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‘Hands Off Our Hospital’ is singled out for praise

Jenny Kirby
4/10/2006

THE MACCLESFIELD Express' Hands Off Our Hospital campaign was singled out for praise at East Cheshire NHS Trust's annual public meeting.

Chairman Kathy Cowell thanked the thousands of people who had signed our petition, launched almost a year ago, after threats to the women and children's services at the Victoria Road site came to light.

Addressing the public and staff at the meeting at Macclesfield Hospital, she said: "I think the people of East Cheshire made their views known.

"My thanks to the staff, it has been a difficult year for them, and to the public for their commitment and support."

Chief Executive John Wilbraham added: "The Secretary of State receiving a petition signed by over 40,000 people says we are doing something right.

"It is great that people support our hospital."

In his review of the past 12 months, Mr Wilbraham said that the trust had balanced its books last year but only with support from the Strategic Health Authority.

And that the organisation had developed an agreed financial recovery plan.

The chief executive said the trust had delivered quality care and key targets in a time of huge change and uncertainty.

"There is more change to come in order that we continue to provide services that are fit for purpose in Macclesfield," he added.

A number of hospital staff then carried out presentations on improvements in pre-operation assessments and the rapid response team at Macclesfield Hospital.

As well as a review of the Hands Up for Hand Hygiene measures implemented throughout the hospital.

A decision on the outcome of the Making It Better review of inpatient paediatrics and maternity services is expected in December.