🔔 Staff Outcry as Hospital Move Becomes Permanent 🚨
Healthcare staff at Princess of Wales Hospital in Bridgend are seeing red as their “temporary” move is set to be permanent. Last year, ten wards were evacuated at a moment’s notice due to severe roof issues. Teams, including those from Ward 19, were relocated 15 miles away to Ysbyty George Thomas (YGT) in Treorchy. Now, despite assurances that the move was temporary, staff have been informed it’s here to stay.
The Cwm Taf Morgannwg University Health Board claims the roof concerns at Princess of Wales are being fixed. So, why keep the staff away? They argue the relocation isn’t about structural worries but enhancing older people’s care by switching to a community hospital setting. 🚑
But this decision doesn’t wash with the affected staff. They’ve been informed with just 18 hours’ notice, and transport support will be pulled by mid-October! 🚍 Local councillor Tim Thomas highlights the struggle: NHS workers without cars find public transport impossible with their long shifts. This sudden permanence throws a spanner in the works for many.
The consultation on future care provision is ongoing, but the staff feel their voices are getting lost in the noise. One nurse reveals: “Most wards were moved when the roof leaked, and now we’re told we aren’t going back. The staff are devastated.” 😢
Despite the health board’s insistence that the community setup is beneficial for patient care, staff face a tough road ahead as they grapple with this unexpected change. 🌍
Stay tuned for updates on this developing story!