NHS BOSSES in North Cumbria have restated their commitment to Urgent Treatment Centres (UTC) in Penrith and Keswick, after frequent staffing issues.
Persistent staffing issues across the two sites, caused by vacancies and long term sickness, have caused the Keswick UTC to close a number of times since July last year.
But in a bulletin sent to members of the trust last week, North Cumbria Integrated Care (NCIC) directors revealed that staffing gaps are now being filled in the two teams, due to recruitment efforts.
The trust said it expects to provide "a much more stable service" by May of this year, when new recruits have joined the team.
NCIC bosses have brought the two teams together at Penrith UTC when either base does not have enough staff present to operate safely.
UTCs provide treatment when the illness or injury requires urgent attention but is not life threatening.
Doctor Gill Findley, Chief Nurse said: "We are sorry for the inconvenience and confusion caused by the temporary closures, and fully recognise the impact this has had on those who use the service."
Dr Findley said that the decision to close a facility for the day is "never taken lightly" but must be done "so that we keep patients safe and continue to provide at least one UTC in the area."
She said: "Our colleagues have been working extremely hard to maintain the service wherever possible, and we are grateful for their continued commitment during what has been a challenging period. We appreciate the community’s patience and understanding as we work through these challenges.
"We are committed to stabilising the staffing position. We are actively recruiting to vacant posts and colleagues are due to join us in the coming months to strengthen the team."
SUBSCRIBE TO SUPPORT TRUSTED LOCAL JOURNALISM
Dr Findley said: "We will do everything we can to avoid further closures in the coming months, however it is likely there will be some disruption until new colleagues come into post."
Keswick UTC closed earlier than usual on Friday February 20 due to the staffing issue and remained closed for the weekend.
Urgent treatment was provided at the Penrith site until Keswick UTC reopened.
A facility providing urgent treatment is set to open on the Cumberland Infirmary site in Carlisle at the end of this month.
It is hoped the facility will help to alleviate pressure on the hospital's Accident and Emergency Department.
Share