A sustainability project at North Cumbria Integrated Care has been shortlisted for a national NHS Excellence Award after winning at regional level in the ‘Sustainable Healthcare’ category.
The reusable theatre hats initiative, led by Anaesthetist Ingrid Wilkins and Surgeon Ludger Barthelmes, has been recognised for the impact it is having on the environment and locally. What started as a project to reduce single‑use hats has become a project that reduces carbon, improves staff experience and champions inclusion across operating theatres.
By moving away from disposable hats and adding staff names to each reuseable hat, the project supports clearer communication and helps staff feel more visible at work. Reusable hats produced in a wider range of sizes have also made a meaningful difference for colleagues with afro‑textured hair, who had previously found standard disposable hats uncomfortable or unsuitable. Providing hats that fit properly has removed a barrier to working in theatres and has improved day‑to‑day experience.
Miss Marwa Saad, Ear, Nose & Throat (ENT) specialty registrar said: “I have had quite a few compliments on my reusable hijab with the name patch. For someone who always struggled with head coverings in theatre, this is incredible and we need to spread the word.”
The project has had wider community benefits too. Savings from reducing of surgical hat costs have helped create paid employment through a partnership with People First, supporting people with learning disabilities and autism into meaningful work. This partnership sits at the heart of the project and reflects a commitment to sustainability that goes beyond carbon reduction.
Ludger said: “Getting projects like this moving can be challenging but all the hard work everyone has contributed is paying off. We even dusted off our musical instruments to go busking at the train station to raise money for this project.”
Ingrid said: “Staff at Carlisle train station could not have been more supportive. A grant of £2,700 from the Avanti Sustainability Fund not only contributed to paying for state-of-the-art equipment to launder reusable hats in West Cumberland Hospital. It also started conversations with public transport representatives ultimately leading to the direct bus link between the Cumberland Infirmary and West Cumberland Hospital.”
Ludger finished by saying: “We are delighted to win this regional award and be shortlisted for a national NHS Excellence Award. This is a project that is having an impact in our local community, and it could be replicated in other Trusts too.”
Being shortlisted for a national NHS Excellence Award recognises the creativity and collaboration behind the project, and highlights how sustainable healthcare can deliver environmental, social and workforce benefits at the same time.