Choose the right NHS service during industrial action

People are being urged to choose the right NHS service during the resident doctor industrial action, which is due to begin this Friday (25 July 2025).

Resident doctors (formerly known as junior doctors) make up around half the medical workforce in England, so significant disruption is expected. The strike action is due to take place from 7am on Friday 25 July 2025 until 7am on Wednesday 30 July 2025.

Anyone with an NHS appointment during the industrial action should attend unless they have been contacted to say it has been postponed.

Regardless of any strike action taking place, it is important that people who need urgent medical care continue to come forward as normal, especially in emergency and life-threatening cases.

Find out more about other NHS services:

NHS 111:

There are a range of services available to help. Visit 111.nhs.uk or phone 111, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year for advice, appointments or to get directed to the most appropriate service.

Pharmacy

Local pharmacies can help with less urgent conditions and may be able to offer treatment and some prescription medicine without you needing to see a GP (this is called Pharmacy First).

Conditions they can treat through Pharmacy First are:

  • Earache (aged 1 to 17 years)
  • Impetigo (aged 1 year and over)
  • Infected insect bites (aged 1 year and over)
  • Shingles (aged 18 years and over)
  • Sinusitis (aged 12 years and over)
  • Sore throat (aged 5 years and over)
  • Urinary tract infections or UTIs (women aged 16 to 64 years)

Some pharmacies open late (until midnight) and at weekends.

Self-care

Colleagues within NHS Nottingham and Nottinghamhire have also developed self-care information to help you manage common conditions such as minor burns and scalds, conjunctivitis, constipation and cystitis on our website: notts.icb.nhs.uk/your-health/stay-well/self-care/

Children’s health and wellbeing

Find advice for worried parents, covering common illnesses and when to seek treatment for you baby or child. This covers conditions such as chickenpox, asthma, earache, scarlet fever and many more. Visit: https://notts.icb.nhs.uk/your-services/childrens-health-and-wellbeing/

Mental health

If you need mental health support, or are in crisis, you can call 111 (option 2) to be directed to the right support. You can also find information on mental health services and support.

Nottinghamshire Crisis Sanctuaries can help you with support, information and guidance if you are over 18 years old and experiencing mental health issues or in a mental health crisis.

You can just drop in to one of the sanctuaries or visit https://www.nottinghamshirecrisissanctuaries.tv/ for more information.

  • Beeston: 318 High Road, NG9 1EJ: 6pm to 11pm Monday to Sunday
  • Mansfield: top of St John Street, NG18 1QJ: 4pm to 9pm Monday to Sunday
  • Worksop: Hardy Street, S80 1EH: 5pm to 10pm Wednesday and Sunday
  • Nottingham City: the Wellbeing Hub, 73 Hounds Gate, NG1 6BB: 6pm to 11pm Monday to Sunday

Details for support for mental health services in South Yorkshire can be viewed here: https://www.rdash.nhs.uk/services/adult-community-mental-health/

General practice

Contact your General Practice team about symptoms that aren’t going away. They can offer telephone, online, or face-to-face appointments with a GP, nurse or other healthcare professional depending on what your health concern is. Remember, your GP is open until 6.30pm and if you need help out of hours, please visit 111 online or phone 111.

Urgent treatment centres and minor injury units

For sprains, fractures, minor burns and skin infections:

Dental care

For urgent dental care you can call your local NHS dentist or contact NHS111.


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The NHS is facing another significant round of industrial action by resident doctors this week, with thousands expected to walk out from 7am on Friday 25 July until 7am on Wednesday 30 July.

Hospitals and local teams have been preparing as usual ahead of this latest round of strikes and have plans in place to minimise disruption to patient care and ensure life-saving care continues.

This will be the twelfth strike from resident doctors since March 2023, resulting in 49 days of disruption to NHS services – equivalent to almost ten working weeks of industrial action over this period.

NHS England has asked hospital chief executives to keep routine operations going to the fullest extent possible during this round of strikes and only reschedule appointments and other activity in exceptional circumstances to safeguard patient safety.

The NHS is therefore advising the public to continue to attend any planned appointments they have scheduled over the strike period unless they have been contacted to reschedule.

Primary and urgent and emergency care services will continue to be available for those who need them. The public should use 111 online as the first port of call for urgent but not life-threatening issues during industrial action so that they can be directed to the best place for their needs. Patients who need emergency medical care should continue to use 999 or come forward to A&E as normal.

Professor Meghana Pandit, NHS England National Medical Director, said: “There is no doubt this industrial action will take a toll on patients and NHS staff, and it is disappointing it is going ahead.

“While it will mean some appointments won’t be able to go ahead as planned, we are doing all we can to limit this, and patients should continue to use NHS services in the usual way.

“The public should dial 999 in an emergency, and otherwise use 111 online, your local pharmacist or GP, and patients should attend NHS appointments unless told otherwise.”

The previous round of industrial action by resident doctors at the end of June last year saw 61,989 inpatient and outpatient appointments rescheduled, and 23,001 staff were absent from work due to strikes at the peak of the action.

Since strikes began at the end of 2022, the cumulative total of hospital appointments rescheduled is now close to 1.5 million (1,486,258) across the NHS.

Resident doctors, previously named junior doctors, make up around half of all doctors in the NHS and have anywhere up to eight years’ experience working as a hospital doctor, depending on their specialty, or up to three years in general practice.


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What followed was a gruelling period of treatment and surgery, supported by the incredible teams at Doncaster and Bassetlaw Teaching Hospitals (DBTH) and the Northern General Hospital in Sheffield. Against the odds, Andrea was officially given the all-clear and discharged in 2024.

Speaking about her experience, Andrea shared: “It was such a relief and an amazing feeling to be given the all clear. The nurses and doctors were amazing – I was so well looked after both during chemotherapy and surgery.”

Andrea’s professional background has deep roots in the NHS with her last role being the Commissioner for Mental Health and Learning Disability services in Doncaster. Andrea also worked at Doncaster Royal Infirmary and has seen care delivery first-hand.

Andrea with colleague Kelly before the charity Abseil

Now working as a Director at The People Focused Group – a Doncaster-based community peer support organisation – Andrea continues to dedicate her time to helping others through shared experience and resilience.

About her work, Andrea said: “As a peer support organisation we are people helping people from all walks of life. We provide a service that offers support through all of life’s challenges. We always say that mental health doesn’t travel alone which is why we offer support with physical health as well.”

In 2023, Andrea’s Co-Director, Kelly Thornhill, was also diagnosed with breast cancer. After surgery and treatment, Kelly is now cancer-free, and continues her work supporting the community.

Andrea said: “Many of our peer volunteers and service users have also faced cancer diagnoses. They are true warriors – still standing, still giving, still serving others. They’re the definition of cancer champions.”

This shared strength has inspired Andrea to give back to the NHS in a bold way, by taking part in a charity abseil, which was held on the site of DBTH – where she and Kelly received life-saving care.

“I think that’s why it felt so important and poignant for us to take part in this fundraising. Fundamentally, the People Focussed Group is about a supportive community and doing something meaningful together felt like the perfect way to use our values to give something back to a cause close to all of us.

Andrea during the charity Abseil

Speaking about her decision to take part in the abseil, Andrea said: “When we saw the event advertised, we knew we had to get involved. It felt incredibly meaningful to take on this challenge from the hospital that played such a huge role in my recovery.

“We put together a team to raise money for the Trust, with all proceeds going towards vital cancer equipment. The response has been incredibly moving with an outpouring of support.”

“I’m truly grateful to everyone who’s donated to the fundraising page. I was surprised and honoured to be asked to share my story. I hope it inspires others—whether they’re living with cancer or supporting someone who is—to keep fighting and keep believing.”

“Through courage, compassion, and community spirit, the charity abseil was more than just a fundraiser—it’s a tribute to survival and a powerful reminder of the impact of the NHS and the strength of those it serves.”

The abseil took place in March, with 35 fundraisers descending over 160 feet from a twin crane at Doncaster Royal Infirmary.

Reflecting on her experience of the abseil, Andrea said: “It was utterly exhilarating. I was frightened all the way through but I absolutely loved it and I would recommend it to anyone.

“I felt bolstered by the fact that we had so many representatives of the People Focussed Group taking part and family and friends to cheer us all on. Some of us were quite scared of heights but we were there for each other.”

Andrea during her cancer treatment

In total, Andrea and her group raised over £1,000 for the cause which will be invested into improving services for cancer patients. DBTH Charity supports the Trust to purchase additional items, create new inviting areas or to enhance existing spaces to improve the overall experience patients have during their treatment.

In the Chatsfield Suite, where Andrea was cared for, charitable donations have previously funded a new, comfortable and homely treatment area; a patient garden with serene foliage and seating so patients can undergo their chemotherapy treatment outside if they wish to; a family room which provides a non-clinical and inviting setting for conversations with loved-ones; and entertainment facilities such as televisions which help patients to pass the time during lengthy treatments.

 

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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Now in its seventh year, the We Care into the Future events aim to bridge the gap between the current healthcare workforce and the future generation by educating students about the wide range of careers and opportunities available at DBTH and local partners including higher education providers such as the University of Sheffield, Sheffield Hallam University, Doncaster College and RNN College. The events also welcomed partners from the wider health and social care sector, including RDaSH, Doncaster and Bassetlaw councils, and Home Instead.

Typically, students across England choose their GCSEs in Year 9, which is also when most careers events begin. By targeting Year 8 students, We Care into the Future ensures young people in Doncaster and Bassetlaw gain a comprehensive understanding of the careers in healthcare well in advance, helping them make informed decisions about their GCSEs and future pathways.

This year’s events saw the highest number of attendees to date and welcomed several new schools for the first time, many of which have already committed to returning next year.

Professor Sam Debbage, Director of Education and Research at DBTH, said: “We are incredibly proud of our We Care into the Future events. For many students, these can be the starting point of a whole career.

“Having those conversations early with the right people can really help our young people start to envision their future, and where they see themselves fitting in. At these events, we get to showcase the fantastic opportunities within the Trust and discuss the journey into these roles.”

In addition to speaking with stall holders, students had the opportunity to engage with interactive elements at the stalls, such as trying their hand at CPR, testing out physiotherapy equipment, and suiting up in infection control hazmat gear.

Early feedback from students described the events as “amazing”, “interesting”, “engaging and enjoyable”, and “inspiring”. Others said it helped them realise there’s more jobs than they expected, and that “working for the NHS isn’t just being a doctor or nurse – it incorporates many roles that all work together to effectively provide help and support.” Some students also shared that they developed a newfound interest in careers within health and social care, such as becoming a nurse and studying medicine.

Stall holders were equally positive in their feedback, highlighting the energy and curiosity of the students. Many praised the organisation of the events, the support provided by DBTH, and the level of engagement from attendees.

Zoe Lintin, Chief People Officer at DBTH, added: “It was fantastic to see how eager the students were to speak with staff – they were extremely independent and took real initiative, which are the very qualities we look for in future job applicants.

“Our colleagues couldn’t have been more helpful. Every stall holder was approachable and enthusiastic, answering every question with patience and encouragement – they made the events interactive and interesting for the students.”

The Trust would like to thank all sponsors of the events this year. If you’d like to support the next We Care into the Future events, you can make a donation by visiting: https://dbthcharity.co.uk/we-care-into-the-future/

 


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Working in child death review is an emotionally demanding role, but Lauren has embraced it wholeheartedly since the position was introduced at DBTH three and a half years ago. Prior to this, Lauren spent 13 years as a Healthcare Assistant on Ward 32, gaining valuable experience in managing challenging situations with empathy and professionalism.

Lauren’s exceptional commitment was recognised by her colleague Katie Simpson, Paediatric Planned Care Matron, who nominated her for the award.

Catherine Tokell (Lead Nurse for Child Death at DBTH), Victoria Bagshaw, Lauren Lawton, Karen Jessop and Katie Simpson.

Katie said: “Lauren is a huge support for the families of DBTH who experience the death of their child. She manages to build strong relationships with these families, supporting them through their grief and in moving forward.

“She goes above and beyond, contacting GPs to ensure parents are getting the support/medications they need and sourcing support for siblings and other family members. Recently, she helped one of our families find a new home and supported them in moving house.

“In addition, Lauren supports the Child Death team behind-the-scenes by feeding back from the families she is supporting to ensure the service is constantly improving and being responsive to our families.

“I am extremely proud of Lauren and her role – the difference she makes to the families of DBTH is incomparable.”

Lauren with Victoria Bagshaw and Karen Jessop

Lauren was presented with her award by Victoria Bagshaw, Regional Workforce Lead for Nursing, Midwifery & Allied Health Professionals from NHS England, alongside Karen Jessop, Chief Nurse at DBTH.

Lauren reflected on the recognition: “I am shocked but very grateful to have been recognised with this achievement.

“It’s an honour to support grieving families through their journey; if I can make their heartbreak even the slightest bit easier to navigate, then that’s the biggest reward I could ever receive.”

Karen Jessop added: “Lauren’s incredible compassion exemplifies our commitment to person-centred care, ensuring that everyone is treated with dignity and respect.

“Facing the death of a child is an unimaginable tragedy that no family should face alone. Lauren’s role is vital in providing tailored support, helping families navigate the difficult next steps without ever minimizing their grief or imposing a timeline on their healing.”

The Chief Nursing Officer Awards recognise the exceptional contributions of nurses, midwives, and healthcare support staff across England. Lauren’s recognition reflects DBTH’s ongoing commitment to compassionate, high-quality care – particularly in the most sensitive and emotionally challenging circumstances.


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The Green Flag Award is the international quality mark for parks and green spaces, recognising well-managed and accessible areas that support wellbeing, biodiversity and community engagement. This year, DBTH’s gardens are among 2,250 award-winning spaces across the UK.

This year, the Fred and Ann Green Memorial Garden at Montagu Hospital has received the Green Flag status, alongside the previously recognised Rainbow Gardens at Doncaster and Bassetlaw, and the Butterfly Garden at Doncaster Royal Infirmary. These spaces offer patients, visitors, and colleagues places of reflection, respite, and healing throughout the year.

The award is a testament to the care and dedication of DBTH’s Estates and Facilities team, whose work ensures these green spaces continue to flourish.

Ed Wells, gardener based at Bassetlaw Hospitals

Martin Smith, Head Gardener at DBTH

Suzy Brain England OBE, Chair of the Board at DBTH, said: “We are incredibly proud that all three of our hospital sites have now been recognised with this international award. It is an honour that reflects the care and commitment of our Estates and Facilities colleagues, who look after these spaces so beautifully throughout the year.

These spaces are more than just gardens – they are places of remembrance, healing and peace. From the Rainbow Gardens created during the COVID-19 pandemic, to the Butterfly Garden supporting baby loss awareness, and now the Fred and Ann Green Memorial Garden in Mexborough, each space provides a moment of calm in the heart of our hospitals.”

Established during the pandemic in 2020, the Rainbow Gardens at both Doncaster Royal Infirmary and Bassetlaw Hospitals were funded by generous public donations, raising £50,000 in just eight weeks.

Rainbow Garden at Doncaster Royal Infirmary
Rainbow Gardens at Bassetlaw Hospital

The Butterfly Garden at Doncaster Royal Infirmary opened in 2018 during Baby Loss Awareness Week and continues to provide a peaceful, reflective area for those who have experienced loss.

The Butterfly Garden at Doncaster Royal Infirmary

This year, the Fred and Ann Green Memorial Garden at Montagu Hospital, based at Mexborough, has also been recognised. The garden was funded by the Fred and Ann Green Legacy, a generous bequest from Fred Green, a retired pork butcher from Mexborough, who left £11.5 million to the Trust upon his passing in 1998. It stands as a testament to the Greens’ enduring legacy and their commitment to the well-being of the local community, offering a welcome green oasis close to the entrance of the hospital grounds.

The Green Flag Award flying high at DRI

Paul Todd MBE, Green Flag Award Scheme Manager, said: “Congratulations to everyone involved at DBTH who have worked tirelessly to ensure that it achieves the high standards required for the Green Flag Award.

“The gardens within DBTH are vital green spaces for our communities to enjoy nature and provide important opportunities for local people and visitors to reap the physical and mental health benefits of green space.”

Mathew Gleadall, Operational Director of Estates and Facilities and Sustainability Lead at DBTH, said: “We’re incredibly proud to have our gardens secure the Green Flag Award for the third year running, and now across all our main hospital sites.

“These spaces reflect our commitment to creating welcoming environments for our patients and communities and are also key to our wider sustainability ambitions at DBTH. This year alone, we’ve planted 130 additional trees and continued to develop our memorial spaces that honour those we’ve lost, while providing comfort for those who remain.”

Each of the gardens at DBTH was made possible through generous donations and support from the local community. Anyone wishing to contribute to the hospital gardens can do so through a fundraising appeal launched through the Trust’s dedicated charity. To find out more, please go to: www.dbthcharity.co.uk/charity-gardens


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Photography became an integral part of Katie’s life at the age of 10, when she received her first camera. What started as a childhood hobby flourished into a lifelong passion when Katie channelled her love for photography into starting a photography and filmography business. Now, alongside her role at DBTH, Katie specialises in high-grade photo restoration.

Six of Katie’s nature inspired photographs are on display across the Medical Imaging service in patient areas; four in the X-ray department at DRI and two in the new Community Diagnostic Centre (CDC) at MH. Her images serve as a source of relaxation and distraction for patients, helping to ease the nerves that often accompany medical visits.

Reflecting on the impact of her work, Katie shared: “I am so proud to hear the wonderful comments from patients about the photographs. It’s important that the environment is welcoming for those arriving, especially when they may be feeling anxious. If my photography can provide even a small sense of comfort, that means I’ve made a difference.”

Sara Elliott, Head of Radiology, also highlighted the importance of creating a soothing space for patients: “Our priority is to ensure that our clinical spaces are not only highly functional but also comfortable and reassuring for those who visit. The artwork and design elements play a vital role in making patients feel at ease, and we are delighted to have such beautiful imagery enhancing our spaces.”

The transformation of the department into a more welcoming and visually engaging space has been met with overwhelmingly positive feedback. Patients have commented on the uplifting atmosphere, and many have expressed appreciation for the images that provide a moment of calm amidst their medical journeys.

One of Katie’s most talked-about pieces is a striking image of a flamingo on display behind the reception desk in X-ray, which has sparked numerous conversations among patients and staff alike.

She recalls: “It’s so rewarding to sit at reception and hear the ‘wow’ reactions from patients when they see the artwork. The flamingo and other nature images have been particularly effective in distracting and calming our younger patients.”

With plans for more of Katie’s stunning photographs to be displayed in the new Nuclear Medicine rooms, her talent continues to bring a sense of warmth and tranquillity to the hospital environment.


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Hosted as part of the NHS Big Tea, a nationwide tea party celebrating the NHS’s birthday, the event saw a traditional afternoon tea served in the Pavilion to the backdrop of live piano music.

Angela Page, one of the guests at the event, said: “Walking into Hodsock Priory on Sunday was like walking onto the set of Downton Abbey with its beautiful architecture and period furniture.

“Temptation was at every turn when the delicate plates of food were served by attentive and professional staff. This was quintessentially British afternoon tea at its best.

“Above and beyond our afternoon of enjoyment was the important fact that this afternoon was to raise much needed funds for our local hospital. Thank you to all concerned.”

One very special guest was Sir Andrew Buchanan, 5th Baronet, the owner of Hodsock Priory.

The event also featured a raffle, with prizes including exquisite floral arrangements from local florists, luxury tea and biscuit hampers and bottles of prosecco and champagne.

As of 2022, Hodsock Priory became a venue only accessible during private functions and guests enjoyed an exclusive opportunity to explore its stunning gardens and elegant interiors.

Hazel Brand, Non-Executive Director at DBTH, who has a special interest in the charity, said: “It was a privilege to attend such a special event in support of our local hospitals. The setting, the atmosphere and the generosity of our guests made it a truly memorable afternoon.”

This afternoon marks the first of what the charity hopes will be many unique, one-of-a-kind fundraising experiences in partnership with Hodsock Priory.

The charity would also like to share their sincere thanks to local florists TC Floral Designs, Rhubarb Flower Studio, Bokay Florist, The Flower Lady 2310, The Gatherer Florist, Flowers By Kay and Flowers by June Borrowdale, for their beautiful floral arrangements as part of the raffle.

Funds raised through events such as this go towards enhancing care and experiences for patients, their families and NHS staff.

To learn more about upcoming fundraising events or how you can support the charity, visit: www.dbthcharity.co.uk.

 

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 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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As part of the nationwide NHS Big Tea celebrations, the event saw the Rapid Relief Team (RRT) generously provide catering and volunteers throughout, giving colleagues a chance to take a well-earned break and enjoy a free lunch in the sunshine.

From midday, teams queued outside the Rainbow Garden at Bassetlaw Hospital to pick up their meals, which included a burger, crisps, a drink and a piece of fruit.

One Ward Manager at Bassetlaw commented on the event: “Thank you so much for feeding us today, the burgers were absolutely amazing. You guys were fantastic, efficient and working as a team in what must have been a manic few hours for you all.”

RRT is an international charity organisation founded in 2013 who offer catering assistance and tangible, rapid, support to charities, government, and emergency services.

Run and funded by members of the Plymouth Brethren Christian Church (PBCC) the RRT has supported numerous causes – from delivering essential aid to communities affected by the conflict in Ukraine, to supplying food and essentials to the homeless, and providing local support during emergencies such as flooding.

One Medical Secretary at Bassetlaw said: “Thank you. It was lovely to see so many members of staff from different departments enjoying their lunch.”

RRT have also supported the Trust’s flu vaccination roll-out for staff and will be assisting with the DBTH Charity abseil event later this year.

The event aimed to recognise the hospital’s dedicated teams for their tireless efforts caring for patients across Bassetlaw.

Suzy Brain England OBE, Chair of the Board at DBTH, said: “This event was a great way to bring our colleagues together and recognise the teamwork that defines our NHS.

“I would like to sincerely thank the RRT for offering their time and services for this event.”

Suzy, and Chief People Officer at DBTH, Zoe Lintin, attended the event to personally speak colleagues collecting their food.

Jason Hughes, a Team Leader within the RRT, said: “We appreciated the opportunity to provide a full BBQ meal as a way of saying a heartfelt thanks to the staff at the Bassetlaw Hospital.

“It was rewarding to see so many staff enjoying the event. This meal follows successful events already held at the Doncaster Royal Infirmary and Montagu Hospital.

“Many of our volunteers and church members have experienced exceptional care by the staff and its important this is recognised and thanked within the communities we live.”

The NHS Big Tea is a national, annual event on the anniversary of the NHS’s birthday – 5 July – encouraging supporters to host tea parties and raise funds for their local NHS charity.

One staff nurse at the hospital said of the event: “Thank you to the amazing team of RRT, and everyone behind the scenes, it was a lovely treat and the burgers were delicious.”

DBTH Charity is inviting colleagues and the public to share their thoughts and feedback about the charity’s work. You can complete a short survey here: https://dbthcharity.co.uk/your-views-dbth-charity-2/

To find out more about DBTH Charity, visit: https://dbthcharity.co.uk/

To find out more about the Rapid Relief Team, visit: www.rrtglobal.org/gb

 

 

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 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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Made in collaboration with the Vocational and Communications teams and held at Doncaster Royal Infirmary, the free event welcomed students aged 11 and over to step into the shoes of healthcare professionals, working in teams to solve real-world problems and safely discharge a patient from hospital care.

Groups of six had 60 minutes to complete six interactive puzzle stations, each themed around a key NHS role, from pharmacy and radiology, to healthcare assistant and porter.

Guided by an NHS colleague, participants tackled clinical challenges, cracked codes, and collaborated under pressure in a replica hospital setting.

Professor Sam Debbage, Director for Education and Research at the Trust, said: “Operation: Patient Discharge was designed to spark curiosity and build awareness of the many different careers that make up our NHS. We were thrilled by the community’s engagement level both online and on the day. They brought energy, enthusiasm, and real problem-solving skills to the task.”

The experience began with a briefing from a real NHS nurse, setting the stage for the discharge mission. From there, participants rotated through stations that tested their critical thinking, communication, and teamwork, mirroring the daily demands of a career in the NHS.

The response from participants and families has been overwhelmingly positive, with many commenting on how the session made healthcare roles more relatable, exciting, and accessible.

One parent of a participant shared: “My children thoroughly enjoyed it; the escape room gave a good feel on how working for the NHS is and inspired my daughter who is 13 and wants to go into healthcare.”

For more information about future NHS career opportunities at DBTH, please check out our dedicated page: https://www.dbth.nhs.uk/jointheteam/


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