03 November2016

For immediate release

Reflecting on compassion at CNWL staff conference

NHS Patient Champion Ashley Brooks gave an inspirational speech during a CNWL divisional conference in Milton Keynes on the themes of learning, quality, innovation and wellbeing.

Nearly 300 CNWL staff heard Brooks speak about the importance of showing compassion and the human touch not just to patients but also to members of staff.

He spoke movingly about how various NHS staff, from a different trust, were there for him when he contracted leukaemia.

"Thank you to the NHS for being there for me when I needed you most. It was world-class care. Compassion was the important element in that. Without you, my family would be lost.

"We also need to care about you - the staff - more," he said.

The conference was aimed at sharing achievements and networking across the division.

It involved showcase presentations of excellence, from clinical services including talks from carers and patients. There were staff and team awards to recognise the stars of the division; plus workshops and stands representing a variety of clinical services and support services.

Awards were presented by Deputy Mayor Cllr David Hopkins, the Divisional Director and Service Directors. The Deputy Mayor and Deputy Mayoress visited the display stands and enjoyed meeting the staff.

Staff were also treated to free pamper taster sessions courtesy of Milton Keynes College Students.

Divisional Director Lorna Payne said: "This was a thoroughly inspirational and enjoyable event for our staff to learn from each other and to take time out from their busy schedules to reflect on their practice and to feed back where they thought improvements could be made.
 
Editors' notes 
 
Four photos are attached: 
 
0238 is of Ashley Brooks 
0244 is of CNWL assistant psychologists Catherine Gercs and Leanne Packwood (front) who were manning the IAPT stall at the Diggory Festival.  
0293 shows staff during the awards ceremony
0304 shows the award winners with Divisional Director Lorna Payne 

Central and North West London NHS Foundation Trust
Stephenson House, 75 Hampstead Road, London NW1 2PL
Tel: 020 3214 5756 e-mail:communications.cnwl@nhs.net