Chairman Professor Richard Scothon recently visited the Urgent Treatment Centre (UTC) at Shotley Bridge Hospital to gain a firsthand understanding of the vital work being carried out by staff, as well as to engage with patients and their families.

The Urgent Treatment Centre provides essential care for patients of all ages who require urgent treatment for non-life-threatening minor injuries and illnesses.

Open 24/7, 365 days a year, the UTC plays a critical role in ensuring timely medical attention for the local community.

During his visit, Professor Scothon spent significant time with the dedicated UTC team, listening to their concerns and discussing the ongoing challenges they face in an environment that demands a fast-paced and high level of care.

The staff expressed their appreciation for the Chairman’s interest and the opportunity to share their insights into the pressures of providing care in a busy, round-the-clock setting.

Following the tour of the UTC, Professor Scothon also visited Ward 2 at Shotley Bridge, where he engaged with staff and patients, learning more about the services provided and the ongoing improvements being made.

The discussions centered on efforts to enhance patient care and develop future improvements to meet the evolving needs of the community.

Professor Scothon expressed his sincere gratitude for the unwavering dedication of the SBH team. "It’s clear that the staff at Shotley Bridge are deeply committed to providing exceptional care, and I am impressed with the progress being made to improve services for both patients and staff. Their hard work and resilience are commendable, and I am encouraged by the continued positive developments here." he said.