
Staying cool in the heat
Ice cream round on Ward 18 - page 4

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Staying cool in the heat
Ice cream round on Ward 18 - page 4

It’s hard to believe that we’re coming up to our 100 edition of Proud News. th
I thank you for taking the time to read, get involved or pose for a photo. It’s been a pleasure to support you in telling your stories.
Proud News is all about celebrating you – your work, your stories, and the difference you make every day across our Trust.
To help us make it even better, we’re asking colleagues to share their thoughts through a short feedback survey.
The survey only takes a few minutes to complete, and your responses will help us continue to improve how we share news and celebrate achievements.
Joint Director of Communications
This year, Paediatric Secretary Judy Waterson celebrates 30 years of service with Barnsley
“I became a Paediatric Secretary at Barnsley on 13 April 2004 and I'm still here.







Congratulations to Laura Riggett, Staff Nurse on Ward 31, for her Cavell Award!
Laura has had multiple compliments from patients regarding her nursing practice and how amazing she is.
Laura is just over a year qualified and has been a wonderful asset to the Gastroenterology team.

One compliment from a patient says:
“Laura cared for my dad as though he were her own.
“With such compassion, patience and dignity.”
Nominate a colleague for a Cavell Star Award today
Next week is Alcohol Awareness Week.
This year’s theme is ‘Alcohol and me’ which invites colleagues to take a few minutes to explore the role alcohol is playing in your life.


The week also gives us an opportunity to shine a light on our wonderful Alcohol Care Team (ACT). The team provides specialist clinical expertise and interventions to those admitted as inpatients who are alcohol dependent, present with acute intoxication or with other alcohol-related complications. Thank you for all you do.

To celebrate the fantastic research taking place across the Hospital, staff were invited to take part in a Research & Development wordsearch competition during the Celebration Event on 10 June 2026.
A big thank you to everyone who entered.
Con t l ti t luck (lef wh Cad and gen by Cha We to a too


We are absolutely delighted to share the fantastic news that Ward 31 has achieved outstanding outcomes in their recent Ward Accreditation review. The ward has been praised for their exceptional infection‐prevention
zero harmful falls - a remarkable achievement that reflects exemplary attention to patient safety. The team has demonstrated impressive collaboration while caring for patients with highly complex gastroenterology needs.

Last week, the Armed Forces Forum and EDI team hosted a successful Armed Forces awareness event, in partnership with the Samaritans. The event gave staff the opportunity to learn more about support available for the Armed Forces community, connect with colleagues and partners and source information about the Army Reserves.
Chelsea Graves, Acting Chair of the Armed Forces Forum, said: “Thank you to everyone who came along and supported the day. As an active member in the Armed Forces Forum, it is so important to have a supportive manager who

Chelsea Graves Acute Pain Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS), Army Reservist and Acting Chair of the Armed Forces Forum
allocates protected time for me to attend forum meetings and events like these. Regular meetings with the forum are key to staying up to date, contribute to activities, and support progress. Pressures within the NHS are tough and patient care always comes first, but having a manager who supports your involvement is incredibly important for staff wellbeing and creating a sense of belonging. If you are part of a network or forum and attending in your own time, please reach out to your senior management team.”
Chelsea’s message reinforces the importance of organisational support for staff networks and forums, particularly within the demanding NHS environment. Time to attend and encouragement from managers play a vital role in enabling staff to contribute meaningfully, while also supporting wellbeing and fostering a sense of belonging.

Our Armed Forces Forum is a safe place for staff who are part of the Armed Forces family, and allies to connect, share experiences and shape improvements. Find out more on the Hub. Next meeting via teams, 7 July. th

Barnsley Hospital, in partnership with South Yorkshire Integrated Care System (ICS), has successfully achieved reaccreditation as a Menopause Friendly Trust.
First accredited in 2023, the Trust has demonstrated continued commitment to supporting colleagues through annual evidence submissions covering culture, policies and practices, training, engagement, and the working environment.
Sue Copeland, Health and Wellbeing Coordinator, who leads on the accreditation process, said:
Seeing the Trust go from minimal support around menopause to a comprehensive programme of training, one-to-one support and a network of trained advocates is so positive for staff. It has improved awareness of the challenges some colleagues face and helped ensure the right support is available at the right time.
Sue continues, “Achieving the accreditation doesn’t mean we stand still though, there is more to do to make sure that menopause support and awareness is integral to the culture of our organisation. We look forward to embracing the next stage which will incorporate a mandatory Menopause Action Plan from 2027, a legal requirement under the Employment Rights Act 2025’’
As part of our Trust’s Menopause Friendly status and ensuring staff and managers at BHNFT are offered a comprehensive range of support, there are a number of initiatives.
Menopause Awareness / Training Sessions Network of Menopause Advocates providing peer support and signposting
Recently, advocates joined Sue to host a ‘Meno Fan Club’ roadshow, visiting departments to share information and start conversations about menopause in the workplace.
The Library Team also has a range of menopause support books available for staff to borrow.
More support and info on the Hub
Contact Sue to book a session for your team
BRILLIANT INDIVIDUAL

Sam is recognised for consistently delivering compassionate, patient centred care as an Operating Department Practitioner. She treats every patient with dignity and respect, supports colleagues to maintain safe, effective theatre practice, and champions inclusive care for all.
A valued team player and dedicated mentor, Sam creates a supportive learning environment for students with a level of patience, encouragement, and professionalism that truly sets her apart.
Her commitment to our Patients and People priorities makes her a true asset to the Trust.
Nominate a colleague for a Brilliant Award today

Poppy - A cheeky monkey, sassy, independent and rules the house! She is very greedy and very vocal, always demanding treats!
Sydney - The wise one, the 'father figure' he looks after the other 2 cats and keeps them in check.
Ginger - Very aloof, skittish, and doesn't like human contact. It has taken 5 years for him to sit next to us on the sofa.
Proudly owned by Aimee Burton-Draper, Occupational Therapist
Thank you to everyone who has sent in your photos. It’s brightened up our inbox.
To submit your pet, email the comms team with three facts about them.

