The teams behind the Staff Wellbeing Programme at North Bristol NHS Trust have received a prestigious NHS Parliamentary Award, after receiving a nomination from Southmead’s local MP.
The awards ceremony took place in Parliament on Wednesday 10 July, to which all shortlisted nominees and their MPs were invited.
The Wellbeing Programme is funded by Southmead Hospital Charity, and is made up of a range of physical, psychological and lifestyle support provided by staff working at the trust, including a free over-the-phone physiotherapy assessment service, bespoke psychological support sessions, Arts on Referral and the Mental Health First Aid network.
Staff also have access to a 24/7 free, confidential helpline offering counselling about financial, legal, relationships and more, provided by partner organisation Health Assured.
Darren Jones, local MP for North Bristol, who submitted the nomination said: “I am absolutely delighted that the Wellbeing Programme at Southmead Hospital, which I nominated for an NHS Award, has been recognised as a national leader in employee wellbeing. Everyone who has helped make the programme a success from the organisers, to the session leaders and staff that have taken part in activities and clinics should give themselves a huge pat on the back. I am sure the whole of Bristol will want to join me in congratulating North Bristol NHS Trust on receiving this national award.”
Andrea Young, Chief Executive at North Bristol NHS Trust said: “When we say to staff that “your health is as important as our Patients’”, as a Board we really mean it. We all know that when we feel our best we bring our best selves to work. High quality compassionate care starts with us and the way we care for and about each other. I am delighted that the big steps we have taken to build a comprehensive staff wellbeing programme is being recognised, but more importantly is meeting the needs our staff expressed. Thanks to the team who led this and continue to make it their and our passion.”
Elizabeth Bond, head of fundraising for Southmead Hospital Charity, said: "The Wellbeing programme is one of the charity's flagship projects that we are proud to fund. Caring for the people that care for patients and their families enables staff at North Bristol NHS Trust to be happier and healthier, ultimately helping them to deliver exceptional healthcare. It is a great example of how an NHS charity, like Southmead Hospital Charity, through fundraising and donations, can make a direct impact on staff wellbeing and patient care."
Bristol saw one other winner at the awards, with Ade Williams, a pharmacist from Bedminster picking up The Excellence in Primary Care Award.