The system, called Rapid CTP, uses artificial intelligence to analyse brain scans in real time, helping specialists to identify which areas of the brain may be saved following a stroke.
As part of Stroke Awareness Month this May, the Trust is highlighting the impact of the technology, which extends the treatment window from four and a half hours to up to 24 – giving more patients the chance to receive life-saving care.
Dr Ahmad Maatouk, Stroke Consultant and Clinical Lead at DBTH, said: “The Rapid CTP software supports our clinical decision-making, offering a clear picture of what’s happening in the brain almost immediately.
“In the right cases, it allows us to confidently extend the treatment window, meaning we can potentially intervene up to 24 hours after the stroke started – giving some patients a second chance at recovery that previously wouldn’t have been possible.”
One of those patients is 59-year-old Suzanne Davies from Denaby, who experienced an ischaemic stroke – caused by a blockage cutting off blood flow to part of her brain.
“Before I had the stroke, I had been getting out of breath easily and my heartbeat was racing” said Suzanne.
“One night, I went to bed exhausted. I woke up in the middle of the night to go to the toilet and suddenly my legs gave way under me. I shouted for my partner, who could tell I was having a stroke – my face was drooping and my speech was slurred.”
Suzanne was rushed to Doncaster Royal Infirmary (DRI), where scans confirmed the stroke.
Thanks to the intervention of skilled health professionals and Rapid CTP software, specialists were able to identify that enough brain tissue remained salvageable, and she received urgent, potentially life-saving treatment.
She was cared for by the specialist Stroke Unit and supported by Dr Dinesh Chadha, Stroke Consultant and a key advocate for the technology.
“I can’t fault the care I received. Everyone was lovely and really tried to lift my spirits,” said Suzanne.
“I felt like an inconvenience at first, but the staff comforted me, made me laugh, and helped me feel at ease.
“My advice to anyone is this: If you think you’re having a stroke, ring an ambulance immediately. It can escalate very quickly – you wouldn’t hesitate to call for a loved one, so do it for yourself if you can.”
Suzanne has since returned home and continues her recovery under the care of community nurses.
The introduction of Rapid CTP is part of a wider programme of improvements to stroke care at DBTH. As of April 2024, thanks to an enhanced partnership with Sheffield Teaching Hospitals, the Trust’s thrombectomy service – used to physically remove clots in certain types of stroke – is now available seven days a week, helping to ensure more patients can access urgent, specialist treatment when they need it most.
Dr Nick Mallaband, Acting Executive Medical Director said: “Over the past 12 months, Rapid CTP has made a real difference to how we diagnose and treat stroke, helping our teams deliver faster, more accurate care.
“Crucially, it doesn’t replace clinical expertise – it enhances it. The software gives our stroke specialists immediate insights that help them make confident, informed decisions when every second counts.
“It’s a brilliant example of how human skill and technology can work hand-in-hand to improve patient outcomes. As we prepare to launch our refreshed Healthier Together organisational strategy, with a focus on becoming a digitally enabled and mature organisation, this is exactly the kind of progress we want to build on.”
The Trust is sharing Suzanne’s story as part of Stroke Awareness Month to raise understanding of stroke symptoms and the importance of seeking help without delay. The main signs of a stroke can be remembered with the acronym FAST:
Face – has it dropped on one side?
Arms – can they lift both and keep them there?
Speech – is it slurred, garbled, or absent?
Time – if you spot any of these signs, it’s time to call 999.
Please note, symptoms can vary from person to person. If you suspect a stroke, seek emergency help immediately.
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Dr Patti Hill, Chairperson of the Lions Club International Foundation (LCIF) – the charitable arm of Lions Clubs International (LCI) – visited the suite on 1 April 2025 as part of a tour of the projects supported by the LCIF.
During the visit, Dr Hill awarded the bereavement team with a special LCIF pin badge and honorary Lions flag in recognition of their dedication to supporting families during the most difficult of times.
Dr Hill said: “I was honoured to visit the facilities and to see how this innovative project brings comfort to families who are mourning the loss of a child.”
In March 2022, Doncaster and Bassetlaw Teaching Hospitals (DBTH) Charity launched the Serenity Appeal, hoping to raise £150,000 to bolster maternity bereavement services across their hospital sites.
Thorne Rural Lions and Tickhill and District Lions made an initial donation of approximately £15,000 which, following a funding application, was match funded by the LCIF.
With additional contributions, the Lions collectively raised an incredible £40,000 for the appeal, nearly a third of the entire fundraising goal.
Speaking about the collaboration between DBTH Trust, DBTH Charity and the Lions, Dr Hill said: “LCIF is proud to have supported the Lions of 105N and Doncaster Royal Infirmary. It is a reminder of the impact made possible by Lions and their community in partnership.
“You have my admiration for your support of this important humanitarian project. There are no limits to the difference we can make for people in need when we work together.”
Since opening in June 2023, the suite has supported over 70 families – 10 who stayed for 24 hours or more, and over 60 who used the space for memory making, revisiting their baby, or reviewing sensitive clinical reports related to their baby’s death and future pregnancy management.
The suite filled a vital gap, as no private or specialised space previously existed to support families through this deeply sensitive experience.
Rhian Morris, Specialist Bereavement Midwife at DBTH, said: “The Suite has already provided so many families with a more comfortable, private environment to stay in, giving them the time to say hello, whilst saying goodbye.”
Dr Hill travelled from Canada to see first-hand the impact of the Lions’ generosity and the work carried out by DBTH Charity and the bereavement team.
Alongside Dr Hill, the hospital also welcomed Lions Club members from across the UK, including representatives from Coventry, Peterborough, Doncaster and Hertfordshire.
Lois Mellor, Director of Midwifery at DBTH, said: “It was a privilege to welcome Dr. Hill and fellow members of the Lions Clubs to see the Serenity Suite. Their generosity has made a significant impact on our families, and we are deeply grateful for their continued support.”
LCIF is the charitable arm of Lions Clubs International, providing grants and matched funding which support projects by Lions Clubs around the world.
There are approximately 600 Lions clubs in the UK alone and 49,000 globally.
DBTH Charity extends a heartfelt thanks to Dr. Hill and all members of the Lions Clubs International for their compassion, commitment, and outstanding contribution to the Serenity Appeal.
Thank you to all Lions attendees – Lion Paramjit Dev (Zone Chairman), Lion Barry Goforth (Secretary, Thorne Rural Lions), Lion Ron Lindsay (District LCIF Officer), Lion David Pope and Lion Stewart Sherman-
Khan (Past Council Chairs), Lion Stu Young and Lion Gillian Swan (District Governors), Lion Andy Pemberton (Multiple District Secretary), Lion Paul Steele (Regional Development Manager for Europe and Africa), and Lion Kavaljit Dev (Council Chair, Multiple District).
About DBTH Charity:
Doncaster & Bassetlaw Teaching Hospitals’ Charity is the official charity which supports Doncaster and Bassetlaw Teaching Hospitals Trust to go above and beyond by providing additional equipment, services and amenities for our patients, visitors and staff which cannot be funded by the NHS alone.
These additional extras would not be possible without the support of our community. With your help, we can continue to work hard with our Trust to fund innovative and exciting projects that make a difference to our patients, their families and our colleagues who care for them.
Visit the charity website to find out more: https://dbthcharity.co.uk/
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Held at Bramall Lane in Sheffield on 8 May, the awards celebrated apprenticeship excellence across the region, with DBTH shortlisted in two categories: Professional Services Apprentice of the Year and Large Employer of the Year.
While the overall award went to another finalist, IT Support Officer, Connor Wilson-Bow, received special recognition for his journey as a Business Administration Level 3 Apprentice.
Now a key member of the Digital Admin Team at the Trust, Connor helps provide frontline technical support to colleagues across DBTH’s three hospitals – ensuring essential systems run smoothly and efficiently.
Judges praised his achievements, development, and clear passion for the role.
Professor Sam Debbage, Director of Education and Research at DBTH, said: “We’re incredibly proud to be named Large Employer of the Year. This award reflects the hard work and dedication of our learners, mentors, and education teams, as well as the strength of our commitment to growing a future-ready, diverse workforce.
“We’re also delighted that Connor’s achievements were recognised – he’s a brilliant example of how apprenticeships can open doors and launch careers.”
DBTH currently supports more than 265 apprentices in over 40 clinical and non-clinical roles, with a strong emphasis on career progression, mentorship, and local opportunity. Since 2017, over 950 apprentices have completed programmes with the Trust, which uses apprenticeships as a key part of its workforce strategy- helping to address skills gaps, support community development, and build a pipeline of future NHS professionals.
To hear more about life as an apprentice at DBTH, watch Emily’s story here.
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James Harmston, Vocational Educator at Doncaster and Bassetlaw Teaching Hospitals (DBTH) Trust, will complete a 10-day trek from Lukla Airport to Everest Base Camp (EBC) prior to the marathon, allowing for acclimatisation to the change in oxygen levels.
The marathon itself begins at Everest Base Camp (EBC) at 5,364 metres (or 17,598 ft) and follows a 42km route back downhill to the small town of Namche Bazaar.
James said: “I’m looking forward to the event but I’m nervous about leaving my family for three weeks.”
Together with ex-marine brother-in-law, Matt, the pair share a keen interest in endurance events and run a dedicated group for their extreme fundraising: ‘Brave Face Charity Adventures’.
Their charity of choice is Lincs2Nepal, a Lincoln-based charity which helps provide education for under privileged families, supports communities with welfare projects and provides disaster aid across Nepal.
Speaking about why they chose Lincs2Nepal, James said: “It only seems right to raise money for a cause that is directly tied to the region and Everest itself.”
The charity runs a school and orphanage in Kathmandu, where just £12 supports a child’s education, food, and healthcare for a month, James explained.
A bucket list item for years, the Everest marathon provides ample opportunity for enthusiasts such as James to experience incredible views and push their limits.
James said: “I’ve always wanted to visit the Himalayas and EBC.
“I come from a mountaineering family and I have taken part in numerous endurance events in mountainous terrain.”
High on James’ list of landmarks to see is Kala Patthar – meaning black rock in Nepali and Hindi – a notable landmark located on the south ridge of Mt. Pumori in the Nepalese Himalayas.
James said: “Kala Patthar provides the most accessible point to view Mt. Everest and the surrounding mountains and is the highest point of the whole trip.”
With 50% less oxygen than at sea level, James’ endurance will be pushed to the limits.
He said: “The altitude is always a worry, as there is always the risk of developing altitude sickness.
“However, my insurance covers helicopter rescue, so that’s reassuring!”
Following the event and all being well, the pair plan to celebrate in Kathmandu after a good days rest.
To support James’ fundraising efforts, visit his JustGiving page here.
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The Emergency Departments at Doncaster Royal Infirmary and Bassetlaw Hospital will remain open 24 hours a day for life-threatening conditions, such as chest pain, severe bleeding or suspected stroke.
However, for less urgent health concerns, residents are encouraged to consider alternative services to help keep emergency care available for those who need it most.
Dr Nick Mallaband, Acting Executive Medical Director at DBTH, said: “Bank Holidays can be especially busy for the NHS. If you take time now to check you’ve got enough of your regular medications, know which local services are open, and understand where to go if you need help, you’ll be doing your bit to help keep emergency care free for those with urgent and life-threatening issues.
“Planning ahead also gives you the best chance of enjoying a safe, comfortable and relaxing long weekend.”
Alternative options include:
- NHS 111 – Call 111 or visit 111.nhs.uk for advice on the most appropriate care.
- Local pharmacies – Many will be open with reduced hours and can help with minor ailments such as coughs, colds and rashes. Visit the NHS website to check opening times.
- Montagu Hospital Minor Injuries Unit (Mexborough) – Open 9am to 9pm daily (last admission 8pm) for sprains, minor burns, cuts and grazes.
Tips for the weekend:
- Ensure you have enough of any regular medications.
- Stock up on household health basics like paracetamol and plasters.
- Familiarise yourself with local healthcare options.
- Check in on vulnerable neighbours, friends or relatives who may need support.
Some outpatient clinics and non-urgent services may be closed over the bank holiday. If you have a scheduled appointment, please attend unless you’ve been contacted to say otherwise.
To find out more about local services and how to stay well this bank holiday, visit www.dbth.nhs.uk
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The Trust’s Young Adult Diabetes Team has been shortlisted in the ‘Excellence Award’ category, which recognises those who have gone above and beyond to improve the care, education and support available to people living with diabetes in the UK.
Hosted by Diabetes Nursing journal, the awards shine a light on outstanding achievements within the field, celebrating innovation, dedication and impact.
Event organiser Emily Mayhew said: “We are thrilled to recognise remarkable individuals who have dedicated themselves to advancing diabetes care and education. Their innovative approaches and tireless efforts have made a significant difference in the lives of people living with diabetes.”
Karen Jessop, Chief Nurse at DBTH, praised the team’s success: “We’re very proud of our Young Adult Diabetes Team for this well-deserved recognition.
“Their dedication to patient-centred care, and their commitment to improving outcomes for young adults living with diabetes, is inspiring. On behalf of the Trust, I’d like to say a huge well done and wish them the very best of luck for the finals.”
The awards ceremony will take place on Friday 6 June at the Radisson Blu in Bloomsbury, London, and will include a complimentary dinner and presentation hosted by broadcaster and medical expert, Dr Sarah Jarvis MBE.
Organised by Orange Juice Communications, the event celebrates the outstanding contributions of healthcare professionals across the UK who are leading the way in diabetes care.
To find out more, visit: www.diabetesnursingawards.co.uk
The Diabetes Nursing Awards 2025 is funded by A. Menarini Farmaceutica Internazionale SRL and embecta, who have had no input into any arrangements or content.
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Organised to mark International Nurses Day, International Day of the Midwife and Operating Department Practitioners Day, the event brought together nurses, midwives and operating department practitioners (ODPs) from across the Trust.
While the roles of nurses and midwives are well known to most people, ODPs are less often in the public eye – yet play a vital role in surgical care, working alongside anaesthetists, surgeons and nurses to support patients before, during and after operations.
DBTH employs around 2,000 nurses, 600 midwives and 100 ODPs. Together, they make up a significant part of the Trust’s over 7,000-strong workforce.
Attendees heard from national leaders including Duncan Burton, Chief Nurse at NHS England, and Professor Michael West CBE, whose keynote addresses focused on compassionate leadership, teamworking and quality improvement.
The day also featured workshops on leadership, research, digital innovation, wellbeing and more, as well as a showcase of improvement work from clinical teams across DBTH.
Kirsty Clarke, Associate Chief Nurse and event organiser, said: “This was a fantastic opportunity to celebrate the incredible contribution of our nurses, midwives and ODPs, while also giving colleagues the time and space to learn, connect and share best practice. We’re proud to work alongside such passionate, dedicated professionals and this event was about recognising and supporting that.”
Karen Jessop, Chief Nurse at DBTH, said: “Today was a valuable opportunity to focus on leadership, learning and professional development – areas that are essential to delivering safe, effective care. It was great to see colleagues engaging so thoughtfully throughout the day, and I want to thank everyone who attended and supported the event.”
The event was held on Monday 12 May at Doncaster Royal Infirmary, bringing together colleagues from across Doncaster, Bassetlaw and Montagu Hospital.
Each year, Doncaster and Bassetlaw Teaching Hospitals cares for almost one million patients across its three main hospital sites. As a leading teaching trust, it also helps train 25% of the region’s medical students and 30% of all other healthcare professional students – supporting the future of the NHS while providing care to communities across South Yorkshire, North Nottinghamshire and beyond.
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This much-anticipated event honours the extraordinary compassion, dedication and skill demonstrated by NHS colleagues across Doncaster Royal Infirmary, Bassetlaw Hospital and Montagu Hospital.
Every day, these individuals deliver expert care, save lives, offer comfort in the most challenging moments and work diligently behind the scenes to ensure that the Trust’s hospitals operate safely and efficiently. The Star Awards offer a heartfelt opportunity to recognise those who devote themselves to the care of others.
Now in its eighth year, the Star Awards enjoys the support of local businesses, whose generosity enables the Trust to shine a spotlight on staff who make a tangible difference – often without expecting recognition.
A variety of sponsorship packages is available, providing meaningful brand exposure across DBTH’s internal and external communications channels, which collectively generate more than 10 million views, clicks and engagements each year among colleagues, patients and the wider public.
Sponsors will also receive tickets to attend the awards ceremony and the opportunity to host a promotional stand on the evening.
Suzy Brain England OBE, Chair of the Board at DBTH, said: “This event is our way of recognising the outstanding colleagues who go above and beyond every single day across Doncaster Royal Infirmary, Bassetlaw Hospital, Montagu Hospital and our external clinics. From the midwives helping to welcome new life into the world, to the porters, cleaners, nurses, therapists, doctors and so many others who support us and our loved ones at our most vulnerable – this is their night.
“By sponsoring an award, you’ll help us recognise these everyday heroes and give them the celebration they so richly deserve. It’s also a unique opportunity to align your brand with the NHS, gain valuable exposure across our channels, and show your support for those who care for our communities.”
12 award categories are available for sponsorship, each designed to showcase a different aspect of life at DBTH – from those who go the extra mile for patients to colleagues committed to learning and development and the unsung heroes who work quietly behind the scenes.
For further information or to request a sponsorship pack, please visit www.dbth.nhs.uk/news/sponsor-the-dbth-star-awards-2025 or contact the Communications and Engagement team at dbth.comms@nhs.net
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In July 2023, an elderly individual was admitted to one of our emergency departments with injuries initially thought to be caused by a fall. However, when the patient was transferred to an inpatient ward, Charlotte, in providing care, noticed signs that indicated deliberate physical abuse rather than an accidental injury.
Charlotte immediately followed safeguarding procedures, raising her concerns with senior colleagues and the safeguarding team. Her swift actions led to close collaboration with South Yorkshire Police and the collection of forensic evidence, ultimately resulting in a conviction for the assailant.
Detective Superintendent Eleanor Welsh from South Yorkshire Police commended Charlotte’s response, stating: “Charlotte alerted us quickly to the incident, doing an amazing job. If she hadn’t raised her concerns, the patient might have been sent back to a vulnerable situation.”
Charlotte’s actions highlight the importance of:
- Acting quickly when safeguarding concerns arise.
- Alerting senior colleagues and the safeguarding team without delay.
- Taking decisive action to protect those who are at risk.
This is a powerful reminder of how every colleague has a responsibility to safeguard patients. If you ever suspect someone is at risk, please follow the right procedures and act swiftly to ensure their safety.
Safeguarding is everyone’s responsibility – and it can make a life-saving difference.
If you suspect someone is in immediate danger or experiencing abuse, contact the police immediately by dialling 999.
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Led by the Doncaster and Bassetlaw Diabetic Eye Screening Programme, the initiative focused on a group of patients who had not attended screening for three years or more. The practice serves a predominantly non-English speaking population and is based in one of the most economically disadvantaged areas in the country – where people are more likely to experience barriers such as lower income, language difficulties, and limited access to healthcare.
Working closely with practice colleagues, Jemima Beaumont, Failsafe and Engagement Lead, led efforts to increase awareness of diabetic eye disease and help patients access screening appointments.
As a result, 40 patients who had previously missed multiple appointments were successfully screened. Of those, 42 per cent were diagnosed with background diabetic retinopathy, five per cent showed signs requiring closer monitoring, and a further two per cent were referred to the hospital’s Ophthalmology Department for urgent review.
Jemima said: “We know that deprivation, language barriers and other social factors can significantly impact a patient’s ability to access screening services. This work is about breaking down those barriers – making sure we reach the people who need us most, and doing so in a way that supports them.
“Addressing health inequalities isn’t just a priority – it’s a responsibility.”
The programme forms part of a wider commitment by Doncaster and Bassetlaw Teaching Hospitals (DBTH) to reduce health inequalities and ensure fair access to high-quality care for all. The Trust’s soon-to-be-launched strategy, Healthier Together: Delivering Exceptional Care for All, places health equity at the heart of every decision – focusing on prevention, partnership, and support for underserved communities.
Dr Kelly MacKenzie, Consultant in Public Health at DBTH, said: “This project is a clear example of the kind of targeted, community-focused work we want to see more of. It shows how data and relationships can drive real change – helping us deliver on our ambition to ensure that no one is left behind when it comes to accessing care.”
Building on this success, the team plans to expand their approach across other areas of Doncaster and Bassetlaw, helping even more people living with diabetes to access potentially sight-saving services – and delivering on the Trust’s vision to be Healthier Together.
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