New badges for hospice staff to help with a welcome

the ayrshire Hospice has recently adopted the # hello my name is campaign to help welcome patients, families and supporters to the hospice.

the campaign will see every member of employed and voluntary staff wear a # hello my name is badge, clearly displaying their first name and their role.

at the launch, Margaret Wilkie, patient services Director of the ayrshire Hospice explained: “First name introductions make a significant difference to everyone’s hospice experience.

“they help to break down barriers, set a friendly and relaxed tone, offer reassurance and help to quickly establish a culture of trust and approachability.”

the idea behind # hello my name is was founded by Dr Kate granger MBE in august 2013.

Kate was a doctor, but also a terminally ill cancer patient.

During a hospital stay she made the stark observation that many staff looking after her did not introduce themselves before delivering her care.

she said it felt incredibly wrong that such a basic step in communication was missing.

Kate and her husband Chris decided to start the campaign to encourage and remind healthcare staff about the importance of introductions.

Following Kate’s death in 2016 Chris is keeping the campaign alive through conference talks across the world, book writing, presenting awards and social media.