Nightingale News | 29.04.20

Just over two weeks since we first opened our doors, I hope you are all settling in well here at Nightingale North West. Although this is a temporary facility and we are still working through our processes and systems, we created this hospital with strong values at its core. I am proud to say that I am already seeing these values in action – with the way teams are working with each other and the way we are caring for our patients. Thank you.

I would also like to welcome those colleagues who have joined our team in the last week. It really does take something special to step forward – and we are grateful to have you in our team.

It has been incredible to see the transformation of our site from a convention centre into a hospital in a matter of weeks – thanks to a fantastic team effort. On Monday 13^th April we received our first patients and from this Monday (4^th May) we will be increasing our capacity to 72 beds. Over the next few days we will be writing to all acute trusts in the North West to confirm we will be accepting referrals from Monday.

These are really difficult times and it is important that we take the time to recognise the huge contribution people are making across the country. On Tuesday at 11am, our hospital stood still to observe a minute’s silence; to remember key workers across the UK who have lost their life to Covid-19, and all key workers who are working so hard day and night to care for patients during this pandemic. Thank you to everyone for supporting this.

As part of our emerging staff recognition programme, we have drafted letters to thank those children in your lives who are helping you do your job. The letters say a big thank you to them and that we understand how the hard work, long hours and pressures you are dealing with are having an impact on them too. You can find out more information on the Staff Hub.

The next month is set to be even more challenging for colleagues fasting for the holy month of Ramadan. Our wellbeing team have pulled together this briefing pack to support you to manage work and fasting over the coming weeks. Ramadan Mubarak to all colleagues who are currently fasting.

Lastly, in case you didn’t know, we now have a Twitter account for the hospital – @NWNightingale. Follow us and help us share our good news stories.

Best wishes,

Professor Michael McCourt
Chief Executive

This is a quick reminder for all staff at NHS Nightingale Hospital North West to follow police guidance and ensure NO images of hospital site maps or Nightingale ID badges are shared online. Thank you for your cooperation.

If, for any reason, you are unable to attend your shift please call Absence Manager on 0330 808 0260. The system should be used by seconded staff, NHSP workers and agency contractors at Nightingale North West. G4S and Interserve staff should follow their own reporting process.

Please add the Absence Manager number to your phone contacts.

You should report your absence as soon as you realise you will not be able to attend work. When you ring the phone line you will be asked to provide your assignment number. Manchester NHS Foundation Trust staff should use their usual assignment number, for all other staff this will be their mobile number.

We have recently launched the NHS Nightingale North West Twitter account and we are really keen to get as many of you involved in this as possible. As part of our weekly content plan, we are looking to share pictures and information about you and your role here, so whether you are a member of admin staff, a nurse, doctor or porter, we want to showcase your amazing contribution to our hospital! If you would like to get involved please email  [email protected].

We have a number of digital screens across the site which are currently being used to showcase the lovely artwork we have received in from the local community, as well important messages and updates for staff across the hopsital. If you have a message you would like to share on our digital screens please email this to [email protected].

The Staff Hub includes helpful information about the facilities on site, staff offers, how to access accommodation and useful information and contacts. Email [email protected] if there is important information you would like to see on the hub.

All staff should be connecting to NHS Wifi – not the Manchester Central wifi.

This newsletter is available to all Nightingale NW staff. To receive it directly via email please contact [email protected].