LOROS Internal Communications
Thank you from the Board of Trustees
The Board of Trustees have created this video for everyone at LOROS – you are all their heroes.
Welcome
This month’s newsletter comes to you at possibly the most difficult times we have ever had to endure at LOROS and at home. As you have heard from our Board of Trustees, every single person should be proud of their contribution and for helping to secure the future of the organisation. We have tried to fill the Pin Board with both useful information and some happy distractions for you and your family - enjoy.
A note from our Chief Executive John:
Last week I had the difficult task of writing to everyone within LOROS to explain about the furlough scheme and the Hospice’s need to save money with immediate effect. My email generated a good number of quite humbling responses from team members across the organisation, all of whom openly reflected their support of the decision.
Only during the difficult times do you get a true sense of the core strengths of an organisation and it is very apparent that LOROS is made of great ‘stuff’.
Thank you all for rallying around the charity and for your almost unquestioning support of myself and the senior team in starting the process of navigating through these challenging times – thank you! We quite literally could not have moved so fast without your help.
This week we know that close to 132 people have been furloughed, allowing us to reclaim a monthly amount of close to £225,000 from the UK Government. This is a massive step forwards for us and is further supported by guaranteed funds from our local CCG’s and other known income from Health Education England, as well as a variety of rate reliefs through our business operations.
It seems like there is always something new to absorb. A group of SMC, Heads of Department and the Chair of the Trustees have been meeting every morning to ensure that decisions are not just made but also actioned, clearly time is of the essence and we can ill afford to be caught napping!
You can read more about this meeting and how it works in the ‘Team spotlight’ section and find all the most up to date important information for staff and volunteers here.
Services have been re-shaped, volunteering almost entirely closed down, the day to day functioning of the Hospice has changed dramatically and of course many of you are now working from home and meeting ‘virtually’ on an almost daily basis.
It is pleasing to be able to say that, throughout, the Ward has remained totally functional and patients continue to receive the highest standards of care.
Looking ahead, or at least from today’s point of view, I consider the following to be our priorities all running concurrently;
It’s a time to focus our energies in a united way, to supporting colleagues, having time for one another, giving the very best that we have and being clear that now more than ever we can truly influence the future of the Hospice. While you are at home it is important to look after yourself and your family; our ‘Managing lockdown and working from home’ section will hopefully have some useful resources for you.
“The sum of the whole is greater than its parts” – meaning that whilst we are all significant in our own right we will be so much more when working together!
Thank you
John
Di Linley
The eulogy that was read at Di's funeral on behalf of all the staff at the Hospice.
We estimate that Di influenced and supported the care of almost 40,000 patients and their families during her time working at LOROS (almost 20 years). This would have ranged from instilling her high standards of cleanliness with her “girls” to deliver the very best service possible for the patients, to those little tit bits she had for tackling all kinds of marks and stains, to getting a cup of tea for a relative, taking time out to have a chat with patient or just hold their hand at their time of need.
Di was known for being thoughtful and bringing little gifts in for staff, a patient or their relative following a conversation.
Di would always go above and beyond to make their stay as good as it could be. She showed great empathy and pride in what Di and her “girls” did. Di was a role model for all managers and an excellent example of someone living our LOROS Values and Behaviours.
It is fair to say that if Di were a stick of rock, she would have LOROS written right through her.
Di management style was firm but fair; she’d gladly give you an inch and tell you off if you took a mile. On asking her “girls” how they would describe Di they said,
So as you can imagine we all miss her terribly and place is not the same without her. Di was well respected throughout the organisation and was the only person within LOROS who would get away with anything, her fun and cheeky personality and dirty laugh meant that critiquing John Knight our CEO on his dress sense was fine, telling staff off regardless of who they are if they were seen walking around with a drink in their hand and it not on a tea tray, no problem.
Di did everything with the best of humour and best intentions and things were fun when she was around.
Di always spoke with great pride, enthusiasm and love for her family, and what she would like to do in retirement, so when Di finally handed in her notice everyone was so excited for her. Then when we discovered Di was unwell and that her dream retirement would not be on her terms we were devastated and the overwhelming response from staff sending their best wishes really showed how loved and well thought of Di was by everyone.
So when the time came for her extended LOROS family to look after Di through her illness, we did it with love and compassion. We hope we made Di proud and she knew how much she was loved by us all.There is a quote that we found, that goes some way to say how we feel.
“When we lose someone we love we must learn not to live without them, but to live with the love they left behind.”
Di’s legacy will live on at LOROS. We thank you Di for all that you did - on behalf of the thousands of patients you will have supported, on behalf of the Board of Trustees, the staff team, your “Girls” and the volunteers.
To David, Emma and Nikki and family we offer you our most sincere condolences.
There is a condolence book within the chapel at the Hospice that will remain in place until everyone who wants to have had a chance to write something. Once the pandemic is over, we will be inviting Di’s family to the Hospice where we will hold a celebration of Di’s life for which all staff will be able to attend.
Good news
Wedding at the Hospice
A magical event took place at the Hospice earlier in the month – we were delighted to host a wedding for Shirley and her bridegroom James, in a ceremony held in our social area, followed by a blessing in our chapel. Close family and friends came and celebrated with volunteers, nurses and staff.
Shirley said: “It was a really special day. I didn’t expect anything but I got all this! I feel humble and so, so grateful.”
You can read more on our Facebook page.
It’s a boy!
The lovely Marjolein from Home Visiting is expecting a new addition to her family. She and her husband have recently adopted a lovely baby boy! She will be trading home visits for nappies and nursery rhymes. Marjolein starts her leave shortly – congratulations!
Tower Run
Despite everything going on, around 300 courageous supporters climbed 351 steps to the top of Leicester's St George's Tower, all in aid of LOROS. It was such a wonderful day full of energy and team spirit, including a fireman in full kit and a very young (only a few days old!) participant! We are incredibly grateful to everyone who took part or helped out.
LOROS Facebook page
During these difficult times our Facebook page is a great way to keep up to date with what is happening at the Hospice, including feel-good stories, events to get involved with and wellbeing resources.
Managing Lockdown and Working from Home
As we are all discovering - being locked in our homes, trying to work and not losing your mind is quite challenging especially if, like a lot of you, there are children running about too!
We have tried to pull together some things that might be helpful for you and your family so you don’t have to resort to 10am ‘juice’ breaks like our Graphic Designer, Craig, who is at home with his four children whilst his wonderful wife works as a nurse at Glenfield hospital!
Virtual visiting
I’m sure lots of you are already video calling family and friends to keep in touch, but it can be harder for those who are less tech-savvy. This great BBC guide shows you how to have virtual visits by making a video call using a smartphone, or receive one using your computer and most importantly help you explain how to do so to others. We think this is a great way for you to 'visit virtually' to keep in touch with loved ones (even Granny who hasn’t had her mobile switched on since February 2017) and help keep everyone safe.
New Health and Wellbeing Programme
We are pleased to let you know that our Health and Wellbeing Programme is now available.
The programme is suitable for everyone and changes weekly. We know that many of you will want to do wellbeing activities when it suits you, so there is a mix of 'access any time' activities, live sessions, interactive sessions, competitions and even a live quiz hosted by our very own Chair of the Board of Trustees, Robin Graham-Brown!
There really is something for everyone. Follow the link in the side bar or click here.
School out!
Unfortunately this newsletter can’t help you teach maths, say no for you to requests for more snacks for the millionth time or convince your three year old that unfortunately, in this instance, the Paw Patrol cannot help fight the Coronavirus! But we can highlight some things that might help!
Websites – From pre-school to high school, lots of websites are creating content, mostly free of charge, for people to use at home. Twinkl.co.uk, Phonicsplay.co.uk, funbrain.com and the BBC website all have masses of resources for you and the kids to access.
Social Media – There are so many groups on Facebook that have 1000’s of ideas on how to entertain you and the family. Try searching for Family Lockdown Tips and Ideas or Survival of the Corona to get you started. Lots of clever celebs are also running ‘lessons’ to keep everyone’s brains ticking over: Joe Wicks P.E. at 9am, English with David Walliams at 11am and Dance with Darcy Bussell at 1.30pm. The image to the right has details of a full day of lessons!
And if all else fails Disney+ is offering a seven-day free trial so, in the words of Elsa, just “Let it go, let it go” and enjoy this time with your family!
Senior Management Committee (SMC) update
Due to the current situation there is not the normal update from our SMC team however our team spotlight feature focusses on what The LOROS Coronavirus Business Continuity Team is doing to ensure the continued safety of staff, volunteers, patients and visitors.
Hellos and goodbyes
Hellos
Welcome to our new starters. If you fancy having a look at anyone else, they are then you can access staff profiles via Select HR.
Liz McIntyre has been confirmed in post as LOROS Director of Education, Learning and Development. Liz has held this position as our Interim Director since September last year, however following a recent ‘peer review and assessment’ involving both senior team members and the charity’s Chairperson – she has been offered and accepted the role permanently.
Goodbyes
Policy and clinical updates
New and revised policies are available to view within Organisation Information on the Common (G) Drive: G:\13. Organisation Information\Policies
Paper copies of polices can also be found on the Inpatient Unit behind the Ward Clerk’s desk.
For you - Wellbeing, HR and personal development
Reminder: New Health and Wellbeing Programme
As we have already mentioned, our new Health and Wellbeing Programme is now available. The programme is available for all staff and volunteers and changes weekly. Follow the link in the side bar or click here.
You can also check out the ‘Managing Lockdown and Working from Home’ section then you will find some extra ideas to keep you going.
Strictly Come LOROS
Veronica’s fundraising event ‘Strictly Come LOROS’ has been postponed to the Autumn - please keep an eye out for more information as there will be 10 couples dancing; made up of staff and volunteers. In the meantime, there may be some glitter-ball related craft projects Veronica needs help with – more info to follow!
Will Writing Month in May
During the month of May, LOROS and local solicitors team up to offer a free Will Writing Service for everyone in exchange for a donation to LOROS in your will. If you are interested in taking part, please contact Rachel Hill in fundraising to register for a pack. Packs will be sent out in April and will include more information and a list of the solicitors who are participating in this year’s campaign. This campaign is currently going ahead, but may change depending on ever-evolving situation.
Business development and money matters
There is no business development update from Caroline this month as she focuses on guiding the Income Generation teams through the unique challenges there are currently facing.
John and Wayne are endeavouring to keep staff up to date, via email, on the Hospice’s financial situation, including the Furlough scheme and how LOROS is utilising it. If you have any concerns about this, please speak to your line manager.
LOROS needs you
To help LOROS, now and going forward, we really need your help to promote, and participant in the two fundraising activities we are still able to hold. See below for how you can help.
The Twi-night In!
Our Twi-Night In happened on Saturday 18th April and was a brilliant, fun filled night enjoyed by lots of former Twilight walkers and many staff!
Thank you so much for your support, look out for a full review of the evening in our May issue.
You can still donate here if you would like to.
Our Spring into Summer Raffle needs you!
To our friends and colleagues who have already purchased raffle tickets, THANK YOU so much for your support. If you’re not able to, please don’t worry, but what you can do to help is ‘spread the word’ by liking, sharing and commenting on our social media posts.
We’re delighted with the response we’ve had so far. The Spring into Summer Raffle is doing really well, and we hope that our wonderful supporters continue to return their postal raffle packs or alternatively buy on-line instead.
So, it just leaves us to say, if you’ve mean meaning to buy tickets, but have been busy enjoying the sunshine and the garden, your time is now! Spring into action today, as our 
‘fast reply’ deadline is almost here. If you purchase a ticket by Sunday 26th April, you could be in with a chance of winning an extra £50 prize. Imagine the BBQ banquet you could buy with that, as the pleasant weather looks like it’s here to stay. There are five additional prizes up for grabs, so don’t delay, visit our website today to buy tickets or call the Lottery Office on (0116) 231 840.
Players must be aged 18 or over. Be gamble aware.
Bag packing postponed
The bag packing planned for April and May has obviously been postponed. If you would like to put your name down to help out in the future then email Emma Jones. It really is a fun way to spend a few hours helping LOROS raise money.
Team spotlight
This month’s team might be temporary team but it is a mighty important one!
The LOROS Coronavirus Business Continuity Team
by Louise Lowman, Marketing and Communications Manager.
As soon as the Coronavirus news broke and it was obvious that we were to be affected, an emergency group was brought together to act immediately and to enable us to respond to the fast-changing situation.
Our priority was - and still is - to keep our patients, their relatives, friends, our staff, volunteers and the wider community safe.
The group meets daily, and consists of SMC, Heads of Department and the Chair of the Board of Trustees. The meetings used to happen with everyone meeting in LPDC, but as the situation developed, social distancing was recommended and with staff working from home, we too had to adapt. The meetings are now conducted through Microsoft Teams, with most people taking part 'virtually' from their own homes or their own offices. A few people continue to meet at the Hospice, seated a minimum of two meters apart in the meeting room!
There is a structured agenda that each meeting follows to ensure that all key organisational issues are addressed, discussed and decisions made. Everybody leaves with their respective actions for the day and Becca does a sterling job of distributing the complex and lengthy minutes within only a few hours!
The following day, the actions are ran through to ensure that all the previous day's actions have been completed.
Developments continue to happen quickly - sometimes two or three times a day! Having a core team, meeting regularly, means that we can collectively make decisions, consider the impact and cascade throughout the organisation.
All the information that needs to be cascaded to our patients is done so through the respective service teams and information for the public is done so through the main LOROS website and across our social media when appropriate.
Information for staff is cascaded through each Head of Department/Service, via email from John or Jo Kavanagh and with all key information gathered and added to the online 'Important Information' staff pages.
This response has meant that we have been able to effectively respond to a situation that none of us could ever have imagined! And we have done so with amazing agility all whilst ensuring that our Ward has remained totally functional and patients continue to receive the highest standards of care.
The meetings will continue to happen until this pandemic is over and we are able to return to 'business as usual'.
Head of Departments meeting - In brief
This update was from the HoDs meeting held on 3rd March, just before the Coronavirus situation escalated but it is still useful to know. You can access and read all HoDs minutes in full on the common drive.
LOROS Staff and Volunteer Christmas party
The Volunteer Christmas Parties are changing, with the suggestion of one party for both staff and volunteers to attend. The proposed date is Friday 11th December. This will replace the three separate volunteer’s parties and the staff Christmas lunches that had traditionally taken place. Further details will be shared in due course.
Eye Donation study
The Eye Donation Study has commenced at LOROS; this is a study looking at the potential for eye donation in palliative care settings.
Finance Update
Wayne Matts talked about the problems we are incurring obtaining legacy income from the Probate Office due to changes in the way they process this money. To date, we have been promised £1.9m and Wayne talked about the effect the delay in receiving this money has had on the Hospices’ finances. The situation should be resolved, however it may be a number of months before this can happen. All HODs were advised to be vigilant with spending in the next financial year and to manage their budgets carefully.
Health and Safety Champions
Michael talked about our Health and Safety Champions, and the vital role they play in assisting him with all areas of health and safety. He has identified teams where he would be looking to recruit Health and Safety champions, these were the Inpatient Unit, CNS, Fundraising, Lotteries, Education, and Community Outreach/Home Visiting. The plan in the future would be to offer some accredited health and safety training to these champions. Please contact Michael if you are interested in learning more.
Business Continuity Plans – IT viruses
As part of the Continuity Plan scenarios exercise, it was highlighted that if a problem occurred with suspected virus on a PC, all staff are encouraged to ‘pull the plug’ and disconnect from the network.
Our Research teams' newsletter is on our website here.
The Hospice Pin Board deadlines
The newsletter will be released monthly as per the dates below. To make it as informative and useful as possible we need your stories, content and information share.
Please email anything you would like to go into the newsletter or come and speak to Sophie in the Marketing office (ext. 8472).
| Content Deadline | Release Date |
|---|---|
| Tuesday 28th April | Monday 4th May |
| Tuesday 26th May | Monday 1st June |
| Tuesday 30th June | Monday 6th July |
| Tuesday 28th July | Monday 3rd August |
| Tuesday 1st September | Monday 7th September |
| Tuesday 29th September | Monday 5th October |
| Tuesday 27th October | Monday 2nd November |
| Tuesday 1st December | Monday 7th December |
Take a break
Even at home it is still important we take a break now and then.
Our colouring this month is a rainbow – they have been popping up in windows to spread joy during our daily exercise. Once you’ve done your, stick it up in your window for everyone to enjoy.
