Page 123 - Mind, Body & Spirit Number 104 2020/21

It’s hard to believe a year has passed since the last MBS article and on reflection how much the world has changed in a relatively short timeframe. The response to the Covid-19 pandemic has
obviously altered the working practices across Rehab services as with all streams. We are all now accustomed with sitting at a computer or laptop like someone at a call centre with headset and all. Each day has brought with it a new challenge and learning opportunity, the Exercise Rehabilitation Instructors (ERI’s) and Physiotherapists of the region have worked unrelentingly to deliver an exemplary service throughout a very difficult time.
Change best describes this year with many of the ERI’s being cross posted within or posted out to other regions, I took over the regional trade specialist advisor (RTSA) job in July. Sgt (SI) McGrevey has also arrived from Infantry Training Centre (ITC) Catterick Primary Care Rehabilitation Facility (PCRF) after receiving a Commander’s Commendation for her service to Defence Primary Healthcare. Finally, Sgt (SI) MacDonald is fresh from the Joint Service ERI course. Both have received glowing reviews for their work running the rehab courses and have got stuck into clinical audits, providing in service training (IST) and volunteering to develop defence rehab through working groups.
In March the OC Maj Greener (RAMC) was tasked with planning, setting-up and managing the north region’s Defence Covid- 19 Bedding Down Facility (DCBDF). With the assistance of her 2iC Capt Holton (RAMC) and region the DCBDF was set up at ITC utilising elements of the ward with additional manning and equipment sourced through the region. A healthcare Governance framework was put in place to assure all elements of the facility. A bespoke training package was designed and for all DCBDF staff. The ERI’s supported the DCBDF with elements of J4 function. This work resulted in the OC receiving a Commander’s Commendation from Brig Beardmore Comd DPHC.
With rapidly evolving processes of all aspects of the RRU services throughout the year, the greatest change came in September when rehab courses where reinstated. Both the 2iC and I led the planning phase, some of the changes included lesson delivery, single patient exercise spaces and reduced patient numbers split over two locations which ensured the RRU operated in line with DPHC Covid-19 direction and Government guidance. The administration team and course clinicians adapted brilliantly to the new set-up and the challenges of coaching, teaching and general command and control of the patients whilst maintaining social distancing. To show our gratitude for all their hard work, an award application was submitted through the thank you scheme and all civilian RRU staff received a £50 voucher.
S&C Theory delivery
Demonstrating deadlift
WO2 (QMSI) A Roberts RAPTC
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REGIONAL REHABILITATION UNIT (RRU) CATTERICK
Regional ERI’s have continued to adapt throughout the year providing services virtually and face to face. SSgt (SSI) Williams PCRF Catterick continued to provide exercise therapy classes throughout both lockdowns utilising the RRU Catterick sports hall to the relief of the patients during the North Yorkshire winter months.
After years of planning, PCRF Catterick, are eager at the prospect of moving into a brand new 400 square metre modular gym facility, built to specification this year. Harrogate PCRF have just received funding for a much-needed uplift of physical training equipment (PTE) which has transformed the department and the delivery of exercise therapy. Sgt Norton at PCRF Dishforth provided IST for the sub region and was involved in the PCRFs clinical reasoning sessions, patient’s satisfaction survey and group therapy Covid 19 risk management patient survey. Additionally, he led multiple audits that included; return to level three post reconditioning physical training audit and a group therapy attendance audit. This led Sgt Norton to receive a Commanders Commendation for his dedication to the continued improvement of Defence Rehabilitation.
Lastly, thank you to all the ERI’s within the region for their hard work and commitment throughout a very challenging but extremely rewarding year.