The three-month safeguarding champions project, run by Charles Kpodo (pictured), Senior Lecturer in Clinical Human Factors at Bedfordshire, provided 13 Bedford Hospital nurses and clinical workers with a greater awareness of how to apply the highest standards of care for vulnerable adults.

Participants were briefed on the importance of appreciating the mental capacity of each patient and the ability to make their own decisions whilst in hospital care, which could be affected by illness or disability.

Safeguarding champions follows on from the patient safety programme, also led by Charles, where Bedford Hospital staff will be encouraged to regularly consider a number of factors, ranging from decision making to setting and measuring goals during their everyday work, to help improve patient safety.

“I am delighted that the University of Bedfordshire has been able to work closely again with Bedford Hospital,” said Charles, who has worked with the NHS for 15 years in senior nursing leadership roles.

“The safeguarding champions project has further enhanced the capabilities of passionate, frontline nurses and clinical support workers who protect vulnerable adults treated at Bedford Hospital.

“The next step is for the delegates to spread the lessons they’ve learnt with their teams and the wider organisation – Bedford Hospital NHS Trust.”

One delegate added: “Standing in the shoes of Care Quality Commission inspectors, who regulate, inspect and review all adult social care services in England, has highlighted real problems where awareness and teaching are essential for Bedford Hospital to drive forward the care we provide for vulnerable adults.”

More information about the Clinical Education and Leadership courses available at University of Bedfordshire