To deliver excellent healthcare services, both now and long into the future, we need to be sustainable in our use of resources. This includes our environment, our people, patients and communities and our budget.

Sustainability therefore requires a large amount of teamwork, making this headline accurate, more so from recent collaborations between the Friends’ of Broomfield and the trust’s Sustainability Team.

The charity shops recently launched a 30p discount for anyone using a reusable cup for hot drinks with the ambition of reducing the single-use disposable alternative. A small stock of recycled bamboo reusable cups is likewise available for purchase.

Sustainability’s David Jackson added:

“The traction behind the recent beverage cup changes is a fantastic example of how a variety of groups can be brought together by a central aim of reducing our environmental impacts.”

Some photos from the annual Christmas Ward Decoration Competition. 

On Wednesday, October 18, the perometer was installed at the St Andrews Centre gym and will benefit patients suffering from the chronic condition. The remainder of the almost £23,000 cost was met by the department.

It assists clinicians to measure the swelling of the limb, caused by a collection of fluid in the body’s tissues. The condition develops when the lymphatic system, which helps to fight infection and remove excess fluid, does not work properly. It is often the result of cancer or cancer treatment.

The perometer functions using photosensors and light-emitting diodes (LEDs) with which the limb is illuminated and scanned. The actual measuring unit is installed in the frame, which is pushed over the limb.

Following staff training, the perometer will now be brought into use.

Mr Mat Griffiths, consultant plastic surgeon, said:
“We are very grateful to the Friends at Broomfield Hospital, who have greatly assisted our fundraising efforts which will benefit patients by allowing our therapist, Annette Palmer, to measure limb volumes far more accurately and efficiently than by using a standard tape measure technique.”

Angela Wade (Research/ Development and Dignity Lead) has been able to buy much needed clothing for our patients who find themselves in hospital either as an emergency or who may not have family or friends to bring items in for them.

Angela Said:
“The Dignity Project team helps provide that extra dignity for people who do not have suitable attire while staying here at Bromfield Hospital, and we are immensely grateful to the Friends at Broomfield Hospital for supporting this important initiative”

Friends volunteers Sandra and Laura joined Angela, Audrey Judd (domestic team leader) and Leanne Lawrence (hotel services administrator) recently to see the wonderful selection of clothes they have purchased, and to learn how the items are distributed around the hospital to those in need.

Our Charity at Broomfield is forever grateful for the continuing support we receive for their continuing support we receive from the Friends and their volunteers.

On Danbury, Goldhanger, Baddow and Braxted wards they sensitively sing, play guitars and ukuleles, violin and soft percussion to calm and soothe patients.

There is scientific evidence that music can relieve pain and improve the wellbeing of patients, family members and staff.

Patients on these wards, some of whom have dementia, might not be interacting with others. But when the musicians arrive the often start to smile, talk, laugh and even sing and play themselves.

Staff have also been seen singing and dancing with patients; and some have shown off their musical talents by playing instruments.
Jonathan Wright – Patient Experience Manager “the impact the musicians have on the ward is huge, the atmosphere completely changes with big beaming smiles all around for patients and staff”.

This pilot project is funded by Friends of the Broomfield.

Please visit www.pulsearts.co.uk for more information.

Photos – Still from the video of John Kingston, playing with Pulse Arts Musician Joe Danks. Joe Danks and Dave Mckenny