As you may be aware, we are in the process of talking to our colleagues about some proposed changes to how we use our beds across our three main hospitals.
We want to be really clear - none of the proposed changes mean that we stop providing or reduce any services for patients. The only change would be where they are provided within the hospitals and / or the local community.
We appreciate the level of passion and support that our local communities have for our three hospitals and the services we offer. It is a sentiment that we all share.
We remain absolutely committed to the futures of our main hospitals and these proposed changes - developed by our clinical Care Groups - are not about downgrading or disinvesting in any of the sites or services.
These proposed changes will help us ensure our patients receive the right care, at the right time, in the right unit; and reduce the time stay in hospital. They also strongly support local and national NHS plans for patients to receive care at home or closer to home where appropriate with support from nurses, therapists, social carers, volunteers and doctors in the community.
It’s also important to say that the proposals will not mean that any of our dedicated and experienced colleagues lose their jobs or be required to work at another of the Trust’s sites.
These are proposals and no decisions have been made. As per Trust policy, it is important that we can consult with colleagues directly about any proposed changes to the way they work to give them the opportunity to shape future plans. That process has started, and colleagues have already raised some distinct themes that will be fed into the consultation going forward - including maintaining the privacy and dignity of patients, the provision of end-of-life care, and support available in the community.
As there will be no changes or reductions to the services provided, public consultation is not required, and this has been confirmed by Lancashire and South Cumbria Integrated Care Board - who hold the statutory responsibility for public engagement and consultation.
However, we understand how important local services are to our communities and in order to be as open and transparent as possible, we wanted to share the detail about the proposed changes.
Further updates will be shared as the process is completed in the coming weeks.
Aaron Cummins, Chief Executive
Chris Adcock, Chief Financial Officer and Deputy Chief Executive
Miss Jane McNicholas, Chief Medical Officer
Tabetha Darmon, Chief Nursing Officer
Scott McLean, Chief Operating Officer
Ali Balson, Chief People Officer