If you have been involved in an incident at work, a manager may ask the SISS Team to support all the staff involved. This does not mean that you have been identified as needing support; it simply means that you have been involved in something that is outside of the usual scope of your work and may have the potential to cause some impact.
SISS is separate from any investigatory process or body within the Trust. All SISS interactions are completely confidential. Nothing you tell a SISS worker can be shared with anyone outside that situation, except for safeguarding risks. This process is focused entirely on supporting staff.
Depending on where you work in the Trust, there are two different kinds of support that the SISS team will offer: TRiM or CISM.
What is CISM?
CISM (Critical Incident Stress Management) is offered to a group of staff who have experienced an adverse event together. This is led by staff who have group facilitation skills as well as specific training in the impact of traumatic events. They will follow a specific process that goes through what happened in a supportive and constructive way to enable the group to support each other.
If you or somebody you know needs help, there are several options:
- Talk to your line manager.
- Contact Occupational Health on 0115 9627646.
- Contact EAP Health Assured on 0800 783 2808, available 24/7.
- Speak to the chaplain on Ext. 83799 for QMC or Ext. 76187 for City.
- Talk to your GP.
- Talk to friends and family.
If you believe a SISS event has occurred or you have questions regarding the service, contact the SISS Service at SISS@nuh.nhs.uk. We are located within the Staff Wellbeing Team.
Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust , E11 Curie Court | Queens Medical Centre | Derby Road Nottingham | NG7 2UH | Ext 84771
What is TRiM?
TRiM (Trauma Risk Management) is a peer support programme that began in the British Military. It is now widely used by health services and local authorities as part of their emergency planning. TRiM practitioners are colleagues who have undergone specific training, allowing them to understand the effects that traumatic events have on people. They are not counsellors or therapists, but they understand confidentiality, are able to listen to what you say, and offer practical advice and assistance. The service is currently available in selected wards.
It can be offered to a single member of staff or a group.