Health

New hospital sites to be reviewed by appraisal group

Published

3 years ago

June 23, 2022

PEOPLE from communities across the three counties will next week help score five potential sites for a new hospital in a zone including and between Narberth and St Clears, the Health Board have suddenly announced.

The move is at odds with the wishes of the people of Pembrokeshire who have been campigning to save Withybush Hospital. There are concerns that a hospital further away from Haverfordwest would be too far away in emergencies, and would cause locals unnecessary travel.

The healthboard said that a workshop being held on Tuesday (Jun 28) will be the second of two technical sessions with members of the public, staff and partners.

But campaigners are saying proper consulation is not taking place.

According to the Health Board, the first workshop, held in May, agreed the ‘weighting’ of the seven technical criteria to be used in this scoring process.

The potential sites to be reviewed are:

Agricultural land and buildings forming part of Kiln Park Farm which is located to the north of Narberth train station and adjacent to the A478, approximately 1km to the north-east of Narberth town centre.
Agricultural land located to the north-east of Whitland town centre and situated between the A40 to the north, Whitland Rugby Club to the east and Spring Gardens to the south.
Agricultural land and buildings forming part of Ty Newydd Farm which is located to the east of the Old Whitland Creamery site and Whitland town centre.
Agricultural land and buildings forming part of Penllyne Court located between Whitland and St Clears just outside Pwll-Trap. The site lies between the Swansea-Haverfordwest railway line to the north and the A40 to the south.
Agricultural land at old Bryncaerau fields, located adjacent to the junction of the A40 and A477 in St Clears, between the A4066 (Tenby Road) to the south, the village of Pwll Trap to the north and the A40 to the west.

The Health Board argues that all sites are in a zone that is the most central location for the majority of the population in the south of the Hywel Dda area and was determined through public consultation.

Save Withybush petition to close early due to high number of signatories

The upcoming workshop will apparently involve the scoring by a majority public representation being drawn from across our region and including participants with protected characteristics under the Equality Act 2010.

The Health Board has given assurances it will not close Withybush Hospital. The promise came in response to a petition to retain A&E at Withybush Hospital reached 10,000 signatures back in April.

Speaking then, Lee Davies, director of strategic development and operational planning for Hywel Dda, said the board are aware of the ‘passion’ and ‘strength’ of feeling around the long-term strategy titled ‘A Healthier Mid and West Wales: Our Future Generations Living Well’, which includes plans to build a new hospital on a site as yet unconfirmed believed to be somewhere in the St Clears area.

Save Withybush Hospital Campaign issues local ‘Call to arms’ ahead of Senedd debate showdown

Mr Davies called the proposed changes a ‘once-in-a-life-time investment’ into the health care services in west Wales.

Mr Davies said: “Our ambition is to move from a service that treats illness to one that keeps people well, prevents ill-health or worsening of ill health, and provides any help you need early on.

“We can also reassure the public that we have no plans or intention to close Withybush Hospital.

“We fully understand the passion and strength of feeling that exists in our communities.

“We share that passion, along with a commitment, to deliver the best possible care and services for people who live in mid and west Wales.”

Supporters of the petition, which having reached 10,000 signatures will now be considered for debate by the Petitions Committee at the Senedd, say they will not let Hywel Dda ‘trample on them’.

Today, following the latest announcement on sites, Lee Davies said: “The health board has been committed to undertaking significant engagement with our communities. This partnership has brought us a step closer to selecting a site for the new hospital, so I am grateful to participants for their involvement in this important part of the process to identify the best hospital sites.

Scale of ‘devastating ambulance waits’ across Wales revealed in latest figures

“The outputs from this workshop will be considered by the Board in August, along with the findings from other appraisal groups that are currently ongoing. These appraisal groups are currently reviewing matters covering clinical, workforce and economic / financial issues.

“The final decision about the chosen site will be made by the health board, in agreement with Welsh Government, should they support the funding of the hospital.”

The health board says its ambition is to bring opportunities to provide a wider range of specialist health services to our communities within the boundaries of Hywel Dda than is currently possible.

There is, however, the Board says is an important continued role for Withybush and Glangwili hospitals, which will operate as local community hospitals, with ambulatory services, therapy and nurse-led beds, focusing on rehabilitation and less acute needs. The aim is for most people to receive their care locally and only stay in the new Planned and Urgent Care Hospital when really necessary for acute care and when possible to be transferred back to their homes or to closer hospitals if they need a period of rehabilitation. We plan to have 24/7 minor injury units at Glangwili and Withybush hospitals, based on the successful Prince Phillip Hospital minor injury unit.

Steadfast: Pembrokeshire firmly backs retaining Withybush Hospital and its services (Pic Herald)

The health board said does not intend to make changes at Glangwill or Withybush hospitals until the new hospital is built (we think the new Urgent and Planned Care Hospital will take until at least the end of 2029 to open).

They promised regular engagement – listening and working with our communities, and our partner organisations, and possibly consultation on parts of the programme.

However campaigners say that proper engagement is not happening.

A spokesperson from the Save Withybush Campaign told The Herald: “Under the Future Generations Act they are legislatively obligated to engage in co-production with residents before making any decisions regarding changes to services.

“This includes vulnerable groups, people without cars, and especially those who will be most affected by the proposed changes.

“We know from our research that they have not done that.

“They have conducted piecemeal consultations which have not used the correct methodology. And they certainly have not actively reached out to the people who would be most affected by this – should these changes ever go ahead.”

Meanwhile, Pembrokeshire County Councillors are due to meet with health board representatives to find out more about the future of care and the implications for Withybush Hospital next month.

A Notice of Motion has been tabled by Haverfordwest’s John Cole raising concerns about the loss of services and the “downgrading” of the county’s general hospital.

People from all over Pembrokeshire were at recent protests (Pic: Herald)

It was due for discussion at Thursday’s (June 16) social care overview and scrutiny committee but members decided to postpone its consideration until a planned seminar with Hywel Dda University Health Board was held, with a provisional date of July 4 referenced.

Clr. Cole’s motion states: “With the recently published declaration of the Hywel Dda Health Board on the future of Pembrokeshire’s only general hospital I would like to ask the council to stand with our electorate in supporting the fight to retain services essential to the health and well-being of residents.

“Many of our residents feel the council, particularly us elected members, are, or appear, indifferent to the concerns being expressed. I believe in doing such.

“We can show that councillors are united and stand with the people of Pembrokeshire we were elected to serve’. would be showing diligence that the best price available is received.”

He tabled the motion in March, adding “I’m sure all members are as concerned with the prospect of losing services and the downgrading of our General Hospital Withybush. This is why I brought my NOM before the council.”

Commenting on Hywel Dda’s designation of five possible future sites, Samuel Kurtz MS, said: “After many years, the Health Board have finally confirmed the five potential sites of the new hospital.

“We now need an honest, detailed, and transparent conversation about the potentials of each of these sites, both positive and negative. This is why this consultation is so important.

“Our local communities should be central to this decision-making process, engagement is key. It’s vital that every local resident has a say in this matter.

“Concerns remain strong in the community regarding access to an A&E department if it is further away. The Welsh Labour Government and the Health Board must answer these concerns honestly, and if they can’t, then maintaining the current services with investment at their locations must also be an option.

“We want to see all of Pembrokeshire and all Carmarthenshire served by a top-class health service which is accessible to all residents.”

Health

Hywel Dda urges responsible use of ‘under pressure’ A&E service

Published

2 days ago

December 20, 2024

Tom Sinclair

HYWEL DDA University Health Board is appealing to the public to carefully consider how they access healthcare services as local A&E units, including Withybush Hospital in Haverfordwest, face increasing pressure.

A spokesperson said: “Our services are under pressure. Please help us to help you by choosing how you access our services carefully, ensuring that emergency departments (A&E) are reserved for urgent or life-threatening care needs.”

Unwell and unsure what to do?

If you’re unwell and uncertain about the best course of action, the Health Board recommends visiting the online symptom checker or calling NHS 111 Wales for advice.

When to attend A&E

Emergency Departments should only be used for life-threatening illnesses or serious injuries, such as:

Severe breathing difficulties
Severe pain or bleeding
Chest pain or suspected stroke
Serious trauma injuries (e.g., from a car crash)

Minor Injuries Units (MIUs)

For less serious injuries, MIUs offer treatment for:

Minor wounds, burns, or scalds
Insect bites
Minor limb, head, or face injuries
Foreign bodies in the nose or ear

MIUs are available at Cardigan Integrated Care Centre, Tenby Hospital, and main acute hospitals. Visit the Minor Injuries Unit page for opening hours and directions.

Urgent care, not an emergency

For urgent health needs that cannot wait but are not emergencies, call NHS 111 Wales for advice or access to out-of-hours GP services. This free service is available 24/7.

Mental health support

If you need urgent mental health support, call NHS 111 Wales and select option 2 to speak with a mental health professional. The number is free to call, even from a mobile with no credit.

Community care options

Community pharmacies offer walk-in services for common ailments such as sore throats, hay fever, and conjunctivitis. A full list of ailments and participating pharmacies can be found on the Common Ailments Service pages.

Helping reduce hospital stays

The Health Board emphasizes the importance of reducing hospital stays to ensure acute care is available for those who need it most. If a loved one is ready to be discharged, families are urged to collect them promptly to free up beds for other patients.

For more information on the inpatient experience, visit the Inpatient Information pages.

A thank you from the NHS

The Health Board expressed gratitude for the public’s cooperation: “Your support not only helps you and your loved ones but also eases the strain on NHS and social care services.”

For further updates, contact:
Hywel Dda University Health Board Media Office
Email: [email protected]

Health

More than 300 healthcare workers from Kerala take up NHS jobs in Wales

Published

3 days ago

December 20, 2024

Tom Sinclair

AN EMPLOYMENT agreement has exceeded its target for recruiting healthcare workers from India.

The Welsh Government outlined a commitment to recruit 250 qualified healthcare workers from India as part of a Memorandum of Understanding with the Kerala Government earlier this year.

The recruitment drive has outperformed that goal, with just over 300 healthcare workers taking up positions across all of Wales’ health boards and the Velindre University NHS Trust. Further recruitment is due to take place next year.

The commitment was made as part of Wales in India, a year-long series of events to improve economic, educational, artistic and sporting ties between the two nations.

Sharoon Kolickatharayil Nowshad, 24, had long held ambitions to move to Wales and work as a nurse, inspired by his uncle Siji Salimkutty who began working in the Welsh NHS in 2004.

Since arriving in Wales and beginning his job with Aneurin Bevan University Health Board, Sharoon said he has reunited with his family and appreciated the kindness shown by his new colleagues.

“I was really excited to work in the NHS” Sharoon said. “It’s always been my ambition to contribute to society, and now I get to do that here in Wales.

“Everything moved quickly once I saw the opportunity to apply, and I’m proud to work for the NHS. I tell my family and friends that it feels great to help people when they need it the most.

“When you work for the NHS, it’s not just a job or salary. It’s a great life. You feel proud knowing you’ve supported and helped others.

“The NHS has given us a great opportunity and we should always work sincerely because we love our jobs. There are lots of opportunities to advance your career, your colleagues always support you and there’s a great support network.”

Sharoon said he hopes to continue his career in the Welsh NHS by progressing to become an Advanced Nurse Practitioner.

He added: “People in Wales are so kind, they always make time for us, whether that’s at work or at home.

“I would encourage anyone thinking of coming to Wales not to hesitate and to apply, it’s the best decision I’ve made.”

Dr Devangana Bora has taken up a position as a Senior Clinical Fellow in Oncology at Velindre NHS Trust. Born in Guwahati, a large city in the Northeast Indian state of Assam, Dr Bora has worked as an Oncologist since 2019.

“I was really nervous for the interview. When I got there they told me it was in three stages and I became more nervous,” Dr Bora said.

“After the interview, I was offered the job and I was so happy. I thought they were joking. I was so excited to take this next step in my career and move to Wales.

“The weather is cold here but the people are so warm. I have received nothing but support from my colleagues and generally the people in Wales are so friendly and helpful.”

Dr Bora said her sister is currently studying Medicine at university and has been inspired to move to Wales once she completes her studies.

Jeremy Miles, Cabinet Secretary for Health and Social Care, said: “Alongside continued investment in training healthcare staff in Wales, international recruitment has always been one of the ways we can help address NHS workforce vacancies.

“India and Kerala in particular has a fantastic record in training doctors and nurses. We are grateful for the commitment to delivering high-quality care our new NHS recruits have shown.

“The contribution of these healthcare workers is already being felt across our NHS and it’s wonderful to see them settling into happy lives in Wales.”

Wales in India was launched on St David’s Day, March 1, by the then First Minister Mark Drakeford and Minister for Health and Social Services Eluned Morgan, beginning a year of events and cultural engagements to strengthen links between the two nations.

One of the biggest impacts on policymaking in India drew inspiration from Wales’ innovative Well-being of Future Generations Act. Through partnership working, the Maharashtra Legislative Assembly introduced its own draft law called the Maharashtra Future Generations Welfare Bill in July.

Welsh Government, the British Council and Wales Arts International also made commitments to further cultural collaborations between Wales and India by investing in arts projects through a dedicated culture fund. With the support of these organisations, as well as the Deputy High Commission in Kolkata, Wales was recently a partner country for Hornbill, one of India’s largest music festivals, which saw Mari Mathias and Gareth Bonello perform on the main stage with Indian musicians Seyievinuo Chuzho and Benedict Hynniewta.

In February 2025, 10 young women, chosen from 140 applicants, will travel to Kolkata to complete humanitarian work as part of a joint project with Urdd Gobaith Cymru and Her Future Coalition. The volunteers will provide support to vulnerable girls including survivors of trafficking and other forms of gender-based violence. Sport and art workshops for children will also be run by the group.

Health

Hoax calls reach three-year high, says Welsh Ambulance Service

Published

5 days ago

December 18, 2024

Tom Sinclair

THE WELSH AMBULANCE SERVICE has seen a staggering 37% rise in hoax calls over the past three years, wasting valuable time and resources, a new investigation reveals.

Data from Medical Negligence Assist highlights that over 700 hours—equivalent to nearly 29 full days—of ambulance crew time has been lost responding to malicious calls since 2021.

During this period, WAS crews attended 463 face-to-face incidents later identified as deliberate hoaxes, severely straining emergency services already under pressure.

Rise in hoax calls over three years

2021/22: 334 hoax calls; 84 face-to-face responses.
2022/23: 373 hoax calls; 85 face-to-face responses.
2023/24: 457 hoax calls; 163 face-to-face responses.

The upward trend continues, with provisional figures for 2024/25 (April 1 to October 31) already recording 345 hoax calls and 131 face-to-face responses.

Strain across Wales

The geographic impact is widespread, with hoax calls reported in all areas of Wales. WAS officials warn that such incidents divert resources from genuine emergencies, potentially putting lives at risk.

A call to action

The 701 hours spent on hoax calls between 2021 and 2024 represent a critical drain on ambulance availability. A WAS spokesperson said: “Every minute wasted on a hoax call is a minute lost to someone in real need. These actions have serious, life-threatening consequences.”

“The Welsh Ambulance Service is urging the public to recognize the harm caused by hoax calls and act responsibly.

“For information or to report suspicious activity, contact the Welsh Ambulance Service through their official channels.”