NHSE Media team experience the Trust's 'shop floor'

This week, the Trust's Communications team were delighted to welcome Michael Searles from NHS England and NHS Improvement's Media team. Michael shadowed our volunteers, clinicians, and innovators at Chelsea and Westminster Hospital, and gained valuable insight into how a high-performing Trust functions, while the Communications team learned about the fast-paced world of the national media team. As Michael departs, we hope that this mutually beneficial experience allows us to continue to champion our staff's excellent work at a national level.

Michael said: "It’s safe to say a week at Chelsea and Westminster Hospital has seen my step count rise dramatically—but that hasn’t been the only benefit to coming from NHS England to see how things work on the 'shop floor'.

"From meeting the staff involved in the country-leading Kindness Campaign to stop staff abuse, to the directors in charge of the Trust’s operations and performance, the week has been full of insight. 

"Chelsea stands out for its art installations, Sky Garden and first-rate Intensive Care Unit, but the passion of the staff for the hospital, their patients, and the care they provide is just as prevalent. 

"At times this week I have had imposter syndrome, talking with the people that make everything tick here, including Deputy CEO and COO Rob Hodgkiss, Director of Nursing Lee Watson and Chief Medical Officer Roger Chinn—among many others—who have all so kindly given up their very valuable time to explain everything from bed flow and admission predictors to the logistics behind what wards are where and the lessons learned from covid.

"Coming from the national media team, I am used to talking about everything Health Service related, but this week has given me unparalleled insight into how a high-performing Trust functions.

"It is clear that the Trust owes its success to the passionate people who work here, as well as the volunteers—headed up by Daniella Kok—who are part of the fabric of Chelsea and Westminster Hospital. 

"Coming from NHSE, it has been fantastic to spend a week with the Communications Department here on the ground, who are a small team with a vast remit, which includes all aspects of managing and improving the way we engage with patients and staff alike.

"With thanks to Emer, Simone, Ruby, Amy, George and Shameema who have made me so welcome. I hope to use everything I have learnt this week to help inform my work within the NHS moving forward."