragedy and the 2015 floods in Yorkshire will be taking place at this year’s Emergency Services Show.
- Upgrade to business continuity software
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The software that manages the Trust’s business continuity is currently being upgraded.
- Applying for roles internally: IAP and AAP
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We have had a number of questions recently regarding our staff and applying for recently advertised IAP and AAP roles.
- Congratulations to south Cambs staff winning appreciation award
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Student nurses at Addenbrooke’s Hospital have shown their appreciation to colleagues in south Cambridgeshire with an award.
- The patient transport services (PTS) contract in Cambridgeshire will start on Wednesday, (1st September).
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The patient transport services (PTS) contract in Cambridgeshire will start on Thursday, 1st September.
- ‘Think Kidneys’ campaign launched
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Guidance on the care of patients with acute kidney injury is available online, thanks to an awareness campaign.
- Gearing up for 500 mile charity ride in memory of Finnbar
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A team of pedalling paramedics are busy preparing for a charity challenge and a cause close to their hearts.
- Vacancy and transfer list - 1st September
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This week’s HR e-zine, with the latest job vacancies, expressions of interest and transfer opportunities, is now available online.
- Temporary resus change at Southend Hospital
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Staff in south Essex are asked to note that between 12th-27th September, maintenance works will change the location of the A&E resus area at Southend Hospital.
- NHS care is a small world: hear from our new Medical Director, Mark Patten (1st September)
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This week our exec message comes from our new Medical Director, Mark Patten. A few weeks into the role, Mark talks about his roots, his focus, and how NHS care is a small world.
- IX and meal break pilot update
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The IX and meal break pilot, jointly agreed between the Trust and UNISON, has now been running for one month.
- Tracy's new role at paramedic organisation
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A "unique blend of professionalism" has helped our Head of Clinical Quality Tracy Nicholls secure a top Board role at the College of Paramedics.
- Make sure you’re ready for tomorrow’s heatwave
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With temperatures set to soar over the next few days, we’ve been giving out advice to the public to help them avoid suffering in the sun.
- Essex station charity morning huge success
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More than £700 was raised in a charity coffee and cake morning at Harlow ambulance station on Tuesday (13th September).
- Go all out in denim and support Jeans for Genes Day!
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Jeans for Genes Day is on Friday, 23rd September, and you can help support and raise money for this worthwhile cause by wearing as much denim as possible.
- Book your place at our student paramedic conference
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Colleagues are invited to attend a student paramedic conference in Hertfordshire next month.
- Staff survey coming soon: have your say to make the Trust better
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It’s that time of year again – the annual NHS staff survey launches this month and all colleagues will be given the opportunity to share their views.
- Volunteers needed for Thurston College day
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Can you spare a couple of hours to help at a college day in Suffolk?
- Get your flu jab and be entered into our prize draw
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The Trust is upping its campaign this year to help you make your decision about the flu jab, and this year there are prizes up for grabs for those that have it, or complete their flu form.
- Countdown is on to launch of EEAST’s new app
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Last month we emailed you about our exciting new clinical app that will give you access, straight from your phone or tablet, to an online version of the manual and the Clinical Practice Guidelines.
- Book your place on NHS leadership event
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A conference looking at the future of leadership in health and social care will be taking place in Cambridge next week.
- Spinal immobilisation: long boards, scoops and c-spine collars
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This week we’ve released a clinical update covering the management of spinal immobilisation.
- Delivering a quality service: update from Director of Service Delivery Kevin Brown, 6th October
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This week's exec message comes from our Director of Service Delivery, Kevin Brown.
- Be the first to hear our culture results
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Our culture survey results are in, and we're looking for colleagues and volunteers to take part in a focus group to get your insight into what they're telling us.
- EEAST award ceremony celebrates amazing staff
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The music has long since died down and the tables, chairs and buffet all cleared away – but the fantastic memories of the latest Trust awards are still very much alive 24 hours later.
- National role for Wendy
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Congratulations to Wendy Risdale-Barrs who has landed a lead role on a national body for volunteer life-savers.
- Inspiring clinicians of the future
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Dozens of students have learnt to save a life after an insight into the work of the ambulance service.
- Suffolk paras train cadets to use life-saving defibs
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Two paramedics have praised the Newmarket Cadets for their enthusiasm after a training session in CPR and using a defibrillator.
- World Mental Health day focuses on traumatic events
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Today is World Mental Health Day. But how much do you think about your mental health?
- Guest blog: How is the world with you?
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"Mental health is about all of us. "
- Ambulance service makes continued progress
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Latest data shows that despite continuing increases in calls, we are getting to patients faster and delayed responses have reduced - and last week we were the best performing Trust nationally in responding to Red1 calls.
- East24 unavailable from 9pm on Monday (17th)
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Please be aware that East24, our Trust intranet site, will be unavailable from 9pm-midnight on Monday (17th October) whilst maintenance work is carried out on the site.
- Suffolk mum’s praise for crew after son injured
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A paramedic and student paramedic have been praised by the mum of a Suffolk boy who suffered a serious arm injury.
- Places still available for clinical care conference
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Two conferences highlighting clinical care will be taking place next week, and staff are invited to attend.
- Improving care at trauma network event
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Critical care staff are invited to a one day trauma peer event in Cambridge.
- Vacancy and transfer list – 13th October
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This week’s HR e-zine, with the latest job vacancies, expressions of interest and transfer opportunities, is now available online.
- Time to measure up: NHS staff survey opens
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The biggest staff survey in the UK has opened for 2016, giving you the opportunity to share your views about your job and the NHS.
- Video: the Trust awards
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This time last week we were gearing up for our annual Trust awards ceremony, celebrating the long service and achievements of our staff and volunteers.
- Get your flu jab at your nearest clinic
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Flu clinics are now up and running across the region!
- Suffolk staff strip for charity calendar
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Following the passing of our much-loved colleague, Paramedic Gary Smithen, his team wanted to remember him. So, in east Suffolk fashion, they decided to ditch their uniforms and bare all for a calendar...
- Update from CEO Robert Morton (13th October)
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Staff thank yous, ‘Dispatch on Disposition’ update and all about Suffolk’s ‘blue light flashers’. It’s your weekly update from CEO Robert Morton.
- Volunteer group scoops community award
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Congratulations to Haverhill community first responders (CFRs) who have scooped a Cambridge News community award.
- “I can’t fault you”: latest feedback from patients on your care
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Respondents of the latest survey on our service were running out of superlatives for our guys and girls in green with comments such “wonderful”, “exemplary”, and “second to none” to name a few used.
- Clinical update: safe handling of medical gases
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Across the Trust many of us will use oxygen and Entonox every day to care for our patients.
- Corpuls update: please check for purple dots!
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Our new Corpuls monitors have recently been updated, but there are a number of units that still need the most up-to-date software installing.
- Share your experiences on pre-hospital stroke care
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A fellow paramedic is researching pre-hospital stroke care - and is after your views.
- Beds staff head back to school
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Bedfordshire students were given an insight into the work we do during two school visits by members of staff.
- Free Christmas carol service in Norwich
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We might not quite be decking the halls with holly or making the Christmas pudding yet, but we have a Christmas date for your 999 diaries.
- Training for end of life care
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The Trust has teamed up with Peace Hospice Care and the Hospice of St Francis to provide a training course on end of life care.
- Changing places at Melbourn HQ
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It’s been a few months of office moves in south Cambridgeshire, as teams have moved in and out of Melbourn HQ.
- Represent EEAST at 999 sailing challenge
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Entries are open for the 2017 UK Firefighters Sailing Challenge – and this year they want more blue light teams than ever before.
- Faulty equipment? Please report the asset number
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Patient safety is the priority when it comes to medical devices – the sooner equipment issues are identified and fixed, the sooner they can be back on the road being used for patient care.
- GRS and GRSWeb software upgrade
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The GRS and GRSWeb systems will be unavailable from 6am-5pm on Tuesday, 18th October due to a software upgrade.
- Guest blog: PCRs and the ‘ethnicity code’
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Southend Student Paramedic Ben Mudd, tells us why the ‘ethnicity code’ section on the patient care record (PCR) is so important…..
- Celebrating improved value and efficiency in healthcare
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The Health Service Journal (HSJ) 2017 awards are now open for entries, and this year will be recognising outstanding efficiency and improvement within the NHS.
- Have you appreciated a Trust colleague recently?
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It’s Monday, it’s getting darker and winter is coming – so why not brighten someone’s day by recognising their efforts with a Hidden Gem award?
- Fleet guidance available online
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Guidelines to help staff if an ambulance’s charging system trips are available online.
- Get your jab and enter the prize draw
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Earlier this week, our Director of People & Culture Lindsey Stafford-Scott, the Health and Wellbeing Manager Debra Winterson and the HR team had their flu jabs by vaccinator Cliff Parsons.
- Vacancy and transfer list – 20th October
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This week’s HR e-zine, with the latest job vacancies, expressions of interest and transfer opportunities, is now available online.
- Staff survey: How confidential is your response?
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The NHS staff survey is now open! You should by now have received, or will do shortly, your unique username and password to complete the survey.
- Book for a spooktacular fundraiser in memory of SJ
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Tickets are still available to a Halloween fundraising event, held by family and friends of beloved colleague Sarah-Jane Cunningham in her memory.
- Software change improves CSD flexibility
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An update to the software used by the clinical support desk (CSD) in our EOCs now gives clinicians more flexibility to explore symptoms further to help their telephone triage.
- New primary care service in Cambs and north Herts
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Patients in Cambridgeshire, Peterborough, Oundle, Wansford and Royston are using a new NHS 111 and GP out of hours urgent care scheme as of this week.
- update from Robert Morton (20th October)
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A big well done to Suffolk’s ‘blue light flashers’, staff thank yous and ‘winter is coming’: It’s your weekly update from CEO Robert Morton.
- Clinical update: amiodarone ampoules to be supplied
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There’s currently a national supply shortage of amiodarone minijets; as a result, ampoules of 150mg in 3ml will be supplied.
- Suffolk co-response scheme launches with fire service
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Today (21st October) sees the launch a new co-responding pilot with Suffolk Fire and Rescue Service that will bolster our response to our most seriously ill patients in the county.
- Welcoming call handlers to the Norwich team
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Congratulations to our four new emergency call handlers who have joined the Norwich EOC team!
- New date added for culture audit sessions
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A new date is available for our cultural audit workshops - come join us and be the first to hear our culture survey results.
- Vacancy and transfer list – 27th October
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This week’s HR e-zine, with the latest job vacancies, expressions of interest and transfer opportunities, is now available online.
- Your comments wanted: HCPC releases social media guidance for registrants
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The Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) has written guidance for registrants who use social media and is now inviting your feedback.
- Scope of practice for AAP and IAP roles
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New documents showing the scope of practice for our intermediate ambulance practitioner (IAP) and associate ambulance practitioner (AAP) roles are now available on East24.
- Staff raise awareness on assaults
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As you may have heard earlier this week, there has been a national focus on NHS staff assaults rising, with radio stations such as BBC 5 Live leading the way.
- Guest blog: “Every ride-out I’ve been on has left me feeling awestruck, emotional and lucky”
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Our Internal Communications Officer Sophie Taylor is leaving EEAST this month; But before she moves on to pastures new, Sophie has kindly shared her thoughts on EEAST, and her experience not just in comms, but as a patient as well…
- NICE guidelines want clinicians to think ‘is this sepsis?’
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Earlier this year the National Institute of Clinical Excellence (NICE) guidelines for sepsis were updated, with the main message being that all clinicians should automatically question whether a patient has the condition.
- Manager masterclasses and leadership programmes on the cards for EEAST
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Work is continuing behind the scenes on development projects and programmes for staff.
- Cardiac arrest bootcamp: are you up for the challenge?
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It’s when our patients need us the most so we need to be at our best; join the clinical team for a new, interactive training day to ensure your cardiac arrest management skills are at the best possible level.
- Surge black and student abstraction: update from CEO Robert Morton
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Supporting each other, student paramedic abstractions and restart a heart day: It’s your weekly update from CEO Robert Morton.
- Trust’s new clinical app launched today – download now
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Today sees the launch of our first ever app, which gives you the ability to view our Clinical Manual and the national Clinical Practice Guidelines at the click of a button.
- Changes to HealthAssure system
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The following updates have been made to the HealthAssure system to improve the service for users
- Celebrating Diwali at Bedford Corn Exchange
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Diwali, known as the ‘festival of lights’, is the most important holiday for millions of Indians around the world, and this year it falls on 30th October.
- Opportunity to train as TRiM assessor
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As the Trust continues to make improvements to wellbeing services, new assessors are being recruited to support our trauma risk management (TRiM) service.
- Essex tech set for charity head shave
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One of our Basildon technician’s is braving the shave next Monday (31st October) for a charity close to her heart.
- Suffolk staff head back to college
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A group of staff from Suffolk have inspired the ‘next generation’ by teaching hundreds of students how to save a life.
- Getting the recruitment word out at free careers fair
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A job and careers event last week proved a fruitful day for our colleagues in west Essex.
- Behind the scenes – Sarah Garner, Patient Experience Co-ordinator
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Our ‘behind the scenes’ feature, where we highlight a person or team from within the Trust, continues. This week is Sarah Garner who is part of the patient experience team.
- Flu jabs for volunteers
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Community first responders (CFRs) and other patient-facing volunteers (who are not employed elsewhere) are entitled to have the flu jab through the Trust’s programme.
- Reminder of MIND Blue Light Infoline
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A specific helpline just for emergency services has been set up by mental health charity MIND, as part of their Blue Light campaign.
- Questions on our occupational health system (OHIO)
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Have you got questions, comments, queries or complaints about OHIO (the online occupational health system)?
- Guidance: safeguarding colleagues against allegations
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A document which details how the safeguarding team can help if there is an allegation made against you is available online.
- Decontamination and HART at the top of resilience agenda
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The National Ambulance Resilience Unit (NARU) is developing new research to support patient facing staff and our hazardous area response team (HART).
- Vacancy and transfer list – 3rd November
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This week’s HR e-zine, with the latest job vacancies, expressions of interest and transfer opportunities, is now available online.
- Gifts and hospitality: what are the rules for us?
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We are coming up to that festive time of year where you may get offered gifts and hospitality.
- Staff and volunteers shine light on Trust at Diwali celebrations
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Hundreds of visitors to the weekend’s Festival of Lights celebrations in Bedford had the opportunity to discover more about our service.
- Joint working agreement signed between the Trust and UEA
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A joint statement between Norwich Medical School and the Trust has been agreed for students who are on placements with EEAST.
- Essex technician hits donation milestone
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One of our Basildon technicians has thanked everyone who donated to her charity head shaving event which raised £1,000 for Macmillan Cancer Support.
- Bill Brady
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It is with great sadness we share the news that Bill Brady, a community first responder (CFR) and co-ordinator in Bedfordshire passed away on Friday, 28th October after a period of illness.
- Teresa Lee
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It is with great sadness that we have to announce that our former colleague Teresa Lee, an emergency care practitioner (ECP) in Norfolk, passed away on Sunday, 30th October.
- Seeing cardiac arrest survivor reminder “as to why I love this profession”, says DLO Mark
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A cardiac arrest survivor was given a special birthday surprise last week - through a visit from the paramedic who saved his life.
- All about #CardiacCare
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Heart health is at the centre of a cardiac care inspired ‘takeover’ this week, with the public being urged to think about prevention being better than cure.
- Update from Director of Finance and Commissioning, Kevin Smith
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This week our exec message comes from our Director of Finance and Commissioning, Kevin Smith.
- Dispatcher’s Santa run for little Iyla
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Dispatcher Matthew Harvey has thanked colleagues in Chelmsford and across the region for fundraising in the name of his daughter Iyla ahead of the next sprint towards his family’s charitable goals.
- Chelmsford EOC welcomes new call handlers
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Congratulations to three new call handlers who have joined us at #TeamEEAST in our Chelmsford EOC.
- Join the festive cheer at emergency services carol concert
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It might not be the right time to break out the ‘jingle bells’ (yet), but here’s another date for your Christmas diaries.
- Double the praise: two patients thank staff in emotional reunions
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Two former patients from Cambridgeshire have thanked the respective staff who treated them following their recent reunions.
- New to Twitter…
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As our Twitter account passes the 18,000 follower mark this week, we’d to highlight a few of our new Trust accounts to our tweeting staff and volunteers that you may be interested in following:
- Michael Lewis
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It is with great sadness that we have to announce that our former colleague Michael Lewis, a station supervisor at Beccles, passed away last weekend.
- Cultural audit steering group
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As you know, over the summer we asked staff for their views about the organisation as part of our cultural audit. Over the last few months we have been processing all the results and are now wanting feedback from staff on these....
- Airway management refreshers and 121 coaching available
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With everything from a good head-tilt-chin-lift to advanced airways falling under the ‘airway’ umbrella, there is a lot to remember. So throughout November we’re offering free, personalised, airway management drop-in sessions.
- Social media treble: #ThankYou
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All three of our social media channels have passed a milestone this week, helping us reach and engage with even more people.
- Video: Just what do we use to help people in cardiac arrest?
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We know that for someone in cardiac arrest, getting there quickly is only half the story – what we actually do on scene makes a phenomenal difference to the patient’s chances of survival.
- Hydrocortisone injection recall by MHRA: action required
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A batch of hydrocortisone sodium phosphate injections, 100mg/1ml, has been recalled by the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) after reports of discolouration.
- “First class” staff praised in latest patient survey
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“Fantastic”, “superb”, and “excellent” were to name some of the many compliments made by respondents of our latest patient experience report when speaking about you.
- Mental health initiative gets boost
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A project to make sure patients experiencing a mental health crisis have rapid access to care has received £200,000 to develop and deploy two new specialist vehicles.
- Vacancy and transfer list – 10th November
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This week’s HR e-zine, with the latest job vacancies, expressions of interest and transfer opportunities, is now available online.
- Battery checks for AED IPads
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As we are coming into the winter months, different types of batteries in some of our devices can perform differently by being stored in cold temperatures.
- Reminder: have you signed your ‘opt out’ form?
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Do you wish to work more than 48 hours a week? Then you will need to sign an individual agreement.
- Learning about quality #CardiacCare
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Good and effective CPR at the right depth and rate is one of the essentials to any cardiac arrest survival. But can we do more for the most life-threatened patients we see?
- Be #winterwise and spread the message – not the flu
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Colder temperatures, adverse weather, and flu – winter is here.
- Herts Naloxone ‘Take Home’ programme underway
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If you’re a Hertfordshire paramedic, you’re hopefully being made aware about a new programme for opiate drug users in the county.
- Cardiac arrest month: What do you know about traumatic arrests?
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So what do you know about traumatic cardiac arrest (TCA)?
- Update from Robert Morton (10th November)
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Meeting EMAS, negotiating the 999 contract and lots of thank yous: It’s your weekly update from CEO Robert Morton.
- Cardiac arrest month: Is it always appropriate to prolong life?
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Prolonging a life usually provides a health benefit to that person. But when it is not appropriate to do so at all costs? Advanced decisions to refuse treatment, and DNACPR, are difficult subjects.
- Behind the scenes with Darren Murphy – IM&T Project Manager
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This week we’re going ‘behind the scenes’ with Darren Murphy, a project manager based in Norwich.
- Unsung Hero Awards: Get your nominations in
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Do you know someone who goes above and beyond the call of duty day in day out in an outstanding way? If so, the time is now to have your say.
- Count to zen – a few simple stressbusting tips!
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No matter who we are or where we are from, one problem can be universal, stress!
- Instagram: Reaching a new audience
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With Instagram being one of the fastest growing social media platforms and a popular channel with younger users, we’d love to grow this audience and we need your help to do that.
- Save money and earn cashback on your everyday spending
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Are you signed up to PSdiscounts?
- Trust takes part in Remembrance Day commemorations
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Across the region staff and volunteers gathered to pay tribute to service men and women in Remembrance Day commemorations.
- Cardiac arrest month: Patient management post-ROSC
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Needless to say, cardiac arrests are stressful events for all concerned.
- Problems with NHSMail accounts
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As you may be aware, users across the country are still having problems accessing their secure NHSmail accounts (ending nhs.net).
- Sing your heart out and spread the Christmas cheer at free carol concerts
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Now that the countdown to winter is over, another one begins – Christmas! And we have not one but two dates for your Christmas 999 diaries.
- Have you seen one of our thermometers?
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Please take a moment to check for any Trust thermometers that may have gone walkabout from vehicles.
- Places available for Cambridge trauma conference
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The annual Cambridge trauma conference is back for its fourth year!
- Vacancy and transfer list – 17th November
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This week’s HR e-zine, with the latest job vacancies, expressions of interest and transfer opportunities, is now available online.
- Guest blog: Support our charity, so it can be there for us
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Emergency medical technician Will McFarland, based at Hemel Hempstead, tells us about The Ambulance Service Charity (TASC) - and what it can do for you.
- It’s time for a digital radio refresh
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Our bi-annual radio audit of handset terminals is about to begin.
- Your flu jab: fact vs fiction
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So far, more than 900 of you have had your flu jab. But it’s still not too late to get yours! There’s often a lot of myth around the jab - do you have questions?
- It’s all or muffin for The Great Bedford Bake Off
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Our Bedford office will be getting a slice of the action next week, as they hold their very own Great Bedford Bake Off – all to raise money for this year’s Children in Need.
- Callers asking for personal details: do you know what to do?
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We’ve had word that a fellow NHS trust recently received a call from someone claiming to be a Care Quality Commission (CQC) inspector, who asked for personal staff details as part of an independent complaint.
- What has the biggest impact on your health and wellbeing? The next step of our cultural audit
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We have now collated all of your responses to the cultural audit survey that went out in the summer. What’s the next stage?
- Six months in: an update from Lindsey Stafford-Scott, Director of People and Culture.
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This week our exec message comes from our Director of People and Culture, Lindsey Stafford-Scott. Six months into the role, Lindsey talks about the progress so far, her focus and the cultural audit.
- Hundreds of students help launch Road Safety campaign
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Two hundred students received a valuable lesson in road safety at the launch of a new campaign.
- “I can’t thank you enough helping us”: Mum thanks ambulance crew after dramatic birth at train station
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The crews who safely delivered a baby almost 12 weeks premature have been praised by the mum for their actions.
- Vacancy and transfer list – 24th November
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This week’s HR e-zine, with the latest job vacancies, expressions of interest and transfer opportunities, is now available online.
- Awards hopes for Communications team
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Hopes are high in the Comms team for a double Thursday delight in two awards schemes.
- Guest blog: taking a moment to reflect on cardiac arrests
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As part of our cardiac arrest care month, Area Clinical Lead Ash Richardson gives us an honest and poignant insight into an arrest he recently attended, and what he felt could have gone better.
- Keith Marshall
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After the Trust received the sad news last week about Keith Marshall, community first responder and trust user group member, we'd like to share his funeral details with you.
- We need your views: the next phase in the cultural audit
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As we reported last week we received a staggering 1,771 responses to the cultural audit. Zeal solutions, the company conducting the audit, have compiled the initial results from your responses which you can view here.
- Video and podcast: taking a look at intubation
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Take a look at this refresher training video on safe emergency airway management.
- Progress so far on our sustainability plans
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The latest documents on the development of sustainability and transformation plans (STPs) have been published and are available online.
- Reminder of changes to Harlow stroke services
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At the beginning of this year, Princess Alexandra Hospital (PAH) in Harlow made important changes to their stroke services.
- Crews and EOC to use new keyword for end of life patients
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As a Trust, it’s one of our clinical priorities this year to improve care and experience for people and their families/carers at the end of their life along with looking to offer you more support.
- Completing patient care records
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Every time we see a patient we must ensure we have a record of our attendance – why is this important?
- International recruitment opportunities
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To open up potential options, we’ve started work on an international recruitment campaign to attract candidates from the rest of Europe and further afield such as Australia.
- Supporting and protecting our staff and patients: update from Robert Morton
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Protecting our patients, completing patient care records and embracing technology to support you when it comes to staff assaults: It’s your weekly update from CEO Robert Morton.
- Max of four small O2 cylinders to be carried per ambulance
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With immediate effect, colleagues are asked to please make sure that ambulances carry a maximum of four small (CD) oxygen cylinders at any one time.
- Cyber security notice
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Colleagues are asked to be extra careful online over the next few days due to the expected increase in attempts to con people, particularly via email, due to Black Friday/Cyber Monday sales and offers.
- New Clinical Quality Matters looks at the generally unwell patient
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Our latest issue of Clinical Quality Matters, EEAST's clinical publication written by and for staff, is now available.
- Advanced notice of MDT upgrade on Tuesday (29th)
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On Tuesday (29th November) we’ll be doing work on the CAD and MDT that may affect you.
- Disposing of cytotoxic drugs and where to put them
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For paramedics in west Norfolk carrying a drug called syntometrine, used in post-partum haemorrhage, and emergency care practitioners carrying chloramphenicol antibiotic eye drops, please remember that these drugs are classed as cytotoxic.
- Further hydrocortisone injection recall
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We’ve been notified of another potentially affected batch of hydrocortisone sodium phosphate injections, 100mg/1ml.
- Bedford bakers rise to the occasion and raise more than £200 for charity
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It was all on your marks, get set, bake for staff at Bedford, as staff held their very own Great Bedford Bake Off to raise money for Children in Need.
- Brilliant George receives award for saving his great grandmother’s life
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A Suffolk boy has received a bravery award after helping to save his great grandmother’s life.
- Use of antibiotics decreases for the first time
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A new report from Public Health England (PHE) shows that for the first time fewer antibiotics are being prescribed by GPs and clinicians.
- Cardiac arrest month: why do we need four clinicians there?
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Cardiac arrests are unpredictable and catastrophic in nature, with a brief therapeutic window of opportunity. Therefore, every element of our system is of vital importance.
- Latest resilience newsletter looks at winter pressures
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Innovative new advances with technology and e-learning are the main focus of the latest edition of REDistribute, a newsletter from the Resilience and Emergencies Division (RED).
- Celebrating our leaders - A year down the line …..
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The leadership and management development programme began last year, and what a year it’s been.
- Are you signed up to our flu charter?
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This year, we are borrowing a great idea from a neighbouring Trust, our Trust Flu Charter.
- Get involved: ‘BBC Ambulance Day’ going behind the scenes at EEAST
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Today (30th November) BBC media outlets across the country will be shining the spotlight on ambulance services – and you can get involved.
- New programmes launched to develop our future leaders
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Want to develop a career within leadership? Read about our first set of leadership and development programmes open to applications.
- Vacancy and transfer list – 1st December
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This week’s HR e-zine, with the latest job vacancies, expressions of interest and transfer opportunities, is now available online.
- BBC News: ‘East of England Ambulance Service smashes government target’
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Correspondents from the BBC joined ambulance teams across the UK, including here at EEAST, yesterday (30th November) to shine a light on all things ambulance service.
- Vacancy approval process: non-patient-facing roles
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In light of the financial challenges facing the Trust and the need to ensure that all of our resources are directly contributing to patient facing services and patient care, the Trust is introducing a temporary vacancy approval process, which can be found on East24.
- New Trust dementia strategy launched
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Months of hard work have paid off yesterday (30th November) following the launch of the Trust’s ambitious dementia strategy, which looks to improve the care and experience for people with dementia.
- Opportunities for specialist clinicians in hear and treat
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Our emergency clinical advice and triage centre (ECAT) - previously known as the clinical support desk (CSD) - is growing! And we’re excited to share some great opportunities to join the team as a 'specialist clinician in hear and treat'.
- Trust launches new e-learning portal, LearnZone
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Today (Thursday, 1st December) sees the launch of LearnZone, our new e-learning site that will bring training packages to you at the click of a button.
- Update from Medical Director, Dr Mark Patten (1st December)
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This week's exec message comes from our Medical Director, Mark Patten.
- Guest blog: Being a flu champion and why the jab is so important.
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Paramedic Cliff Parsons tells us about his work as a flu champion - and why he’d like colleagues to protect themselves from flu.
- Patients say service is ‘totally gold star’
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The results of October’s patient experience survey have been published which reveal another month of high ratings.
- Join the beat and become a volunteer police officer
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Have you ever wanted to do something exciting, positive and rewarding for your local community? Consider joining the Special Constabulary.
- Join the madness and mayhem and volunteer for EAAA’s mud-run
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‘Only the brave’: a five to 10 mile mud run, filled with crazy obstacles and all in aid of our colleagues at the East Anglian Air Ambulance (EAAA).
- Reporting cleaning issues at our offices
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Our cleaners do a great job of making sure our offices and stations are spick ‘n’ span.
- The wellbeing bus is coming to an area near you!
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The newly formed health and wellbeing team is about to take delivery of a much-awaited ‘wellbeing bus’!
- JESIP newsletter shares the latest on multi-agency response app
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The latest Joint Emergency Services Interoperability Programme (JESIP) newsletter is available online - and this edition looks at the JESIP app.
- Cultural audit: your chance to have your say
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Zeal Solutions, the company conducting the cultural audit, have compiled all your responses and completed the first stage of the analysis which you can view here.
- Mentor development day for staff
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A specialist development day aiming to offer more support to our mentors is being run by the University of Suffolk next month.
- Be vigilant against animal cruelty and abuse
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After a 34% increase in animal abuse and cruelty, John Lee, a paramedic at Saffron Walden, is asking colleagues to be vigilant on animal abuse.
- Bring Christmas joy to children at Addenbrookes Hospital
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This year, many children will be spending their Christmas in hospital. So, Addenbrookes Hospital is organising a Christmas toy collection...
- Freezing fog expected overnight
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With temperatures set to plummet from 6pm tonight (5th December), we’re expecting to see patches of dense, freezing fog forming across the region.
- End of an era for Chelmsford station
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Last week (29th November) the team at Chelmsford station moved to its brand new home on Chelmer Valley Road.
- Guest blog: Anxious, frightened, distressed, isolated, and sad – the power of dementia
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Last week saw the launch of our new dementia strategy - here Area Clinical Lead Duncan Moore shares his thoughts on why dementia matters – and why the strategy is important to us all.
- Home and work life balance, demand, and leader behaviour: has our culture audit got it right?
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Have you taken a look at our cultural audit results yet?
- Patient safety alert: assisting patients who inject insulin
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Some diabetic patients we see may need to inject themselves with insulin, usually via pen-shaped devices, and occasionally they may need our help if they can’t use their device themselves as normal.
- New mandatory training handbook has landed
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The brand new Staff Information & Mandatory Training handbook and assessment booklets have landed across the Trust.
- Snap! We need your help for a 24-hour snapshot on mental health
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We see and care for people with mental health difficulties every day, but is the health service fully meeting their needs? Next week the Trust will be doing its bit to answer that question, but it needs your help.
- You make a difference: update from CEO Robert Morton, 8th December
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BBC ambulance day, handover delays and a big thank you: it’s your weekly update from Robert Morton.
- Staff thanked after joint resilience exercise
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Crews from EEAST put their best foot forward and took part in a multi-agency resilience exercise in Hertfordshire last week (29th November).
- “We can never thank them enough”: Hertfordshire family full of praise for life savers
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Staff have been praised for their heroic actions after saving the life of a six-month-old girl who was given just a 20% chance of survival.
- Behind the scenes with Hayley Misseldine, Clinical Quality Co-ordinator
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This week Clinical Quality Co-ordinator Hayley Misseldine is in our ‘behind the scenes’ spotlight. Hayley looks after clinical quality systems including HealthAssure, AuditR and Datix...
- How to deal with anger in the workplace
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Anger – it’s often labelled as bad or negative thing, but anger is actually a normal, healthy emotion. These pointers can help express your anger...
- Guidance: what to do when an air ambulance lands
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The below safety measures set out what ground crews should do when an air ambulance lands and takes off
- Introducing the cardiac arrest checklist
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Checkout our updated cardiac arrest checklist
- Vacancy and transfer list – 15th December
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This week’s HR e-zine, with the latest job vacancies, expressions of interest and transfer opportunities, is now available online.
- “I will never forget you – thank you”: cardiac arrest survivor thanks paramedic Claire for saving his life
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An Essex man has been reunited with the paramedic who helped save his life.
- Paramedic banding agreed
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Following joint work between the Department of Health, NHS Employers and ambulance unions, it was announced that paramedics will be re-banded nationally from band 5 to band 6. You can see the full announcement here…
- Be seen and heard on the roads
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As we enter the depths of winter, with shorter hours of daylight, more adverse weather conditions and the roads getting busier in the run up to Christmas please make sure that if you are responding to incidents on blue lights that you are seen and heard.
- It’s back: 24 hours in EoE
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Our successful Twitterthon to highlight the demand and activity on emergency services during Black Friday is back – and we need your support.
- New chaplains join EEAST
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On Monday night (12th December), seven new chaplains were commissioned by the Right Reverend Richard Atkinson, Bishop of Bedford, to support ambulance staff, volunteers and their families.
- Focusing on keeping our patients safe: update from Director of Service Delivery, Kevin Brown (15th December)
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Winter pressures, news on ECAT and one big thank you: this week's exec message comes from our Director of Service Delivery, Kevin Brown.
- Change to ordering footwear
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The process for the request and ordering of footwear has changed and is now the same as your other workwear.
- Mixing drugs in pre-filled syringes
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We’ve received reports that some staff may be drawing up IV morphine with pre-filled sodium chloride syringes, so in effect adding morphine to the pre-filled syringe. This practice needs to stop with immediate effect ...
- Peterborough man thanks fantastic staff for saving his life
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A football fan has been reunited with his life-savers at the ground where he had a cardiac arrest just weeks ago.
- Christmas comes early to Luton!
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Father Christmas made an early tumble down the chimney and visited the children of staff at Luton station, handing out gifts along the way.
- Enhance your researching skills at Addenbrookes
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If you’re working on a project or a piece of work but need some help with researching, the Addenbrookes Medical Library can help you.
- Essex staff donate Christmas gifts to charity
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Staff in mid Essex have been bringing some Christmas cheer to those most in need by donating Christmas gifts for charity.
- Staff idea supporting handovers on scene to go live
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We recently had a suggestion from patient facing staff about how we could best support a smooth handover between ambulance crews and rapid response vehicle (RRV) responders.
- Ops update: changes to GP referrals at Barnet Hospital
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From Monday 19th December, Barnet Hospital will have a new Acute Assessment Unit (AAU). All GP expected patients will be sent here instead of the emergency department, unless they require resus or have D&V.
- Peterborough Paramedic’s book makes perfect Christmas present
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Still stuck on what to get a special someone for Christmas?
- Have you had your flu jab?
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We may be midway through winter, but there is still time to get your flu jab.
- Student paramedic delays
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We recognise the impact that the delays in student paramedic training has had on our staff, through no fault of their own. Whilst these delays were out of our control, as they were a result of the time taken for Universities to gain the required accreditation, we do recognise it has taken some time to resolve this matter.
- Opt out forms – have you signed yours?
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The Trust is always committed to the wellbeing of all staff, however recognises that some of you may wish at times, to work in excess of the statutory 48-hours working week limit (averaged over a 17 week period).
- Hidden Gems award nominations reach new heights
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Congratulations to more than 800 of you at EEAST, who have been nominated for a hidden gem!
- Vacancy and transfer list – 22nd December
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This week’s HR e-zine, with the latest job vacancies, expressions of interest and transfer opportunities, is now available online.
- Staff and volunteers take on the mannequin challenge
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We’ve had many internet crazes over the last few years. From planking in 2010, to the ice bucket challenge in 2014 and now mannequin challenges continue to sweep the web.
- Update on Sizewell’s new nuclear power station
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Last month, EDF Energy began the second stage of a public consultation into a new nuclear power station at Sizewell in Suffolk.
- What’s new in the Commercial Training Team
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The Commercial Training Team has recently expanded to include six staff running new training products – and have a new phone number and office.
- Public see a day in the life of EEAST: #24HourinEOE
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Last Friday saw the return of #24HoursInEoE, our 24-hour ‘twitterthon’ – where we LIVE tweet from all three EOCs and an ambulance for 24 hours.
- Santa comes early to children at Addenbrookes Hospital
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HART Paramedic Dave King's toy collection means Christmas has come early for children at Addenbrooke's Hospital.
- Merry Christmas from Chief Executive Robert Morton (22nd December)
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Chief Executive Robert Morton’s video message wishing you all a very Merry Christmas!
- Cultural audit update
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The initial results from the cultural audit are in and you can view them here. Thank you to everyone who helped by giving their views.
- Free subscription to Emergency Services Times
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Stay informed about all things emergency service, from the latest equipment to breaking news, through the free Emergency Services Times e-newsletter.
- Mayor of Cromer praises staff during station visit
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Mayor Tim Adams and Deputy Mayor John Frosdick visited Cromer station on 8th December to get an update on the work of the Trust.
- Essex man reunited with life savers
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The ambulance staff who saved the life of a man from Pitsea after he went into cardiac arrest last month have been reunited under much happier circumstances last week (Thursday, 15th December).
- On your marks, get set, apply for bake off!
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Do you know any aspiring Mary Berrys in your midst? Or perhaps someone who just loves to bake?
- Places available on Cambridge research centre’s annual lecture
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You are invited to the Centre for Science and Policy’s (CSaP’s) annual lecture.
- Thank you: from Sandy Brown, Deputy Chief Executive
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"I’m writing to thank everyone for working and volunteering in the midst of unprecedented demand."
- Vacancy and transfer list – 29th December
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This week’s HR e-zine, with the latest job vacancies, expressions of interest and transfer opportunities, has been published.
- She “demonstrates all that is good about our profession”: Tracy awarded with paramedic Fellowship
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We’re offering huge congratulations to Tracy Nicholls, our Head of Clinical Quality, this week after her ‘tireless work, commitment and support’ has earned her a Fellowship with the College of Paramedics.
- Do you have the potential to be a future leader?
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We’re proud to share news of the latest Stepping Up leadership programme, a five-month course to encourage diverse representation in healthcare.
- Band 6 paramedic agreement
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We have had a number of questions and comments from colleagues about the recent announcement of the band 6 paramedic agreement.
- Merry Christmas!
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From everyone on the Need to Know team .....
- Survey: paediatric trauma
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Major trauma kills 14 people each day in England and is the leading cause of death for people under the age of 40. Complete a short survey to help the East of England Trauma Network develop new guidelines.
- Wishing you all a happy New Year: update from Wayne Bartlett-Syree, Director of Strategy and Sustainability (29th December)
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A look back on 2016 and a big thank you to everyone: this week’s executive message comes from out Director of Strategy and Sustainability, Wayne Bartlett-Syree.
- More than 300 volunteers join the EEAST ranks
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Congratulations to the more than 300 people who became community first responders with us in 2016!
- Happy New Year!
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From us all at Need to Know – thank you for your support throughout 2016.
- Vacancy and transfer list – 5th January
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This week’s HR e-zine, with the latest job vacancies, expressions of interest and transfer opportunities, is now available online.
- Helping hospital mortuaries to identify patients
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When a patient has died, it’s important for us to fill out a body label tag to help a hospital mortuary identify them.
- Only three weeks left to get your flu jab!
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Christmas may be over, but winter is still upon us and flu jabs are only available to staff and volunteers for three weeks.
- Clinical update: eye emergencies – what to look out for
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Acute eye emergencies are rare, but can potentially cause a patient permanent sight loss.
- Balancing patient safety and staff wellbeing (update regarding meal breaks, IX and the staff support desk)
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At a review meeting between the Trust working group and UNISON just before Christmas, it was agreed the late finishes and meal break trial would be extended further…
- New response records as we see in the New Year: your weekly update from CEO Robert Morton (4th January)
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New Year, new records and a big thank you: it’s your weekly update from Robert Morton.
- Drug alert: amoxicillin sugar free suspension
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The Government has released a drug alert, after complaints that the child – resistant caps of amoxicillin sugar-free suspension are difficult to open.
- Declutter the stress out of your new year!
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Decluttering – it’s a term that involves us making choices about what to keep and what to get rid of.
- Changes to the infection prevention control manual
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The infection prevention control (IPC) manual has been reviewed and updated with a new safe practice guideline.
- Vacancy and transfer list – 12th January
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This week’s HR e-zine, with the latest job vacancies, expressions of interest and transfer opportunities, has been published.
- New-look way of putting volunteering in focus
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A big thank you to everyone who attended the inaugural Volunteer Advisory Forum, the platform upon which all volunteer disciplines will discuss issues, generate new ideas, and learn and develop from one another.
- Have you completed your mandatory training?
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Last year, the Trust launched LearnZone, our new e-learning portal which lets you gain access to the latest training packages, at a touch of a button.
- Trust site security
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We’re asking colleagues to be vigilant to anything suspicious after thieves in Suffolk stole gas containers from our offices.
- New falls vehicle coming soon to Norfolk
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Check out our new pilot to help care for patients who have suffered a fall in Norfolk is launching soon.
- Keep safe and warm in the snow
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As you may have seen on weather forecasts, there may be a possibility of cold, ice and snow over the next few days.
- Improving the quality of our service: Update from CEO Robert Morton (12th January)
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Our current financial challenge, our new Volunteer Advisory Forum and improving your wellbeing: it’s your weekly update from Robert Morton.
- Controlled drugs and next steps of managing medicines
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Ensuring drugs and medicines are made available to you is vital in caring for patients properly. But there are compliances to meet, which come with responsibilities and requirements.
- Get a hole in one at the National Golf Tournament
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For any golfers in our midst, dates have been released for this year’s National Ambulance golf tournament.
- Improving the ambulance response conference
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Places are available to all staff for a clinical conference in London.
- Social media: a gentle reminder
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More than two billion people worldwide now have social media accounts, but do you know the dos and don’ts for using it at work and home?
- Our preparations and response: adverse weather and evacuations
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A short update on our response to the adverse weather warnings in our region – and a thank you for all your support.
- Vacancy and transfer list – 19th January
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This week’s HR e-zine, with the latest job vacancies, expressions of interest and transfer opportunities, has been published.
- Suffolk staff to take on gruelling sub-arctic challenge
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A group of Suffolk staff are taking on a 110km sub-arctic trek in Sweden to raise money for the Suffolk Accident Rescue Service (SARS).
- Check, check and check again: administering drugs
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Whilst it’s the normal ‘day job’ for many of us, delivering healthcare puts people under pressure. We have to make decisions in dynamic and unpredictable circumstances, administering a variety of drugs dependant on the person we see in front of us and what we think is wrong.
- Funeral arrangements for beloved colleague Kelly
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As we’re sure you’re aware, our beloved colleague Kelly Hussick sadly passed away earlier this month.
- Survey: for those on student paramedic pathway, prior to university
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As a first year student on the paramedic development diploma pathway (prior to university application), we want to ensure that the learning you receive is of the highest quality.
- Protecting our staff and service improvement: update from CEO Robert Morton (19th January)
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Updates on our improvements to the service despite on-going pressures and lots of thank yous; it’s your weekly update from CEO Robert Morton.
- Norfolk volunteers receive £2,000 donation boost
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The Waveney Valley Community first responders have been rewarded a cheque for a whopping £2,300 from Chris and Liz Shore, owners of the Wortwell Bell pub in Harleston.
- Control room staff invited to join new working group
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In late October, the emergency control room launched the Quality Improvement Unit (QIU) working group.
- Controlled drugs and managing medicines update
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As hopefully you would have read last Thursday (12th January), together we need to address our non compliance with our controlled drugs processes. This was clearly identified to us by the CQC when they inspected us in 2016.
- You’re invited to January public board meeting
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We’re holding the January public board meeting on Wednesday, 25th January at Melbourn headquarters.
- Our EOC takeover week is back!
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The spotlight will be firmly on the Trust’s emergency operations centre staff, as we celebrate the important work they do, with an EOC ‘takeover week’.
- Mid and South Essex Regime publish latest report
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This week, the Mid and South Essex Regime published two independent clinical reviews around the reconfiguration of the three main hospitals in Basildon, Chelmsford and Southend.
- Break the silence and support mental health
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This year’s Time to Talk, a day dedicated to mental health awareness, returns on Thursday, 2nd February.
- Update from Chief Executive Robert Morton (26th January)
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News from our latest board meeting, some thank yous and next week’s EOC takeover: it’s your weekly update from CEO Robert Morton
- Flu jab thank yous!
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Thanks to the 55% of you who completed and sent back a flu response form.
- Defib donation from the man who is ‘living proof’ that they work
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Former patient donates £1,000 for a new defibrillator to “help save another life.”
- Working time directive compliance – new process commenced 1st Feb
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As of today (1st Feb), we need all staff who are rostered on GRS to complete a daily incidental overtime form and a new monthly timesheet.
- Behind the scenes: Andrew Beardsley
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Today we go behind the scenes to introduce you to Andrew Beardsley, an EOC Manager over in Bedford who has been with the Trust since October.
- Vital role of ambulance services recognised in Parliament scrutiny report
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A new report has found that in 2015-16, the equivalent of 41,000 12-hour ambulance shifts were lost nationally due to handover delays at hospital.
- The good days and not so good days: Phil shares his story
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Hi, my name is Phil. I have been a dispatcher in Bedford EOC for more than 14 years.
- Clinical Manual app shortlisted for national award
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Our Clinical Manual app has been shortlisted in the prestigious Health Service Journal (HSJ) awards!
- Spring 2017: update from CEO Robert Morton (2nd February)
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“Well we are into February already and it feels like January passed in a blink. Demand for our services continues to be way above what we would expect so the pressure on all of us continues. Despite this, we continue to deliver improvements and continue to be in the top three performing trusts each week.”
- Exceptional volunteer recognised for national award posthumously
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Keith Marshall, one of our dedicated volunteers, has received a national award posthumously for his work at the Trust.
- Vacancy and transfer list – 9th February
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This week’s HR e-zine, with the latest job vacancies, expressions of interest and transfer opportunities, has been published.
- Birth registrations following a delivery
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Staff are reminded that they need to fill in the location of where a birth happened, so that registrars can make the most accurate record possible.
- Paramedic? Take the next development step with practice
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The next generation of practice education courses are coming soon.
- Baby it’s cold outside! Don’t leave your equipment out in the chill
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During the colder months, please pay extra attention to the batteries in your medical devices as they can be affected by temperature.
- Leadership, learning and development: an update from Lindsey Stafford-Scott, Director of People and Culture (9th February)
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This week’s exec message focusing on leadership, comes from Director of People and Culture Lindsey Stafford-Scott.
- Mental health scheme shortlisted for national award
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The Mental Health Street Triage (MHST), an initiative that ensures patients receive fast and appropriate care during mental health crises, has been shortlisted in the Health Service Journal (HSJ) Value in Healthcare awards.
- This week’s quality roadshows are in…..
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The quality and improvement team are continuing their grand tour around EEAST to hear first hand from you about how we can improve the quality of what we do.
- "Truly kind and professional": Ambulance service commended in patient survey
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Staff have been called “top class”, “brilliant”, and “very professional” by respondents of our latest patient experience report.
- Are you feeling lonely?
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Have you ever felt lonely? Even just for a moment? A recent survey by the Mental Health Foundation found that in the UK, one in 10 people has suffered from loneliness.
- “I owe these people so much, they saved my life”: Suffolk man reunited with his life savers
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Staff have been praised for their efforts in saving the life of a man who went into cardiac arrest last month.
- Vacancy and transfer list – 16th February
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This week’s HR e-zine, with the latest job vacancies, expressions of interest and transfer opportunities, has been published.
- Paramedic Lesley gearing up for London marathon challenge
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With more than 30,000 runners each year, the Virgin London Marathon is widely considered one of the world’s biggest and best events in every runner’s calendar. And once again this year, one of our own will be on the start line on 23rd April.
- Its EAAA’s clinical governance day and you’re invited
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The East Anglian Air Ambulance charity is holding its monthly clinical governance day on Friday, 3rd March, in Newmarket – and Trust staff can join in.
- Survey: Help us fight against fraud and bribery!
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You’re in a situation where you suspect an act of bribery or fraud has happened – do you know who to call?
- Keeping it in the family: meet the Bells
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Here at EEAST we consider ourselves like one big family, but in Chelmsford EOC, three members of the same team really are! Meet Dispatcher Amanda and children Matthew and Emma.
- Behind the scenes – Phil Churchill
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This week EOC Training Lead Phil Churchill is in the ‘behind the scenes’ spotlight.
- Trust’s strategy takes first steps to improve care for dementia patients
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As part of the Trust’s Dementia Strategy, which launched last year, EEAST has signed up to the region’s Dementia Action Alliance.
- Helping to have your say in Colchester and Tendring
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New dates for the North East Essex Clinical Commissioning Group’s (CCG) urgent care review have been announced, and you’re invited to attend.
- How to avoid ‘phishing’ e-mails
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The IT team are asking all staff to be vigilant after noticing an increase in ‘phishing’ emails.
- An update from Robert Morton, Chief Executive (16th February)
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Award nominations, hospital handover waits and ongoing projects: it’s your weekly update from Chief Executive Robert Morton.
- Behind the headlines: Trust position on HSE improvement notices
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Our response to the media on our position around Health and Safety Executive (HSE) improvement notices.
- Get in touch! Online contact form to reach the communications team
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Following some excellent feedback from a patient-facing colleague, you can now drop a quick line to the Communications team through just a couple of clicks on East24.
- Weather warnings issued for east of England
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The Met Office has issued warnings of strong winds for the region, which are set to stay in place until 8pm tomorrow (Thursday, 23rd).
- Free eye care vouchers for you
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Did you know the Trust provides free eye care vouchers?
- Vacancy and transfer list – 23rd February
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This week’s HR e-zine, with the latest job vacancies, expressions of interest and transfer opportunities, has been published.
- Funeral arrangements for former colleague David Keating
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It is with great sadness that we report the passing of much -loved David Keating who died suddenly and unexpectedly on 6th February.
- Staying safe and secure
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The security of our staff, equipment and property is of the utmost importance for all of us. And we all have a role to play in keeping each other, our buildings, vehicles and equipment safe.
- Director of Service Delivery, Kevin Brown, updates on hospital handover
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Following on from his recent video message, Kevin gives us an update on hospital handover and how the executive team can support you.
- Drug alert: caution using hyoscine butylbromide (Buscopan) injections in those with heart disease
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Reports have emerged this week linking hyoscine butylbromide injections to serious adverse effects in patients with cardiac disease.
- From band 6 paramedics to football: an update from Deputy Chief Executive, Sandy Brown
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This week's exec message comes from our Deputy Chief Executive, Sandy Brown.
- Changes are coming to TRiM
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From this week (1st March), our trauma risk management (TRiM) will be run through the health and wellbeing team.
- Introducing: Volunteer Engagement Officer Carissa Tucker
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A new role has been introduced to the Trust to help improve volunteer engagement, marketing and awareness.
- New call handlers join the Essex EOC team
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Congratulations to our three newest Essex EOC call handlers who completed their training course with us in Chelmsford on Friday (24th February).
- Manager training session: find out more about occupational health services
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Training sessions are coming up this month to help managers get the best of occupational health for their staff.
- Payroll cut-off date
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Just a reminder, the payroll cut-off date is this Wednesday (8th March).
- Making research strides: intubation and stroke trial success
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Last month, the Trust has reached some amazing milestones with AIRWAYS-2 and RIGHT-2!
- Night time vehicle noise
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We’ve had some feedback from the public about noise generated by our vehicles at night, particularly in residential areas.
- New changes coming soon to the estates helpdesk
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From Wednesday (15th March) a new helpdesk system will be launched that will allow you to report building or site faults at the click of a button.
- Luton runners cross the finish line, raising more than £2,000 for charity!
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After the training, the sweat and sometimes tears, our amazing Luton station runners have completed the Milton Keynes’ festival of running.
- National health campaign helps public to recognise stroke
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Public Health England’s (PHE) annual FAST campaign, which looks to raise awareness with the public of stroke and its symptoms, is running until the end of this month.
- Clinical research survey: CPR decision forms
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Waveney paramedic Luke Jones is making a plea to clinical colleagues to help him conduct some research on CPR decision forms.
- International Women's Day
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As you may have seen in the news, yesterday was International Women's Day.
- 2016 NHS Staff Survey results: now published
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The results from the 2016 NHS Staff Survey have been published. Click here to see more.
- The EEAST roadmap: an update from Wayne Bartlett-Syree, Director of Strategy and Sustainability
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Strategy. It’s a word used in organisations across the world, but when it comes down to it, what is a strategy and why do we actually need one? This week’s executive message is from Director of Strategy and Sustainability, Wayne Bartlett-Syree.
- Clinicians needed to help beat our BP check record in Suffolk
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Are you available for a couple of hours next month to provide BP checks and promote better health in Suffolk?
- It's ovarian and prostate cancer awareness month: do you know the signs?
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March is ovarian and prostate cancer awareness month, so we thought we’d share some information to hopefully help to answer any questions you might have on these particular forms of cancer.
- Get your Hep B, MMR and varicella vaccinations through occy health
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Did you know that you can get your vaccinations through occupational health (OH)?
- IT Maintenance on Tuesday (14th March)
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Some essential IT maintenance to the admin network will be taking place on Tuesday evening (14th March).
- Reminder: IT maintenance may affect systems tomorrow night (14th)
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Just a gentle reminder that essential IT maintenance is taking place from 10.15pm tomorrow night (Tuesday 14th) to 2am on Wednesday (15th).
- Herts and West Essex future healthcare survey: have your say
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East and North Hertfordshire CCG has launched a survey to gather views on how treatments and services are commissioned.
- Managing clinical waste is changing – how will this affect you?
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The way we dispose and manage clinical waste is changing soon.
- ‘This is a job that will live with me forever’: crew and family reunited after breech premature twins delivery
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Imagine the scenario: you’re called to a woman who is pregnant with twins. She’s in confirmed labour. She’s three-months premature. And her babies are breech.
- Vacancy and transfer list – 16th March
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This week’s HR e-zine, with the latest job vacancies, expressions of interest and transfer opportunities, has been published.
- Essex trailblazer course for aspiring leaders: apply now
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Do you work in Essex and want to be an NHS leader of the future?
- New estates helpdesk is here
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Our new estates helpdesk, which allows you to report any building or site faults at the touch of a button, is now available to use.
- Sustainability and transformation plans: where are we now?
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Sustainability and transformation plans (STPs) have featured a lot in the media, with headlines talking about the sharper end of the proposals to run services differently in the coming years. Find out more about what is happening now.
- Good for the sole: Magnum boots available to order again
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As of today (16th March), staff will once again be able to step out in the specialist footwear of their choice as Magnum boots make a return to the Trust.
- If it looks like ventricular fibrillation (VF), shock
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Ventricular fibrillation. We know it as the most important shockable cardiac arrest rhythm. Staff contacted us to ask the Trust’s stance on fine VF – do we shock it?
- Living with bipolar disorder: Steve’s story
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“Talking to someone about a mental health condition they have can be difficult. But talking about your own mental health can be even harder”. Read Steve’s story.
- Your weekly update from Chief Executive Robert Morton
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An update on our emergency services contract, a big thank you to you all and a recent story that reminded me of why I work in the ambulance service: it’s your weekly update from Robert Morton, Chief Executive.
- Colleagues welcome at air ambulance triage and burns day
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The Essex and Herts Air Ambulance Trust (EHAAT) is hosting its next clinical governance day – all about sharing learning and best practice – on Tuesday (21st).
- The winner of the EEAST flu fighter award is…..
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The wellbeing team has chosen flu champion Cliff Parsons as our EEAST flu fighter of the season!
- Book your place: occupational health training for managers
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The health and wellbeing team is holding training sessions to help managers get the best occupational health for their staff – and there are still places available on this month’s courses.
- Places available on advanced trauma and life support course
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The Royal College of Surgeons of England is holding a three-day advanced trauma and life support (ATLS) course next month - and there are still observer places available.
- Call handler Robert aims to raise money for charity by taking ‘a casual 26-mile stroll down the Mall’
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It’s less than 40 days until the London marathon and our fantastic EEAST runners are gearing up for the big day.
- Trust you instincts: Keeping yourselves and your colleagues safe
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Have you seen the recent coverage on the national news and in the media about a new campaign where the public is being asked to trust their instincts?
- Joint statement between Trust and UNISON on national banding agreement
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The Trust and UNISON continue to work in partnership to implement the national banding agreement.
- A look at channel 202 and the critical care desk
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Every day we respond to patients who have traumatic injuries or who would benefit from specialist care at scene.
- Vacancy and transfer list – 23rd March
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This week’s HR e-zine, with the latest job vacancies, expressions of interest and transfer opportunities, has been published.
- Westminster attacks: a message from CEO Robert Morton
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We stand united in solidarity today after yesterday’s tragic events in Westminster.
- Helping hands for equality and diversity events
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The Trust’s Equality, Diversity and Inclusion team is on the lookout for volunteers to help with two engagement events in Luton.
- Time to talk: engagement day puts the spotlight on mental health
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Our staff, mental health care experts and other healthcare professionals talked all things mental health last Thursday (16th March) at an engagement day hosted at Melbourn HQ.
- NHS Protect alert issued
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A warning was issued by NHS Protect this week regarding an individual whose access to NHS premises has been restricted.
- Please report all assaults
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When ambulance staff complete their training and don their uniform with pride, their aim is to get out there in the community and help as many people as they can.
- What is clinical accountability, and what does it mean for you?
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Accountability in healthcare is vital for patient safety. Essentially, being ‘accountable’ means you’re answerable to yourself and others for your actions.
- Communications: what is that anyway?
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Communications. What is it and why is it important? This week's Executive message comes from Communications Director, Chris Hartley
- Mental Health Street Triage to take the social media spotlight
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The double-award nominated mental health pilot in Bedfordshire and Luton is set to take centre stage on social media in a Twitter-thon next week.
- Littleport volunteers hanging out for charity abseil
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On Saturday (25th March) Littleport community first responders (CFRs) Barbara Knott, Lesley Marsh and Richard Grosvenor will scaling the heights and throwing themselves off the side of a building - all in the name of charity.
- Lizzie real-life juggling act
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If you haven’t met Lizzie Martin yet, chances are you will eventually.
- “You saved my daughter’s life”: Cambridgeshire mum’s heartfelt thanks to medics
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A young girl who was seriously injured in a hit and run incident in Peterborough was reunited with the medics that saved her and have been hailed as ‘life savers’ by her mum.
- Unlock your potential with Essex leadership
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Are you a manager in Essex that wants to develop your leadership skills?
- Childline app launched to counsel young people via smartphone
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Children in need of help can now get counselling directly through their smartphone via a new app launched by NSPCC’s Childline.
- Vacancy and transfer list – 30th March
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This week’s HR e-zine, with the latest job vacancies, expressions of interest and transfer opportunities, has been published.
- New TRUEresult BM meters are coming to a station near you!
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The latest batch of replacement meters has arrived and will be rolled out by area in the coming months.
- IT update on the way: please save your data
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The IT department will soon be carrying out a software refresh program, to remove any unsupported and unlicensed software and to refresh the operating system on equipment where necessary.
- Sign up to Safety: it all starts with a conversation
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Two years ago, the Trust signed up to the Sign up to Safety campaign by making a pledge to put safety first. But what does this actually mean and how do you help as individuals to make care safer?
- Congratulations to the ECP car team honoured at community awards
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Well done to Emergency Care Practitioners Richard Holt and Gary Clark who were awarded with a community service medal for their work on the Emergency Care Practitioner car in Essex.
- Financial Improvement Programme update
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Over the last couple of months EEAST has been working closely with the financial improvement programme (FIP) team - here is the latest update on the seven schemes we have been running.
- Having the Freedom to Speak Up
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As an NHS organisation, we have a responsibility to be safe in every aspect of what we do. But what do you do if you see or hear something that you don’t think is safe for patients, for colleagues, or the Trust, and is causing you concern?
- Upgrading our fleet and estates
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The updated fleet and estates strategies were discussed at the Trust Board yesterday. These strategies, which set out the principles of how we need to move forward, require more detailed work now and will take a number of years to implement.
- New shift summary envelopes pilot starts at three sites across Norfolk, Mid Essex and West Essex
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On 1st April a month long pilot of a new shift summary envelope will begin.
- Using the Directory of Services and MiDOS
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A national database of all services commissioned within the NHS, which provides information on how they can be accessed, is available to all staff.
- Dispatcher to tackle gruelling obstacle course for air ambulance charity
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One of our Norfolk dispatchers is set to take on the Only The Brave obstacle course this weekend for a charity close to her heart.
- Changes to process with expected and unexpected deaths in Bedfordshire, Cambridgeshire, and Hertfordshire
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The way in which you deal with and process a death is changing and is being implemented with the aim to release staff from an incident much quicker.
- New ‘MyHealth’ app finds local health services in a flash
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Need to find your nearest health services quickly?
- Norfolk paramedic ‘very humbled’ after receiving honours award
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Congratulations to Paramedic Michael Lord, who was presented with a Cromer Honours Award for his many years of service to people in the area.
- News from the Public Accounts Committee
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On Monday, 20th March the Public Accounts Committee, met to discuss the recent national Audit Office report into ambulance services in England.
- Are you wary of horses?
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The World Horse Welfare charity in Snetterton is offering free training for anyone interested in learning how to handle a horse in an emergency situation.
- Newly qualified paramedics: clinical guidelines
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The national newly qualified paramedic (NQP) programme is being adopted by the Trust.
- Cleft lip and palate awareness week 2017
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May 6th see’s the return of the annual cleft lip and palate awareness week.
- The Government’s direction for the NHS
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The NHS mandate for 2016/17 has now been released.
- Vacancy and transfer list - 6th April
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This week’s HR e-zine, with the latest job vacancies, expressions of interest and transfer opportunities, has been published.
- Outstanding monies owed for those affected by newly qualified para programme
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Students affected by delays and the move to pay band 5 at month 30 of their employment; any outstanding monies owed will be paid to you in April’s pay run
- 30 years' and counting: Hertfordshire staff celebrate service milestone
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The year was 1987; The Simpsons aired its first ever episode, Margaret Thatcher was elected for a third term in office, and Timothy Dalton was James Bond. But for a group of Hertfordshire guys and girls, it was the start of their careers in the ambulance service.
- Charity football match in memory of Gary
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Ambulance staff and A&E colleagues in Suffolk will line-up against each other for an inaugural charity football match.
- End of life care month: helping to ensure we are providing the best care and a 'dignified' death for patients nearing the end
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Area Clinical Lead Sarah Stead shares her views on the level of care we give to patients nearing the end - and why she has worked on a strategy that will help strengthen what we do.
- Want to work with us at the 2017 V Festival?
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We’re on the lookout again for colleagues to work with us at this year’s V Festival.
- Internal development opportunity: technician to newly qualified paramedic
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As part of the Trust’s commitment to developing staff, we are pleased to announce an internal development pathway for our current technicians to progress and become newly qualified paramedics (NQPs).
- End of life care survey: how confident do you feel?
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As part of our April end of life care focus, we are asking how confident you feel when treating patients who are nearing the end of their lives.
- Our Red 1 performance progress: a message from Kevin Brown, Director of Service Delivery
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Performance is portrayed in different forums and means different things to different people.
- First responders have a head for heights to raise funds
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Volunteers from the Danbury community first responder (CFR) group are joining forces with Bicknacre Priory Scout group to make the Three Peaks challenge a reality this weekend.
- What is a 'good death'?
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Talking about end of life care can be tough. The more proficient we get at extending life, the more difficult it seems to get to talk about death.
- Public satisfaction with the NHS 'steady' in 2016
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Results from the latest British Social Attitudes survey shows that 63% of people are satisfied with the NHS.
- Great Get Together event in aid of Jo Cox MP
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The 16th June will mark the anniversary of the shocking murder of MP Jo Cox.
- Refreshed perspective of the Five Year Forward view
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The NHS has published plans setting out how practical improvements in areas prized by patients and the public – cancer, mental health and GP access – can be delivered as the service prepares for its 70th year of operation.
- Be prepared for #EEASTER
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As we ask the public to ‘be prepared’ ahead of the Easter bank holiday, we’re hoping our NTK readers take this on board too and share some common sense advice with loved ones.
- Remember you can contact comms!
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Back in February we launched our communications team contact form, which you can use to make a suggestion about something interesting we can share in Need to Know, on social media, or even as a press release.
- Be proud at Pride
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The Trust is proud to once again be taking part in Pride events across the country.
- Steve Sale
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Following the announcement of the sad news of Steve Sale this week, there is a memory book available for all staff to share their fondest memories.
- End of life care: did you know…?
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April is end of life care month. A time to share guidance, podcasts and past experiences about how to deal with this very sensitive topic
- Happy Birthday to Watford trio
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Today (7th April) is a special day for three of our operational colleagues based at Watford station!
- End of life care month – through the eyes of a community clinical nurse specialist
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It’s end of life care month. As we continue to share our knowledge and guidance of how to treat patients nearing the end of their lives, it’s also important to remember the work of colleagues at community charities and hospices in our region.
- We think you're cracking!
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A huge thank you to everyone working at #TeamEEAST over the bank holiday weekend - we think you're all egg-cellent.
- Vacancy and transfer list - 13th April
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This week’s HR e-zine, with the latest job vacancies, expressions of interest and transfer opportunities, has been published.
- First responders fundraising climbs to new heights for Essex charities
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W. Clement Stone once said: "Aim for the moon. If you miss, you may hit a star.” And for a group of volunteers from the Danbury area that couldn’t be more accurate after their valiant attempt of the Three Peaks challenge at the weekend.
- Get your tickets for 2017 conference
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Tickets are available for this year’s College of Paramedics National Conference, called Learn, develop, achieve, aspire.
- New call handlers set to take control in Chelmsford
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This week EEAST welcomes its newest Chelmsford EOC recruits who have just completed the classroom training phase of their emergency call handler training.
- Hertfordshire's new community perinatal team is open for referrals
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If you’re treating an expectant or new parent in the perinatal period, there’s a new team to send referrals to.
- Corpuls leads, ECG paper and BM kits: your feedback to medical devices
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As some of you are the ones using our equipment day in and day out, it’s really important that you keep talking to us about what’s working well, and what isn’t!
- Get saving with the NHS employee discount scheme
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The Health Service Discounts website, which was formally NHS Discounts, is now the largest NHS employee benefit provider.
- End of life care month: A blog from ECP Stuart Woolley
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As part of our end of life care month, Emergency Care Practitioner Stuart Woolley is here to discuss his experiences.
- What clinicians want from end of life training
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As it’s the end of life care month, you’ve been telling us what you want from any future training on the subject.
- Flowchart released to help triage end of life patients
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A new guidance flowchart designed to help provide support when you’re attending to or triaging an end of life patient has been released today.
- Vacancy and transfer list – 20th April
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This week’s HR e-zine, with the latest job vacancies, expressions of interest and transfer opportunities, has been published.
- Easter weekend sees more than 11,700 calls and 8,500 responses
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As another busy Easter period comes to a close, which saw our control rooms receive more than 11,700 emergency calls, we would like to say a huge thank all of you for your efforts.
- Caring for people in the last days of life: NICE guidelines
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Did you know that there’s a National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) guideline around end of life care?
- NHS England expands ‘game changing’ stroke treatment
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Thousands of stroke patients will be saved from lifelong disability after NHS England decided to invest millions of pounds in a new treatment hailed as a “game changer”.
- Podcast: recognising dying patients and having difficult conversations
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As part of our end of life care month, we’ve developed two handy podcasts that talk about recognising a dying patient, and how to have those difficult conversations. Listen now!
- The tips and tricks for safe reversing
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With more than 245,800 miles of roads in Great Britain alone, vehicle accidents are bound to happen. But the vast majority of incidents we see are down to simple, low-speed accidental damage.
- QA8 form not required for EZ-IO or trauma wound dressings
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As of today (20th April), you no longer have to complete a quality assurance, also known as a QA8, form when you use the EZ-IO or trauma wound dressings.
- One week left to apply for tech development opportunity
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There’s just one week left to apply for our latest development pathway, which allows our technicians to progress and become newly qualified paramedics (NQPs).
- Arrangements to say goodbye to Steve Sale
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Last week we shared the sad news that our much-loved colleague, Steve Sale, had passed away. Steve’s family have asked us to share details of his funeral, which we know many of you will want to attend.
- Leadership: the ripple that starts the wave - an update from Matt Broad, Deputy Director of Strategy and Sustainability
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"Anyone who knows me well knows how passionate I am about leadership, so I’m really pleased to take this opportunity to write this week’s message."
- Running the London marathon this weekend? Then we want to hear from you!
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For all you marathon runners, the time is near to don the running shoes and set off on a 26.2 mile run around London.
- Live Facebook Q&A on end of life care tonight (20th) – please join us!
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Tonight (Thursday, 20th April) we’ll be hosting a live Q&A and discussion session on Facebook around end of life care – and we’d love for you to join us!
- National medical director to retire this year
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Professor Sir Bruce Keogh is stepping down as NHS England’s National Medical Director at the end of the year.
- Valuable insight into living with learning disabilities
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New staff gained a valuable insight into the challenges people with learning disabilities can face when they receive emergency care.
- Going ‘ED to ED’ for Gary
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Players went ‘ED to ED’ at the weekend for the Gary Smithen Memorial Cup.
- Supporting end of life care month and the latest takeover week
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We’re encouraging all NTK readers to dive in to our end of life month work if you haven’t had the chance to already, and which is coming to a conclusion next week.
- Free tickets for family fun at Clacton Pier
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Next month you can have all the fun of the fair for free as Clacton Pier hosts its annual emergency services weekend.
- Behind the scenes: Ellie Gosbee, nurse at St Nicholas Hospice
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As we roll on with our end of life care month, we continue to look at the amazing teams at our region’s hospices and charities, who help us deliver the best and right care to patients nearing the end of their lives.
- Physio available to advise on workstation assessments
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A physiotherapist will be on hand at Norwich EOC next month to provide advice to colleagues on workstation assessments.
- The general election
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With a general election being announced this week, we are now entering what is known as ‘purdah’ (or the pre-election period) which starts on the 22nd April. Find out more about 'purdah' here.
- The signs and symptoms of spice
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Synthetic cannabinoids, or ‘spice’ as they’re most commonly known, are man-made, mind-altering chemicals. They are included in a group of drugs called ‘new psychoactive substances’.
- Podcast: DNACPRs
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We’re on the last week of end of life care month!
- Award nomination for road safety campaign
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A campaign to educate young drivers about road safety has been shortlisted for a national award.
- Generator test at Bedford office on Wednesday
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A generator test will be taking place on Wednesday (26th April) at 8am and all staff working at Bedford office need to make sure your computer is shut down prior to the test.
- Vacancy and transfer list - 27th April
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This week’s HR e-zine, with the latest job vacancies, expressions of interest and transfer opportunities, has been published.
- End of life care month: all about just in case medication
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Just in case medications: it’s a difficult subject within an already sensitive subject. We’ve put together some guidance to help support you
- Are you doing something for charity? Then we'd like to hear from you!
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Whether you’re running a race, having a cake sale, holding an open day or doing anything for charity, we would like to do a big write up, to honour all involved.
- Success in Felixstowe at the annual 'Know Your Blood Pressure' event
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On Sunday 22nd April, a group of EEAST staff joined forces with members of the Rotary Club of Felixstowe Languard for the annual ‘Know Your Blood Pressure’ event.
- "You are worth your weight in gold"; Suffolk family thanks crews for lifesaving care
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A Suffolk family has thanked ambulance staff and volunteer medics for saving Andrew Wilding’s life after his heart suddenly stopped six months ago.
- New diabetes and mood tool for clinicians
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Diabetes UK has launched a new tool to assist clinicians treating diabetic patients who are feeling emotionally low or depressed.
- Our Hollie's marathan challenge
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The tables have turned for Internal Communications Officer Hollie Cowan, as instead of writing about the charity efforts of EEAST staff, she will be taking on her own challenge!
- What is clinical waste?
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Last month, we shared the news that the way we dispose and manage clinical waste is changing soon.
- An update from Director of Nursing and Clinical Quality, Sandy Brown
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This weeks Executive message come from Director of Nursing and Clinical Quality, Sandy Brown. In it he thanks staff for their hard work over the Easter period, the upcoming election, and our recent 'takeover' projects.
- End of life care month: DNACPRs
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When treating a patient nearing the end of their life, one thing we come across frequently are do not attempt cardiopulmonary resuscitation (DNACPR) forms.
- Spending precious time with family: Adam encourages fellow dads to consider shared parental leave
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In an organisation of more than 4,000 people, it came as somewhat of a surprise to Media Officer Adam Gretton to find out he was one of the first men at EEAST to take advantage of shared parental leave.
- Paramedic Sam’s ‘hair today, gone tomorrow’ shave for charity
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One of our Hertfordshire paramedics will be shaving his head this weekend for a friend and charity very close to him.
- Clinical update: class 1 drug – fentanyl contaminated heroin
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The Trust has been alerted to the availability of, and harms from, heroin that has been mixed with fentanyl or carfentanyl, both unusually potent synthetic opioids.
- Ambulance staff hope to score high for charity
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A group of our guys and girls in green are swapping work boots for football boots when they take part in a charity football match next month, and are asking as many of their colleagues to attend.
- New internal comms officer spends a day on the road
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New Internal Communications Officer Ashleigh Rickards – who worked in the Chelmsford EOC until joining the Communications team - spent a day with Chelmsford crew Emergency Medical Technician Barrie Williams and Student Paramedic Fiona Newsome last month.
- Urgent recall: ECG papers
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There has been an urgent recall of a faulty batch of ECG papers.
- Gearing up for charity football tournament
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The principles of the Joint Emergency Services Interoperability Programme (JESIP) will be temporarily abandoned in part of Cambridgeshire when a charity tournament kicks off.
- More dates added to get your Hep B, MMR and varicella vaccinations through occy health!
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The occupational health (OH) team has added additional clinics over the next few months.
- Reminder to staff about using the Directory of Services and MiDOS
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A national database of all services commissioned within the NHS, which provides information on how they can be accessed, is available to all staff.
- Vacancy and transfer list – 4th May
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This week’s HR e-zine, with the latest job vacancies, expressions of interest and transfer opportunities, has been published.
- All you need to know about the early retirement reduction buy out
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If you are a member of the 2015 NHS Pension Scheme, you are able to access an early retirement reduction buy out (ERRBO) agreement.
- Young Alfie gets to meet his lifesavers
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Five year old Alfie from Chelmsford, along with his mum Sara and sister, Amber, spent the morning with some of our EEAST staff recently. This play date wasn’t just any old play date though, as last year, these people saved Alfie’s life.
- Does a patient have an infection that affects how we separate waste?
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As many of you will know, the way we dispose and manage clinical waste is changing soon. Following on from last week’s Need to Know article, this week we are looking at how an infection affects how we separate waste.
- On your marks, get set, pull! Ambulance pull challenge for charity
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Two women, two ambulances, one goal: to cross the finish line first.
- Almost 9,000 calls in 72 hours – another busy bank holiday weekend
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Staff, managers and volunteers have been thanked for their efforts during a busy holiday weekend.
The Trust received almost 9,000 emergency calls over the course of the three day May Day bank holiday.
- AWE Inspiring! Trust launches All Women in EEAST
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A special interest group established by Lindsey Stafford-Scott, Director of People and Culture to provide women within the Trust with networking opportunities, open up mentoring pathways and encourage and support personal and professional development has been launched.
- Improving our staffing, welfare and services to our people and our patients: this week’s executive message come from Director of Service Delivery, Kevin Brown.
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A look at improving the services we provide and more, it’s your weekly executive message from Director of Service Delivery, Kevin Brown
- You’re invited to a clinical lecture in Hertfordshire
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Places are available for an evening of respiratory medicine and cardiology lectures at Watford General Hospital.
- All women in EEAST (AWE) – flexible working for working mums
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As reported in Need to Know this week, a new special interest group has been set up by our Director of People and Culture Lindsey Stafford-Scott.
- Get your tickets for a charity dinner dance in aid of the MS Society
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Every year, Garry Clark, an emergency care practitioner (ECP) from Brentwood station, hosts a charity dinner dance event in aid of various different charities, which in the past has included the air ambulance.
- More than £1m up for grabs from NHS Innovations to help bring ideas to life
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Set up to help progress early stage innovations from within the NHS, the Medtech Accelerator is looking for applications from individuals or teams with innovations in the broad area of medical technology that meets unmet clinical needs.
- Twelve set themselves English Channel swimming challenge
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Twelve courageous paramedics and student paramedics have taken on the challenge of swimming the English Channel this summer.
- Are you taking part in this year’s Volunteers’ week?
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Are you taking part in this year’s Volunteers’ week?
- Invitation to attend ‘enhancing the use of social marketing to improve public health’ conference
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Inside Government would like to invite staff from EEAST to attend a conference on ‘Enhancing the use of social marketing to improve public health’.
- Vacancy and transfer list - 11th May
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This week’s HR e-zine, with the latest job vacancies, expressions of interest and transfer opportunities, has been published.
- Gary Lacey
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It’s with great sadness that we share the news that Gary Lacey, our much-loved colleague, passed away on Sunday (7th May) after a long illness.
- Volunteer advisory forum news and update
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Volunteer representatives from all of our volunteer sections got together on Friday (5th May) for the second forum of the year.
- Staff questionnaire - how regularly do you experience inconsiderate driving or parking
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Do you regularly witness inconsiderate driving or parking from other motorists? Does the driving of others affect your ability to get to patients quickly on a regular basis?
- Chloe's ready to walk the walk
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Bedford emergency clinical advice and triage centre (ECAT) Clinician Chloe Dyer has some interesting plans for her Saturday night this weekend; she will be joining thousands of other participants to take part in a 15.2 mile trek across London.
- Survey: clinical training from EAAA - what do you want to see?
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The East Anglian Air Ambulance are developing and creating a training and education programme and want to hear from you.
- Help Ollie's Heroes whilst enjoying some cake!
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Paramedic Jamie Gray from Waveney station faced every parent’s nightmare when son Ollie was diagnosed with Leukaemia.
- Moving towards #DementiaFriendly
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The Trust’s dementia strategy launch at the December Board meeting set out three years’ worth of ambitions for us to be a dementia-friendly organisation.
- Where does clinical waste go?
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For the last couple of weeks, we’ve been looking at the way we dispose and manage clinical waste.
- Clinical update: Corpuls update
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Corpuls units have been rolled out to all operational areas, meaning anyone on ambulances, RRVs, DLOs and supervisor cars should now only use Corpuls.
- Award for ‘little heroine’ who saved uncle’s life
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A “little heroine” has been praised for her actions which saved her uncle’s life just weeks ago.
- Rising above the challenges facing EOCs: this week’s message comes from Deputy Director of Service Delivery - Performance, EOC and Collaboration, Gary Morgan
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This weeks leadership message from Gary Morgan talk abouts the currents pressures faced by our three EOCs and bids farewell to Brett Norton.
- “It’s a big thing, but I’m not doing it for me - I’m doing it for Chloe”: call handler braves the shave for her friend
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The thought of shaving our head would make many of us turn and run in the opposite direction.
But for Norwich call handler Lucy, it was the perfect way to raise money for a friend diagnosed with cancer.
- Multi-agency training opportunity: expressions of interest open
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Are you interested in supporting multi-agency working?
- Latest JESIP newsletter shares new and improved response app and answers some common questions about major incidents
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The latest Joint Emergency Services Interoperability Programme (JESIP) newsletter is available online.
- Its’s time for an MDT map upgrade
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After recently completing our digital radio refresh, the delivery team are this week beginning to update all the Terrafix maps on every vehicle’s MDT.
- This week is Business Continuity Awareness Week
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Today see’s the start of the annual Business Continuity Awareness Week, with this year’s theme being cyber security.
- Then and now: Taking a look at a 1950’s Daimler Ambulance
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Biggleswade ambulance station may just seem like any other station within EEAST, but behind the garage doors sits one of the Trusts most interesting assets, a vintage 1950’s ambulance.
- And it’s gold for Tamsin!
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Chelmsford Senior Call Handler Tamsin Jae Smith has been rewarded for her achievements in call handling by receiving her gold call handler award.
- Take care and be vigilant after increase in ‘phishing’ emails
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In the last few months, the IT team have noticed a high number of ‘phishing’ emails and asking staff to remain vigilant.
- WannaCry Ransomware cyber-attack: A summary
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Today, as part of Business Continuity Awareness Week, we’ll be taking a look at the recent WannaCry cyber-attack; what it was and how it affected the NHS.
- Vacancy and transfer list – 18th May
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This week’s HR e-zine, with the latest job vacancies, expressions of interest and transfer opportunities, has been published.
- MiDOS training and engagement days
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We are holding a number of engagement days, where staff can drop in to see how to access and use MiDOS
- EEAST Staff set to get muddy for charity
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This Saturday, 20th May, will see a group of EEAST staff, along with some of their friends and family, take part in the Tough Mudder event at Belvoir Castle in the Midlands.
- Clinical update: Corpuls update- introducing new paediatric oximetry leads
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Following on from your feedback, we are introducing a new paediatric oximetry lead.
- “Thank you isn’t enough”: Essex man praises lifesaving medics
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A cardiac arrest survivor has thanked his life savers in an emotional reunion at his home in Thorpe Le Soken this week (15th May).
- EEAST staff pull together to support a colleague in need
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Staff at Ely were devastated to hear that one of their own had been diagnosed with terminal cancer and feel that now is the time to give something back to him.
- Farewell from the email girl: a guest blog from Comms Manager Tara
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Communications Manager Tara Rose is leaving the EEAST team next week; but before she moves on to pastures new, we asked her to reflect on her time here at the Trust.
- Business Continuity Awareness Week: password security
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As part of Business Continuity Awareness Week we will today be taking a look at password protection.
- Oh GOSH! Ryan is cycling for the kids!
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Student Paramedic Ryan has set himself the ultimate challenge of cycling from London to Paris. The total mileage is 308 miles, which will be split in to an average of 75 miles a day.
- Chelmsford call handler gets her bronze
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It’s celebration time for Chelmsford EOC, with Call Handler Anna Mutonga achieving her Bronze call handler award.
- Dementia care study days
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The University of Bedfordshire is hosting a series of study days about dementia care.
- Order your stations remembrance wreath
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It may be some months off yet, but this year’s Remembrance Sunday falls on 12th November.
- Clopidogrel at Papworth Hospital
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From Monday, 12th June, the pre-packed drug Clopidogrel/Plavix 300mg supply at Papworth Hospital will stop.
- Expand your end of life care at Hertfordshire training day
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All staff are invited to a training session on end of life care in Watford.
- College of Paramedics e-learning CPD project
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The e-Learning Continuous Professional Development (CPD) project is a suite of modules on Health Education England’s e-Learning for Healthcare platform, which paramedics can now access for free.
- Full steam ahead for new ambulance hub in Stevenage
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Over the past few years we have outgrown our facilities at Stevenage Fire station and we wanted to develop a new ambulance hub which could be a make ready depot.
- Book your place at EHAAT’s ‘Minds Matter’ aeromedical conference
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All qualified clinicians and students are invited to attend Essex and Herts Air Ambulance Trust’s aeromedical conference, taking place next month.
- Changes to national terror threat
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As you are probably aware, the current national threat level has been changed from critical to severe.
- Check your wheel knut indicators
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Recently, flag or pointer wheel nut indicators have been fitted to the front tyres of all ambulances.
- Congratulations to our 900 hidden gems
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Since our recognition scheme first began in 2012, more than 900 of our amazing staff and volunteers have been nominated by colleagues.
- Making a difference together
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The Trust has developed a comprehensive leadership strategy based on four key themes of compassionate and systems leadership, improvement methods and talent management.
- Vacancy and transfer list – 1st June
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This week’s HR e-zine, with the latest job vacancies, expressions of interest and transfer opportunities, has been published.
- Clinical update – strong heroin reported in Norfolk
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The Trust has been alerted to strong heroin in the Norfolk area, and are advising staff to be vigilant.
- They were tough and they got muddy!
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Recently on Need to Know, we told you about a group of EEAST staff taking park in a Tough Mudder challenge. Here, Laura Smillie-Henson, an emergency medical technician, reflects on the day.
- Update to IM&T service desk call logging system
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The IM&T department have updated their call logging system.
- National Ambulance LGBT Network Conference
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The second annual conference of the National Ambulance LGBT network is taking place on Friday, 4th August and all staff are welcome.
- Wayne’s wheelie tough bike ride
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Next month, Wayne Prigg from Newmarket will be taking on a gruelling 100 mile bike ride, all in the name of charity.
- Nick’s epic 2017 charity challenge!
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Paramedic Nick Williams is currently completing a year of colossal running, swimming and cycling event. Here he tells us how he started and what makes him continue to challenge his own limits.
- Praise for Chelmsford EOC staff
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Control room staff from Chelmsford have been praised for their tenacity and professionalism after a visit from the Institute of Ergonomics and Human Factors.
- CPR flash mobs launch this years’ CFR takeover week!
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Next week we are celebrating the work of our fantastic community first responders (CFR)s, and we need your help.
- Register for free places at the Emergency Services Show
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The annual Emergency Services Show is back; the UK’s only multi-agency event for clinicians to attend.
- Tackling inequalities through health and social care design – online course
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On Tuesday (29th May) the University of Dundee and the Scottish Improvement Science Collaborating Centre launched a free online course – Tackling Inequalities through Health and Social Care Design.
- Community first responder reunited with patient after saving his life
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During this year’s National Volunteers’ Week (1st – 7th June) we are celebrating and highlighting the amazing work of our volunteers.
- Place available on STOP Suicide workshops
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To support our soon to be launched EEAST Wellbeing Strategy and our commitment to the MIND Time To Change Pledge, The Health and Wellbeing team, in collaboration with MIND, have organised two STOP Suicide workshops, open to all members of staff.
- Vacancy and transfer list - 8th June
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This week’s HR e-zine, with the latest job vacancies, expressions of interest and transfer opportunities, has been published.
- 24 Hours in EoE is back
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A unique insight into EEAST on one of the most challenging days of the year is being played out on social media users for a third year running.
- Vacancy and transfer list – 15th June
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This week’s HR e-zine, with the latest job vacancies, expressions of interest and transfer opportunities, has been published.
- “I knew I was in the best hands” – CFR thanks his lifesavers
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A CFR had an emotional reunion with ambulance staff who helped save his life.
- Hundreds taught CPR at Cromer Carnival
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Hundreds of people learnt to save a life at Cromer Carnival.
- Message in a Bottle gift from Suffolk charity
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A scheme to improve patient care has received a boost following a donation from a Suffolk charity.
- Toddler reunited with paramedics after serious injury
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Two-year-old walking again after serious injury
- Ambulance Response Programme update from Kevin Brown
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This week's news includes an overview by Director of Service Delivery, Kevin Brown
- Charity concert for Cameroon mission
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Peterborough event will raise funds for charity quest
- The Kyle Files returns to EEAST
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Jeremy Kyle and his cameras return this weekend
- Super six become senior call handlers
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Congratulations to six EOC colleagues who have completed their assessments to become senior call handlers.
- Introducing your control room ARP champions
-
Do you work in EOC and want to talk to someone about the Ambulance Response Programme (ARP)?
- Video: What ARP means for you
-
As the Trust plans to go live with ARP, a new video has been published to explain what it means for you.
- Keeping your patients safe whilst travelling
-
Staff are reminded of the importance of belting up following a number of recent incidents involving seated patients.
- Defibrillator donated in memory of 18-year-old
-
A lifesaving device has been donated to a Norfolk school in memory of a former student.
- Video: Catch up on the ARP webinar
-
A recording of yesterday's ARP webinar has been published.
- Father thanks his lifesavers after drama at the dogs
-
A father-of-two praised his “heroes” in green after being reunited with the ambulance staff who helped save his life.
- Get your flu vaccination on self care week
-
Today (13th November) marks the start of national self care week, which runs until 19th November.
- Flu hospital admissions up 11 per cent in a week
-
Flu hospitalisation rates have risen by 11 per cent in the last week, according to new figures from Public Health England.
- Last chance to get your flu vaccination
-
With February fast approaching, time is running out to get yourself vaccinated against flu.
- New response post in Great Yarmouth
-
A new ambulance response post has opened in a Norfolk town, thanks to a partnership with the county’s fire and rescue service.
- EOC lockdown update
-
Following a review, the EOC lockdown is expected to be removed on 12th February.
- Your invitation to join us to Press for Progress
-
On Thursday 8th March it is International Women’s Day and we would like to invite you to #PressforProgress at our joint conference with Essex Fire and Rescue Service, Essex Police, and Kent Police.
- Vacancy and transfer list - 22nd February
-
This week's HR e-zine, with the latest job vacancies, expressions of interest and transfer opportunities, has been published.
- Yellow weather warning for snow
-
A yellow weather warning for snow has been issued by the Met Office for early next week.
- One Trust, almost 2,500 flu fighters
-
Almost 70% of you have had the flu vaccination or opted out by returning your forms.
- #BeastFromTheEast: the story so far and what you need to know
-
Thank you to everyone who has been combating the difficult weather conditions so far this week, which are forecast to continue into Friday.
- Wellbeing event cancelled
-
Severe weather cancels seminar.
- Vacancy and transfer list - 1st March
-
Fancy a new opportunity in team EEAST?
- This week's leadership message comes from Chief Executive Robert Morton
-
Robert thanks staff and volunteers for their dedication after the Beast from the East hit the region.
- Coming soon – the Service Delivery Support Hub
-
A new hub is set to be launched next month to support crew welfare and assist with the smooth running of frontline operations.
- Father and daughter team walking 10,000 steps a day in aid of Cancer Research
-
Martin Hillier, an Emergency Medical Technician from the Norfolk Broads, and his daughter Tina Hillier, who also works for the Trust as a Call Handler for Commercial Services in Norwich, are beginning a month of 10,000 steps a day in aid of Cancer Research UK
- Datix incident notifications
-
It has been identified that some users of Datix are not receiving automatic email notifications about incidents.
- Trial sees new response cars in Herts and Essex
-
Four additional RRV resources will be hitting the streets of Essex and Hertfordshire next week as part of a new trial.
- Share your views with CQC
-
The Care Quality Commission (CQC) will be leading staff and manager focus groups later this month at the Trust’s headquarters.
- This week’s leadership message from Chief Executive Robert Morton
-
Robert gives an update on CQC inspection, reflects on success of International Women's Day, and news of independent prescribing by paramedics.
- Security reminder
-
Well done to the vigilant member of staff who challenged a man who attempted to gain access to one of our buildings this week.
- Vacancy and transfer list – 15th March
-
The latest job vacancies have been published.
- ‘A huge moment in the history of paramedicine’
-
Independent prescribing by advanced paramedics is due to come into effect from 1st April, 2018.
- Timesheet and overtime fraud
-
What is timesheet and overtime fraud and what do you need to know when submitting or authorising timesheets.
- Man jailed for assaulting staff in Peterborough
-
A man has been jailed after assaulting ambulance staff in North Cambridgeshire.
- The mini Beast from the East
-
Weather warnings for snow and ice have been issued for this weekend.
- Integrated Care 24 wins new contract
-
Integrated Care 24 wins contract for Integrated Urgent Care (IUC) services for mid and south Essex.
- Video: talking about learning from incidents
-
Two paramedics from Norfolk have been talking about their personal experiences of incidents they attended and how reflective practice helped improve the way they work.
- Thanks to our HART and Special Operations teams.
-
Thanks to our HART and Special Operations teams.
- Overtime incentive arrangements
-
A further overtime incentive scheme has been approved for for the Easter fortnight from 31st March.
- Change in REAP Level
-
The Trust has reduced its REAP level to REAP 2 - moderate pressure.
- Trust supports Action Counters Terrorism campaign
-
With the enduring terrorist threat, it is now more important than ever that everyone plays their part in tackling terrorism.
- National award for Rebecca
-
Congratulations to Rebecca Dawson who scooped a national award this week.
- #LotsOfSocks!
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#LotsOfSocks!
- Vacancy and transfer list - 22nd March
-
Three new vacancies added this week!
- This week's leadership message from Chair Sarah Boulton
-
Sarah gives an update on CQC inspection, board changes, and our new Dignity and Respect campaign.
- Dignity and Respect campaign launch
-
The Trust has joined the national NHS call to action to tackle and prevent bullying in the workplace.
- 4risk site to be upgraded
-
The Trust’s risk register site 4risk is being upgraded by its provider on Tuesday (27th March)
- Brownie troop thanks HART operative
-
HART operative receives 21 thank you letters from Brownie troop
- Obesity in Children
-
Our safeguarding team are asking road staff to be aware of obesity in children as a possible form of child neglect.
- More ambulances back in community quicker thanks to winter scheme
-
Patient safety intervention teams (PSIT) reduced time ambulances spent at hospitals by more than 4,500 hours during the winter period.
- Hertfordshire man thanks his lifesavers
-
A Hertfordshire man has been “given a second chance at life”, thanks to his ambulance lifesavers.
- 4risk has been upgraded and is now live
-
The Trust’s risk register site 4risk has been upgraded and users will need to change password.
- Stevenage DLO takes part in daring skydive in memory of colleague
-
Vicky Lovelace, an acting DLO at Stevenage will challenge herself to a tandem skydive in September this year.
- A quartet of goodbyes from the West Sector
-
It’s always difficult to say goodbye when people move on to pastures new, but it is especially sad when four people move on at the same time!
- Violence and aggression against our people
-
Thank you to everyone reporting acts of violence and aggression
- Young emergency service enthusiast with epilepsy visits station
-
“I’ve only remembered one whole day when she has not had a seizure; the ambulance service has played a massive part in her life. I forget how many countless times she’s been in an ambulance"
- CEO Robert Morton leadership message
-
This week I wanted to acknowledge the dedication of our staff - particularly those who have been assaulted while doing their job.
- Building better rotas: In case you missed the info
-
Thank you to everyone who has made contact about taking part in this summer’s working parties. For those of you away during that time or not able to access East24, please visit those pages and read through the information about what the plan is this year to build better rotas.
- College of Paramedics' National Conference 2018
-
A brilliant programme of inspirational keynote speakers over the two days on 9th and 10th May.
- Positive conversations at first meeting of LGBT Network
-
A group of people passionate about re-establishing an EEAST LGBT Network met in Bedford on Tuesday (17th April) evening.
- Late finishes trial starts today
-
The late finishes trial is planned to take place from Midday today (Thursday 19th April) ending 8.00am the morning of Sunday 22nd April.
- Trust staff braving the hot weather at this year's London Marathon
-
Two Trust staff will be pounding the pavement on Sunday (22nd April) as they take part in this year’s Virgin Money London Marathon, raising money for good causes.
- The Associate Ambulance Practitioner Portfolio Clinic
-
A clinic is being run to assist associate ambulance practitioners with completing portfolios
- Canvey Island Community First Responders
-
Canvey Island Community First Responders (CFR) are giving valuable minutes back to their residents.
- Dignity and Respect training - new dates announced and spaces available
-
We still have some spaces to fill on the Dignity & Respect Training Dates, these are ½ day face to face training days and we have both morning and afternoon sessions available. These sessions are available to all staff.
- NHS Pensions email
-
You might have got an NHS Pensions email regarding the new GDPR legislation and the need to re-register.
- Know Your Blood Pressure
-
The latest ‘Know Your Blood Pressure' check-in Felixstowe saw ambulance service staff join forces with the community to help improve awareness their health.
- Last few days to have your say about paramedic band 6 job description
-
As you know, a national job description for band 6 paramedics has been drafted by NHS employers and unions. The consultation period for commenting on the job description ends on Tuesday - Have your say now.
- The East Anglian Air Ambulance May clinical governance day
-
The East Anglian Air Ambulance (EAAA) is inviting colleagues here at EEAST to attend their May clinical governance day
- Did you take part in the Late Finishes trial? - Have your say now
-
Did you take part in the late finishes trial? – Last chance to fill in the survey.
The Late Finishes Trial went from the 19th – 22nd April and has now finished.
- JESIP app has been launched
-
The updated JESIP app has been launched for all front line staff.
- Four EEAST student paramedics gear up for skydive to raise money for Air Ambulance
-
Four fearless EEAST student paramedics will be raising money for EAAA when they take part in a daring tandem skydive on the 19th May this year.
- Compassionate Conversations - Your appraisal is Launched
-
Today the Trust launches it's new Compassionate Conversations appraisal process for staff.
- New library service for ambulance service staff
-
Do you need evidence searches and articles to support your work?
- Get it Sorted with new initiative to promote best practice
-
A Bedfordshire paramedic has introduced a new initiative to promote good practice.
- Big70Tea
-
Raise a cuppa for the NHS Big 7Tea on 5th July.
- First Aid Training for Deaf Students At Bedford College
-
Students attended a special signed first aid and 999 educational class to celebrate the start of Deaf Awareness Week.
- Mental Health Awareness week: Your Story
-
As part of Mental Health Awareness Week, the Trust is sharing staff stories to promote the importance of understanding others’ wellbeing.
Story one - A call handler.
- Occupational Health provider has moved address
-
PAM, the company that provides the Trust's Occupational Health, has changed address
- Don’t forget: Nominate for Excellence in Hertfordshire Awards
-
Colleagues in Hertfordshire are being encouraged to nominate for the Hertfordshire Public Health Awards
- Your payslip is changing
-
From the 7th May 2018 your ESR Paper Advice will be changing.
- Business Continuity Awareness Week: Telephone bomb threat
-
Take the time remind yourself - what to do if someone phones you with a bomb alert
- Mental Health Awareness Week – Discounts available to staff
-
Taking time to relax and unwind when you are not working is key to managing your stress. The Wellbeing Team have put together a directory of discounts available to staff both nationally and locally.
- This week's leadership message comes from Sarah Boulton, Trust Chair
-
- Compassionate Conversations - Your Appraisal update
-
Jill Page, Organisational Development Manager for EEAST promotes new Compasionate Conversations
- Vacancy and transfer list – 17th May
-
The latest job vacancies have been published.
- Peterborough charity football game needs your support.
-
It might be the end of the football season, but don't pack away your team colours just yet!
- Mental Health Awareness Week: Your Story Part 2
-
It’s Mental Health Awareness Week, the Trust is sharing staff stories to promote the importance of understanding others’ wellbeing. Here is Story 2: A Paramedic’s Story
- Zero tolerance approach to staff assaults
-
- Independent analysis of Serious Incidents on Board meeting agenda
-
Board meeting will hear that an independent analysis of 22 Serious Incidents (SIs) concluded that no patient died as a direct result of ambulance delays during Winter.
- Dementia Action Week - Your Story
-
Dementia changes the lives of not only a person with dementia, but also their family and friends.
Today we are focusing on the story of Karen Barry, Head of HR for EEAST.
- Armed Forces survey - closes soon
-
Please take a moment to feedback on our military survey. The survey closes on 31st May.
- EAAA June Clinical Gove Day
-
EAAA is inviting colleagues here at EEAST to attend their June clinical governance day
- Dementia Action Week ends with reflection
-
As we come to the end of Dementia Action Week; Duncan Moore, EEAST Clinical Lead for Mental Health, reflects on the past few days.
- NHS70 Parkrun
-
Lace up those trainers and stretch out those hamstrings for a special Parkrun taking place up and down the UK next month.
- Making the Quality grade!
-
A huge well done to three members of EEAST staff who have gained a nationally-recognised quality status.
- Staff Survey - EEAST Governance Review
-
EEAST Well Led Governance Review - take the survey now!
- Conference calls are changing - action needed
-
Our current conferencing call facilities will cease from 30th June 2018. It will be replaced by Skype for Business
- New Medical Director for EEAST
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We’re very pleased to announce that Dr Tom Davis, our Deputy Medical Director for two years, is now Medical Director and the Board’s newest member.
- The Trust's PPI team out and about in May
-
The PPI team has been out and about across the six counties with our engagement stand talking to the public
- This week's Leadership Message comes from Robert Morton
-
- Trust looking for new Apprentice EMTs
-
The Trust is actively looking at alternative pathways to develop staff - new Apprentice Emergency Medical Technician roles are available.
- South West Essex launches Red Bag Scheme
-
Tomorrow (5th June) Basildon & Thurrock University Hospital, Basildon and Brentwood CCG and EEAST will launch the ‘Red Bag scheme’
- Two new interactive modules available on LearnZone
-
Need to update your clinical and practice educator skills? Here are two new e-learning modules available on LearnZone
- Clinical Briefing: Paediatric harnesses
-
In this briefing, we are introducing you to new equipment to safely transport children (of all sizes) securely upon our ambulances.
- Take the quality survey today
-
Make sure you and your teams feedback about quality at EEAST
- Annual leave update FAQs
-
The NTK article is being updated. There will be a FAQ sheet about the annual leave policy changes soon.
- End-of-life care study findings have been released
-
A few years ago, Trust staff took part in an end-of-life care research study. The findings have now been published.
- Research: To convey or not to convey?
-
Research study on non-conveyance rates publish their findings
- MiDoS survey – Your feedback
-
We asked for your feedback on your experiences using with MiDos - here's how we've taken your feedback forward.
- It’s Pride time: celebrate this summer!
-
Thousands of people will take part in Pride events across the country over the next three months to celebrate the LGBT community - so let's help EEAST get represented.
- Vacancy and Transfer list - 14th June
-
Log on to see new info on EEAST opportunities
- It's Fathers day on Sunday - Treat your yourself!
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The EEAST Wellbeing Hub wants to wish you a lovely Fathers' day. We have negotiated some great offers to make your Fathers' day extra special
- Launch of the Value Awards
-
The Trust is launching a new Values Award scheme. A pilot scheme is open to Bedfordshire for the rest of June and July, then rolling out to the west locality throughout August.
- Trust DLO receives two Hidden Gems in Same day
-
South Cambs DLO, Rachel Avery received two Hidden Gem awards from the Trust, totally unconnected, on the same day.
- Want to know more about Compassionate Conversations?
-
Compassionate Conversations is the new appraisal process. Lindsey Stafford-Scott has made a short film explaining the new process.
- REMINDER: Correctly charging EPCRs and analysing defects for reporting battery faults
-
Due to the number of EPCR battery faults being reported via Datix, please can crews review this SOP
- Wellbeing Hub launches new Champions and TRiM practitioners
-
The Wellbeing Hub Team is thrilled to announce the launch of the Wellbeing Hub Champions.
- Transfer and Vacancy List 21st June 2018
-
Transfer and Vacancy List 21st June 2018
- New ‘Allstar’ fuel cards for the fleet
-
Over the next few weeks new fuel cards will be despatched to all the Trust’s Fleet.
- REMINDER: Correct reporting of Medical Device Failures on DATIX
-
A high number of medical device DATIX incidents are being incorrectly reported. Please report correctly on DATIX so failed equipment can be found.
- Heatwave and health: hydrate, keep cool, and be aware
-
With temperatures soaring over the next few days, staff need to ensure they keep hydrated and cool as much as is possible.
- NHS Big 7Tea countdown
-
It's the final countdown to the celebration, are you ready?
- It's Reserves Day - Would you like to join?
-
Today is Reserves Day. A big thank you to all our EEAST staff that give up their spare time to be a reservist in the armed forces.
- Apprentice EMT next steps
-
Thank you to all staff who have recently submitted expressions of interest for the new Apprentice EMT role. Here is some more information.
- Updates from Recruitment incl new vacancies and expressions of interest - 28th June 2018
-
View the latest updates from the recruitment team including new vacancies.
- Happy 70th Birthday NHS!
-
Five easy ways you can get involved in the NHS70 birthday celebrations.
- Video: Responding to water incidents
-
A short film to help equip front line responders with PPE awareness, hazard identification and more for effective personal safety.
- A special message for NHS70…Lynda Logan, Lead Chaplain
-
To celebrate NHS70 and its theme of volunteering, here's a special article by volunteer, Lead Chaplain Lynda Logan - It also happens to be her 70th birthday as well!
- Why we need a LGBT+ staff support network
-
- The latest leadership message from Dr Tom Davis, Medical Director
-
- Updates from Recruitment incl new vacancies and expressions of interest - 12th July 2018
-
View the latest updates from the recruitment team including new vacancies.
- Service Delivery Management restructure
-
The first phase of the service delivery restructure is complete
- Updates from Recruitment incl new vacancies and expressions of interest - 26th July 2018
-
View the latest updates from the recruitment team including new vacancies.
- Patient meet-up: The cycle of life
-
Yesterday in Diss, patient Andrew MacDonald met and thanked the people who helped save his life.
- Can you help with Restart A Heart Day?
-
Planning for Restart A Heart Day 2018 is well underway – but we still need your help.
- Thank you to Practice Education teams
-
First-year uni students highlight some inspirational PEds
- Your pension contributions
-
Following the nationally agreed pay award, your NHS Pension contribution rate has been re-assessed and may have increased this month.
- Ask the boss...Q&A Session with Staff at Chelmsford
-
Robert Morton will be holding a Q&A session for staff at Chelmsford station next week.
- Latest leadership message from Dorothy Hosein, interim CEO
-
- Don’t miss out on getting £25 Love to Shop vouchers
-
There’s still time to get your flu jab and get your hands on a £25 Love to Shop voucher.
- Reminder: Talk to the CQC inspector
-
Talk to the CQC about working at EEAST, happening this Friday in King's Lynn and Norwich.
- Be in with a chance to win an iPad
-
Everyone who completes the flu consent form will be entered into the prize draw.
- Talk to the CQC inspector
-
The next CQC focus groups is on Thursday 6th December at Chelmsford station.
- Learning from Information Governance incidents
-
You’re busy, typing away, sending a number of emails and answering the phone at the same time, and before you know it… you’ve sent some personal data to a staff member who didn’t need to see it.
These tips can help prevent inappropriate sharing.
- Last chance to have your say
-
The staff survey deadline is tomorrow, Friday 30th at 5pm.
- Leadership message from Jon Moore
-
This weeks leadership message from Jon Moore, Deputy Director for Service Delivery
- Multi-million pound project to get crews back in the community
-
Work is about to begin on the first phase of a multi-million pound project to help our crews get back into communities to deliver care more quickly.
- Norovirus Update from North Norfolk CCG Infection Control Team
-
We have received information from the North Norfolk NHS CCG Infection Control Team regarding Norovirus activity.
- From ‘the Beast in the East’ to ‘Stars of Norfolk and Waveney’
-
Congratulations to the EEAST team who won ‘Hospital/Ambulance hero of the year’ at the EDP Stars of Norfolk and Waveney Awards!
- Overtime Deadline Extended 7th Dec
-
In order to maintain the high level of staffing over the entire Christmas period, we’re extending the incentive opening until 17th December.
- Workforce, surveys and raising concerns- Bethan Billington, Deputy Director for People and Culture
-
- Stay safe and well: being ‘drink aware’
-
The end-of-year party season is well underway and whilst it can be tempting to over-indulge, the Health and Wellbeing Hub is highlighting the Drink Aware campaign tips for safe celebrating.
- Dorothy’s response to the service journey message
-
Message from Interim CEO Dorothy Hosein regarding the service journey MDT message.
- Bringing Christmas to children in Addenbrooke’s
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Thank you to everyone who has donated gifts for the Addenbrooke's Christmas toy collection.
- Public drive Switch Off
-
The Public drive (P:Drive) is due to be switched off on Friday, 21st December.
- Gift and hospitality policies: guidance on what to do
-
As we move into the festive period now is as good a time as any to remind colleagues what gifts we as an NHS trust can accept, and also what we unfortunately have to decline.
- Email policy change
-
As we move towards our emails meeting NHS Digital's security standards, the automatic forwarding of emails from email accounts will now only be permitted in limited circumstances.
- Love2Shop vouchers
-
The new incentives for staff to have the flu jab this season are being distributed right now.
- Wound Closure sessions
-
RCN accredited wound closure update sessions will be taking place across the Trust.
- Personalised Knowledge Sharing
-
Would you like to receive the latest research publications straight into your mailbox?
- EEAST-111 Collaboration
-
EEAST and IC24 have been working in collaboration to streamline the process for arranging OOH base appointments for eligible patients.
- Leadership message from Chief Operating Officer Kevin Brown
-
- Pre hospital communication guide app
-
Download this free app to help communicate with people with a range of different needs.
- New Director of Communications & Engagement
-
Julie Hollings has joined EEAST as
the new Director of Communications & Engagement.
- Cambridgeshire heart attack patients benefit from quicker, safer treatment
-
Seventy-one patients from the Cambridgeshire and Peterborough area have already benefitted from a new scheme which provides quicker, safer treatment for specific types of heart attack.
- HopelineUK - Prevention of young suicide
-
We have been working to improve, and find new ways of approaching the prevention of suicide in young people. As a result we would like to raise the awareness of HOPELINEUK.
- Evolve coming soon...
-
The countdown has started to the release of Evolve, our new Learning Management System.
- Leadership message from Sarah Boulton
-
- Get involved in Wendy's Wellbeing Walks!
-
Join your EEAST colleagues from a range of different departments in Wendy's monthly wellbeing walks to help enhance your wellbeing and even make some new friends along the way!
- Mileage & registration details
-
Reminder for all staff to enter the correct mileage and registration details when fuelling up.
- Top 10 Tips for Information Governance Compliance
-
All of our employees here at EEAST handle some form of person-identifiable or commercially sensitive data on a day-to-day basis, so it's extremely important that we protect this information as well as ourselves!
- Love2Shop vouchers update
-
Almost all vouchers should now be with managers to distribute within their teams and we are liaising with the remaining areas to get them out as soon as possible.
- Update from recruitment incl new vacancies - 9th Jan
-
Here is this week’s HR e-zine, with updates from recruitment including new vacancies and expressions of interest
- Essential server maintenance - Tuesday 15th
-
On Tuesday there will be essential server maintenance. During which the Portal, SSRS and CFR database reporting will be unavailable.
- Leadership message from Director of Communications and Engagement, Julie Hollings
-
- P Drive switch off
-
The Public drive (P Drive) is currently set to read only. We will be turning this drive off completely on Monday 14/01/19 at 8AM.
- 999 staff trained towards Dementia Friends target
-
A big thank-you to all our staff who have helped us hit a major training milestone towards our target of having the Trust formally recognised as Dementia Friends.
- Postponed - Essential server maintenance
-
The planned server maintenance on Tuesday 15th January is postponed. New date TBC.
- Clinical Update - Post-ROSC care
-
A new care bundle has been developed as part of the national audit programme, focusing on Return of Spontaneous Circulation (ROSC) Care.
- New PHEM Feedback service
-
A new feedback service is helping patient-facing staff learn more about the ongoing diagnosis, treatment and recovery of the people they give care to.
And staff are invited to a session next month to learn more!
- Recruitment process improvement
-
A new recruitment system is being implemented within the Trust.
- Norwich DEO to take on Brighton marathon
-
Jason Lennon, a Duty EOC Officer from Norwich is running the Brighton marathon in April to raise money for Headway.
- New date - server maintenance
-
New date for the planned server maintenance is now confirmed.
- Reminder - new server migration date
-
A reminder that the planned server maintenance is taking place tomorrow, Tuesday 22 January.
- Disability Network At EEAST
-
We will be holding our first Disability Network for staff and volunteers at EEAST, on 19th March at 19:00.
- Free Trauma Awareness workshop
-
Sign up for Mind in Mid Herts' FREE Trauma Awareness workshop on 12 February in Stevenage.
- I Drive All files must be migrated
-
The Trust is currently in the process of migrating the I drive to a new file server. The process is exactly the same as when we migrated the P drive.
- Register for the Kaido Wellbeing Challenge
-
Following last year’s success, the Trust have joined up again with health and wellbeing company Kaido to support EEAST employees in taking control of their physical, mental and social wellbeing.
- Recruitment and engagement event held in Norwich
-
On Tuesday our recruitment and public engagement teams joined for their first collaborative event at The Forum.
- Win a balloon ride in our Wellbeing Challenge
-
Join the Kaido ‘Around the World in 60 days' challenge on Monday 28th January and win a hot air balloon ride for two!
- Leadership message from Dorothy Hosein
-
- Fundraising for our EEAST colleagues
-
Colleagues from Kempston and Bedford AOC are currently supporting fundraising for two of our EEAST colleagues, Rob and Jen Green.
- Improving recruitment and career opportunities at EEAST
-
Our People and Culture and Clinical teams have been working hard on putting in place opportunities you have at the Trust to develop and evolve your career.
- You can talk about mental health at work
-
Thursday 7 February is Time to Talk Day – a day when everyone at EEAST is encouraged to have a conversation about mental health.
- EEAST and UEA sleep survey
-
EEAST Wellbeing Hub and Research Support Services are conducting a survey with University of East Anglia (UEA), to learn more about how you sleep. Take part to win a prize!
- A week to go until Time to Talk Day - are you ready?
-
Next Thursday, 7 February, is Time to Talk Day – a day when everyone is encouraged to have a conversation about mental health. Find out how to get involved!
- New email groups follow service delivery restructure
-
The service delivery restructure is now complete and to support the alignment of this, a number of email groups have been established.
- Updates from Recruitment incl new vacancies
-
View the latest updates from the recruitment team including new vacancies.
- This week’s leadership message: Lindsey Stafford-Scott
-
- Update on progress of GRS Electronic time sheets
-
Today (1st Feb) all sectors of PTS and AOC will be going live, completing the roll out to all Operational staff.
- Trust Vehicle Collison Bump Pack
-
The Trust is introducing a new RTC pack for all trust vehicles involved in a collision.
- One hundred days of getting the message out!
-
Fantastic Peterborough colleague Steve Wainwright reached 100 community engagement events for EEAST this week.
- PHEM/HEMS programme at Trauma Care conference
-
The Trauma Care UK annual conference returns next month with a day of talks of talks related to PHEM/HEMS.
- Inclusion Health Masterclass
-
Hertfordshire County Council and the University of Hertfordshire are holding a free masterclass on inclusion health.
- Building better rotas: a new way forward
-
We’re pleased to say the Trust is going into 2019 with a new way forward for the Building Better Rotas (BBR) project.
- Thank you from Dorothy
-
I wanted to write and thank you for your extensive efforts during the snowy conditions overnight and into today (Friday).
- DATIX Patient Experiences – Record Status Buckets
-
We have recently had queries relating to DATIX Patient Experience records (i.e. complaints/concerns) and the statuses.
- Overtime incentive for 3rd Feb – 31st March
-
Providing optimum care for our patients during winter.
- Bumper time for patient meet ups
-
A huge thanks to all the staff who were involved in setting up some reunions of our patient-facing teams and their patients recently.
- New record for MiDoS
-
This January we have achieved a record breaking 6383 searches. This is a fantastic result and proves how useful the MiDoS system is becoming.
- #ProjectA events
-
Get involved in #ProjectA events happening in February and March 2019!
- Robin Watts
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It is with great sadness that we have to inform you of the sudden loss of our dear colleague Robin Watts who died last night at home with his family.
- It's Time to Talk Day - Zoe's story
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To mark Time to Talk Day today, EEAST’s Zoe Shrehane shares her story and why she feels talking about your mental health is so important.
- Freedom of Information update
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Update on the Freedom of Information legislation and procedure.
- Datix Top 5 Tips
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The Clinical Quality Systems team (CQS) would like to share with you 5 top tips for best practice when using the Datix system.
- This week's joint leadership message comes from Marcus Bailey and Gary Morgan
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- Updates from Recruitment incl new vacancies
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View the latest updates from the recruitment team including new vacancies.
- RIGHT-2 stroke research study
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The first paper from RIGHT-2 has now been published.
- Services Day at One Leisure 16th February
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One Leisure want to celebrate their local heroes by holding their first ever Services Day this Saturday 16th February and offering free access to their heat experience suites.
- Trauma Research Survey
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The National Trauma Research and Innovation Collaborative is inviting healthcare staff and patients, who have experienced major trauma to submit research questions and ideas.
- Datix – New Feature!
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Document Upload will become available on incident submission forms from Monday 18th February 2019.
- Wendy's Wellbeing Walk February
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Wendy's Wellbeing Walk is back for February!
- New Continuous Professional Development training
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A new series of training events is being launched to provide staff with access to experts in their fields, contributing towards their CPD.
- Help us promote CPR this Valentine's Day
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This Valentine's Day, we're promoting the importance of learning the basics of CPR and we need your help.
- Eastern Region Blue Light Event
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Join our blue light services event on 8th March at Chelmsford City Race Course.
- This week's leadership message from Wayne
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- Norwich recruitment day hailed a success
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Thank you to all of our staff who helped make our recruitment day in Norwich a huge success!
- Section 2
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The NHS Staff Council has reached an agreement on a refresh of NHS Terms and Conditions of Service.
- Relief Policy Implementation: update for all staff
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The Trust intends to go live with the new Relief Policy Implementation on the 1st April, 2019.
- Delivering staff welfare and improved outcomes for patients
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Introducing the People and Vehicle Support Hub (PVSH).
- PHEM Feedback Showcase
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A new feedback service was recently showcased at the University of Hertfordshire.
- #ProjectA Staff Wellbeing event
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Join #ProjectA's upcoming, collaborative event in March to help improve staff wellbeing.
- This week's leadership message from Dave Fountain
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- Wellbeing and Personal Development Passport
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Earn up to £250 towards your own personal, professional or wellbeing development.
- Updates from Recruitment incl new vacancies
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View the latest updates from the recruitment team including new vacancies.
- Flu jab iPad winners
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The winners of the iPads have been drawn, plus there's one more up for grabs!
- Advanced notice of planned maintenance to HealthAssure
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Please note that we will be carrying out essential maintenance work on the HealthAssure system on Thursday 28th February.
- Insightful leadership training
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Training spaces are still available for the ‘Insights Workshop’ on 22nd March at Chelmsford.
- One week to support our EEAST colleagues
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Less than a week left to help support fundraising for two of our EEAST colleagues, Rob and Jen Green.
- Pathway change in SPOC
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The Safeguarding team have announced a pathway change in SPOC that goes live on 4th March 2019 at 10am.
- PEd of the Month Award for Feburary
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Congratulations to Zoe Cooper from North East Hertfordshire who has won February’s Practice Educator of the Month!
- End of Life Care Masterclass
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Join this masterclass on 7th March in Essex to gain information about end of life care and services in this area.
- NHS Staff Survey Results
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Results of the 2018 NHS Staff Survey out now.
- College of Paramedics East of England region Clinical Conference
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This year's conference will be held at the University of Bedfordshire, Luton on the 20th March.
- Another successful recruitment event held
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A recent recruitment event to attract call handlers to our Bedford control room has been a huge success.
- Reminder: I Drive files must be migrated
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I Drive files must be migrated to the new server by 29th March.
- Recruitment updates incl. new vacancies
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View the latest updates from the recruitment team including new vacancies.
- Rare Disease Day
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We are marking International Rare Disease Day with the release of an updated version of our own Rare Conditions handbook for clinicians.
- Employee Appreciation Day 2019
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Today is Employee Appreciation Day! Let your colleagues know how much you appreciate them.
- This week's leadership message from Dorothy Hosein
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- Colin Wilson
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West Essex is sad to announce the loss of one of its former colleagues Colin Wilson.
- EEAST Bedfordshire team party
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Get together, celebrate your achievements and show how much of a great 'green family' you all are!
- Management of respiratory emergencies event
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Join Suffolk Accident Rescue Service (SARS) on 20th March to learn about the management of respiratory emergencies.
- QSIR training courses
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Sign up for our new Quality Service Improvement and Redesign (QSIR) training courses at the end of March.
- Free airway management lab sessions
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Teleflex are offering two free days of hands-on lab-based workshop sessions on intraosseous access and airway management strategies.
- Reminder: Eastern Region Blue Light Event
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Only a few spaces left for our blue light event this Friday 8th March - book before Wednesday 6th March!
- Leicester Tigers discount code
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Discount for NHS staff to use at the Leicester Tigers vs Exeter match on Saturday 6 April.
- Access to mental health community services survey
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Have your say on the provision of community mental health services - survey closes 31st March.
- OD Matters March Bulletin
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The OD team are pleased to introduce the third edition of the OD Matters Bulletin!
- Reminder: Disability Network At EEAST
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Reminder that our first Disability Network meeting will be on 19th March at 19:00 in Melbourn.
- March Wellbeing Walk
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Wendy's Wellbeing Walk for March is taking place a week earlier than usual because of Mother's Day .
- Leadership Message from Paul Henry
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- Recruitment updates incl. new vacancies
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View the latest updates from the recruitment team including new vacancies.
- DATIX- Moving records using the Hierarchy fields
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Please follow this guide when you're moving records from one area to another in Datix
- Sleep research study: reminder
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How well have you been sleeping lately? What might help? Last chance to fill in our survey.
- The Journal of Paramedic Practice
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The Library and Knowledge Service for NHS Ambulance Services in England now provide access to the Journal of Paramedic Practice.
- Help Lisa fundraise for children’s liver disease
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Lisa tells us why she is fundraising for children’s liver disease and how you can help out!
- Food for thought - in collaboration with TheFoodGrinder
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It’s Nutrition and Hydration week and here at EEAST we've teamed up with @TheFoodGrinder to help showcase some quick and easy meal ideas with our busy staff in mind!
- TRAC recruitment system implementation update
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The go live for the new recruitment system is scheduled for the 2nd & 3rd April. Essential information for all recruiting managers.
- New fleet on its way
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Trust managers have signed off the ambulance design that will be the cornerstone of our fleet for years to come.
- Death in Service members update
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An urgent message for Death in Service scheme members.
- Serious case learning events in Norfolk
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Join our serious case learning events in Norfolk from the end of March, on non-accidental injuries in children.
- Essex celebrates International Women’s Day
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In order to mark this important day, women from all the blue light services in Essex gathered together to celebrate and share experiences.
- March 2019: Overime incentives for providing optimal care
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The overtime incentive will continue from 1st March until 31st March inclusive.
- Leadership Message from Tracy Nicholls
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- Triage experts make their mark in winter
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Our ECAT teams have proved their worth during another winter.
- Recruitment updates incl. new vacancies
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View the latest updates from the recruitment team including new vacancies.
- Representing EEAST at the Special Olympics World Games 2019
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Two Paramedics from EEAST are part of the Special Olympics World Games Abu Dhabi 2019.
- A thank you from the Royal British Legion
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The West Hertfordshire locality were recently presented with a letter from their local Royal British legion thanking them for raising £160.
- PEd of the month award for March
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Congratulations to Kellie Todd from Mid Essex who has won March’s Practice Educator of the Month!
- Reminder: mental health community services survey
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Have your say on the provision of community mental health services before the 31st March.
- Sign Up to Safety's National Kitchen Table Week
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March 18-24 is the Sign Up to Safety Campaign's Kitchen Table week, where staff have an opportunity to create an experience that helps people feel listened to and understood.
- Updates to the Clinical Manual App
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The EEAST Clinical Manual app is moving to a new app called JRCALC Plus. We've published instructions showing how to install the new app.
- Harry's visit to EEAST
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A very special toddler from Norfolk who is fascinated with all things emergency service has become one of the region’s youngest potential recruits after a visit one of our ambulance stations.
- Final warning: file server switch off
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The deadline for migrating files from I to S is the 29th March.
- Important changes to the Minor Injures unit in Felixstowe
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From 1st of April 2019, Felixstowe Minor Injures unit (MIU) will be changing to direct booking appointments only and will become a Minor injuries clinic (MIC).
- Do paramedics align with the 'Rescue Personality'?
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Would you be willing to help research into the types of personality that join the ambulance service?
- New hospital accommodation
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West Suffolk NHS Foundation Trust want to offer efficient and modern surroundings to their valued staff, and local healthcare colleagues.
- Recruitment updates incl. new vacancies
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View the latest updates from the recruitment team including new vacancies.
- Changes to consumables
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As part of the work being undertaken by the Product Alignment Group (PAG), we are pleased to announce that we will be bringing back 3M Transpore tape and changing the incontinence pads we use.
- Relief Policy Update
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Key points to note ahead of the launch of the Trusts new harmonised relief policy on 1st April.
- Leadership Message from Ant Brett
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- ‘What Would You Do?' Healthwatch campaign
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Healthwatch Bedford Borough is asking EEAST staff and volunteers to back the national 'What Would You Do?' Healthwatch campaign.
- Launching in April 2019: EVOLVE
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EVOLVE is the new learning management system that will be available to all staff and will be used to record all of your training.
- Health and Care Innovation Expo 2019 is now open
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Registration is open now for Health and Care Innovation Expo – the biggest NHS-led event of the year.
- Clinical Update: Emailing: ePCR staff upgrade
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A new upgraded version of SIREN (V 4.7.33) will go live on Toughbooks on Wednesday 27th March at 02:00.
Details of what to do that and the new features of the upgrade are in this Clinical Update.
- Regional Clinical Conference
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The College of Paramedics East of England Region Clinical Conference took place recently at the University of Bedfordshire, Luton.
- CQC Staff Guide
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Make sure you are CQC ready!
Read our staff and volunteers guide to help you prepare.
- Fed up counting sheep?
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Last chance to complete our sleep survey and be entered into a Prize Draw - deadline is end of March.
- Congrats to Colchester Half Marathon runners
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Congratulations to all from North Essex who donned their trainers last Sunday at the Colchester Half Marathon.
- Minor Injures unit changes live today
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Today, 1st of April 2019, Felixstowe Minor Injures unit (MIU) has changed to direct booking appointments only and is now a Minor injuries clinic (MIC).
- PTS couple win award!
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Stuart and Sally Ronayne from Cambridgeshire Patient Transport Services (PTS) reflect on their award and their working and personal life!
- BBR - How to get Involved
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Three options are now available to staff to discuss as part of the relaunch which includes relief in or relief out options.
- TRAC Recruitment system update
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Please read: Important information for recruiting managers. Go-live: 2nd and 3rd April.
- Essential information for all recruiting managers TRAC recruitment
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We are pleased to announce the successful go-live of the TRAC Recruitment System.
- Use of digital and social media policy
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Whether you use social media in a work or personal capacity, it is important to familiarise yourself with the information in our social media policy to ensure it is used responsibly and appropriately.
- Recruitment updates incl. new vacancies
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View the latest updates from the recruitment team including new vacancies.
- CQM Spring 2019
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The Spring 2019 edition of Clinical Quality Matters (CQM) is now available to download from EAST24.
- Leadership Message from Tom Davis
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- Mother's Day 2019
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To mark Mother's Day on 31st March, we asked mums and their children working at EEAST a few questions! Watch the video now.
- World Autism Awareness Week 1 - 7 April 2019
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The Trust's People and Culture team have got together for World Autism Awareness Week, 1st - 7th April 2019, to join in with Silly Sock Day 2019 fun!
- Mother's Day message from Dorothy
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Watch Dorothy Hosein's Mother's Day message to all mums at EEAST.
- It's World Autism Awareness Week
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This week is World Autism Awareness Week - join the fun by sending us pictures of your silly socks!
- Kevin Brown
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Kevin Brown, the Trust’s Chief Operating Officer, is leaving the Trust today.
- Disability Network at EEAST
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Find out what happened at the first Disability Network meeting and the details for the second meeting on 30th April.
- Early Intervention Vehicles
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The North East Essex locality has two Early Intervention Vehicles (EIV) - one which supports fallers and an urgent care vehicle.
- Expressions of interest for an AET faculty
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Would you be interested in AET qualifications (Award in Education and Training) within EEAST? Let us know by 19th April.
- We're making our services safer
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- 'How to become a paramedic: Tanoh's story' - Working with BBC Bitesize
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We’re pleased to announce an exciting project one of our colleagues has been working on with the BBC…
- Boosting our recruitment into Herts PTS
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We need candidates to join our dedicated PTS team in Hertfordshire, and are implementing an Introduce a Friend scheme for four EEAST staff.
- Help us boost our recruitment into Herts PTS
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Recommend a Friend for our dedicated PTS team in Hertfordshire and you could win £250! Deadline for applications: Thursday 11th April.
- Thank you from t
