NHSGGC is proud to provide a large numbers of practice-based learning experiences for Allied Health Professions (AHP) students, contributing to the future AHP workforce. This could not be done without the commitment and enthusiasm from the AHP Practice Educators to provide quality practice-based learning. AHP Practice Educators play an essential role in the development of new AHPs. Working with the higher and further education institution they support students with the development of their knowledge and skills. To ensure AHP Practice Educators are supported in their role there is both national and local work ongoing. This website will be one of the ways to provide AHP Practice Educators with information and resources. The information and resources on this page come from a range of sources- NHSGGC AHP Practice Educators, Higher and Further Education Institutions, NHS Education Scotland(NES) AHP Practice Education and the NHS GGC AHP Practice-based learning Quality Group
The AHP Practice Placement Quality Group members and the AHP practice education team are working hard to support AHP Practice-based Learning. NHSGGC AHP Practice-based Learning Newsletter (June 2024) has been developed by a sub group of the NHSGGC AHP Practice Placement Quality group in order to celebrate successes, highlight key resources and provide updates around practice-based learning. Previous editions of the newsletter can be accessed below.
The AHP Practice Education Team have recently run AHP Peer Assisted Learning and Digital Workshops to support AHPs who are considering peer assisted learning and digital placements. We hope to run further workshops in the future. To register interest please email please email ggc.gjnh@nhs.scot
The Practice Educators website is spilt into different pages. To access each page please click on the relevant section.
AHP Practice-based Learning National Resources
The AHP Practice-Based Learning (PrBL) national site is funded by the AHP Practice Education Programme. It contains resources to support PrBL. This includes links to the ‘How to’ workshops, information on models of placement delivery, digital knowledge and skills and practice educator preparation.
Additionally the site provides an explanation of the national groups supporting AHP PrBL and Scotland wide initiatives to support PrBL.
Scottish HEIs provide a range of wellbeing support to which students can self-refer. Students can also access NES wellbeing resources. Practice Educators can also signpost students to both wellbeing resources within the HEIs.
A Support for AHP Students poster has been created, detailing local resources which may support AHP students during the cost of living crisis.
It provides information for students and practice educators on:
student use of electronic information systems.
code of conduct
policies
student car insurance
student feedback
students raising a concern
students accessing electronic information systems
membership of PVG Scheme
fire safety for students
Templates for recording student information and reflection.
It is updated bi-annually to ensure it reflects current AHP information and resources.
If you feel information requires updated or could be added to please contact elspeth.lee4@nhs.scot
AHP Student Feedback Questionnaire
The recovery of AHP practice placements within NHSGGC has recommenced following the pause of placements due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
In many cases NHSGGC AHPs are providing placements differently or with some changes due to COVID-19 therefore we greatly value feedback from AHP students. This feedback allows AHPs to improve and understand the student experience by asking what went well, where we could improve the placement experience, what challenges were experienced and how these were perhaps overcome. Feedback is obtained by way of a questionnaire, although participation is voluntary, the information gathered is very valuable in informing future placements. This questionnaire is anonymous unless you choose to add the placement area details.
The data from the questionnaire will initially be shared with the AHP professional leads for dissemination through their service.
The link to the AHP Student Feedback questionnaire should be provided to each AHP student by the Practice educator who is working directly with the student on placement within NHSGGC.
The link can be provided:
within an email
on student induction paperwork
in student information folders
in written form as a URL
Guidance on cancellation of AHP practice placements
Cancellation guidance is to be used when cancelling a practice placement within the health board to ensure other options have been considered. The cancellation guidance is supported within the health board by the AHP Practice Placement Quality group.
AHP practice based learning agreements
Since 2010, there have been AHP Practice Placement Agreements in place between each Scottish HEI that runs pre-registration programmes and each NHS Board. Previously known as Practice Placement Agreements (PPA). The AHP PPA’s are currently being refreshed (now to be called AHP Practice-based Learning Agreement ).
NHSGGC have AHP Practice-based Learning Agreements with Glasgow Caledonian University, Queen Margaret University, Robert Gordon University, University of Strathclyde and Edinburgh Napier University.
What is new in the AHP Practice-based learning Agreement?
The revised agreement provides greater clarity and consistency in approach to governance arrangements for professions, universities and Practice Education Providers. It consolidates current custom and practice that has evolved in relation to student Practice-based Learning since 2009.
The approach to refreshing the agreement has been to include agreed content written during the original signing, and subsequent developments that underpin the provision of AHP student Practice-based Learning e.g. HCPC Guidance on Conduct and Ethics for Students (2017), AHP placement cancellation guidance, provision of practice educator training etc. The refreshed content has an operational focus to address and balance the requirements of different stakeholders.
What has not changed?
The agreements clarify contemporary governance arrangements for Student Practice-based learning. The approach to refreshing the agreements has not included a review of the ongoing commitment to student ‘PrBL Weeks’ (placement weeks) per profession. This work is being progressed separately and will involve Scottish Government, AHP Directors, Practice Education Providers, professional bodies.
AHP Students from non -Scottish HEI’s
AHP students who are studying at non-Scottish HEI’s often have placements within NHSGGC however as there are no practice-based learning agreements with these institutions, governance arrangements regarding issues such as PVG, immunisations etc must be discussed with the HEI and student prior to the student coming on placement.
AHP Practice-based Learning Quality Group
The AHP practice placement quality group provides an inter-professional health board wide approach to improving the quality of AHP student education and increasing the capacity to provide learning opportunities for preregistration students.
The group will support a positive learning environment through enhancing the student experience informed by AHPs within the board, NHS Scotland, Quality Standards for Practice Placement (QSPP) and student evaluation.
The AHP practice placement quality group will enable communication, information sharing and facilitate collaborative engagement between the board and higher/further education institutions about AHP student education.
It guides both current and future projects and allows sharing of good practice across professions.
Membership of Group
The grouphas representatives from AHP professions within NHSGGC.
AHP practice educator preparation is provided by all five of the Scottish higher education institutions (HEIs) who provide pre registration AHP courses: Glasgow Caledonian University and Strathclyde (jointly), Queen Margaret University, Edinburgh Napier university and Robert Gordon University. The NHSGGC Practice Placement Quality Group have agreed that AHPs should refresh their practice educator training every five years.
If an AHP attends a course from one of the HEI’s, this provides them with the information and knowledge to supervise students from all HEI’s i.e. an AHP does not need to attend all four HEI’s practice educator training courses to supervise students from the other HEIs. However AHPs need to ensure they are familiar with the paperwork and requirements for each course.
The SWAY will be added to as further resources for practice educator preparation become available and can be accessed via the same link.
AHP Practice Education survey results
Thank you to those of you who took the time to complete the National AHP Practice Education Survey 2022, it is much appreciated and helps to support and guide future development of student practice education in Scotland.
The Quality Improvement Network for AHPs in NHSGGC (AHPQIN) had over 500 members.
At the start of 2024 we decided to scale up and spread to transition to a GGC-wide network for all members of staff from all areas and professions. This process is still taking place and will shape what the network looks like in future and what it offers.
AHPs retain a specific channel within the network on MS teams to ensure we can still share information specific to AHPs.
If you would like to join the network simply click on the link below and ask to join the team.
Here are some projects completed by AHPs during the NHSGGC AHP Quality Improvement Program as well as other sources.
Hopefully they may inspire you to carry out your own QI project.
If you have already carried out a QI project and would like to share this please use one of the templates below and send this to nikki.munro@ggc.scot.nhs.uk to be uploaded to this site.
Below are some presentations from the 2021 cohort of the AHP Quality Improvement Program to help you choose the best way to share your Improvement Journey with Others.
NHS Education for Scotland (NES) offers many courses or Learning Programmes in Quality Improvement with varied target audiences. For the most up to date information please visit the NES program page at:
These resources can be used by staff working across the public sector in Scotland. Each module’s page includes a short description of what you can expect to find in it, who should do it and how long it will take to complete it. Most of them will take around 30 minutes to complete.
The modules available are:
Measurement for improvement
Understanding your system
Developing your aims and change ideas
Testing your change ideas
Implementation and Spread
Introduction to demand, capacity, activity and queue
Introduction to Value Management
2. Scottish Improvement Foundation Skills (SIFS) Programme
This programme is aimed at all people working in the public sector across Scotland who have ideas that can improve the way things are done in their own workplace. Staff working at foundation level will be functioning as part of a team to improve service delivery in their own workplace. Foundation learning resources introduce staff to widely used improvement methods to help support them achieve the outcome they are aiming for.
The aim of SIFS is to support individuals to develop the skills, knowledge, and confidence to participate as members of improvement teams and contribute to testing, measuring and reporting on changes made.
NHSGGC Clinical Effectiveness Department run regular Scottish Improvement Foundation Skills Courses (SIFS) open to all members of staff in NHSGGC.
If you would like to register your interest for a future SIFS course, please register your interest below:
3. For Managers Coaching and Leading Teams to Improve their Services
SCLIP is a 3-month Quality Improvement learning programme. The target audience for the programme is core managers who are responsible for coaching and leading their teams to improve their services and helping embed improvement strategies within their organisation. Participants will be recruited and selected by the local organisation. It is recommended that applicants fit the following criteria:
responsibility for managing a team or teams
motivation to improve their skills in leading and coaching teams to deliver improvement
a strong desire to improve outcomes for people
4. For Individuals who need in-depth QI knowledge to support others across their organisation
The Scottish Improvement Leader (ScIL) Programme
The aim of the ScIL Programme is to enable individuals to:
design, develop and lead improvement projects,
lead and generate support for change, and
provide expert QI support and advice in their organisations.
It is aimed at people working in the Scottish Public Service in a role with a significant focus on quality improvement and dedicated time allocated to lead improvement projects.
5.The Scottish Quality and Safety (SQS) Fellowship Programme
The Scottish Quality and Safety Fellowship Programme (SQS Fellowship) is a lead level quality improvement and clinical leadership course managed by NHS Education for Scotland (NES), working in partnership with Healthcare Improvement Scotland and NHSScotland.
The Fellowship is open to healthcare staff who currently undertake clinical practice and has a direct influence on improving the delivery of safe patient care, as well as staff in clinical professions who do not currently deliver hands-on care but do have a role in improving patient care or safety.
An important aspect of the Fellowship is also the participation of Fellows from outside Scotland with long standing relationships with Northern Ireland, the Republic of Ireland, Norway and Denmark to mention but a few.
This page is intended to assist AHPs in finding out more information about Quality Improvement methodology as part of the AHP Quality Improvement Workstream.
The Aim of this workstream is that:
By Dec 2026 50% more AHPs will feel able to put QI methodology into practice as aligned to the AHP Learning and Development Strategic Framework.
The Lead for this workstream is Nikki Munro who is Professional Lead and Service Manager for Orthotics.
If you have any questions on the NHSGGC AHP QI workstream please get in touch with Nikki directly at nikki.munro@ggc.scot.nhs.uk
NHSGGC Quality Improvement Team
NHS GGC have an amazing Quality Improvement Team who are here to help with all things QI including supporting projects and compiling tools and information for those who are already carrying out QI projects.
There are loads of useful tools hosted on the NHSGGC Clinical Effectiveness QI page, however as this is hosted on staffnet, its only accessible to NHSGGC staff when logged into the NHSGGC network.
Here are the main policies which give the background as to why Quality is important and what we should do to achieve the highest quality possible within Healthcare in Scotland.
As a very quick introduction to the fundamentals of Quality Improvement, click on the link below to complete the NHSGGC module. A great way to start your QI journey.
If you have completed the LearnPro module and would like to know more, click on the link below to complete the NES TURAS Learn introductory QI modules. A great way to continue your QI journey.
6) Introduction to demand, capacity, activity and queue
7) Introduction to Value Management
I know something about QI but want to know more
The Q Community is a connected community working together to improve health and care quality across the UK and Ireland. They have lots of useful resources.
Description: Improving planned care pathways toolkit
Reducing waiting times has been a key priority for NHS Scotland for over a decade, typically waiting times initiatives have been used to reduce the backlog of patients waiting for planned care. This toolkit has been developed, using learning from across Scotland, to support NHS boards in taking a quality improvement (QI) approach to sustainably reduce waiting times.
Planned care services can reduce the time patients wait by improving their pathways to balance the workload associated with referrals to the demand for care.
By using this toolkit, planned care teams will be able to:
establish an effective project team to test and implement changes
identify the constraints in their pathway contributing to the longest waits
understand service user needs
use learning from others to increase the pace of change, and
use data to demonstrate a sustainable improvement has occurred.
Description: Improving planned care pathways toolkit
Reducing waiting times has been a key priority for NHS Scotland for over a decade, typically waiting times initiatives have been used to reduce the backlog of patients waiting for planned care. This toolkit has been developed, using learning from across Scotland, to support NHS boards in taking a quality improvement (QI) approach to sustainably reduce waiting times.
Planned care services can reduce the time patients wait by improving their pathways to balance the workload associated with referrals to the demand for care.
By using this toolkit, planned care teams will be able to:
establish an effective project team to test and implement changes
identify the constraints in their pathway contributing to the longest waits
understand service user needs
use learning from others to increase the pace of change, and
use data to demonstrate a sustainable improvement has occurred.
Within NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde there are 12 different professions who are known collectively as AHPs. More information and links to the Profession Specific webpages can be found in the below drop down boxes.
“An Arts Therapist is a psychological therapist who has arts-based experience and training in psychological interventions using drama, music or art as their primary mode of communication”. (HCPC)
Art Psychotherapy is currently provided in the following areas within NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde:
Adult Specialist Mental Health Services
The Glasgow Psychological Trauma Service
Specialist Children’s Services, including in-patient settings and Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHS)
Prison Healthcare
What We Do
We provide a different approach for people who may struggle to access or make use of talking therapies.
It is a form of psychotherapy to help people who have been affected by injury, illness, disability and/or trauma, to communicate and understand difficult feelings. It can help to support their psychological, emotional, relational, cognitive and social difficulties.
We are a small profession and access is limited at present. Referrals would need to meet the criteria of those services. We are continually working on ways to expand the service.
What to expect at your appointment
You may be offered an individual or group treatment, depending on your needs.
Arts therapies are provided either virtually or in person. You will first meet your art psychotherapist to assess the problem and agree a plan for treatment. Together you will decide a suitable time and place for working together.
Sessions are confidential and held in a private room where you will have access to a range of art materials and resources.
Virtual sessions are held in an online meeting room using Near Me and for some people is a beneficial way to engage in their therapy.
You will work in collaboration with your therapist to identify what matters most to you to agree goals in therapy, regularly reviewing progress, agreeing timescales and planning your next steps (Realistic Medicine | NHS inform).
You may be offered appointments with a trainee Arts Therapists if this is right for you. We are happy to provide practice placements for the Msc Trainees from Queen Margaret University. All trainees will be supervised throughout their placements.
FAQs
Do I need to be good at art to take part?
You do not need to have any previous experience or expertise in art to benefit from Art Psychotherapy. The aim is to express, explore and manage what you’re feeling. This is a confidential process of art making. It is not about producing skilful art. Instead it is the relationship with the therapist aided by a process of creating art that can be of benefit. Arts Therapists will always use the best evidence and encourage you to work at a level comfortable for you, where you feel more able to express yourself and work towards achieving improved outcomes in your therapy.
How often will sessions take place?
Generally sessions take place on a weekly basis however this will be agreed with your therapist depending on what is right for you.
How are Arts Therapies (Art, Music, Drama) regulated?
In the UK, the title of Art therapist and Art psychotherapist are protected by law. All UK Art therapists must be registered with the HCPC. All registered Arts Therapists (Art, Music, Drama) can be found on the HCPC register.
Arts Therapists will follow robust allied health professional governance protocols and adherence to policies and guidance within NHSGGC.
Where to Find Us
For more information please email:
Tracy MacMillan Art Psychotherapist and Professional Lead for Arts Therapies Art Psychotherapist Specialist Mental Health Services The Glasgow Psychological Trauma Service
Radiotherapy is the use of radiation, usually x-rays, to treat cancer. Radiotherapy can be used to try to cure cancer, reduce the chance of cancer coming back or to help relieve symptoms. It is normally given in conjunction with other treatments, such as chemotherapy or surgery.
Radiographers
Radiographers are regulated professionals with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC). They are entitled to hold one of the protected titles Radiographer, Diagnostic Radiographer or Therapeutic Radiographer. Radiographers undertake a broad portfolio of either diagnostic examinations or radiotherapy procedures. They work in partnership with team members, patients and carers to deliver care that may include screening, diagnosis, treatment or health monitoring for patients.
Health and Care Professions Council
To register, radiographers must hold a relevant BSc (Hons) or MSc qualification. To maintain registration with the HCPC Radiographers must undertake and keep a record of their continued professional development. In addition to HCPC standards, radiographers work to the standards of the Society of Radiographers code of professional conduct. The code includes expectations that radiographers act in accordance with values of respect, empowerment, empathy, trustworthiness, integrity and justice. Radiographers must always act with compassion: caring for patients is at the heart of what radiographers do.
Therapeutic Radiographers
Therapeutic radiographers are responsible for the planning and delivery of accurate radiotherapy treatments using a wide range of technical equipment. Accuracy is critical, for example, the aim of treatment may be to treat a tumour and destroy diseased tissue while minimising the amount of radiation exposure to surrounding healthy tissue. Together both diagnostic and therapeutic radiography professionals provide essential services every year to millions of people.
Post Qualification
Radiographers follow career paths according to a combination of their personal interests and the needs of healthcare services and patients. Promotion opportunities are excellent, with a grading structure that sees the radiographer’s salary increase as they move along the career pathway. British radiographers are recognised as receiving excellent training with innovative career paths.
Autonomy
Therapeutic Radiographers are able to initiate resolution of problems and be able to exercise personal initiative
Therapeutic Radiographers recognise that they are personally responsible for and must be able to justify their decisions
They are able to make and receive appropriate referrals
They understand the importance of participation in training, supervision and mentoring
Therapeutic Radiographers are able to assess a professional situation, determine the nature and severity of the problem and call upon the required knowledge and experience to deal with the problem
They are also able to make reasoned decisions to initiate, continue, modify or cease radiotherapy treatment or diagnostic imaging examinations and record the decisions and reasoning appropriately
Advanced Practice
A growing number of Therapeutic radiographers undertake tumour site specific roles or specialist treatment roles (at both advanced and consultant level practice), where they are responsible for their own patient load from treatment referral, through treatment to post treatment follow up.
Multi-disciplinary Practice
Therapeutic radiographers take part in the multi-disciplinary approach to patient management by attending and participating in MDT meetings. This ensures continuity of care for patients across their cancer journey, with improved levels of care for all patients as well as efficiency benefits for the service.
Research radiographers
Therapeutic radiographers are also involved in clinical research at all levels. This ranges from recruitment to trials through to radiographer led research studies to evaluate the newer technologies and techniques as part of providing evidence based practice.
Radiotherapy Managers
Radiotherapy Service Managers are professional qualified managers responsible for the strategic delivery and planning of the service along with the day to day operational management of radiotherapy services. Their professional training and expertise is critical to the provision of safe and efficient radiotherapy services.
Image interpretation
Image interpretation and reporting by radiographers was initially established in ultrasound. This has now become firmly embedded within the scope of practice of therapeutic radiographers. They undertake image acquisition and interpretation utilising their advanced training in the decision making process.
Radiotherapy Information and Support Service
Having treatment for cancer can be a difficult time for anyone. You may benefit from talking to our Information and Support Radiographer.
They can provide information and support to help you while you are having your treatment.
They can provide:
Support when you need it.
Give relevant and timely information on Radiotherapy treatments, side-effects and other relevant issues, particularly on how best to cope
Explain and clarify medical terms
Provide a confidential service to discuss any concerns or questions you may have regarding your treatment
Refer you to appropriate professionals or services that may be of assistance to you/may help you
Offer telephone support
How to get in touch
If you think you would benefit from seeing them, ask your Radiographers to contact them or you can phone them on 0141 301 7427.
Please leave a message and they will call you back as soon as possible.
Spiritual Care and Chaplaincy is considered part of the AHP family in NHSGGC while not being an actual Allied Health profession.
Would you like help to support your staff with money wellbeing? Not sure how to help?
We know that money worries can affect everyone at some point in their live, such as ill health, family job loss, disability, caring responsibilities, relationship breakdown or bereavement.
You can do a great deal to help your team members by ensuring that they know where to turn if money becomes a problem. You don’t have to go in ‘too deep’ and fix problems for staff, but by helping them to find the right advice, you could help to reduce their stress and anxiety and possibly also prevent absenteeism and presenteeism.
Signs that staff may need support with money worries
Use the ‘All About Money’ page and guidance below to find out when staff may need support with their financial wellbeing, and the support available.
Attendance
Consider patterns of absence; absences at the end of the month or due to stress may be related to issues with money.
The Attendance Policy and Supporting Documents both offer advice on supportive management of absence
Performance
The stress of having money worries may affect the workplace performance of a staff member. All employees are required to perform the duties of their post to an acceptable standard.
The Capability Policy and Supporting Documents both provide a clear process to support and manage employees who are required to improve their knowledge, skills or ability to perform their role.
Long Term Health Conditions
A member of staff who has had a diagnosis of a long term health condition, for example cancer, may well be worrying about the financial impact of their diagnosis.
Support and Information Services
You can signpost or refer staff with a long term health condition to the Support and Information Services (SIS).They offer a wide range of support, and have links to community based advice organisations, including those for free, confidential, quality assured money advice and debt resolution. There is a Support and Information Service in the foyer at Stobhill ACH, New Victoria ACH, Glasgow Royal Infirmary and Queen Elizabeth University Hospital. However, enquiries can also be made over the phone or via email no matter what site the member of staff is based in.
You can also download a copy of Coping with a Health Problem: Help for Staff (pdf). It contains a wealth of information to support staff physical and mental health and can be used during supportive discussions with staff.
Staff who are off sick and going onto reduced pay
A member of staff who has been ill for some time and who has gone onto half pay or no pay will probably have significant concerns about money.
If you are keeping in touch with absent staff, it can help them to ensure that they maximise their income and claim any benefits to which they are entitled. The Support and Information Service will enable them to access this help through money advice services.
Lapses in Professional Registration
NHSGGC employs thousands of staff who are expected to maintain some form of registration with a professional body. The cost of this can amount to several hundred pounds per year. Where lapses in registration occur, consider that money worries may be part of the problem and be prepared to supportively manage and signpost to help.
You can also support staff by raising awareness of the tax relief that can be easily claimed on professional registration fees.
You could encourage staff to use the NHS Credit Union as a means to budget and save for their professional registration fees.
Family issues and caring responsibilities
Throughout the course of a working life, personal circumstances can change considerably, for example through ill health, family job loss, maternity, disability, caring responsibilities, relationship breakdown or bereavement. At times like these money can sometimes become a worry and staff may need support. A referral to the Support and Information Service will enable staff to access the help they need for many of these issues including access to carer’s support and money advice.
Further information
Bereavement
For bereavement, a wide range of resources are available to support staff to cope with bereavement, whether personal or professional.
Caring responsibilities
If staff are responsible for caring for a family member, dependent or close friend there is help and support available for them and the person they look after. Visit the carer’s support web pages:
Universal Credit has recently been introduced across Greater Glasgow and will replace a number of existing benefits including Housing Benefit and Working and Child Tax Credits. This financial support is available for people on a low income or out of work. It’s a monthly payment to help with living costs, and the amount depends on how much is earned in a month. Staff do not need to do anything about moving over to Universal Credit until they hear from the Department of Work & Pensions, unless their circumstances change.
Why it’s important to challenge poverty stigma [online learning]
Public Health Scotland’s Virtual Learning Environment [VLE] has developed 6 modules aimed at those working in front line public services, with some sections dedicated to those in a management role. Please see list below
· Understanding Poverty
· Understanding Poverty, Stigma and Discrimination
· Poverty Sensitive Practice
· My Role in Service Planning and Design
· My Role in Organisational Policy
· My Role as a Line Manager
The module objectives are;
Provide an overview of poverty in Scotland
Raise awareness of stigma and discrimination associated with poverty
Raise awareness of the impact of poverty stigma and discrimination on individuals and their health and wellbeing
Introduce sensitive approaches to reduce poverty stigma discrimination
Would you like help to manage your money better? Is Money a worry for you?
Money worries can affect everyone at some point in their lives when circumstances change,such as ill health, family job loss, disability, caring responsibilities, relationship breakdown or bereavement.
Having money worries can negatively impact mental health and wellbeing, causing anxiety, stress, depression and/ or feelings of hopelessness. Please visit our Mental Health and Wellbeing section for sources of support.
NHSGGC provides financial support services for its patient population. These services are also available for staff
Help and Support
Do you need help with Money Worries?
The Support and Information Services (SIS) are available to all NHSGGC staff. They offer a wide range of support and have links to other community-based money advice.
To find out more, click on the buttons below to download posters and leaflets giving contact details for the Support and Information Service.
These resources can also be printed off and hung in staff areas for easy accessibility.
The Support and Information Services (SIS) are available for NHSGGC staff, patients, carers and visitors. They offer a wide range of support and have links to other community-based advice organisations, including those for money advice and resolving debt. This makes the SIS the ideal first point of contact for staff needing help and support.
The Support and Information Service (SIS) also provides a range of advice and support for staff who may be struggling during the current cost of living crisis.
We are pleased to confirm that, following an award by the Greater Glasgow and Clyde Healthcare Charity, the SIS will also be able to provide small hardship grants to staff. These will be provided as part of a wider needs assessment, to ensure any member of staff seeking to access the fund is also able to access sustainable, long-term support. The service is entirely confidential and your details will not be shared with anyone.
To access our hardship support:
drop in or contact your nearest SIS service. We are located in most hospital atriums.
call: 0141 452 2387. If we are closed, please leave a message & we will get back to you.
NHS Inform Scotland’s Service Directory contains details of money advice services across Scotland, this may be of particular use for staff who live outwith Greater Glasgow and Clyde:
Debt Navigator provides information and advice on how to deal with debts including- energy debts; mortgage, rent and council tax arrears; loans, credit cards and overdrafts; car finance and care costs. The website includes a web chat function.
A change in your circumstances, such as changes to your health, relationships, pregnancy or unexpected expenses can change what social security benefits and grants you may entitled to access. This section aims to assist those who may not be in receipt of all of the benefits or financial supports they may be legally entitled to.
Information on benefits and grants can be found here:
Information on benefits including Best Start Grants, Scottish Child Payment, Child Disability Payment, Carer Support Payment, Funeral Support Payment and others:
Home Energy Scotland partnership helps NHS staff stay warm for less
Home Energy Scotland is pleased to be working with NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde to offer you support with free and impartial energy advice and support.
They cover everything from simple energy saving tips in the home to transport and active travel advice. Home Energy Scotland’s friendly advisors offer vital support to colleagues across NHSGGC.
Who is Home Energy Scotland?
Home Energy Scotland is a network of local advice centres covering all of Scotland. Our expert advisors offer free, impartial advice on saving energy, keeping warm at home, renewable energy, greener travel and cutting water waste. We’re funded by the Scottish Government and managed by the Energy Saving Trust, and our mission is to help people in Scotland create warmer homes, reduce their bills and help tackle climate change.
Recent research by Home Energy Scotland* has revealed that 70% of people in Scotland feel concerned about energy bills rising, with almost two thirds using more energy than usual during the first 12 months of the pandemic. The research also found that 59% of Scots have noticed a worrying rise in their energy bills already.
Simple steps like changing your thermostat settings in the warmer months, regularly switching your energy supplier or changing the way you pay can all make positive changes to the amount you spend on keeping you warm and well at home.
Home Energy Scotland’s friendly advisors can help you make the best use of your energy, so your home is warmer and your bills are as low as possible.
Make my home warmer
Find out if you could be eligible for home energy efficiency improvement worth, on average, £5000. Available to home owners and private tenants, Warmer Homes Scotland could see energy efficient home improvements – like insulation or a new heating system – installed in your home at no cost to you.
Go green and save
We can help you make changes that make a big difference to the planet – and your purse. From heating your home using renewable technology to choosing greener ways to travel, our specialists will help you make the right choice for your lifestyle. Take a look at our webinar programme to learn more.
Find funding
There’s lots of support out there to help you make greener changes and reduce your energy use. We’re even offering free ebike trails to GP surgeries.
Speak to an advisor
If you’re worried about your energy bills, call Home Energy Scotland free of charge on 0808 808 2282 – quoting NHSGGC
* Energy Saving Trust, “Climate Change Research” April 2021
Home Energy Scotland E-Learning Module
With the weather changing, the cost of energy might be on your mind at the moment. The new ‘Home Energy E-Learning’ module could be a perfect way to help you keep cosy this winter and save money on your bills.
The module will help you save energy at home to reduce your bills and tackle the climate emergency. It is brought to you by the team at Home Energy Scotland and is available through LearnPro under the CPD Category under show all learning and is called ‘Home Energy E-Learning’. You can also search using the search box and type in Home Energy to find the module. To add this to your learning, please click add and confirm. You can then click select to view the module.
The module will take you on a virtual tour of a typical home, identifying energy saving hotspots and help you discover how much money and energy you could save by making simple changes. You’ll get a personalised action plan to download and take away, with tips and details of funding and support to make energy saving home improvements.
Bloomberg UK have created a helpful graphic to show the cost of running different household appliances according to the energy cap scheduled for October 2022.
Are you looking after someone when you are not at work?
A carer is a person who provides or intends to provide unpaid, practical, physical and emotional support to relatives, friends or neighbours due to physical or mental illness, addiction, frailty or disability. This includes young people and parents. They do not need to live with the person to be their carer.
If this is you, you are not alone. There is help and support available for you and the person you look after.
Many unions offer support to their members who are suffering financial hardship. Check with your union for details.
Unison Financial Assistance
If you are a member and you are experiencing financial difficulties, whether due to coronavirus or other circumstances, There for You can offer you support, including one-off grants.
Unison members and other trade unions and professional organisations
If you are a Unison member and you are experiencing financial and emotional difficulties, There for You can offer you support, including one-off grants.
For more information on how the NHSGGC Board engages with 15 Trade Unions/Professional Organisations and takes forward staff side views to influence Board policies and to ensure that staff interests are properly reflected in policy development go to:
Like all credit unions, the NHS Credit Union is a financial co-operative, owned and controlled by its members.
We help care for the financial health of members across Scotland and the North of England and our membership is growing at record rates. Almost 20,000 NHS workers are currently enjoying the benefits of being an NHS Credit Union member.
Our mission is to promote financial well-being and a savings culture in the NHS industry alongside reducing financial stress in staff and providing ethical financial assistance to those who need it.
For access to savings products and loans, paid directly from your salary the NHS Credit Union is easy to join. It can help you to budget your money or to save for holidays, unexpected spends or even your professional registration fees.
Safe Harbour is confidential service open to all members, that aims to help those who may be experiencing economic abuse to take back control of their money.
The service is currently running a simple three questions survey to find out about member awareness of the service and to inform future developments.
A wide range of services are available to NHSGGC staff.
Discounts
NHS Staff Benefits offers discounts and special offers on many products and services from holidays and eating out, to gym membership. Log in to find out further details:
Some stores offer membership to certain groups of workers, including NHS staff, giving access to discounted goods.
The Company Shop offers discounts to NHS staff, and also reduces waste by redistributing surplus food and household products from some of the biggest UK retailers.
Tax relief on professional uniform and professional registration fees
Did you know that you can claim tax relief on the cost of laundering your uniform? This includes nursing and allied health professionals and also domestic, catering and portering staff.
You can also claim tax relief on registration fees that you are required to pay to your professional body. It is easy to do and you may also get a backdated sum. To check your eligibility and then apply visit:
Are you interested in learning more about easy retirement planning or how to understand mortgages better. Do you need support on how to manage your money better or maybe you feel you need a midlife MOT on wealth, work & wellbeing? Then these Open University courses may be for you.
They are free & range from as little as 2 hours study upwards depending on the course you choose.
You can get up to £500 every 3 months (£2,000 a year) for each of your children to help with the costs of childcare.
For more information about how you can receive help with childcare costs have a look on the Childcare Choices website.
Gambling – Support and Information
Problem gambling is defined as gambling that is disruptive or damaging to you or your family, or interferes with your daily life. Most people in the UK gambled or played the lottery in the last year and with the rise in the number of online internet gambling sites and mobile apps has made gambling more easily and readily accessible – activities like playing the lottery once or twice a week aren’t harmful however, for around 9 in 1000 people, gambling becomes a problem or an addiction.
Problem gambling can strain relationships, impact on work and have serious financial consequences. There is a risk that escalation of the problem could lead to harmful behaviours like running up huge debts or even stealing money to gamble.
For information on problem gambling and the signs of problem gambling visit:
There is a dedicated specialist resource via Occupational Health via an addiction’s nurse who can be accessed via self-referral on 0141 201 0600. Further information can be found via:
Gamblers Anonymous Scotland has meetings every day, and is free to attend. The meetings are informal and friendly, and there are currently around 70 meetings held in Scotland every day. Gamblers Anonymous also has a 24-hour helpline you can phone on 0370 050 8881.
A member of Gamblers Anonymous will answer your call – someone who fully understands the problem of compulsive gambling. Please note that this is NOT a crisis hotline. If you are in crisis or suicidal call 999.
Gam-Anon Scotland
If you have a loved one with a gambling problem, support is available from Gam-Anon Scotland. The organisation has supportive, confidential meetings that are separate from Gamblers Anonymous meetings. Call the Gam-Anon 24-hour helpline on 0370 050 8881
Breathing Space
If you’re struggling with the impact gambling is having on your life, or the life of a loved one, phone Breathing Space on 0800 83 85 87 for support and counselling. Breathing Space is open:
· Weekdays: Monday to Thursday 6pm to 2am
· Weekends: Friday 6pm to Monday 6am
*NEW* Why is it Important to Challenge Poverty Stigma? (Online Learning)
Public Health Scotland’s Virtual Learning Environment [VLE] has developed 6 modules aimed at those working in front line public services, with some sections dedicated to those in a management role. Please see list below
· Understanding Poverty
· Understanding Poverty, Stigma and Discrimination
· Poverty Sensitive Practice
· My Role in Service Planning and Design
· My Role in Organisational Policy
· My Role as a Line Manager
The module objectives are;
Provide an overview of poverty in Scotland
Raise awareness of stigma and discrimination associated with poverty
Raise awareness of the impact of poverty stigma and discrimination on individuals and their health and wellbeing
Introduce sensitive approaches to reduce poverty stigma discrimination
The aim of the Scottish Urinary Tract Infection Network’s (SUTIN) national hydration campaign is to raise awareness of the wide and varied benefits of being well hydrated. The target audiences are:
The general public across Scotland, particularly vulnerable groups such as the elderly
Staff across health and social care and home care sectors.
The aim of the campaign is to ensure everyone is aware of the signs of poor hydration and the potential consequences.
The problems associated with dehydration are still poorly recognised by not only the public, but also those working in community and health care settings.
Dehydration can be both the cause and the consequence of illness and can have significant impacts on an individual’s health.
The key campaign messages are:
Good hydration is important for all age groups and is something for everyone to consider
The effects of dehydration may result in unnecessary treatment e.g. of urinary tract infections (UTIs) and unnecessary admission to healthcare, such as following a fall which results in a fracture
Secondary E coli bloodstream infections caused by UTI are potentially life threatening, particularly in older people.
Resources
Information resources have been developed to support the hydration campaign. They are available to order from the Public Health Resource Directory or can be downloaded here:
