September marked an exciting milestone with the launch of our first-ever Health Care Assistanct Ward-Based Workshops, and what a fantastic day it was! The sessions were well attended, full of energy, and enjoyed by everyone, including our guest speakers.
The day flew by with lots of hands-on learning, useful refreshers, and great discussions promoting patient safety, confidence, and teamwork among our healthcare assistants. Feedback from attendees was overwhelmingly positive, with many praising the variety of topics and practical activities.
A few participants commented that they’d love more time in each session, so future workshops will be slightly adjusted, with sessions now running for 30 minutes each and a total of 10 workshops instead of 12 throughout the day.
The event began with a warm welcome and registration, followed by refreshments available throughout the day. Attendees received a reflective journal to record what they learned from each session and how they plan to apply it in practice.
An engaging ‘Ward Survival Scenario’ icebreaker set the tone for a fun and interactive day, while Cat Lamoon joined in the morning to capture photos for future promotion.
Morning sessions included:
• Preventing Deconditioning – Christine Billington;
• Derma S Reps – Lizzy Wardle & Bhav;
• Security, Control and Restraint – James Lofthouse;
• Mouthcare Matters – Cecilia Jaques;
• ANTT and Handwashing – Lizzy;
• Resus Trolley Familiarisation / AED – Kim.
Afternoon sessions included:
• Patient Positioning (TVN) – Shaye Skillen & Emily Duggan;
• End of Life Care: Empathy and Compassion – Rosie Ingham;
• Supporting Vulnerable Patients – Katie Birch, Juliet, and Rachel (LD, MH, and Dementia specialists);
• TENA Product Awareness – Clare McKeegan;
• SALT – Thickened Fluids – Sandy (Sandhaya Sritharan);
• Care of a Bariatric Patient – Jason.
The day concluded with a lively relay challenge, where teams tested what they’d learned through a series of practical tasks at different learning stations. The friendly competition created a great atmosphere, encouraging teamwork and reinforcing key skills.
Planning is already underway for the next round of HCA Ward-Based Workshops, with guest speakers being confirmed. The next session is scheduled for Monday 17 November 2025, and staff are encouraged to book via Blended Learning under “WBW”. Dates for 2026 will be announced soon, including sessions at Chorley and District Hospital where rooms are available.
A huge thank you to everyone who contributed, presented, and participated in making this first event such a success. It’s been a brilliant start – and we’re only just getting started.
