Blackpool Teaching Hospitals has this afternoon issued the following update:
Update on the critical incident at Blackpool Teaching Hospitals
Deputy chief executive Steve Christian said: “The Trust continues to manage a critical incident following flooding of the women and children’s unit at Blackpool Victoria Hospital on Monday night. This individual building remains closed and is in the process of being repaired and power restored. Evacuation of all patients to alternative accommodation, mostly within the hospital, was completed last night and everyone is now settled and being cared for.
“Thank you to everyone – patients and their families, colleagues across all services and settings and partners across the wider health and social care system – for the support, patience and understanding shown to us over the last couple of days.
“There has been significant disruption to patients with outpatient and surgical appointments postponed. These will be rescheduled as a priority as soon as possible and I appreciate everything done to reduce the impact at this difficult time, as well as the patience and understanding demonstrated by our community. If we haven’t contacted you directly, please attend for your appointment as normal.
“Due to the continued closure of the women and children’s building, we face particular pressure in relation to our paediatrics, neonatal and maternity services and are working closely with our partners to ensure people receive the support and care they need.
“Yesterday we restricted visiting to all wards at Blackpool Victoria Hospital, but this has now returned to normal with only one exception to patients within neonatal, paediatric and maternity services, where visitors are asked to call ahead to make arrangements before coming in.
“The hospital’s A&E department continues to see high numbers of people attending and remains under significant pressure. Please remember that A&E should only be used for major, life-threatening illnesses and injuries and there are many other points of care and assistance available for less urgent issues. Please do make your first contact NHS 111 online for advice, your local pharmacy, walk-in centre or your GP in such instances.”
Information and updates can be found on the Blackpool Teaching Hospitals website in the Latest News section.
