Bay Health and Care Partners grateful for public support

Local health leaders express their gratitude to residents around Morecambe Bay marking a year of difficulty for the country. Throughout the pandemic members of the public have been supporting local health services by following the guidance, being understanding as significant changes were made to how services were delivered, clapping on their doorsteps and making heartfelt and much appreciated donations to help staff members.

Sue Smith, OBE, Executive Chief Nurse and Joint Deputy Chief Executive, University Hospitals of Morecambe Bay NHS Foundation Trust, said: "Our hospitals continue to see additional pressure as a result of COVID-19. Whilst we are all glad to see some light at the end of the tunnel, it's really important to ensure those who really need treatment are able to receive it. A and E waiting times may appear low on the boards outside Furness General and Royal Lancaster Infirmary, however the departments are still very busy. The communities around Morecambe Bay have really rallied around our local NHS and on behalf of all our staff, I want to say thank you, you really are the unsung heroes. Please continue to follow the guidance, ensure you only attend A and E when necessary, and use the 111 service for out of hours support if you can."

Hilary Fordham, Chief Operating Officer, Morecambe Bay CCG added: "We want to thank the public for continuing to follow the guidance and helping to keep the pressure off our the NHS and other essential services. Services across Morecambe Bay have continued to provide care and support throughout the pandemic and we've received a lot of support from the public. Colleagues in the NHS, Voluntary and care sectors have received a lot of praise for their dedicated hard work, however we want to acknowledge that the public have played a significant role in keeping the virus at bay, so thank you for washing your hands, wearing a mask and giving each other space. Thank you for the sacrifices you've made to your day to day lives, it has been vital to allow us to care for those who really need it." 

Chris Oliver, Chief Operating Officer / Deputy Chief Executive at Lancashire and South Cumbria NHS Foundation Trust adds: "We want to say a special thank you to the public for their understanding during the last year. We've all had to adapt to a different way of life and different ways of working.

Our services have continued to provide mental health support across Morecambe Bay and will continue to do so, encouraging anyone who has concerns regarding their mental health to contact our Mental Health Crisis Line. It is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week by calling 0800 953 0110.”