Wellbeing

Article by Professor Deborah Sturdy OBE, Interim Chief Nurse for Social Care, DHSC

The COVID-19 pandemic has been one of the most challenging periods in our history. Care and health professionals alike have endured unabated pressure, exemplified by long shifts, concerns around resources and the deeply emotional loss of colleagues and those they care for.

Article by Professor Deborah Sturdy OBE, Interim Chief Nurse for Social Care, DHSC  

The COVID-19 pandemic has been one of the most challenging periods in our history. Care and health professionals alike have endured unabated pressure, exemplified by long shifts, concerns around resources and the deeply emotional loss of colleagues and those they care for.

Social care colleagues, like their NHS counterparts, remain our greatest asset as we all adapt to new working practices and embrace greater freedoms on the road to recovery.

It’s still going to feel strange for a while. That’s why we all need to talk, share our stories and in doing so process this new intensity in our lives – because we all cope with things in different ways.

For some of us, holidays in the sun will reset the clock. For others, internalising and processing loss, both personally and professionally, will take many different forms. We must be alert to our own needs, as well as those of others. Recognising changes in the people we work with, live with and care for means we can step in and make sure they get the right help.

The social care workforce has been supporting our communities long before this pandemic began – and we must likewise support their wellbeing both now and in the future.

Having spoken to many care colleagues, I know the sector has already been recognising and rewarding teams at a local level. The smallest gestures make the biggest difference. From a handwritten “Thank You” card, to a box of chocolates, or a pizza lunch – these tokens of gratitude mean so much.

Recognition

That’s why I am delighted to launch a new awards scheme for exceptional social care colleagues. The awards celebrate the outstanding care, leadership and inspiration shown by care workers and nurses in England, whilst also showcasing our vital contribution to the health and wellbeing of our communities. Find out how to nominate here and here.

Support is available

You are all heroes, but no one can be superhuman all the time. If you’re finding things difficult, would like some independent advice, or you’re just having a bad day, dedicated support is always on hand, with people who get it. Text FRONTLINE to 85258 for any concern – 24/7. Nothing is ever too small, nor too big.

Trauma and bereavement have become commonplace. Hospice UK’s ‘Just B‘ line offers specialist support. For any other wellbeing concerns, the Samaritans provide a confidential service. These are NOT helplines of last resort – trained, compassionate and non-judgmental colleagues are there to listen, advise, and signpost support when you need it.

Meanwhile, Our Frontline hosts a range of wellbeing and mental health resources. Please flag these with your colleagues, in a communal space if you have one.

I also encourage Registered Managers to take up Skills for Care’s bespoke support offer, and all colleagues to use their excellent resource finder for wellbeing offers in your area.

Please be vigilant to signs of stress and worry in others, look after yourselves and support your colleagues who may need that extra bit of help as we all continue to navigate our way into a post-lockdown world.

Professor Deborah Sturdy OBE
Deborah was appointed interim CNO Adult Social Care in December 2020 from her post as Director of Health & Wellbeing at the Royal Hospital Chelsea.
Deborah has worked with older people in both health and social care throughout her career in a number of roles including clinical practice, management, policy and research. She was awarded the OBE in the 2017 New Year Honours List for services to older people dementia care and nursing. She was made a Fellow of the Queen’s Nursing Institute in 2018 and a Fellow of the Royal College of Nursing in 2019.