At ULHT, we continue to grow the momentum of the SWAN End of Life model of care across our organisation, staff who are driving the scheme forward are being identified and nominated as SWAN Ambassadors.
These are staff that have taken the initiative within their own area to develop the scheme, or who have progressed a specific aspect of the scheme Trust wide.
As part of the nomination, these individuals are asked to share their work and continue to champion end of life care.
Wendy Spridgens – Ward Clerk, EAU Grantham Hospital
Wendy has created a one-stop cupboard on the ward which contains all the information and resources for staff, patients and relatives around bereavement.
This includes bereavement bags, swan bags and specially decorated envelopes which contain supporting information for those who have been bereaved.
Wendy has been busy sewing bags and decorating envelopes to ensure that families and relatives are supported in the best possible way and so that staff have easy access to materials when they are needed.
Pamela Beattie – Hospital Chaplain, Lincoln Hospital
Pam has introduced children’s bereavement bags for youngsters who visit seriously ill relatives in hospital, or who are experiencing a recent bereavement.
Having recognised the difference simple resources can make when staff are supporting young children, Pam gathered donations from staff, volunteers and small businesses.
The children’s comfort bags have been an overwhelming success and have also led to Pam receiving the ULHT’s Chairs Compassion and Respect award.
Sharon Kidd – Patient Experience & PALS Manager
Sharon has developed “Swan ring bags” made from donated ties so that relatives can safely keep their loved ones rings and precious items safe following their death. These had previously been returned in an envelope and this small gesture makes a big difference
Sharon gathered ties following a Twitter appeal and from numerous generous donations to support an extensive stock.
These have been made available Trust wide.
Debra Petley – Palliative and EOL Discharge Liaison Nurse, Boston Hospital
Debbie has used her Palliative & EOL expertise to generate traction across Boston Hospital, stimulating Palliative Link Nurses to support the initiative in their areas.
She continues to use her leadership to support the roll out of the scheme in Boston and encourage donations of items to enhance end of life care.
Marie Beck – Matron for Oncology & Haematology
Marie has developed “Swan Comfort bags” containing travel size toiletries and essentials for end of life patients and those important to them.
Recognising that relatives and friends may not want to leave their loved one to freshen up, these bags are gifted as a gesture of compassion at this difficult time.
Marie has rolled these out across the Trust having encouraged an incredible donation response from staff.
Paul Cartwright – Volunteer Lincoln Hospital
Paul has established a new process for monitoring and storing McKinley Syringe Drivers across the Lincoln site. Having been challenged with a lack of devices when patients require symptom management, he has engaged many staff to support a new system.
Paul monitors this most days and ensures that devices are now readily available for prompt symptom management via Navenby Ward.