News

On June 4th, 2025, the Kent, Surrey, and Sussex Adult Critical Care Operational Delivery Network (KSS ACC ODN) proudly hosted its inaugural Critical Care Rehabilitation and Follow-Up Conference at the Holiday Inn, Maidstone. The event was a resounding success, uniting healthcare professionals from across the region for a day of learning, collaboration, and inspiration.

A Thoughtfully Curated Agenda

The conference featured a dynamic programme focused on advancing critical care rehabilitation and follow-up practices. Key topics included:

• Humanising the ICU
• Virtual Reality in Post-ICU Recovery
• Delirium and Its Psychological Impact
• The Patient Perspective
• S.P.E.A.K. & Human Factors in Patient Safety
• Developing ICS AHP Capability
• Implementing the Delirium A–F Bundle
• Challenges in Practice and Reflections

Outstanding Engagement and Feedback

We’re delighted to share that 100% of attendees reported satisfaction with both the content and the level of engagement. Feedback highlighted several powerful takeaways:

• The importance of small, person-centred interventions in improving patient outcomes.
• The rehabilitation bundle’s role throughout the recovery journey.
• The value of multidisciplinary team (MDT) collaboration and shared learning.
• The impact of patient experience stories, especially those from individuals outside the healthcare profession.
• The growing role of VR in supporting both patients and staff.
• The need for early education for families about delirium and its effects.
• The potential of the S.P.E.A.K. project to enhance communication and reduce patient frustration.

Inspiration for Innovation

Attendees left the event inspired to:

• Benchmark their services against regional best practices.
• Explore the Humanising ICU project and its practical applications.
• Implement the A–F Bundle more effectively.
• Develop their teams using the AHP Capabilities Framework.
• Initiate quality improvement projects and share innovations across the network.

One delegate shared:

“I’m going forward feeling more enthusiastic again to make a difference.”

Another noted:

“Rehab is everyone’s business, and personalising care is key.”

Looking Ahead

This conference marks a significant step forward in our collective mission to improve patient care and recovery after critical illness. The energy, ideas, and connections sparked during the day will continue to shape our work across the region.

Thank You

A heartfelt thank you to all the delegates, facilitators, and speakers who made the day so impactful. Your contributions are helping to strengthen our network and enhance the lives of patients across Kent, Surrey, and Sussex.

We look forward to welcoming you to our next event!