"As we approach Maternity Support Workers Day, I extend my sincere thanks to all our maternity support workers. Your professionalism, dedication and care make a real and positive impact on the families we serve, and to our maternity team all year round. We appreciate everything you do."
Director of Midwifery
Sarah Petty
"Ahead of Healthcare Support Workers Day, I want to take a moment to recognise the incredible contribution you make to patient care. Your hard work, compassion, and commitment are at the heart of everything we do. Thank you for going above and beyond every day –you truly make a difference."
“We began our careers as support workers as we were dedicated and passionate about providing excellent patient care, it’s wonderful to be such a vital part of the patients care experience.”
“For us, our patients come first. We wish to treat everyone as we would expect for ourselves, we are one big family.”
Pam and Gem – Ward 18
As the Trust’s Pastoral Support Worker, I’m proud to support and empower our non‐registered workforce. We provide the essentials for human wellbeing and form the foundation of healthcare. Though we may not hold positions of power, our role is vital and worth celebrating every day as we continue to make a difference in our community.
Throughout my Career as a support worker, I have had the privilege to support individuals at every stage of life, supporting with baby massage classes, to care in the final days of life and everything in between. I cannot think of a more human and rewarding role than supporting people in a time of need.
Marie Halliday, Ward 29
Kim Swallow – Pastoral Support Worker
Violeta joined Day Surgery in March 2025 and has quickly become a valued team member. She works in theatre and the discharge area, supporting patients with observations, care, and refreshments. Her naturally caring approach is reflected in the positive feedback we receive. Nothing is ever too much for her—she’s eager to help and learn. Violeta says she enjoys her role because “making a patient’s journey a little better makes me happy.”
Kirsty works across all areas of Day Surgery, from admissions and theatre to discharge, supporting patients with observations and care. She is a valued and appreciated member of the team, always willing to help on the wards when needed. Kirsty’s caring nature and fantastic rapport with patients make her a true credit to DSU.
Marie Halliday, Ward 29
Violeta Kazakova, Day Surgery
Workforce Development and Student Support Team
BarnsleyWelcomesUSNursing Students
The Workforce Development and Student Support Team welcomed 17 final year nursing students from the University of Evansville in Indiana USA this week. They are currently undertaking their 4th and final year of Nursing, and are in the UK for a semester as part of their studies.
Each year the university bring a cohort of students to stay at Harlaxton Manor in Lincolnshire. While here they work with Sheffield Hallam University. The Student Support Team arranged speakers and Ward visits including Critical Care, Neonatal, ED, Wards 23, 24, 35, Chemo, Children’s, Day Surgery, End of Life, and Midwifery.
HealthoftheHighStreet
Barnsley’s new “Health on the High Street” hub in the Alhambra Shopping Centre has welcomed its first patients, marking the UK’s largest relocation of hospital outpatient services to a town centre. Starting with eye care, more specialties will follow, improving access, reducing hospital pressure, and boosting local footfall and economy.
Sarah Beardsall and the Infant Feeding Team have been nominated for an award recognising midwives who pioneer innovative developments to improve maternity care for women, babies, and families. Their project addresses a specific area of quality improvement, showcasing a unique way of working that enhances safety and care.
The award celebrates fresh approaches to existing challenges, specialist expertise for vulnerable or complex maternity care, and the passion to deliver the best outcomes. Sarah and her team embody innovation, dynamism, and dedication to improving maternity services.
The nomination is for the midwife led tongue tie service which was established in May 2024
EmmaDeakin-25YearsatBarnsleyHospital
This year marks a special milestone for Emma Deakin, celebrating 25 years at Barnsley Hospital. Emma began her journey in 2000 and has shown passion and commitment throughout her career. She has worked alongside many wonderful colleagues and supported countless patients and families, always bringing kindness and professionalism to her role.
Emma says she feels proud to be part of such a fantastic team and is grateful for the friendships and experiences she has gained.
Congratulations to Emma on this incredible achievement.
Thank you for your 25 years of dedication and hard work!
ProudofBarnsley-Congratulationstoourwinners
DrDiarmuidKerrin
Diarmuid has been recognised for his outstanding commitment to the department over 25 years, supporting families and colleagues with compassion and care. He plays a vital role in teaching paediatric doctors of the future and is described as a true NHS worker, always putting patients first.
Following the award nomination, social media was flooded with over 200 messages from past and present families sharing gratitude for his dedication, with many saying he helped their child recover or even saved their life.
Congratulations, Dr Diarmuid Kerrin
ProudofBarnsley-Congratulationstoourwinners
CharityTeam
What an unforgettable Friday evening for Barnsley Hospital Charity at the Barnsley Chronicle Proud of Barnsley Awards! The team were honoured to stand alongside so many inspiring individuals who make our community thrive.
The event wasn’t just about trophies – it celebrated the passion, resilience and kindness that drive our hospital, our supporters and our town forward. A huge thank you to everyone who continues to make a difference. Together, we’re proud to support Barnsley and the people who call it home.
Jo shared: “I had an amazing night, I was totally overwhelmed by this nomination and then to win it was unreal. The night was a fantastic celebration of some inspiring people from Barnsley. Made me feel very humble.”
This award is a wonderful recognition of Jo’s dedication and the difference she makes in our community. We are so proud of her achievement and grateful for the inspiration she brings every day.
I am very proud to be a Barnsley Midwife . The maternity unit is second to none and I am a small part of a fabulous team working hard to keep the mums and babies of Barnsley happy, safe and well cared for.
Improving DispensingTraining
To enhance the quality and consistency of dispensary training for new starters, the Pharmacy team introduced several changes following staff feedback. Initiatives included a buddy system with two-way feedback, a trainer guide, and a comprehensive training booklet. While survey responses were limited, results improved from 15% rating training as good or better to 100% among respondents
This project demonstrates how staff input can drive meaningful improvements in training standards.
Be part of improvement. Call the QI team on 5643, or click to email
Collier’sRestaurantGrandOpening
Michael Wright, Barnsley Hospital’s Managing Director, officially opened the new Colliers Food Court and said:
“I’m delighted that, following significant external investment, we’re now able to open the new Colliers Food Court. Through these improvements, we’ve listened carefully to our colleagues and the people who use our services, and we’ve worked hard to create a much greater variety of food and drink options – including an enhanced 24/7 vending offer to give even more flexibility.
The new space feels brighter, more welcoming and modern, and the introduction of Costa and Greggs really boosts the range available on site. Alongside our established WHSmith and Volunteers’ offers, Colliers now provides a fantastic choice across the hospital for staff, patients and visitors, and I’m really proud of what’s been achieved.”
FLU VACCINATORS ON SITE
THIS WEEKEND AND NEXT WEEK
As we approach the end of November, flu vaccination uptake often begins to decline. To tackle this and keep our staff protected, we’re proud to take part in the National Big Weekend. Our friendly vaccinators will be out with the trolley at the hospital this weekend, and this upcoming week. If you work near these areas on site and haven’t yet been vaccinated, we encourage you to look out for, or visit our vaccinators. No appointment is necessary.
NATIONAL BIG WEEKEND
Flu vaccinators will be roaming the General Wards on Sunday 23 November, 09:00 – 12:00 rd
Please contact Occupational Health this week (Monday – Friday) to request a visit to your area this Sunday.
W/C 24 NOVEMBER TH Monday 24 November th 13:00-16:00 - Roaming BHNFT
Thursday 27 November th 13:00–16:00 - Roaming BHNFT
Friday 28 November th
Drop-in Session, all day, OH Block 9
“My friends Mum died suddenly of the flu when I was 15 years old. The impact of this unexpected loss is something I will never forget. I want to do my bit to reduce the transmission of the flu virus which is responsible for over 7,000 deaths in the UK every year. I’m aware that I could have the flu without any symptoms or knowing that I have it and unknowingly pass it on. I don’t want to pass flu on to vulnerable patients and family which is why I have the vaccine every year.”
Sarah Moppett, Director of Nursing, Midwifery and AHPs
BRILLIANT INDIVIDUAL
KayleighBradwell
Kayleigh supports nearly 200 volunteers and manages a complex service with professionalism, positivity, and dedication. Since taking over, she has transformed operations, improving organisation, communication, and engagement. She goes above and beyond handling inductions, scheduling, and even helping in the coffee shop always with a smile.
Kayleigh ensures volunteers feel valued and respected, celebrates their achievements, and promotes diversity and inclusion. Her leadership embodies Trust Values and has a lasting impact on volunteers and the wider hospital community. Truly inspiring and deserving of recognition.
Nominate a colleague for a Brilliant Award today
PUBLICLY BRILLIANT
Jamie-leighThompson
I would like to nominate Jamie-Leigh Thompson, Sister on the Early Pregnancy/Gynae Unit. On Friday 29th, during my medical miscarriage at 16 weeks, she cared for me with exceptional kindness and compassion. Jamie-Leigh explained every step, treated our baby with dignity, and made a devastating experience less frightening.
Her support, along with the nurses who listened and comforted me, will never be forgotten. Please pass on my heartfelt thanks, and if Jamie-Leigh wins the award, I would love to be informed.
Nominate a colleague for a Brilliant Award today
JustaSupportWorker
We are told in training time and again,
Don’t say ‘just’ a support worker you’re more than you think. But that’s what I am and proud to be, a band 2 not even band 3.
Here we are in the midst of the day
Can you JUST make this bed
Can you JUST get them fed
Can you find some equipment that’s been missing all day and JUST drop this at labs while you’re on your way.
Can you JUST fetch me this Can you JUST fetch me that JUST get dad ready for theatre and bring him a hat.
Will you JUST help push mum there and sit dad in a chair
Can you JUST stay with relatives at the edge of despair.
Can you JUST clean up after, for the next patient in
Can you JUST come and empty the stuff in the bin
Can you JUST hold my baby while I sort myself out
Can you JUST comfort someone who says they’re crying over ‘nowt!’
Can you JUST encourage someone that they are stronger than they know
Can you JUST get them up and ready to go
So yes I’m the JUST in the midst of the day
I’m ok with that I wouldn’t have it any other way.
Poem by Ruth Godridge, CSW on Barnsley Birthing Centre
StaffSurvey
OneweeklefttohaveyoursayintheStaffSurvey
Thank you to everyone who has completed the NHS Staff Survey so far – response rates are at 54.7%, with BFS leading at 93.7%. In recent years Barnsley Hospital has had some of the best response rates in the country - let’s continue our success together.
Your feedback shapes decisions that improve patient care and staff experience, from wellbeing initiatives and inclusion efforts to safety, catering, and leadership support.
Complete the anonymous survey by next week for a chance to win one of two £100 vouchers per CBU and BFS. It takes 15 minutes and helps us build an even better workplace. Thank you for everything you do!
Michael Wright Managing Director
There is just a week left to complete and return your survey and give us your feedback
