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REGIONAL TRADE SPECIALIST ADVISOR (RTSA) REGIONAL UPDATE (SCOTLAND)
WO2 (QMSI) I Menzies RAPTC
With only 7 PCRFs spread over a large geographical area, managing the provision of rehabilitation across Scotland provides its own unique challenges. This includes getting caught in a snow blizzard in the Aviemore region whilst returning from advisory visits at PCRF Kinloss and Fort George! The Region has suffered a considerable loss after the reduction in FR20 funding which provided additional ERIs to both PCRF Edinburgh and Fort George. With patients from the latter now having to travel over 30 mins to access ERI provision. Feedback from both units highlights and supports the need to have ERIs within Infantry Battalions.
The location of RRU Edinburgh and its proximity to the city centre make it the ideal place to host regional in-service training and CPD courses. In September, Sgt Coleman from PCRF Lisburn, delivered a thought provoking presentation on Implementing Change and more recently, Maj Sally Schofield RMAS delivered the Yoga Based Exercise Prescription Course. Both of which were well received by those attending.
Regional Rehabilitation Unit Edinburgh
SSgt (SSI) R Evans RAPTC
Having now been back in the rehabilitation cadre for 16 months, it reminds me of the different challenges in comparison to a mainstream unit. The rehabilitation
environment is a continuous flow of courses and assessments, it allows you to plan your time in advance, which being in my last 10 months of service is a welcome gift. RRU Edinburgh runs 12 courses a year, predominantly x 30 patients attend the course. It is loaded from throughout Scotland with a true Tri-Service effort including a significant number of Submariners from Faslane. Although the Navy may not share the Army’s views on fitness, they do always come with a willingness to learn and allow for change.
During my time at the RRU, there has been a great deal of staff changes which may not always be best for continuity, however it does allow for a fresh approach to the rehabilitation process. The good thing with working as part of a small team is the fact we have to pull together to achieve the aim and even train most lunch times, although some of the physios need to work harder on their strength gains, no names mentioned.
Sgt (SI) Steve Mutch Coaching at RRU(S)
Primary Care Rehabilitation Facility Kinloss
Sgt (SI) C Paterson RAPTC
Wow, what can I say? After living a sheltered life at RRU Edinburgh, I have just recently been posted to ‘North of the Wall’ covering both PCRF Kinloss & PCRF Fort George. Both these establishments have so far produced different challenges. Challenges, which if I am being honest, seemed daunting. However, now I have had some time to sit down and gather my thoughts, there is an unprecedented opportunity to really improve the facilities and more importantly, the service provided to patients.
PCRF Kinloss has recently been provided with its own ERI suite within the 39 Engr Regt main gymnasium which, as you would expect being an ex RAF camp, has excellent facilities. The ERI being co-located within the gymnasium has improved communication with ERI and the PTI staff, helping to facilitate patients rehab pathway from level 1 PT through to level 2 PT and beyond. More selfishly, it also has excellent weight training facilities! (Those who
know me, know I practically live in a weights room). This year, my main aim is to continue the excellent service that the physios and previous ERI provided and get DPHC to open the purse strings for an uplift of the PCRF equipment. This will build upon the excellent facilities already there.
PCRF Fort George is not your usual PCRF. It is housed within one of the most scenic parts of the country within the Fort itself. However, the beautiful views do come at a price. Being run by Historic Scotland means that making changes to the actual infrastructure is prohibited. Regardless, the rehabilitation team have done a great job, providing the best service with what they currently have. Although space is limited, there is also scope to house more kit and improve equipment. This will assist in enhancing the patient’s rehabilitation experience. Once again, hopefully DPHC will provide the support and the money to continue to make progress within Fort George.