Union describes closure of ward as 'most unfavorable result'

The closure of the elderly care ward at Bridlington Hospital has sparked strong criticism from the union, which deems it the "worst possible outcome" for both patients and staff. The union, Unite, has raised concerns about the negative impact on patient care and the future of hospital employees.

The planned closure of the elderly care ward at Bridlington Hospital has been heavily criticized by a union leader, who described it as the "worst possible outcome" for both patients and staff. The union's concerns focus on the potential negative effects on patient care and the future of hospital staff.

Background of the Closure Plan

The York and Scarborough Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust announced that it would be consulting with staff about the possible relocation of services from the Bridlington Community Unit to Scarborough General Hospital, situated roughly 20 miles (32 km) away. The union, Unite, has strongly opposed this proposed move. Sharon Graham, the general secretary of Unite, made it clear that the union is "firmly standing its ground" and demands the trust to reconsider its decision.

Union Concerns

The closure is anticipated to affect approximately 50 staff members, including nurses and healthcare assistants. Some of them may face redundancy, while others could be relocated to hospitals in York or Scarborough. The union has expressed concerns that elderly patients would be transferred to Scarborough, which could disrupt their continuity of care. Sharon Graham criticized the plans, stating that they would lead to the "worst possible outcome for patients and staff." She also pointed out that any immediate financial savings from the closure would not outweigh the long-term consequences. The union leader further accused the trust of treating Bridlington's healthcare services as inferior compared to other regions.

Trust Statement and Rationale

In a joint statement released with the NHS Humber and North Yorkshire Integrated Care Board, the trust provided its justification for the closure. The Bridlington Community Unit was originally established as a temporary facility during the Covid-19 pandemic to increase patient capacity. The unit primarily served patients who were ready to be discharged from Scarborough Hospital but did not yet have a care package in place. The trust explained, "We want to ensure that all patients benefit from the shortest possible stay on a ward, getting home as soon as they are fit to leave the hospital with the support they need." Starting in June, the trust plans to focus on helping patients transition to their homes or care homes as soon as possible, rather than keeping them in the hospital for extended periods.

Staff Consultation and Future Plans

The trust has confirmed that consultations with staff working at the Bridlington Community Unit have already begun. The trust is actively seeking the input of staff members regarding the relocation plans. In response to the closure, all staff members will be given opportunities to move to alternative units or departments within the trust. Furthermore, the trust has outlined its ongoing efforts to develop Bridlington into a thriving community healthcare hub. Collaboration with other health and care partner organizations is emphasized as part of the strategy to maintain and expand local services.

Related Developments

As part of broader changes in the area, treatment centres have already permanently reduced their operating hours. Additionally, a new hospital community car scheme has been launched recently to improve patient transport services. These initiatives are part of the trust's broader effort to improve the delivery of healthcare services across the region.

Sources:

• Yorkshire Post
• BBC News
• The Guardian
• Union says ward closure is 'worst outcome'

Author: Olivia Parker
Olivia Parker is a journalist and editor with over 8 years in media. She focuses on culture, arts, and social issues, skilled in feature writing and critical reviews.