Connect with us
Advertisement
Advertisement

News

Health staff recognised for improvements

Published

on

Hywel-Dda-Health-BoardTHE LOCAL health board has announced the three finalists in the ‘Improving Health and Wellbeing’ category at this year’s Best of Health staff awards. The Best of Health awards are organised annually by the University Health Board to recognise and reward the extraordinary achievements of its staff and volunteers, many of whom often go beyond the call of duty in their work for the benefit of patients and service users. This year, 100 entries were received from across Carmarthenshire, Ceredigion and Pembrokeshire.

The winners will be announced at the Best of Health Awards ceremony, sponsored by Health Shield at Parc Y Scarlets in Llanelli on Friday 16 January. Lisa Gostling, Director of Workforce & Organisational Development said: “These nominations reflect just some of the high quality patient care provided by many of our staff and volunteers and highlight the fantastic efforts and achievements above and beyond their normal day-to-day work. I wish all the nominees the very best of luck.”

The ‘Improving Health and Wellbeing’ category, sponsored by Health Shield, seeks to recognise those who have made a significant contribution to the health and wellbeing of others and addressing health inequalities and the finalists for 2014 are: At Risk Mental State (ARMS) Pilot supports the development of very early intervention services designed to work with youngsters with pre-psychotic conditions often called At Risk Mental States (ARMS). To this end the Early Intervention in Psychosis Service has partnered with the Ceredigion Local Primary Care Mental Health Service to assess and deliver therapy to this client group. ARMS is designed specifically to offer much needed evidence based interventions to a population who often find it extremely difficult to access services at this stage of their psychosis, and who research and evidence shows if they are given this level of timely specialist interventions have a very high percentage chance of not developing a psychosis.

ARMS is the first time this sort of collaboration has been developed in Wales is compliant with the Welsh Mental Health Measure and the NICE Guidance for Schizophrenia and allows patients and their carers access to a ‘state of the art service’ in rural Wales. The Early Intervention in Psychosis (EIP) Service is a specialist community mental health resource offering evidence based interventions to individuals between the ages of 14 to 35 (and often their families/carers) who have a First Episode Psychosis (FEP), established psychosis within the first three years of diagnosis or an At Risk Mental State i.e. prepsychotic difficulties. The First Episode Psychosis service is designed to offer NICE Guidance specific treatments such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy for psychosis, Behavioural Family Interventions, structured Relapse Prevention (RP), physical health monitoring and a non-stigmatising, person centred service designed to improve the recipient’s health and wellbeing.

To date only two services in Wales have been developed and Hywel Dda University Health Board has developed a Hub and Spoke Service, offering EIP in each of the three counties led and managed by a central hub. The Clinical Lead for Psychosis Services at Hywel Dda is also the Welsh National Lead for FEP, a Member of the 1000Lives Plus Faculty and an Improvement Associate. He has and still is helping partner Health Boards across Wales to develop their own FEP service, and sits on a number of Welsh HB FEP Development Committees. Carmarthenshire Integrated Evidence Based Exercise Continuum for Frail Older Adults are finalists for working in collaboration with the leisure department of the Local Authority allowing the appointment of a Health and Activity Coordinator for Older Adults to facilitate Postural Stability Instruction (PSI) and Otago (OEP), the only programmes that are clinically proven to promote functional gain and reduce the risk of falls in frail adults. Since the introduction of the first PSI programme in Llanelli, the service has developed and now supports the delivery of nine sessions in community venues across Carmarthenshire.

The sessions are now not limited to PSI but also encompass Exercise following Stroke (EfS), long term neurological conditions as well as cardiac rehabilitation, recognising that for frail adults ‘one size does not fit all’. The awards are sponsored by Health Shield Friendly Society Ltd and Chief Executive of Health Shield Jonathan Burton said: “It is a big achievement to be recognised for the great work that you do in any profession, but even more so at the Hywel Dda Best of Health Staff Awards. On behalf of all of us here at Health Shield I would like to say congratulations to everyone who has been shortlisted. “We would like to wish everyone the best of luck in the awards, and well done for reaching this stage. You deserve all the recognition you get as I know that you regularly go above and beyond the call of duty.”

Click to comment

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Crime

Emergency bags rolled out to support domestic abuse victims across Dyfed-Powys

Published

on

Thirty packs provide immediate help for families fleeing dangerous situations

A NEW initiative aimed at supporting victims of domestic abuse has seen thirty emergency bags distributed for use across the Dyfed-Powys Police area.

The bags, which contain essential items including toiletries, non-perishable snacks and emergency supplies, are designed to offer immediate practical support to individuals and families forced to flee abusive situations, often with little or nothing.

The scheme forms part of the Police and Crime Commissioner’s wider commitment to improving outcomes for victims and is being delivered in partnership with Dyfed-Powys Police and Dal i Godi, the commissioned Independent Domestic Violence Adviser (IDVA) service.

Dal i Godi provides specialist support to victims at high risk of serious harm, including safety planning and advocacy through the criminal justice process.

Police and Crime Commissioner Dafydd Llywelyn said the initiative was already proving its value.

“This is an incredible initiative that I’m proud to support,” he said. “It provides meaningful help to those experiencing trauma and reflects our ongoing work to put victims first.

“Within just a few days of the bags being distributed to the Dal i Godi service, one was given to a victim fleeing a domestic abuse situation, along with a children’s pack to support their young family. That shows just how essential this support can be and how quickly it can make a difference.”

Detective Chief Inspector Llyr Williams, from the Dyfed-Powys Police Vulnerability Hub, said the emergency bags could provide a vital lifeline at critical moments.

“These emergency bags offer support at some of the most difficult moments in a person’s life,” he said.

“The contents provide immediate comfort, dignity and practical help for those leaving their homes in crisis. While simple, they represent an important first step towards safety and recovery.

“We are proud to be working with partners across the Dyfed-Powys area to ensure this support reaches people when they need it most.”

Anyone experiencing domestic abuse, or concerned about someone else, is encouraged to seek help. In an emergency, call 999.

Domestic abuse can also be reported online via Dyfed-Powys Police.

Support services available include Victim Support Dyfed-Powys, which offers free and confidential help to anyone affected by crime, whether or not it has been reported, and Dal i Godi, which provides specialist IDVA support for high-risk victims.

The Live Fear Free Helpline offers 24-hour support for those experiencing domestic abuse or sexual violence across Wales.

If you or someone you know is a victim of domestic abuse, please consider reporting it. If you are in danger or need support right away, please call 999.

You can report domestic abuse through the online crime reporting service here: Report domestic abuse | Dyfed-Powys Police.

Support is also available via the below support services:

Victim Support Dyfed-Powys

Free, independent support for anyone affected by crime in the Dyfed-Powys area, whether or not it has been reported to the police.

 0300 123 2996

 Victim Support Dyfed-Powys

Dal i Godi (IDVA Service)

Specialist support for victims of domestic abuse at high risk, offering safety planning, emotional support, and advocacy with agencies such as police and courts.

 01267 221194

 Dal i Godi

Live Fear Free Helpline

24/7 support for anyone experiencing domestic abuse or sexual violence.

 0808 80 10 800 |  Text 07860 077333

 [email protected]

Continue Reading

News

Welsh-language school praised for ‘happy, proud and friendly community’

Published

on

Estyn highlights strong leadership, positive attitudes and a clear curriculum vision at Ysgol Bro Preseli

A WELSH-medium all-age school in Crymych has been praised by inspectors for fostering a “happy, proud and friendly community,” according to a recent Estyn report.

Inspectors said pupils at Ysgol Bro Preseli show pride in their local area, thrive both academically and socially, and are well prepared for the next stages of their learning.

The school currently has 932 pupils on roll, including 118 in the sixth form, and has operated as an all-age school since 2022.

Estyn found that most pupils demonstrate extremely positive attitudes to learning, treat staff with respect, and listen carefully to the contributions of their peers.

The report also notes that, in almost all cases, teachers show strong subject knowledge. Inspectors highlighted the close and supportive relationships staff build with pupils, alongside the creation of a safe learning environment where pupils are not afraid to make mistakes.

It states: “As a result of a clear strategic direction and detailed planning, teachers provide beneficial practical activities that allow pupils to develop purposeful oracy, reading and writing skills in language sessions and across the other areas of learning and experience.”

Inspectors also praised the school’s clear curriculum vision, rooted in its motto Gwreiddiau a Gorwelion (Roots and Horizons).

“Leaders and teachers provide a coherent curriculum and learning experiences that bridge the primary and secondary sectors effectively,” the report said. “Staff plan stimulating activities and experiences for pupils to learn and deepen their understanding within the areas of learning and experience. This contributes positively to the sense of belonging that permeates the whole curriculum of Ysgol Bro Preseli.”

Headteacher Rhonwen Morris said the report was a reflection of the collective effort across the school community.

“As a successful all-age Welsh-medium school, we are delighted that the report recognises our commitment to excellence and the unique identity that makes Ysgol Bro Preseli so special,” she said.

“Since becoming an all-age school in 2022, our cohesive leadership team and governing body have focused on building a strong foundation based on our values of Welsh ethos, kindness, community and responsibility.

“The report highlights the excellent strategic work of staff at all levels, which is a testament to the shared dedication and vision that drives our school forward.

“It is gratifying that the report reflects what we continuously aim to achieve day in and day out. This achievement belongs to our entire community — staff, pupils, parents and governors — and together we will continue to build on this success and provide the very best education for every pupil.”

Continue Reading

Charity

Welsh opticians raise £1,600 for people experiencing homelessness

Published

on

SPECSAVERS Pembroke Dock has helped raise £1,600 to support people experiencing homelessness this winter, with all funds going to The Wallich’s winter appeal.

Thirteen stores from North, South and West Wales donated £1 for every customer feedback form completed during November to help The Wallich, Wales’ largest homelessness and rough sleeping charity, continue its vital work.

Supporting more than 8,000 people experiencing or at risk of homelessness across the nation each year, The Wallich runs around 100 diverse projects across 20 local authorities to provide hope, support and solutions to end homelessness.

Funds raised by Specsavers will go directly to the Wallich’s Flexible Assistance Fund, which provides small but vital emergency grants. The grants support people at crucial turning points, helping cover essential costs such as phone credit, rent or food shops.

This initiative is a continuation of Specsavers’ wider homelessness programme, which sees over a hundred Specsavers stores and Home Visits services hold out-of-hours or pop-up clinics and invite people affected by forms of homelessness to use their services for free.

Specsavers’ North Wales regional relationship manager, Martin Lawrence, who helped organise the fundraiser, says: ‘We’re really proud to be supporting The Wallich’s winter appeal at a time when support is needed most.

‘Homelessness affects people in every community and as locally owned and run businesses, Specsavers stores are committed to raising awareness of the issue and supporting people through their toughest moments.

‘We’re excited to build on the success of this fundraiser and strengthen our partnership with The Wallich in the new year.’

Louisa Turner, head of fundraising at The Wallich, adds: ‘Winter can be an incredibly difficult time for people experiencing homelessness and this support from Specsavers will make a real difference.

‘The funds raised will help provide emergency grants at critical moments – whether that’s putting food on the table, helping someone stay connected with their loved ones or preventing someone from losing a safe place to live.

‘This kind of support creates vital turning points and helps people move towards a safer, more secure future.’

Specsavers works year-round with homelessness charities including Crisis, Vision Care and The Big Issue, to improve access to healthcare and advocate for policy change – ensuring people experiencing homelessness can receive free eye tests, glasses and hearing checks.

To find out more about Specsavers or to book an appointment at your local store, visit: https://www.specsavers.co.uk/stores.

Continue Reading

Crime11 hours ago

Milford Haven man denies child sex charges as trial date set

A MAN originally from Milford Haven has pleaded not guilty to a series of sexual offences involving a child after...

Crime1 day ago

Bail revoked for teenager charged with rape following Sands Nightclub allegation

A TEENAGER charged with rape following an alleged incident at a Saundersfoot nightclub has been remanded into custody after bail...

Crime1 day ago

Former police officer accused of making sexual remarks to women while on duty

Court hears allegations of inappropriate behaviour during official police visits A FORMER police officer has appeared in court accused of...

Community2 days ago

Community gathers to remember Corrina Baker

Lanterns and balloons released in emotional acts of remembrance FAMILY, friends and members of the local community came together to...

Crime2 days ago

Teenager charged following rape allegation at Saundersfoot nightclub

Incident reported at Sands Nightclub in early hours of Sunday DYFED-POWYS POLICE is investigating an allegation of rape following an...

Crime2 days ago

Milford Haven man jailed after drunken attack on partner and police officers

A MILFORD HAVEN man who launched a violent drunken assault on his partner before attacking two police officers has been...

Crime2 days ago

Court hears historic child sex abuse claim emerged after ‘tarot reading’

Judge reminds jurors there is no standard timeframe for victims to come forward as trial reaches final stage A JURY...

Crime3 days ago

Rape allegation investigated at Saundersfoot nightclub

Police appeal for witnesses after incident reported in early hours of Sunday DYFED-POWYS POLICE are investigating an allegation of rape...

Crime3 days ago

Milford ground worker denies historic child sex abuse charges at Crown Court

Accused tells jury claims did not happen as trial hears evidence about alcohol use and alleged controlling behaviour A MAN...

Crime4 days ago

Three inmates deny murder of Lola James killer at Wakefield prison

THREE prisoners have denied murdering child killer Kyle Bevan, who was found dead in his cell at HMP Wakefield. Bevan,...

Popular This Week