Staff briefing roundup

Here’s a summary of what was covered in yesterday’s staff briefing…

UK picture (Andrew Geldard)

We are well over the COVID-19 peak as the daily death numbers have been decreasing. There have been fewer than 300 daily deaths, including deaths in care homes, compared to 900 per day during the peak
During the peak, the East of England had 1,600 people in hospital beds Figures from 11 May now show just over 900 people
Although the death rate is going down, there is still a high volume of patients going through hospitals
We have passed phase 1, where we were gearing up for the peak
We are currently in phase 2, which is between now to the end of July
Nationally, we are preparing to see the beginning of a lift of the restrictions
During phase 3, between August 2020 and March 2021, we will be planning for potential future waves. Details to be confirmed
Phase 4, from 1April 2021, is when we will aim to get back to the NHS that is in line with long term plan

Trying a phased reopening of the CCG in two or three weeks’ time
Taking into account people’s needs e.g. childcare, family members at risk, BAME etc
Looking to prioritise those who are finding it difficult to work from home
CCG could have 70 people safely back to work; ensuring social distancing measures are followed
Looking into having possibly 25-30 people distributed across the four buildings, as part of the phased return
We are sending out a questionnaire to staff on working from home – based on responses we can formulate our ideas better
Who comes back to work and how will be led by how colleagues feel about coming back to work and any anxieties and issues they may have in doing so. We would encourage people to speak to their line managers with any concerns
Still waiting on guidance on the safest ways to reopen the CCG
We are seeking professional help regarding infection prevention control, health and safety in the workplace
We are planning on undertaking risk assessments for all members of staff
There will be several measures in place to ensure health and safety of staff – hand sanitisers across all the buildings, perspex screens on reception, signage etc

Maximising and returning to normal work levels as soon as possible
Create COVID-19 free and COVID-19 areas where possible
A focus on stepping up on the urgent and the semi-urgent pathways first
Gaining and maintaining public confidence in accessing NHS services is paramount
ED activities at PAH have increased by 200 in comparison to 90; we want to maintain this momentum
Our approach is to build on work that’s been undertaken in response to managing COVID-19
Undertake an immediate review of urgent and semi-urgent pathways
Anticipate the increase in demand and prioritise support for high risk, vulnerable and shielded childre

Continue virtual triage and consultations, focusing on supporting shield patients with EPUT
Working with PAH to expand access to advice and guidance

COVID-19 testing still continuing across west Essex and wider Essex
More slots are available at Stansted site
Mobile testing units have opened – Harlow Football Club is hosting today until Thursday
Mobile testing units also open this week in Rayleigh and Clacton Leisure Centres
More mobile testing to occur –Basildon and Southend Airport are set to open next week
Home test kits are still available
Reduction in number of tests taking place

Health and wellbeing support resources are available on AskHUE
Resources include details on:
- mindfulness activities, where you can try out some short guided meditation videos
- free 1:1 financial awareness and wellbeing sessions
Look out for more details on AskHUE coming soon about webinars you can join on financial wellbeing