This edition is all about showing you the incredible impact your donations are having on NHS staff, patients and communities and how, together, we can do so much to meet the challenges that face us now. Thank you.
WE NHS Autumn 2024
Your latest news from NHS Charities Together
Thank you for:
Caring for the wellbeing of NHS staff. Pages 4 – 5 Making it possible for Louise to walk again. Pages 6 – 7 Helping 80-year-old Mary cope with cancer. Pages 8 – 9
Together we’re making healthcare better for everyone
Louise, patient
NHSCHARITIESTOGETHER.CO.UK
As the weather turns a little colder, a very warm welcome to your newsletter and a big thank you for your continued support. This July I joined the nation in wishing the NHS a very happy 76th birthday and alongside lots of you, made a wish. My wish for the NHS was that our incredible workforce gets the support they need and that everyone has access to the best possible healthcare. You can read more about the celebrations on the page opposite and how we’ll work closely with the new UK Government to prioritise the NHS, ease pressure on staff, and transform care. Thank you for doing everything you can to make that transformation happen. Extraordinary things are possible through your generosity. On pages 4 and 5, you’ll read how NHS staff – from those who are on our wards looking after us to those who repair our hospitals to keep them running – are accessing services made possible with your support. Gavin, who features on page 5, is now a Health Champion helping to break down stigma in mental health and supports his colleagues, who as men and working within a trade, experience higher rates of suicide than the other parts of our communities. You’ve made this possible, and so much more. Then, on pages 6 and 7, you’ll read how a rehabilitation treadmill, funded by donations like yours, is helping patients like Louise walk again. These stories define extraordinary and make me proud of what we can achieve together. Thank you for your support. The power of together has never been more extraordinary
July was a big month for the NHS as we all celebrated its 76th year with birthday wishes, tea and cake. We also saw a newly-elected UK Government, bringing hope of a brighter future for our much-loved NHS. A summer of Celebration and Hope
A big birthday Thank You
Click here to watch the special wishes for our amazing NHS.
As part of our birthday celebrations, those wanting to share a special message included our Charity Champion Jordan Henderson MBE, Adam Kay, Kate Garraway MBE and ITV’s Loose Women Brenda Edwards and Kaye Adams, as well as actor Sir David Jason OBE. Stephen Fry also shared a personal message thanking the NHS. Stephen Fry said: “I’m wishing the NHS a very happy 76th birthday. And what’s my birthday wish for the NHS this year? Well, above all, the NHS is not buildings, hospitals, it’s not clinics, it’s not drop-in centres. It’s not even the technology. It’s the staff. And I wish that the staff, more than ever, are treated by the public, and by the NHS and the Government, with the respect and the honour that they deserve.”
A special Thank You for putting the kettle on
Locally, NHS charities across the UK held NHS Big Tea events in their communities, aiming to bring everyone together for a cup of tea and a piece of cake while raising vital funds to improve care and support for NHS staff, patients and communities. If you supported an event or held an NHS Big Tea, an extra special Thank You for putting the kettle on!
A word on the election
With a new UK Government in place, NHS Charities Together is committed to working collaboratively with the newly-elected Labour Government to support NHS staff, patients and communities. Our Chief Executive, Ellie Orton OBE, expressed her wishes for a brighter future. “We need, and expect, the NHS to be a top priority for the new Government and we will seek to swiftly engage with them, so they fully understand the vital role played by NHS charities in
supporting our health service. There is much for the incoming Government to do to safeguard our NHS for future generations. Our diverse network of over 200 UK- wide NHS charities is working hard to help ease pressure on the NHS, break down barriers to access and improve healthcare for patients and staff. We hope the new UK Government will work towards a brighter future for our much-loved NHS.”
Ellie Orton OBE Chief Executive
NHS Charities Together is the trading name of the Association of NHS Charities. Registered Charity No. 1186569 (England & Wales) and SC050716 (Scotland). Company No. 12325259. NHS Charities Together, Pure Offices (Suite 68), Lake View House, Wilton Drive, Warwick CV34 6RG.
AUTUMN 2024
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Western Health and Social Care Trust football team
You’re looking after those who look after us
As a supporter of NHS Charities Together, you’re helping the amazing NHS staff who look after us and we couldn’t be more grateful. Here’s how your donations are transforming lives.
We’re helping to support staff wellbeing, all because of you
You’re helping Hannah work wonders for staff wellbeing
With you by his side, Gavin is helping to prevent suicide
Donations from supporters like you have helped to fund part of a new Workforce Wellbeing Programme to support NHS staff across the UK. This is absolutely essential, as an NHS with resilient staff means a stronger NHS with more support for all of us. Therefore, while looking after staff, supporters like you are also helping more patients receive the care they need too. In our eyes, that makes you a real star. Our Chief Executive, Ellie Orton OBE, says, “NHS staff work under immense pressure with unprecedented staff shortages and vacancies, and the extra help we provide to support their wellbeing and mental health is now more important than ever.”
Like any buildings, our hospitals need repairs and regular maintenance so they’re safe for patients and staff. This falls to NHS estate staff like Gavin, who work tirelessly, often at night and weekends, when hospitals are quieter. As a direct result of your donations, Gavin also has another role, he’s part of the ‘We Are With You’ mental health initiative, run by Western Health and Social Care Trust in Northern Ireland, and has become one of 50 Health Champions. With high rates of suicide in men and trades people, his role is absolutely crucial. He raises awareness within his team and makes sure everyone knows where to go for help and information. Gavin tells us more; “The Health Champion role has led to ‘Safe Talk’ suicide prevention sessions and mental health talks. Some of the team now also take part in free weekly football sessions. From a personal point
Hannah
One amazing way your donations are already transforming the mental health of NHS staff is by helping to fund wellbeing roles. North West Anglia NHS Foundation Trust is just one place where it’s making a huge difference. Hannah is a Wellbeing Co-ordinator, and her role is only possible because of your support. While staff are taking care of patients, Hannah is taking care of them – making sure they take breaks, keeping a watchful eye on their mental health and ensuring they get the emotional and practical support they need. Hannah says, “At the moment, I’m focusing on individual wellbeing, team wellbeing and encouraging breaks and rest. I consider everything that affects staff while they’re on shift.”
of view, I feel that physical activity plays a huge role in general health and mental wellbeing.”
Gavin
With your continued support, we can fund even more wellbeing projects and have an even greater impact on the mental health of NHS staff.
WE NHS
AUTUMN 2024
Your continued support is so appreciated by us all, thank you.
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In hospital wards up and down the country, supporters like you make the extraordinary happen by funding innovations needed to improve care for patients. One such innovation is a treadmill like no other, that is making the most phenomenal impact on one patient’s recovery. Louise tells her unbelievable story. Donations like yours have helped Louise to walk again
the opportunity to move to the Forest Ward, which is a rehabilitation ward in Swindon. It was here that I was introduced to the most incredible team of physiotherapists, who believed in me from day one and repeatedly told me I could achieve anything. And with their help, extraordinary things started to happen. Against all the odds, they worked tirelessly with me so I could learn how to sit again. Once I had mastered that, I began to learn to stand. Although what happened to me was horrific, I always held on to a little bit of hope that my life wasn’t completely over and that I would regain feeling again. When I managed to stand, we were all completely overwhelmed that I’d done it. Then Alex the physio asked me if I was willing to try the treadmill. It’s a special rehabilitation treadmill, with a harness that takes your upper body weight. At first I was terrified I was going to fall, but the harness made me feel safe and secure and gave me confidence in my ability. In just three weeks, I was able to move my feet by myself – it was a feeling I can’t describe. Everyone was so excited and there were lots of tears. I wholeheartedly believe, if it wasn’t for that treadmill, I wouldn’t be walking. It allowed me to keep practising, until I could take my own weight again. One day I reached 300 metres and haven’t stopped since.” “Thanks to this groundbreaking piece of kit, I have my life back. It’s not the same life I had before but it means my boys have a mum they can still do things with and a mum who can hug them.”
Louise walking for the first time down the ward hallway
“It’s the reason I’m able to get around the house. If I hadn’t been introduced to the treadmill, our home would have needed to be adapted, and I would have lived in one room, being hoisted around and relying on 24/7 care. I have quality of life and it’s all down to this one piece of equipment, and of course Alex, Laura and Holly, my wonderful physiotherapists, who never gave up on the really difficult and dark days of this journey. They stood by me and supported me nonstop, even when I couldn’t see a way out. If it wasn’t for them, I don’t think I would be where I am either. I now want to give back to the NHS, because it has quite literally saved my life. It was there from the moment I sustained this horrendous injury up to where I am now, and I am so thankful for this service.’’
Louise using the rehabilitation treadmill
“In March 2023, my life changed forever. I sustained an injury that I shouldn’t have survived, and I knew nothing would ever be the same again. I was told I would never walk, stand or even sit. My entire world fell apart. I’d lost my independence instantly and needed constant care and support. As a mum, all I could think of was my two children and the fact I would never be able to walk alongside them or hug them again. I was in a very dark place, but I knew I had to survive. I was in hospital for a total of seven months. At first I was in the trauma ward, but later got
This is just one example of the incredible impact your kindness and generosity can have. Thanks to your support we can continue to fund more innovations across the UK to give more people like Louise the very best chance of recovery. This is just one example of the incredible impact your kindness and generosity can have. Thanks to your support we can continue to fund more innovations across the UK to give more people like Louise the very best chance of recovery.
WE NHS
AUTUMN 2024
Your continued support is so appreciated by us all, thank you.
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You’re helping to build happier, healthier communities Often the most transformational impact on our health happens outside of clinics and hospitals. Your support is helping to fund projects that give everyone equal opportunities to live healthily and improve their wellbeing, no matter who they are or where they live.
Health outreach bus team
Jorge, who used to be homeless himself, now volunteers on the bus. He told us;
Breaking down barriers thanks to you
“An hour on the streets feels like a week, especially at night because it’s not safe. You’re sleeping in a tent, but not properly. Your self esteem is already really low, then you walk into the
The key to living well begins at home. But not all households have the same opportunities to live well and not everyone has a safe place to call home. Where we live can unfairly affect how easy it is to access health services, and how healthy we’re likely to be. Thankfully, every time you donate, you’re helping to break down these barriers. Your donations have enabled us to partner with Addenbrooke’s Charitable Trust to bring healthcare to homeless people in Peterborough. Staffed by a range of health workers, the health outreach bus is a mobile GP surgery. Its doors are open to anyone experiencing homelessness. GP Sara knows that if this service wasn’t here, the only healthcare available to homeless people in the area, would be A&E. The bus enables her to get to them much earlier, before health issues escalate. “One of the biggest benefits is that I’m able to build a relationship of trust. Some have had really negative experiences when trying to access healthcare, so are unwilling to reach out. But they’re learning the GP service is there for them, and they know it’s a safe space.”
Mary wants to thank you for helping her cope with cancer
In Dorset, your donations are helping to fund a new exercise programme to help older people who are living with cancer or recovering. It involves gentle health- boosting walking, mobility and strength training and, best of all, a good old natter. 80-year-old Mary tells you why she feels so grateful. “In 80 years, I’ve never really felt comfortable with any formal exercise at all. I was always anxious about ‘working out’, but these sessions have eased my mind as I’ve realised I ‘can do it’ at a manageable pace and level. I only wish I’d had the chance to join a group like this earlier. I was first diagnosed with lymphoma tumours about six years ago. I’ve had chemo and radiotherapy twice, and I’m currently recovering from surgery. I’ve always tried to be open about my cancer, as I think that’s the best thing for me. The local group gives me a weekly opportunity to exercise, chat and have a cup of tea with others in a similar situation. I’ve made some lovely friends. It has strengthened me physically and mentally. I feel I’ve already improved my stamina and balance and other key areas that I’d never
Jorge
GP surgery and see other people looking at you and it makes you give up looking for help. The bus gives you privacy.”
For patient Roy, the bus has turned out to be life-saving; “They have now found I have a heart condition which is now being dealt with and I have done physiotherapy on the bus a few times.”
Mary
“I’m really grateful for having a local group like this to attend and know that others who have cancer, or other long- term health conditions, would benefit greatly too.” previously heard of! I’ll certainly keep going with the sessions for as long as I can.”
Roy
Crucial community projects like this can’t run without your support. Thank you.
Names and images have been changed to protect identities.
WE NHS
AUTUMN 2024
Your continued support is so appreciated by us all, thank you.
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Siew is giving back to the NHS she loves As a nurse, Siew gives everything to the NHS. But, this year, she is giving even more by taking part in the Royal Parks Half Marathon this October, running 13 miles across a route that takes in some of our capital’s world-famous landmarks.
Support NHS Charities Together and win a share of £100,000 in cash prizes!
We’re delighted to share that NHS Charities Together has partnered with Jumbo Win on their latest Golden Ticket draw, which launched on 15th July and will run until 13th December. Jumbo Win are on a mission to create positive social impact which is why NHS Charities Together will receive a 20% donation for every ticket sold and a minimum donation of £45,000. This free prize competition gives supporters amazing chances to win a share of £100,000 and make a difference. The first monthly winner shared, “It feels amazing to be the first monthly winner, and to not only have won £5,000, but to have also helped support a charity doing great things for our NHS.” The more tickets sold, the more money they can raise to help improve access to healthcare “It feels amazing to be the first monthly winner, and to not only have won £5,000, but to have also helped support a charity doing great things for our NHS.”
services, provide the best patient experiences, and to make sure our incredible NHS staff are cared for too. And you could join previous winners in winning a prize and making a difference at the same time.
She tells her inspiring story
and my wellbeing. I felt weak all of the time and had no idea when I’d recover. I had to make a choice whether to lose hope in life or fight to survive. I chose to fight and made a full recovery that May. However, during isolation, I felt very unsure about going back to work as I didn’t want to put my family at risk; my kids were still very young. But, after thinking it over, I decided to complete the last placement of my nursing degree at the Northwick Park Hospital. I knew it was a risky decision to make, but thank God, it worked out well. Not only did I complete my placement but also my nursing degree. I’m pleased to say, I’m still here today, working with the surgical assessment unit as a staff nurse. I feel so proud of my decision to be a nurse. I really love my job. It’s without a doubt the most satisfying job I’ve ever done and I’ll continue to serve until I retire.” “I’m so grateful to the NHS for all their support during my studies. That’s why I’m giving back. Running also keeps me physically active so I stay healthy for my job!”
If you’d like to have an impact and help make healthcare better for everyone, you can enter the draw by clicking this button.
For more information about the prizes on offer visit the Golden Ticket website. Entrants must be 18+. Free entry route available. 20% of all ticket sales (ex. VAT) from the draw will be donated to NHS Charities Together (registered charity no. 1186569).
Inspired by Siew? Sign up for the Big Step challenge this October
Siew
Join the Big Step challenge this October and commit to walking either 5,000 or 10,000 steps each day. You’ll be taking steps to improve your own health and wellbeing, and raising money to support an NHS that can be there for all of us when we need it.
“I used to work in marketing, but when I had my two beautiful children, I became a healthcare assistant, working in palliative care. It was very fulfilling and it gave me the flexibility to work and earn a living, while looking after my children. With the support of the NHS, I was also studying for a nursing degree, while doing my job part-time. I couldn’t wait to be a nurse, but all my plans were suddenly put on hold when the pandemic struck. Like so many on the frontline, I was infected with Covid, right at the beginning of the pandemic, in March 2020. My life changed very suddenly, as there were lots of uncertainties about my future
Alternatively, contact the Supporter Care Team by email: hello@anhsc.org.uk or telephone 0300 303 5748 for all the help and advice you need.
Click this button to register now!
WE NHS
AUTUMN 2024
Your continued support is so appreciated by us all, thank you.
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This July, our wonderful NHS turned 76 We think that being able to access free healthcare for over three-quarters of a century is something worth celebrating! We asked supporters like you to share your birthday wishes and this is what some of you had to say. Happy 76th Birthday to our amazing NHS!
Happy Birthday NHS. Thanks from me and everyone else that you have helped over the years. I hope you will be around for a long time to come to carry on the good work. I will endeavour to help and support you for as long as I can.” “
HAPPY BIRTHDAY! Love to you all on behalf of me and my family. You are simply the best and have my lifelong thanks for saving my life at least twice.” “
Thank you for uniting with us, so every one of us can have access to the best healthcare.
To find out more ways you can support please click this button
NHS Charities Together is the trading name of the Association of NHS Charities. Registered Charity No. 1186569 (England & Wales) and SC050716 (Scotland) Charitable Company No. 12325259. NHS Charities Together, Pure Offices (Suite 68), Lake View House, Wilton Drive, Warwick CV34 6RG.
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