We feel deeply saddened and concerned about the escalating situation in Ukraine. This is an extremely worrying time for many communities around the world.
We are aware that the unfolding situation is distressing for colleagues and our local communities. In the Trust, many staff have close connections to family and friends in Ukraine. In the course of our work, we provide treatment and care to people who have close ties with family and friends in Ukraine.
We know they will be deeply affected by the distressing scenes being reported. We stand in solidarity with Ukraine.
Support for the Ukrainian People
Our staff have been quick in their wish to respond to the humanitarian crisis with many highlighting the funding needs of charities in the Ukraine, Poland and neighbouring areas that are providing critical support in centre of the crisis. Unicef, British Red Cross and the Disasters Emergency Committee are also appealing for donations to help them to strengthen their response to the situation.
Support for Staff
In our internal communications, we have advised Ukrainian staff of sources of support from their team, their manager and our 24 hour staff helpline. We have held a pan-Trust meeting to provide a space for staff to share their thoughts on how ELFT should respond to these events.
Support for our Service users and Patients
We have also advised clinical staff supporting service users and patients of the importance of providing space for them to talk, and to consider the impact of the added stress and worry on their physical and mental health.
Talking to Children
Our Clinical Director for Children's Services, Dr Cathy Lavelle, has written this useful guide for talking to children for staff who are parents or who support children and young people. It explains how to handle conversations, answer children's questions and to not assume they have the same concerns as adults.
The guidance and the suggested strategies might also be useful to adults and help manage their own emotional response to be able to function and focus on other things. Dr Lavelle also cites this article in The Metro on talking to children as useful too.
Kindness and Compassion
It is important that we are respectful, kind and compassionate to each other at all times.
Regardless of your own personal beliefs and opinions, it’s important that we do our best to look after ourselves and those around us. We keep those who are affected – both at home and away – in our thoughts.