Becoming a national leader in supporting the Armed Forces
Overview
East Lancashire Hospitals NHS Trust (ELHT) serves a diverse population over 1,211 square kilometres, operating five hospitals and various community services. Since signing the Armed Forces Covenant in 2017, ELHT has taken deliberate steps to support Reservists and the wider Armed Forces community. These efforts align with the trust’s values of providing safe, personal and effective care, and its mission to improve community health through partnership, innovation and excellence.
Key Benefits and Outcomes
- Strengthened workforce and improved patient care: Reservists contribute exceptional leadership, discipline and crisis management skills, enriching team dynamics and enhancing the trust’s capacity to handle high-pressure situations.
- Enhanced Reputation: Achieving the Employer Recognition Scheme (ERS) Gold Award in 2022 has cemented ELHT’s status as a national leader in supporting the Armed Forces community in their workforce.
Challenges Faced
The trust initially struggled to establish support for the Armed Forces community, including balancing reservists' dual responsibilities and addressing the unmet needs of military-connected patients.
Approximately five per cent or 35,000 of the patients that the trust sees each year are Veterans, it became evident that this group were not well supported, with no formal recognition of their service. Research revealed that the trust’s existing Armed Forces Covenant commitments and ERS Silver status fell short of meeting its safe, personal and effective care values.
Actions Taken
In response, Fiona Lamb, clinical site manager and Armed Forces Veterans senior lead, presented a plan to the trust’s executives to develop dedicated services for the Armed Forces community. This led to securing funding from the Armed Forces Covenant Fund Trust to appoint an armed forces veteran advocate in April 2022, expanding the armed forces team to better support the Armed Forces community as staff members and patients. Simultaneously, an Armed Forces Staff Network was established to ensure equal focus on supporting staff members connected to the military.
ELHT crafted an Armed Forces Reserves and Cadets Policy, offering a robust structure to support Reservists. This policy aligns with legislative requirements, including the Reserve Forces Act 1996 and associated safeguards, ensuring fair treatment and support for military staff.
The trust also improved its community outreach and support, including establishing an Armed Forces Staff Network to support reservists, veterans, and their families. As well as collaborating with local veteran groups and charities to assist over 4,000 military-connected patients. This including offering services such as mental health support, financial guidance, and securing housing for homeless veterans.
The trust Reservists' policy included additional paid leave and tailored schedules to accommodate reservists’ dual commitments, fostering an environment of understanding and flexibility.
Results and Benefits
- ELHT’s innovative model has been shared with other trusts across the country including Bolton NHS Foundation Trust, St Barts’ Health NHS Trust and Airedale NHS Foundation Trust. These trusts have found the model to be adaptable to a variety of NHS settings plus it aligns with the NHS Long Term Plan and Armed Forces Covenant Duty.
- Identifying and supporting the Armed Forces Community at ELHT has enhanced morale, retention and inclusivity. With a workforce of 10,000 spread over 1,211 square kilometers this has been challenging. Currently, the trust has identified 15 Reservists, one Cadet Forces Volunteer, 63 Veterans, and 20 Military Spouses and has been working to ensure they feel valued and supported. The trust also provides information packs and induction materials that showcase the support they offer.
- ELHT has earned the prestigious ERS Gold Award. Thanks to its dynamic 24/7 pathway that has provided personalised face-to-face support to 1,344 Armed Forces Community members over the past year, facilitated through partnerships with organizations like Veterans Trauma Network, Op COURAGE, and Op NOVA. ELHT was invited by the Veterans Covenant Healthcare Alliance to lead collaborative data capture projects, further solidifying its reputation as a pioneer in Armed Forces support.
Looking Ahead
ELHT remains committed to expanding its support for the Armed Forces Community. Plans include broadening the Armed Forces Network, increasing awareness through Armed Forces Champion training, and continuing partnerships with local and national organisations to enhance services for both staff and patients.
Key Takeaways
- Policy Framework: Develop and implement comprehensive policies tailored to Reservists’ needs, ensuring alignment with relevant legislation.
- Internal Networks: Establish support systems, such as staff networks, to promote inclusivity and advocacy for military personnel.
- Community Engagement: Collaborate with veteran organisations and charities to amplify impact and access additional resources.
By embedding these strategies, organisations can unlock the significant value that reservists bring, fostering a culture of excellence and support.
