As a result of COVID-19, it has never been more important to safeguard the emotional and physical health and wellbeing of staff throughout Cardiff and Vale University Health Board. The following report highlights some examples of how Cardiff & Vale Health Charity, including the Staff Lottery Bids Panel, have supported staff wellbeing through generous donations received between April 2020 and March 2021.
Mask exempt identification lanyards for staff
Cardiff and Vale University Health Board recognises that there are staff within the organisation who have disabilities or health conditions, sometimes hidden, which prevents them from being able to wear masks in line with Welsh Government guidelines. As a result, staff members who are not able to wear masks have been challenged by other staff members and members of the public, including patients, about not wearing a mask.
Funding, requested by the Workforce and Organisational Development Department, was given to provide approximately 220-250 staff members with lanyards, identifying that they are not required to wear a mask in non-PPE required areas. This visible identifier, decorated with a sunflower emblem, has enabled staff to feel more confident whilst at work, reducing anxiety about being challenged and improving both job satisfaction and productivity as a result. Having these lanyards has also provided reassurance to both staff and patients which has significantly aided in improving the health and wellbeing of both the wearer and those around them.
Refill Water Station for Staff Haven, University Hospital of Wales
Funding was provided to install a freestanding, mains supplied, chilled water refill station within the University Hospital of Wales Staff Haven located within the Lakeside Wing. Machines of this type have already been installed at Barry Hospital and St David’s Hospital, both of which have been well received. Installing this machine provides a sustainable addition to the Staff Haven by helping reduce the use of single use plastic which further supports the Wellbeing of Future Generations Act by aiding in making a more Prosperous, Resilient and Healthier Wales. The machine also positively contributes to staff wellbeing and productivity, job satisfaction and as a result better and more efficient patient care. This will also help improve the physical and mental health and wellbeing of both staff and patients as a result.