CHuFT Awards 2026

The ward opened in December 2024 in response to increasing patient acuity and the recognition that frail patients require specialised care. This approach helps reduce hospital stays and supports safe discharges through effective community services. Initially, the team faced a unique challenge to secure equipment which they delivered through effective and efficient resourcefulness, the team worked collaboratively to manage these demands. The ward opened with six beds but quickly expanded to 14. They demonstrated working together and upholding a exceptional standard of care to deliver this safely. The team has worked proactively addressing challenges and drawing on expertise from key partner services, including pharmacy, medicines management, infection control, and clinical education. They have also welcomed external insights to refine their practices continuously, ensuring the patient experience is the driving force for changes. For instance, after receiving a recommendation from the Observe and Act team, an office was promptly converted into a relatives’ room the next day. Experts by experience were invited to provide feedback on the ward environment, offering valuable suggestions to enhance the patient experience. The team fosters a culture of continuous learning, transparency, and excellence in care. Operating a well organised ward built on the Trust’s values, they bring together consultants, junior doctors, nurse consultants, advanced clinical practitioners, therapists, nurses, and coordinators in a cohesive, multidisciplinary approach. This collaboration ensures effective care planning, discharge coordination, and a strong emphasis on timely discharges and patient experience. As leaders, the team supports new staff with patience and engagement, helping newly qualified professionals transition smoothly into their roles. Senior members recognise individual learning needs and tailor development opportunities to enable each team member to thrive. Regular check-ins and staff wellbeing remain a priority to uphold safety and quality. Team members actively listen to their colleagues, fostering an environment where concerns can be voiced openly. Despite being newly formed, this team has demonstrated that collaboration and a shared vision can create a ward that excels in both patient care and team cohesion. 

The ward consistently delivers high-quality care. Dementia and delirium assessments are completed for 95% of patients, ensuring early intervention. The team’s commitment to ‘home for lunch’ streamlines discharges by coordinating timely take-home medication, transport, and social needs. Same-day discharges reduce unnecessary hospital stays, while MDT discussions focus on next steps for longer-stay patients. This ensures they receive care from the right professionals, in the right place, at the right time. Collaborative efforts with the frailty team have enhanced patient flow; April admissions showed 41 out of 52 patients were admitted directly from FSDEC, improving outcomes and minimising ward moves, ultimately boosting efficiency and morale.

The leadership team has provided positive feedback, recognising the ward as a busy yet calm environment with a strong focus on patient-centered care. The ‘15 Steps’ feedback highlighted the team’s compassionate approach, noting that staff consistently go above and beyond to support patients. The team actively engages with experts by experience, valuing their insights to refine patient experience. Patient feedback has been encouraging, reflecting a commitment to excellence. Furthermore, the team has received exceptional feedback from patients and families, which has been featured in The Trust Newsletter twice since the ward’s opening in December. A junior doctor who worked with the team during the first few months expressed how amazing and collaborative the experience was, particularly during the winter months when the team worked together to establish the new ward. The team's responsiveness is evident in their ‘You said, we did’ approach, demonstrating a culture of listening and continuous improvement.