LUDLOW MP Philip Dunne has welcomed the Government announcement of £6.3m for the Royal Shrewsbury Hospital, to help improve patient care ahead of winter.

The funding forms part of an additional £150 million to expand and upgrade 25 Accident and Emergency facilities in hospitals across England, ensuring they have improved physical space to treat patients, manage patient flow and improve infection control.

This is in addition to the £300 million announced recently for 117 trusts to upgrade their facilities, meaning the Government has now invested £450 million to upgrade Accident and Emergency units this winter. This includes £2m for Princess Royal Hospital in Telford announced last month.

To ensure patients get the right care in the right place and avoid unnecessary visits to Emergency Departments, NHS 111 will build on its role during the pandemic to direct patients to the most clinically appropriate service, including Emergency Departments, an Urgent Treatment Centre, a GP or mental health professional.

“I am very pleased the trust will receive an additional £6.3m to help prepare the Royal Shrewsbury Hospital for the winter ahead,” said Mr Dunne.

“This is part of £450m to upgrade A&E’s across England. I also welcome the NHS putting £24 million into pilots to increase 111 call handling capacity, with more clinicians on hand to provide expert help.”

Those facing a life-threatening emergency should continue to dial 999 immediately. If someone is unsure how serious a condition is then NHS 111 can offer advice and if necessary, dispatch an ambulance.