Page 126 - RAPTC Number 102 2018/19

124
www.raptcassociation.org.uk
REGIONAL REHABILITATION UNIT EDINBURGH
Sgt (SI) L Mowbray RAPTC
As always, the course tempo and patient workload at the Regional Rehabilitation Unit Edinburgh has been high over the last year. Regarding position within a geographic area, RRU Edinburgh is the only RRU in Scotland. This is characterised by a constant throughput of two courses, running concurrently per month, apart from summer and Christmas stand down. The implication of these residential courses running simultaneously means up to thirty patients being treated per month. As a first-tour ERI, this has been ideal in respect to gaining clinical experience and embedding as part of an established and professional team. In short, the experience thus far has been invaluable.
In terms of staff and personalities, the last year has been interspersed with several changes. The arrival of the current Officer Commanding, Maj Semakula, coincided with the arrival of the new SO3 PD Capt G Webster and that of my own in July 2018. Furthermore, the end of last year was highlighted by the end of twenty-two years of service as a RAPTCI and ERI, SSgt (SSI) R Evans whose farewell was combined with a superb staff Christmas function.
Not only did the staff and personnel of RRU Edinburgh welcome in 2019 with fervour, but also the latest addition to the team, Sgt
R Burns. Having graduated the JSSERI Course in December of 2018 directly upon completion of the Class One RAPTCI Transfer Course at Fox Lines, Sgt Burns has hit the proverbial ground running with a seamless transition.
On a sporting and RAPTC front, there have been several study periods and uplifts which have kept all RAPTC personnel busy in the non-course delivery context and have proved to be essential in remaining current with Corps business. In addition, WO2 (QMSI) I Menzies, who is also the Regional Trade Specialist Advisor, has been active in the cross-country league and will also ran in the Edinburgh Marathon.
In summary, the last seven months at RRU Edinburgh have been undoubtedly busy, however definitely enjoyable. Especially, from the perspective of a newly-qualified ERI such as myself, RRU Edinburgh presents a plethora of opportunities and unique challenges, the combination of which ensures a bustling working environment set in the historically scenic Edinburgh. As a team of RAPTC, RAMC, and civil servants we await the next year with enthusiasm and positive expectation. Mens Sana in Corpore Sano!
It is now almost 12 months to the day since I left the relative safe confines of the RRU and journeyed with my faithful companion, Fudge, North. Through the Highlands we drove,
finally arriving at Kinloss and Fort George to stand on my own 2 feet. The first thing that hit me when I stepped out the car was just how cold it is this far North. Being Scottish I thought I was prepared but nothing can quite prepare you for the first gust of cold air that hits your face from the Firth of Moray! So, after a quick journey to Elgin to purchase clothing more suited to Antarctica, I got to work (It was that cold the dog even needed a fleece).
So firstly, Fort George, situated with 3 SCOTS. Not only was I tasked with looking after the patients rehab but had to assess and look to re-establish the PCRF. SSgt Fielder, 3 SCOTS had kindly managed to acquire real estate for the PCRF to be established within the main gymnasium instead of the Fort. However, as is always the case, nothing is ever that simple. The infrastructure, IT, flooring, gym, equipment all required a lot of work behind the scenes by not only myself but RRU OC & QMSI, RAF Lossiemouth OC and others at DPHC to bring it in line with guidelines & policies. Due to circumstances this initially meant that 3 SCOTS patients had to travel to Kinloss for their Rehab services in the interim until the issues were addressed. After months of emails, phone calls, business cases and sleepless nights, I’m glad to say that everyone’s hard work has paid off. Fort George has new equipment, the PCRF room within the main gym is now open. Due to extra funding for Project THOR in addition to the infra, PCRF Fort George took on their own civilian ERI, Mr Sean Malee therefore, releasing me to fully concentrate on PCRF Kinloss. As much as the
extra work load I had for 12 months kept me extremely busy, I must say “I will miss some of the characters that I met through providing rehab to 3 SCOTS”. I can say with all honesty though that with Sean at the helm and the infrastructure problems now becoming a distant memory, the only way is up for PCRF Fort George.
Now onto, PCRF Kinloss at 39 Engr Regt. As previously mentioned; for 12 months 39 Engr Regt had to share their rehab services with 3 SCOTS. This put extra strain on the physios and rehab team at 39 Engr Regt but to their credit, they coped admirably and were patient. As mentioned last year, the facilities at 39 Engr Regt are excellent however, the current equipment housed by the PCRF was in need of an uplift & renewing. Over the last 12 months numerous business cases have been sent through to DPHC to replace old equipment. It seems my persistence finally paid off (or they just grew tired of me moaning), and we have finally got financial authority for new equipment and we are just awaiting delivery. Along with the equipment, I am looking forward to devoting my time with Kinloss and aim to provide the best rehab & services I can for all the patients at 39 Engr Regt.
The first 12 months have flown by and has seen many positive changes not only at both Units but for me personally. Having more free time on my hands I have looked at my own development and aim to broaden my horizons. I am considering returning to football, started piano lessons in my free time and am looking forward to seeing what the next 12 months has in store, not just for Fort George & Kinloss but for myself and Fudge as well.
PCRF KINLOSS & FORT GEORGE
Sgt (SI) C Paterson RAPTC