Somerset MP James Heappey is pleased with the rate of recruitment at Weston General Hospital, having spoken to its Chief Executive, James Rimmer, amid concerns from his constituents.
Weston’s A&E department has been temporarily closed overnight since July due to safety concerns. This is because the ward was not sufficiently staffed to operate 24/7 and ambulances have since been sent to Bristol and Taunton overnight.
Mr Heappey spoke to Mr Rimmer to be updated on how recruitment is progressing to ensure there are enough clinicians to swiftly re-open the service at night.
Mr Heappey said: “Twenty per cent of the patients at Weston are from the Wells constituency and so the hospital is a vital resource for those living in the Burnham, Highbridge and Cheddar Valley area.
“I am encouraged that recruiting is progressing well and that the hospital hopes to re-open the A&E at night in March.
“But, I will continue to monitor the situation and support my colleague John Penrose, who is working tirelessly with the hospital to get the A&E re-open at night as quickly as possible.”