City MPs visit New Cross Hospital
Date of release: 28 November 2024
Two of Wolverhampton’s MPs visiting some of the busiest areas of New Cross Hospital to find out how they can support and ease pressure on the service were impressed by “inspirational” care.
MP Warinder Juss (front right) and Sureena Brackenridge MP (behind)
Sureena Brackenridge and Warinder Juss, new Labour MPs for Wolverhampton North East and Wolverhampton West respectively, visited The Royal Wolverhampton NHS Trust (RWT) site.
They toured the Emergency Department, Ambulance Receiving Centre and the Paediatric Ward with Sir David Nicholson KCB, CBE, Group Chair of RWT, Walsall Healthcare NHS Trust, Sandwell and West Birmingham NHS Trust and The Dudley Group NHS Foundation Trust.
Joining them were Caroline Walker, Interim Group Chief Executive of RWT and Walsall Healthcare, and Gwen Nuttall, Chief Operating Officer and Deputy Chief Executive at RWT.
They chatted to staff, including Michelle Redding, Senior Matron of Emergency Services, and Kirsty Lewis, Senior Matron for Acute Children’s Services, about how they can help through the winter and beyond.
“The visit was for the MPs to understand a little more about what is going on at RWT,” said Gwen.
“They wanted to know about the challenges we face, and if there is anything they can do now the winter pressures are upon us.”
Ms Brackenridge, a former deputy headteacher of Moseley Park School and ex-Mayoress of Wolverhampton, and Mr Juss, a solicitor, were making their first official visits to the hospital since they won their seats at the general election in May.
Mr Juss, whose two grown-up children were born at New Cross, said: “I wanted to get first-hand experience of how the Trust operates and to talk to staff, so I could get their perspective.
“I also wanted to know how I could help the hospital, and in turn my constituents who use it.
Sir David Nicholson CBE KCB with Nicky Durmaz, Matron, MP Warinder Juss, Caroline Walker, Sureena Brackenridge MP and Michelle Redding
“I was pleased to see how well these departments are organised and the care they provide, despite the pressures.
“I believe I can help the Trust by helping to raise awareness among my constituents how medical advice and assistance should be sought.
“This includes making use of pharmacies and GP’s services, as well as other Primary Care services, so the Trust can focus on treating emergencies quickly.
“I will do what I can to ensure the Trust receives the assistance it requires to serve patients in the best way possible.”
Mr Juss added: “I’m grateful to the hospital for all they have done for my family, with the care very high and staff empathetic and sympathetic.
“Both my parents received treatment at New Cross before they passed away at this hospital within seven months of each other. Staff were always willing to listen.”
Ms Brackenridge, whose two children were also born at New Cross, said: “The hospital is an essential part of our city, from cradle to grave.
“It is vital I understand what the hospital needs to thrive, and how I can best shout about the fantastic care they provide.
“The staff gave me an essential view of the front line of lifesaving and life-extending care. Their dedication was inspirational.”
ENDS
- For further information, please call Tim Nash on 07714 741097 or email tim.nash2@nhs.net
