News
Final steel beam marks major milestone in Mansfield Community Diagnostic Centre build
Mansfield Community Hospital is celebrating a major milestone as the steel framework for its new Community Diagnostic Centre (CDC) is completed. Marked by a traditional topping out ceremony, this marks significant progress on Nottinghamshire’s first purpose-built CDC. Designed to improve access to essential tests and reduce waiting times, the centre is expected to open in spring 2026. Sustainability and community benefit are central to the build, with 95% of waste diverted from landfill and local firms involved throughout. Over 76,000 tests have already been delivered on site, underlining the vital role of community hospitals in local healthcare.
NCH&C Cardiac Rehab Team honoured with national award for outstanding heart failure support
Congratulations to the Cardiac Rehabilitation Team at Dereham Hospital, who have received a 2025 You’re Simply Marvellous Award from the Pumping Marvellous Foundation. One of only six UK teams recognised, the award was given following a nomination from a grateful patient who credited the team’s support - both clinical and emotional - as life-changing for them and their family. Based in the community, the team runs sessions in Aylsham and across North Norfolk, offering a tailored 9-week programme. This award is a welcome recognition of the vital, compassionate care being delivered in our community hospitals every day.
Over £2 million to fit solar panels at Cornish hospital sites
Eleven community hospital sites across Cornwall will benefit from the installation of 2,725 solar panels, thanks to a £2.2 million national grant. Bodmin, Liskeard, Launceston, Helston, Falmouth, Stratton, and St Barnabas Community Hospitals are among those set to reduce their carbon footprint and energy costs. The panels are expected to save the Trust around £6.5 million over their lifetime and cut emissions significantly. These savings could support further improvements in patient care. This initiative highlights the vital role community hospitals play in achieving sustainability, while continuing to serve their local communities with high-quality care.
Read more here and here
New Nurses Celebrate Success at Bro Ddyfi Community Hospital
Bro Ddyfi Community Hospital in Machynlleth has warmly welcomed six internationally educated nurses from Kerala, who have all successfully passed their OSCE exams. Now fully qualified to practise in Powys, the nurses praised the supportive staff and the kindness of the local community. Their arrival marks a significant milestone in strengthening the workforce at community hospital level. Staff describe the nurses as a perfect fit, already making a valuable contribution. This permanent recruitment supports sustainable staffing in rural areas and highlights how community hospitals offer not just care, but also connection, opportunity and belonging.
Kilsyth Victoria Cottage Hospital Brings Generations Together to Support Breastfeeding
Health visitors in North Lanarkshire are leading a touching intergenerational initiative at Kilsyth Victoria Cottage Hospital, bringing new mothers and older residents together to share stories, support and encouragement around breastfeeding. Held in partnership with the local breastfeeding support group, the sessions offer emotional warmth and practical guidance, creating a safe and inclusive space for all involved. The project highlights the vital role community hospitals likeKilsyth Victoria Cottage Hospital play in improving wellbeing, nurturing family life, and strengthening local support networks. It’s a shining example of compassionate, community-based care in action.
New Procedure Room to Boost Patient Access at Braintree Community Hospital
A new £1.3 million procedure room is set to open this summer at Braintree Community Hospital, doubling its capacity and enabling almost 3,000 extra procedures each year. The purpose-built space will allow patients across mid and south Essex to receive quicker treatment for orthopaedic issues such as carpal tunnel, trigger finger, and minor foot or upper limb problems. This development will ease pressure on main theatres, allowing more complex surgeries to go ahead. Work is also progressing on a new Community Diagnostic Centre, offering vital tests and scans closer to home, supporting earlier diagnosis and treatment. Read more here
Work begins on new Community Diagnostic Centre at Withington Community Hospital following record investment
Work has begun on a new Community Diagnostic Centre (CDC) at Withington Community Hospital, bringing faster, more convenient access to life-saving tests for people in Manchester and Trafford. The state-of-the-art facility will offer essential diagnostic services, allowing patients to undergo multiple tests in one visit, reducing waiting times and travel. Once open in Spring 2026, the CDC will operate seven days a week, providing 85,000 tests annually, including sleep studies and cardiology services. This major investment builds on the success of North Manchester CDC, supporting earlier diagnosis and better care closer to home.
Read more here (31st March 2025)
Local hospitals celebrate record levels of improved healthcare environment
Bassetlaw and Montagu Hospitals have seen major improvements, enhancing care in smaller community settings. Bassetlaw’s new Emergency Village has transformed urgent care, bringing back 24/7 paediatric care for the first time since 2017. Future plans include a new CT scanner and upgraded Minor Injuries unit. Montagu Hospital’s £40 million investment has expanded surgical and diagnostic services, reducing the need for travel and easing pressure on larger hospitals. The new Imaging Suite will add 80,000 diagnostic appointments annually. These developments ensure patients receive faster, more convenient care locally, strengthening community hospital services across South Yorkshire and Bassetlaw.
Read more here and here
Community Diagnostic Centre at Walton Hospital to open in 2025
A new Community Diagnostic Centre (CDC) at Walton Hospital, Chesterfield, is set to open in summer 2025, bringing essential diagnostic services closer to patients. This purpose-built facility will provide quicker diagnoses and treatment plans for conditions such as cancer, heart disease, and respiratory issues. Sarah Roberts Morris, General Manager, highlighted the centre’s progress and its potential to improve patient care by reducing waiting times. Public and staff tours have been very popular, with all current spaces fully booked. Pictured are the hospital's Governors taking a tour of the site. More tours are planned as the project develops, offering further opportunities to see how this vital service is taking shape.
New 19million therapy unit opens at Norwich Community Hospital
A new £19m Willow Therapy Unit at Norwich Community Hospital has opened. Designed to alleviate bed-blocking at acute hospitals, it provides 48 beds for rehabilitative and therapeutic care, enabling quicker recovery and reducing readmission risks. The unit, constructed in Northumberland and assembled on-site, offers state-of-the-art therapy to help patients regain independence. Matthew Winn, CEO of Norfolk Community Health and Care NHS Trust, called it a key milestone in patient care. Despite setbacks during planning and construction, the unit is now operational, with services previously provided at Colman Hospital's Priscilla Bacon Lodge now relocating to the new facility. Read more here
New DEXA Scanner for Newark Hospital to Improve Local Access
Newark Hospital (pictured) will soon benefit from a new bone density (DEXA) scanner, following Sherwood Forest Hospitals securing over £240,000 in NHS England funding. With referrals rising by 8% annually, the additional scanner will ease pressure on the existing service at Mansfield Community Hospital. From September 2025, patients will be able to choose between Newark or Mansfield for their scans, reducing travel and improving accessibility. The new scanner will provide an extra 360 scans per month, helping to speed up diagnoses and enhance care for those at risk of osteoporosis. Read more here
Wantage Community Hospital to get some £1 million investment
Wantage Community Hospital is set to receive a £1 million investment for a major refurbishment, improving both physical and mental health outpatient services. The funding, supported by the Vale of White Horse District Council’s Community Infrastructure Levy Fund, will help enhance existing services and introduce new clinics, including mental health support and respiratory physiotherapy. The refurbishment is due to begin in summer 2025, with completion expected by autumn 2025. A public meeting on 27th February 2025 outlined the plans, with further community involvement encouraged.
For more details, visit Oxford Health NHS Foundation Trust's website.
New Community Hospital to Open in Worthing
A new community hospital in Worthing has been confirmed, aiming to reduce NHS waiting times and improve access to care. Operated by CHEC, the facility will provide ophthalmology, gastroenterology, dermatology, and ENT services. Located on Montague Street, it will include an ophthalmology theatre and an endoscopy suite. Treatments will be offered within four weeks of referral. CHEC, which runs over 30 community hospitals nationwide, says the new centre will work in partnership with the NHS to expand local healthcare options. Another hospital is also set to open soon in Canterbury. Read more here.
‘Essential’ service for dementia patients becomes permanent part of hospital team
A dedicated team of acute Admiral nurses is now a permanent part of hospitals in Northumberland and North Tyneside, offering invaluable support to people living with dementia and their families. This ongoing service helps hospital staff deliver better dementia care through expert advice, emotional support, and education. The team focuses on patients with complex needs, ensuring smooth transitions from hospital to home or care placements, and continues to offer support for up to six weeks after discharge. This initiative reflects the vital role community hospitals play in enhancing care and supporting both patients and carers. Read more here
New X-ray equipment at Falmouth Community Hospital is up and running
The new digital X-ray equipment at Falmouth Community Hospital is now in use, improving access to faster, high-quality imaging for patients. The £473,000 upgrade by Cornwall Partnership NHS Foundation Trust has replaced the old system with advanced digital technology, reducing scan times and increasing capacity. Patrick McDermott, X-ray Team Lead, says the new system will help see significantly more patients each day, easing waiting times. This is the fifth diagnostic upgrade in two years, supporting the Trust’s commitment to delivering more services in community hospitals and enhancing local care. Read more here.
Western Community Hospital unveils new rehabilitation wards,
Paralympic champion Aaron Phipps officially opened the new West Wing at the South of England Rehabilitation Centre in Southampton. The state-of-the-art facility, part of Western Community Hospital, includes two specialist rehabilitation wards, Conan Doyle and Keats, enhancing care for local patients. Phipps praised the centre’s design and commitment to patient recovery. Patients Carlene Allen, 34, and Mabel Knowles, 101, shared their experiences, highlighting the centre’s impact. The £12 million project, delivered by Hampshire and Isle of Wight Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust, features cutting-edge rehabilitation spaces to support patients in regaining independence after life-changing events.
New £5.1m scanning centre at Ilkeston Community Hospital
A new £5.1m community diagnostic centre at Ilkeston Community Hospital is now easing pressure on services and improving patient care. Open since the end of last year, the centre offers a range of tests using CT, X‑ray and a new open MRI scanner – the first of its kind in the East Midlands – which reduces claustrophobia and provides a quieter, comfortable experience. The facility includes dedicated Val Jackson Suite, honouring a former patient’s wish for improved local services. This investment is part of a broader effort to bring essential diagnostic tests closer to home and enhance community health outcomes.
New artwork for Berwick Community Hospital
Bright, the official charity of Northumbria Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust, has commissioned North Shields-based artists Nic Quinn and Colin Davies from Sum.Place to create a mobile sculpture for the new Berwick Community Hospital. The sculpture will feature approximately 2,000 fish made from recycled NHS waste, inspired by Berwick’s fishing heritage and following the form of the River Tweed. It is designed for installation in the hospital atrium, enhancing the environment for patients, visitors and staff. Creative workshops will actively engage the local community, celebrating Berwick’s heritage and supporting wellbeing, reinforcing the hospital’s commitment to community health and sustainable practice overall. The new Berwick Community Hospital will cost £35m and is due to fully open in the middle of 2025.
Makeover for the Shirley Rose room at Williton Community Hospital
Williton Community Hospital in Somerset has transformed its former chapel into the Shirley Rose Room, a welcoming space for all. The refurbishment, funded by the Williton Hospital League of Friends (pictured), honours Shirley Dee, a dedicated supporter of the hospital for over 35 years. Sarah Pearse, one of the ward clerks at Williton Community Hospital, which is run by Somerset NHS Foundation Trust, explained: “In recent years, the old chapel room hasn’t been used for its intended purpose much, as the needs of our patients have changed.Original features were repurposed, including the altar, now a cupboard and coffee table. The room features local photography and handmade blinds from the altar cloth. It provides a peaceful retreat for patients, staff, and visitors. Shirley’s passion and kindness touched many, making this a fitting tribute to her lasting legacy.Everyone is welcome to use the space as they wish. Read more here.
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Celebrating 70 years of community support - Clatterbridge Hospitals League of Friends
For over 70 years, the Friends of Clatterbridge have supported patients, families, and staff at Clatterbridge Hospital. Established in 1954 as the Clatterbridge Hospitals League of Friends, the charity has funded vital services, from transport for elderly patients to a chapel offering comfort to all. Volunteers remain at the heart of its work, raising funds through community events and a charity lottery. As they continue their efforts, new volunteers are needed to help improve hospital stays and support staff. To get involved, visit their website or attend their Annual General Meeting to learn more.
Spotlight on Minehead Community Hosptial theatres - delivering local surgery with a dedicated team
Minehead Community Hospital’s operating theatres are playing a vital role in delivering local day surgeries, reducing pressure on larger hospitals. The close-knit team, led by theatres manager Tessa Sanford, has expanded services to nearly five days a week, offering procedures under local anaesthetic, including dermatology, hand surgery and urology screening.
Patients appreciate the accessible, welcoming environment, with many preferring treatment close to home. The team is committed to growing services and supporting trainee healthcare professionals. Their work highlights the importance of community hospitals in improving local access to surgery.
Mims Davies MP launches survey to save Uckfield Community Hospital's Surgical Unit
Uckfield Hospital, part of the Sussex Partnership NHS Foundation Trust, provides essential mental health, learning disability, and neurodevelopmental services for all ages in the South East. The hospital's surgery unit is at risk of closure, which would greatly impact the community. Mims Davies MP has launched an online survey to gather residents' views. She has raised awareness of the issue in the House of Commons and continues to seek clarification for concerned staff and patients. The survey results will be shared with the Integrated Care Board at the next meeting.
Packed public meeting hears concerns about Ludlow Community Hospital
A packed public meeting in Ludlow saw residents come together to voice their concerns about the future of Ludlow Community Hospital. Organised by Ludlow Town Council, the meeting aimed to address fears that the hospital is being quietly closed down. Despite the absence of local NHS representatives, Shropshire's health bosses issued an open letter assuring their commitment to the hospital's services. The community's passion and unity in fighting to keep their hospital open were evident, with plans to form a campaign group and write to Shropshire Community Health Trust's CEO for clarity on future plans.
New Armley Community Diagnostic Centre offers care closer to home
The new NHS Community Diagnostic Centre at Armley Moor Health Centre offers a range of health services, including ultrasounds, ECGs, blood tests, blood pressure checks, sleep studies, and spirometry testing. Operated by Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust, the CDC allows local residents to access these tests without travelling to larger hospitals. Since its opening at the end of September, Armley CDC has conducted over 4,150 tests. Professor Phil Wood and Rhina Pagarigan highlight the benefits of providing care closer to home, reducing waiting times, and easing pressure on larger hospitals. Armley CDC joins two other centres in Leeds.
A £52 million scheme to rebuild four community hospitals in North Staffordshire has hit a 'stalemate'
There is news of a £52 million scheme to rebuild four community hospitals in North Staffordshire that is stalled due to new NHS funding rules. Plans for integrated care hubs at Leek Moorlands (pictured), Bradwell, Haywood Hospital, and a new site in Longton were agreed in 2019 to provide over 40 health and social care services. However, NHS England has not approved the funding, leaving the project in limbo. Adam McKeown from MPFT stated that lobbying efforts are ongoing, but current sites are not fit for purpose. The project awaits NHS financial decisions for 2025/26.
‘To prevent corridor care, we must improve social and community care’
Helené Donnelly highlights patient safety concerns in her recent Royal College of Nursing article. A survey of over 5,000 nurses reveals alarming patient safety issues, with many treated in unsuitable areas like corridors. Over 90% said patient safety is compromised, affecting quality, dignity and privacy. The government plans reforms to address these issues, emphasising investment in community healthcare to reduce hospital admissions and ensure appropriate care settings. Improving social care is essential to alleviate pressure on NHS facilities and safeguard patient wellbeing.
South Ayrshire HSCP launch a new pilot offering COPD testing at Girvan Community Hospital
The South Ayrshire Health and Social Care Partnership (HSCP) has launched a spirometry testing pilot at Girvan Community Hospital to aid early diagnosis of respiratory conditions like COPD. This community-focused initiative aims to reduce Emergency Department admissions by diagnosing conditions sooner. The project, funded by the HSCP, will conduct 1000 tests over 18 months. If successful, it will expand across Ayrshire. Dr Philip Hulme and Councillor Hunter highlight the potential benefits for reducing hospital strain and improving community healthcare access.
Update on temporary location of services from Knoll Community Hospital
Services at Knoll Community Hospital (NHS Borders) are temporarily being relocated due to the presence of Reinforced Autoclaved Aerated Concrete (RAAC). Eight patients have already been moved, with remaining relocations expected by 14 February 2025. Teams are assessing alternative accommodations, including temporary facilities and non-RAAC areas. Works are set to begin in March. Chief Officer Chris Myers emphasised NHS Borders' commitment to remedial works and thanked staff, patients and the community for their cooperation. Updates and FAQs are available on the NHS Borders website
CHEC enhances community healthcare with new Loughborough Community Hospital and Milton Keynes milestone.
CHEC is expanding its reach with a new community hospital in Loughborough set to open in March 2025. This state-of-the-art facility at The Rushes will offer ophthalmology, dermatology, and ENT services, aiming to reduce NHS waiting times and provide more choices for patients.
In the meantime, CHEC Milton Keynes recently celebrated its one-year anniversary. Marie Bradburn, Mayor of Milton Keynes, joined the celebrations, highlighting the benefits of community healthcare, such as better patient choice and shorter waiting times. CHEC Milton Keynes offers ophthalmology and gastroenterology services, with treatment access in under four weeks.
Celebrating 10 years of Bridgwater Community Hospital
Bridgwater Community Hospital celebrated its 10th anniversary with the opening of a beautiful new garden on the first floor. Colleagues past and present joined Mayor Jacqui Solomon for the official unveiling. The garden, featuring raised flowerbeds and benches, offers patients and visitors a tranquil space to enjoy throughout the year. The project was the brainchild of former senior matron Norma Coombes and was made possible thanks to generous contributions from the Somerset NHS Charity, Bridgwater Hospital League of Friends, Bradfords, and Wrencon Ltd. A memorial bench honoring the late Carol Agnew, the hospital's hotel services lead, takes pride of place in the garden.
Read more here. (3rd Feb 2025)
Cranleigh Heritage Trust secures National Lottery Heritage Fund Grant
We have received some exciting news for Cranleigh! The Cranleigh Heritage Trust has successfully secured a grant from the National Lottery Heritage Fund, along with achieving the necessary matched funding. The Trust is a community led project to repurpose the Old Cranleigh Hospital Cottage.
Active conservation and renovation efforts are planned to commence in early summer, with the project expected to be completed by mid-2026. In the meantime, Trevor Dale, Chair of the Cranleigh Heritage Trust, suggests visiting the successful restoration projects in Rye for inspiration.
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Ewing welcomes return to Highland GPs of vaccination services
Fergus Ewing MSP has welcomed the decision to return vaccination services to Highland GPs, confirmed by Health Minister Jenny Minto. This change follows three years of campaigning to address issues with the centralised system, which saw low vaccination rates and GPs unable to access crucial patient information. Dr Alastair Noblem CHA Lead for Scotland and Dr Adrian Baker, GP at Nairn Healthcare and an CHA member, played a key role in highlighting the need for this change. The move will make vaccination services safer, more affordable and more accessible for people across the Highlands, especially vulnerable groups.
Read more here 21st Jan 2025
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A new resource - ‘5-in-1 Dementia Activity Workbook - Volume One’ is now available to help support dementia patients and their caregivers within the community and in in community hospitals. With dementia-friendly layouts and engaging activities like memory prompts, word games, and reminiscence exercises, it fosters cognitive stimulation and meaningful connections. Created by Zoe Francis of My Music Works, this easy-to-use workbook supports busy caregivers by providing low-preparation tools that enrich patient care. Already praised by professionals, it promotes socialisation, comfort, and well-being. A perfect addition to community hospitals, it’s now available to support caregivers and patients alike. Learn more at www.mymusicworks.co.uk. |
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Sussex hospital's improvements will cost £8 million, councillors toldImprovements at Zachary Merton Hospital in Rustington will require £8 million, as revealed during a West Sussex County Council meeting. The hospital closed temporarily in November 2023 due to water leaks, damaged ceilings, and heating issues. Councillors expressed concerns over the Sussex Community NHS Foundation Trust's limited annual capital funding of £5 million. Trust CEO Siobhan Melia stated they are seeking additional funding from NHS England for necessary repairs in 2025/26. Concerns were voiced that the hospital might close permanently, leaving eastern Arun without community hospital beds, impacting residents from Littlehampton to Worthing.10th Jan 2025 |
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Hospital ward given gold award for “outstanding care” provided to patientsClitheroe Community Hospital’s Ribblesdale Ward has been awarded the prestigious Gold Safe Personal and Effective Care (SPEC) Award for outstanding care. The dementia-friendly rehabilitation unit promotes a multi-disciplinary approach, integrating occupational therapy, physiotherapy, and medical support. With 16 individual bedrooms and en-suite facilities, the ward offers a welcoming environment with a homely touch, including a dining area, day room, and outdoor patio. Ward Manager Sharon Miller expressed pride in the team’s dedication to providing exceptional patient care. |
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Health Secretary visits Wigton Community HospitalGovernment Minister Wes Streeting visited an innovative health scheme in Cumbria to announce a care funding boost for the county. The initiative, led by Keswick and Solway Primary Care Network with Penrith and Solway MP Markus Campbell-Savours, focuses on integrated health and social care services. By supporting 41,500 patients across various communities, the scheme helps prevent hospital admissions and facilitates quicker discharges. Alongside the £86 million boost to the Disabled Facilities Grant, Mr Streeting emphasised the importance of modernising social care to work more closely with the NHS. |
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Mid Ulster Community Hospital Goes Greener with Solar Panels and Energy Upgrades Mid Ulster Community Hospital is leading the way in sustainability as part of the Northern Trust’s efforts to create greener, more efficient healthcare. Over 200 solar panels have been installed on the hospital roof, alongside energy-efficient boilers and new double-glazed windows, cutting costs and reducing carbon emissions. Paddy Graffin, Director of Infrastructure, highlights the importance of these upgrades for building a resilient healthcare system. Similar improvements are happening across the Trust, including a major solar roof project at Causeway Hospital. These changes mark a big step forward for local healthcare and the environment. |
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Newcastle Star Dan Burn Visits Blyth Community HospitalNewcastle United defender Dan Burn returned to his hometown to visit Blyth Community Hospital, where he celebrated recent refurbishments to the children’s outpatient department and inpatient ward. Dan said: “Being involved in the community I was born and grew up in is very important to me. Seeing the improvements at Blyth Community Hospital is great.” He met patients, families, and staff, praising their dedication: “You could clearly see the staff are really passionate about what they do.” The upgrades include a therapy room and additional consultation spaces, doubling the number of children supported monthly while improving care and comfort for all. |
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Improving Patient Safety with ReSPECT Plans at Community Hospitals The ReSPECT initiative in SCFT’s community hospitals is transforming how emergency care is planned, ensuring patients and families are actively involved in decisions. Running from 2022 to 2023, this project focused on creating personalised emergency care plans in a 35-bed ward, replacing basic resuscitation records with detailed, individualised plans. Thanks to staff training and teamwork, the ward saw a 43% rise in ReSPECT plans, with nurses gaining confidence to lead meaningful conversations with patients and families about their wishes for future care. Weekly reviews and collaborative meetings made it easier to ensure everyone’s preferences were understood and documented. Community hospitals, like this one, are proving ideal for compassionate, patient-focused emergency planning. The project not only improved care quality but also reduced unnecessary hospital readmissions, helping patients feel supported during their recovery. This success paves the way for wider adoption of ReSPECT in similar settings. |
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NHS Forth Valley Pharmacy Team Wins Prestigious AwardThe NHS Forth Valley Community Hospital Pharmacy Team has been named Hospital Pharmacy Team of the Year at the 2024 Scottish Healthcare Awards. The team was recognised for improving pharmaceutical care, reducing costs and enhancing collaboration across hospitals. Led by a "what matters to me" patient-focused approach, the team ensures medications are both beneficial and safe for patients in community hospitals. Associate Director Clare Colligan praised their innovative work, while Director Laura Byrne celebrated their dedication and impact. The achievement highlights the team's exceptional contribution to patient care and the wider healthcare community. Congratulations to everyone involved! Read more here. |
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MP praises Ludlow Community Hospital plan in parliament
Stuart Anderson MP has urged Ministers to prioritise healthcare in rural areas like South Shropshire. Speaking in Parliament, Anderson discussed proposals to develop a modern community hospital at Ludlow Eco Park, replacing the ageing Gravel Hill site. The MP emphasised the project’s potential to improve local healthcare access, align with the NHS vision for community-based care, and deliver better outcomes for residents. Supported by health campaigners, NHS officials, and GPs, the redevelopment is seen as vital for South Shropshire. Anderson has requested a meeting with Ministers to advance the plans, ensuring rural communities benefit from the government's healthcare reforms. Read more here. |
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Extra beds to ease NHS winter pressures in County Durham and Darlington
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Chemotherapy now offered at Williton Community HospitalSomerset NHS Foundation Trust has expanded its chemotherapy services to Williton Community Hospital, providing West Somerset patients with convenient, closer-to-home treatment options. The service which runs every Wednesday, complements existing clinics at Bridgwater and Wellington community hospitals. Emma Wells-Burr, Beacon Day Unit Manager, said patients now benefit from reduced travel; his is especially important for those experiencing side effects like nausea. Demand has been high, with all four chairs at Williton in regular use and plans to extend services. The initiative improves one-on-one care and alleviates GP workloads through on-site blood testing. |
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Community Hospitals to benefit from government decarbonisation projectsA number of community hospitals nationally are set to benefit from £611 million government funding, including Moseley Hall and West Heath Hospitals, Birmingham Community Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust. The grant awarded to these hospitals is £7.3 million to support their energy efficiency and decarbonisation efforts. Over 240 projects focused on heat decarbonisation and energy efficiency have secured funding from a pool of more than 400 applications. The funding will support a range of initiatives, including replacing gas heating systems with air-source heat pumps, installing new heating technologies, fitting solar panels, and improving insulation and secondary glazing. Read more here. |
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East Ayrshire Community Hospital invites views at local event |
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Enhanced end-of-life care aim for Devon projectUniversity Hospitals Plymouth NHS Trust and Marie Curie have formed a partnership to enhance end-of-life care options for patients. The collaboration introduces dedicated beds at Mount Gould Hospital, providing a more peaceful environment compared to busy hospital wards. Marie Curie is supporting the initiative by providing healthcare assistants in Derriford's A&E department and specialised nurses to help transfer patients to their preferred care location. The partnership aims to offer patients more dignity and space in their final days, with access to quiet rooms and enhanced support. A recent patient's family highlighted the significant improvement in care quality, noting the calmer environment at Mount Gould compared to Derriford Hospital. Read more here. |
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Past News
News stories that have been posted on the CHA website are available to download in a pdf document