International Nurses Day - Celebrating our nurses who champion health and wellbeing 

Health and wellbeing are at the heart of nursing. Without it, our nurses wouldn't be able to deliver the exceptional care our patients deserve. As we celebrate our nurses for the compassion and expertise they bring to their patients every day, it’s equally important to recognise how they support and care for one another.

In 2020, in response to the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, Michael Clasper, Emergency Care Charge Nurse, and Lisa Dandie, Emergency Care Nurse Clinical Educator, helped establish the ED Wellbeing Team. They saw firsthand how the crisis had left staff physically and mentally drained—facing isolation, low morale, and increased stress-related sickness. To help the team recover both personally and professionally, they launched a wellbeing focus group, encouraging staff to share ideas to support one another.

Michael and Lisa along with other colleagues have become passionate advocates for promoting health and wellbeing within the nursing community. From book clubs and dog walking groups to "bake-off" challenges, they’ve introduced a range of creative and meaningful initiatives that strengthen team morale and resilience.

We caught up with Michael and Lisa to learn more about their inspiring work and why championing wellbeing is so important to them.

1. When was the ED Wellbeing Team formed, and how did it come about?

Michael & Lisa:
The team was created in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. It became clear that our colleagues were physically and emotionally exhausted, and we needed to take action to lift morale and protect their wellbeing.

2. Why are you passionate about supporting the health and wellbeing of your colleagues?

Michael & Lisa:
We care deeply about our team and the impact wellbeing has on both individuals and the department as a whole. Our initiatives help build civility and respect, strengthen workforce resilience, reduce staff absence, and foster positive social connections. Ultimately, we believe this leads to better care for our patients.

3. What initiatives have you introduced to promote health and wellbeing?

One of our proudest achievements is the department recipe book, a collaborative project featuring over 50 culturally diverse recipes contributed by staff. Nutrition plays a key role in maintaining health, and we wanted to create something practical and uplifting to help staff refuel after a busy shift.

Another popular initiative is our emergency “huggle” packs handmade by Claire Lee —small care packages containing motivational quotes, mental health support information, and comforting items like a worry doll, tea bag, candle, and chocolate. These packs provide a much-needed boost during challenging times.

Recognising the intense nature of emergency care, we also created The Hide—a dedicated wellbeing space away from the hustle and bustle of the department. Developed in partnership with the Bright Charity, The Hide offers a calming, nature-inspired retreat for staff to relax and reset during their shifts.

Our “Star of the Month” initiative celebrates individuals who go above and beyond, offering a powerful morale boost and reinforcing a culture of appreciation and recognition.

Finally, we’ve prioritised the healing power of the outdoors. From regular walks to kayaking along the stunning Northumberland coastline, we take full advantage of our beautiful surroundings to reconnect with nature and each other.

Michael and Lisa’s work is a powerful reminder that when we care for our caregivers, everyone benefits. This International Nurses Day, we thank them—and all our nurses—not just for the care they give, but for the care they inspire.