Day One was established in September 2014 by a group of former patients and Professor Peter Giannoudis, a trauma orthopaedic consultant at Leeds Major Trauma Centre. The charity is dedicated to supporting local patients and their families who have been impacted by major trauma. Previous patients recognised the need for practical and emotional support to be offered alongside the excellent medical care already provided by Leeds Major Trauma Centre staff.  Major trauma can cause significant upheaval in a person's life and Day One, through its support and signposting service, aims to limit the impact on individuals and families.

As Day One nears its fourth anniversary, there are plans in place to develop how the service works with those affected my major trauma. Plans include: the appointment of additional staff, the establishment of a regional (and national) trauma support network and access to additional services for patients and relatives such as counselling.  

Day One's peer support programme is also being enhanced to include an online community, peer support groups in the community and increasing the number of trained peer support volunteers. Peer support volunteers play an invaluable role in aiding recovery and supporting rehabilitation.  Patients who have spent time talking to these volunteers believe it’s a real benefit to be able to share their story with somebody who has a shared experience.

Rudo is a major trauma patient who has been supported by Day One

Becky Baldaro-Booth, Day One Development Manager says, "It's an exciting time for Day One as we broaden our reach to enable access to support and signposting for both relatives and patients. The Day One Model of Trauma Support will be driven by the needs and requirements of our patients as we work to limit the impact of major trauma, enabling patients to lead fulfilling lives following injury."

“The fourth anniversary will also mark the point at which the Day One service will expand to support patients currently receiving care in the wider West Yorkshire Major Trauma Network. In time, we hope the service will also be replicated across the national Major Trauma Network, working with other trauma survivor organisations such as AfterTrauma."

Patients, ambassadors and clinicians will come together on 13 September to celebrate the charity's achievements and look to the future. The event will take place at Aspire in Leeds between 5:30-7:30 on Thursday 13th September.  Attendees will have an opportunity to learn how Day One helps major trauma patients, experience the Day One journey through the eyes of their patients, and meet Day One’s advocates & ambassadors.  If you'd like to attend, you can register for the event here, or contact Becky Baldaro Booth, Day One Development Manager: rebecca.baldaro-booth@nhs.net

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