The team set up a working party consisting of the occupational therapy department, psychology, admin, hospital manager, clinical manager, RGN, team leader and a support worker to focus on a project of improving staff wellbeing within the service.
Emma Brown, Occupational Therapy Assistant, shares below what the team achieved next.
“Firstly we handed out staff surveys to all staff to gain feedback on how Appletree staff were feeling, ways we could develop and what support our staff required.
“Through this we were able to highlight what our staff needed and from this came a wellness day. The aim of our wellness day was to provide support to all Appletree staff. The event was well advertised with a lot of planning involved, and consisted of two 2-hour time slots where staff could come in and receive the support they needed.
“We organised a physical health station where staff could receive support and advice or just get a general MOT. Next was the self-care / lifestyle station, where information was given on leading a healthy lifestyle, taking time out for yourself, work-life balances and exercise. Following this we had a money and debt support station, where support plans could be made, phone numbers available for local organisations.
“We had a sleep hygiene station supporting those who find it difficult to switch off and to adjust their sleeping pattern between shifts. We also had a admin/ HR stand which enabled staff to ask questions and advice was given on career pathways. Next we had an employee support station covering the employee assistant programme, Freedom to Speak Up guardian and other benefits included in Cygnet rewards.
“We had a station for men’s health, where our male employees could seek out support, advice and an ear to listen. Next we had a station focusing on stress and mind resources, where tips were given and support numbers available. Most importantly we had an area for staff to talk and drink coffee, sharing experiences and advice between ourselves.
“Wellness packs were provided for all staff to take away with them to support them in their wellbeing journey.”