SOS Causeway Hospital campaign group secure two month review of transition of births and confirm closure of Ross Thompson Unit

SOS Causeway Hospital campaign group have secured a two month review of the transition of births from Causeway Hospital.

Following yesterday's meeting with Permanent Health Secretary Peter May and Chief Executive of the Northern Trust Jennifer Welsh, SOS Causeway Hospital campaign group have secured the internal review of transition of births but were informed that concerns conveyed to SOS Causeway Hospital by the public have not been recognised at managerial level.

As a result of concerns raised regarding staff wellbeing, the advocacy group were also given a guarantee that the Chief Executive herself will personally investigate working conditions of staff and ensure they are as they should be.

The advocacy group thanked Gregory Campbell MP for organising the meeting and featured representations from Gemma Brolly, William Taylor of Farmers For Action, Dr Owen Finnegan and Dr Fred Mullan. 

Mr Campbell referred to the prime position of Causeway Hospital with great potential to serve it's public instead of being treated like 'the meat in the sandwich' with Altnagelvin and Antrim Area on either side.

Ms Brolly, chair of SOS Causeway Hospital, put forward concerns regarding transition of births, particularly delayed inductions and caesareans and also staff welfare.

Ms Brolly also asked for confirmation regarding the future of the Ross Thompson Unit.

Mr Taylor ensured the concerns of rural families and farming families were heard, whilst Dr Finnegan and Dr Mullan put forward the case that 'bigger is not always better.'

In order to make the centre work, the periphery hospitals must work. They warned of a proactive approach and received admission from Mr May and colleagues that indeed acute medicine cannot survive without acute surgery.

"Whilst we are disappointed to hear our concerns are not yet recognised at senior level, we are slightly encouraged by the news that an internal review will take place at the two month mark. We are also relieved to hear concerns regarding staff wellbeing will be taken seriously," said Mrs Brolly.

Continuing the SOS Causeway Hospital chairperson confirmed: "Whilst we received welcome news on planned enhancement of services within Causeway Hospital we are always weary of domino effect closures. Today we received confirmation the Ross Thompson Unit will close but engagement with the local community will follow. While this appears like centralisation of yet another vital service, we welcome the much needed opportunity to inform planning for improved local mental health services in our native area, which are urgently needed.

“SOS Causeway Hospital will continue to advocate for the people of Causeway Coast and Glens to ensure access to the high standard of health care they deserve."