Remembering our fallen heroes
Colleagues at Torbay Hospital gathered in the Rose Garden on 11 November to make the national two minutes’ silence for Remembrance Day. The service was organised by our Armed Forces community colleagues and supported by our Chaplain, the Rev Martin Manley, whose words helped us reflect on the courage and sacrifice of those who serve and have served, and all those affected by conflict.
It was a simple but meaningful moment to pause, remember and stand together in gratitude and respect.
Improving the way we can help people spend their last 1000 days
Earlier this month, Professor Brian Dolan OBE visited Torbay Hospital to deliver his thought-provoking session, My Last 1000 Days, to help our colleagues reflect, refocus and deliver our commitment to help patients to get up any moving while staying in our hospitals.
Brian is the creative mind behind the internationally-recognised Last1000days and End PJ Paralysis campaigns which encourage health organisations to support people to become mobile during their hospital admission.
There is lots of evidence that the longer people stay in a hospital bed, the greater their chances of deconditioning due to muscle waste. We’ve embraced the End PJ Paralysis campaign and our teams are focused on doing more to get people out of bed, dressed in their own clothes and when possible, moving rather than lying down.
Rhoda Allison, our Deputy Chief Allied Health Professional, who organised the event, said: “This event gave all our staff the chance to consider the patient experience of waiting in hospital (at every point on their journey), and the risks of deconditioning.
“Many staff left with immediate plans for small steps to improve care, which is fantastic news for our patients.”
You can find out more about Brian’s Last 1000 Days campaign at www.last1000days.com
Lost little ones to be remembered at special service and craft morning in Torquay
Families who have experienced the devastating heartbreak of losing a baby or young child in pregnancy or the early months of life, are invited to come together for a weekend of remembrance, reflection and creativity in Torquay next month.
The remembrance weekend, organised by our colleagues, offers a gentle and supportive space for families to remember their little ones.
The crafting session will take place on Saturday 06 December, from 10am to midday in Torbay Hospital’s Bayview restaurant, with the remembrance service held the following day (Sunday 07 December) at 3pm in All Saints Church, Babbacombe.
Crafting provides an opportunity for families to come together with fun activities planned for all ages.
The service gives families the opportunity to remember their little one and reflect on their life alongside others who have shared a similar experience.
Families are provided with a star to write their little one’s name on, which is read out during the service and then hung on the star tree in the church. The tree is moved to the Torbay Hospital chapel following the service where it will remain as a tribute through the festive season.
Each year, this special weekend brings together families, local parents, and colleagues from our maternity unit, chaplaincy team, and children’s community nursing services to remember, reflect, and support one another.
Ceri Morris, our midwife and one of the event organisers, said: “We’re so pleased to once again be able to hold our remembrance events for families. Over the years, these gatherings have become a cherished tradition and a place where those who return each year and those attending for the first time can find understanding, comfort and connection.
“As we approach Christmas, it can be a particularly emotional time for families. This weekend offers a gentle space to pause, reflect and celebrate the love and memories of the little ones who are always in our hearts.
“We’re deeply grateful to All Saints Church for their continued support and look forward to welcoming everyone for a weekend of remembrance and togetherness.”
For more information, please contact our Chaplaincy Team on 01803 654186 .