Patients reassured after ward closure rumours

A health trust has reassured patients over worries a Surrey hospital is to close its two inpatient wards.

Concerns have being growing about an axing of services at Haslemere Community Hospital in the borough of Waverley since the nearby GP who oversaw medical care at its Elizabeth and Godwin wards decided to retire.

The two wards, which are made up of 16 beds and largely used by older adults with complex needs, now possibly face being put on hold until a replacement is found.

However, a spokesperson for Royal Surrey NHS Foundation Trust said it is "urgently working to explore alternative options".

They added: "We would like to assure patients, staff and local residents that Haslemere Hospital is a vital part of our trust and plays a critical role in meeting the healthcare needs of the local community.

"The provider of medical cover for our two inpatient wards giving notice created a challenge in ensuring the ongoing provision of safe, high-quality inpatient care.

"As a result, we are urgently working with partners to explore any alternative options."

The trust spokesperson also said the current situation would have "no impact" on any of the hospital's other resources, "including the minor injuries unit and its therapies and outpatient services".

Having met with the trust's chief executive on Monday, MP for Farnham and Borden Greg Stafford welcomed the news, despite "a potential pause" in the service.

"Beforehand, I was obviously concerned by the rumours going around," he said.

"However, I am reassured that the trust is looking to keep the provision going, although this does mean a potential pause while they find someone else to take up the position."

Calling Haslemere Hospital, which opened in 1923, "really well loved and well used in the local area", Mr Stafford said he would "make sure the trust lives up to its promises".

But he added he was not sure how long the replacement process might take.

Rose Parry, of Haslemere Hospital League of Friends, said that "whilst always anxious when it comes to talk of beds" she had to "look positively that the security of services in the hospital were being taken seriously".

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