Hospital trust scoops three gongs
A Black Country hospital trust won three gongs at an awards ceremony - including for improving the wellbeing of staff by using energy pods.
Sandwell and West Birmingham NHS Trust scooped three awards at the Healthcare People Management Association Excellence in People Awards 2020.
The ceremony recognises outstanding work of human resource [HR] departments in healthcare setting nationwide. It was held virtually this year.
Sandwell's trust, which runs Sandwell General Hospital, in West Bromwich, won: Bevan Brittan Award for Wellbeing; the Health Sector Talent award for Best Recruitment Initiative; and the coveted HR Director of the Year award which was won by the trust's Raffaela Goodby, Director of People and Organisation Development.
She said: "I am privileged to receive the HR Director of the Year Award, it feels overwhelmingly beautiful to be nominated by so many clinical colleagues and to know our profession and my energy and values have had a positive impact."
Dr Sarb Clare headed up the wellbeing initiative at the trust which saw the introduction of energy pods for clinicians, dedicated rest spaces, coffee and food supplies.
Dr Clare added: "The energy pods were a catalyst to a huge amount of wellbeing initiatives from dedicated rest spaces, to debrief sessions to name a few.
"The energy pods created a culture and emphasis on 'its ok and vital to take a break’.
"Colleagues reported an improvement in concentration, mental state and felt safe to drive home after a night shift. The pods allowed an area for desensitisation away from the hustle and bustle of a very busy acute medical unit and allowed a breather for many who look after very sick patients.
"These pods were very timely for the pandemic where staff wellbeing was a number one priority."