Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital back national social media campaign

Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital is backing the national campaign which encourages NHS staff introducing themselves to patients in their care by greeting them with the phrase “hello my name is”.

The initiative began after Kate Granger, a doctor and terminally ill cancer patient, became frustrated with the number of staff who failed to introduce themselves while she was receiving treatment as an inpatient in Yorkshire. The #hellomynameis campaign was born after Dr Granger wrote a blog and tweeted about her experiences, and the campaign has since spread across the NHS.

NNUH has become the latest hospital to formally support the initiative. Each Ward and outpatient department will be visited with that day’s team featured holding the #hellomynameis sign.

Emma McKay, NNUH Nursing director said: “We are pleased to support this campaign. We have been surveying patients on the Wards since last August, to see if patients feel that all the staff caring for them do introduce themselves properly and the results have been very encouraging at more than 98% – though we are not complacent and there is always more to do.

The campaign highlights the importance and shows how the smallest action can make a big difference. Introducing yourself when meeting a patient is a simple but vital responsibility. It can play a big part in putting patients at ease and helping them feel more relaxed at what can otherwise be a worrying time for them. It is about making a human connection, beginning a therapeutic relationship and building trust.”

To find about more about the campaign, visit www.hellomynameis.org.uk/home