Work with troops on the wards sees trust shortlisted for civilian health prize

UNIVERSITY Hospitals of Derby and Burton NHS Foundation Trust’s work with the Army via the Ministry of Defence has been shortlisted for Military and Civilian Health Partnership Award at the HSJ Awards 2021.

It marks the trust’s outstanding contribution to healthcare in what has been an exceptional and challenging period. The project saw

UHDB supported by the Army, during the height of the second wave of the pandemic. Some 24 military personnel were deployed at Royal Derby Hospital, between January and March 2021, to help amid a rise in Covid-19 admissions.

The Army team was made up of nine Combat Medical Technicians (CMTs) and 15 general duty troops, deployed at short notice as part of three cohorts. The Army teams were also able to achieve competencies within the Emergency Department as part of their deployment.

Phil Bolton, director of nursing, said: “We really appreciate the support of our Army colleagues during what has undoubtedly been an extraordinarily difficult period. I have been quite overwhelmed with the ease in which they managed to adapt into our teams for the betterment of our patients.

“They have all been so hard working, helpful and approachable – and I don’t know whether they realise just how much our staff have appreciated their assistance.

“Some of them probably never thought that they’d ever get involved in anything like this, and find themselves working in a hospital, but we’re eternally grateful for all the support that they’ve given us.

“They have provided a massive boost to our colleagues when they’ve needed it most.”

More than 1,000 entries have been received for this year’s HSJ Awards, with 205 organisations, projects and individuals making it to the final shortlist.