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LATEST NEWS FROM OUR LOCAL HOSPITALS AND MEDICAL SERVICES

Communities That Work Project Draws To A Close

Wednesday 22nd February 2012

A scheme to help people find work in the Chesterfield area is to wind up at the end of March after a successful, extended six-year term.

Since 2008, the Communities That Work project has been funded by Chesterfield Borough Council and run by Derbyshire Community Health Services NHS Trust to help unemployed people facing economic, social and health barriers in their search for work. It was initially started in 2006 under the government-backed Coalfields Regeneration Trust. READ MORE...

Consultation Ahead Of £200m Elderly Care Transformation

Tuesday 21st February 2012 Plans for a £200 million investment to transform residential and community care across Derbyshire have now been approved and announced.

Derbyshire County Council's Cabinet gave the ambitious scheme - to deliver dementia-friendly care and state-of-the-art accommodation to hundreds of older people - the go-ahead at its meeting yesterday, Monday 20th February.

County Council Cabinet Member for Adult Care Councillor Charles Jones described the plans as offering five-star accommodation, care and support services for everyone in Derbyshire... READ MORE...

Local Dementia Group Pilot Success For Derbyshire Healthcare

Tuesday 21st February 2012 Occupational Therapists, including April Saunders and Jenny Gould, from Derbyshire Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust's Community Mental Health team for Older People (North East) recently ran a community group therapy pilot, the 'Killamarsh Tuesday Group', for people with dementia in the local area.

This was following feedback from a local GP that more support was needed for people with dementia.

The group consisted of 12 participants and ran for 12 weeks, every Tuesday for four hours a day. READ MORE...

UPDATE: Chesterfield Royal Hospital Norovirus Outbreak

Monday 20th February 2012 Chesterfield Royal Hospital have told us this morning that unfortunately the situation remains the same at the hospital with visitors still unable to attend adult in patient wards.

The hospital continues to do everything it can to contain the outbreak and stop it spreading further and has produced a video explaining to patients, their families and the community about the precautions taken and why.

The video can be viewed on the hospital's YouTube channel - please follow this link - NOROVIRUS VIDEO

UPDATE: Chesterfield Royal Hospital Norovirus Outbreak

Sunday 19th February 2012 The Chesterfield Royal Hospital continues to be closed to visitors to adult inpatient wards and it remains in the grip of what it calls "the worst outbreak we have known in years".

They say the infection still continues to affect patients and unfortunately, a large number of staff have contracted the virus and are therefore unable to work on the wards until they have been symptom free for 72 hours.

They have told us that they wish to thank everyone in the community for their "Tremendous understanding" at what is proving to be a difficult time - and have produced a video explaining how they are trying to break the cycle of this outbreak. It can be viewed through the hospital website - www.chesterfieldroyal.nhs.uk

More Virus Outbreaks Overnight At Chesterfield Royal Hospital

Friday 17th February 2012 18:15 Chesterfield Royal Hospital has told us today that, despite closing adult in patient wards to visitors, there have been more cases of Norovirus identified in the last 24 hours, and 9 wards are now closed to visitors tonight.

They are stressing though, that although adult in-patient wards are closed to visitors, A&E service and out-patient clinics are operating as usual.

They request that, over the next few days if your appointment is routine and non-urgent and you have symptoms of Norovirus, please call them to re-arrange.  Ring the number on your appointment letter or 01246 516090. To try to contain the further spread of the infection they are asking that on arrival and before leaving hospital, that visitors clean hands thoroughly using the handwash stations AND the hand gel (dispensers at entrances and in clinics). We will continue to give updates as we get them.

Volunteers Needed For World's Largest Bipolar Disorder Study

Thursday 16th February 2012 Derbyshire Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust is recruiting for a research study investigating the causes of bipolar disorder as part of its collaboration with the Mental Health Research Network.

Anyone who has experienced one or more episodes of high mood (mania, hypomania or bipolar disorder) at some point in their life, is invited to take part in the study which will investigate how genetics and lifestyle factors, such as stress, interact to make some people more likely than others to develop bipolar disorder. READ MORE...

Chesterfield Royal Goes Into Lockdown As Norovirus Spreads

Wednesday 15th February 2012 Chesterfield Royal Hospital has announced today that it has closed the hospital to visitors of all adult inpatient wards with immediate effect.

It comes after eight wards have fallen victim to outbreaks of Norovirus, with both patients and staff suffering.

Norovirus (or winter vomiting disease) is an unpleasant 'bug' that causes violent sickness and diarrhoea.  It IS NOT a hospital acquired infection, but is an infection that spreads rapidly in the community. The illness is self-limiting, but can have severe consequences for patients who are already fighting illness and recovering from surgery. READ MORE...

Air Ambulance Attends Patient In New Whittington

Monday 13th February 2012
The Air Ambulance was called to an incident on Station Lane New Whittington yesterday (Sunday 12th February).

East Midlands Ambulance Service has confirmed today that it received an emergency call at 10:58 on Sunday 12th February 2012 and the caller reported that someone had been kicked by a horse.

Ambulance crews in a land ambulance and the air ambulance were dispatched, along with an on-call doctor who supports the service. READ MORE...

Chesterfield Royal Hospital Moves To Reduce Admissions

Monday 6th February 2012
A new unit has been set up at the Chesterfield Royal Hospital which aims to reduce the need to admit patients.

The Ambulatory Care Unit is based on Bay 5 of the Clinical Decisions Unit (CDU) and will provide clinical care that is not dependent on the need to admit patients into a hospital bed. Patients referred as unplanned emergencies and who are able to sit out will be seen promptly in the unit and managed by senior medical and nursing staff. This frees up beds that can be used for patients requiring inpatient admission on clinical grounds. READ MORE...

Fertility Specialist Prof Li "My Job Is The Best In The World"

Wednesday 1st February 2012 It's an issue that is sadly common and one that affects many women throughout our region.

Infertility problems touch thousands of couples nationally and there are many reasons why women seek help to conceive. However, it is something that many are unable to talk about except amongst their closest family and friends.

One local Doctor who helps many women in the area to conceive says that the problem can be dealt with successfully in many cases and makes an impassioned plea for women to help those who can't conceive. READ MORE...

Helping You Stay Safe And Warm This Winter

Wednesday 1st February 2012 With temperatures predicted to drop sharply over the next few days, Derbyshire residents are being encouraged to follow advice to keep themselves, neighbours and vulnerable people safe and warm during predicted cold weather.

The Met Office has issued a cold weather alert warning of temperatures dropping to -6C across the East Midlands towards the end of this week and Derbyshire County Council is reminding residents about some general cold weather tips as well as useful contacts for information and services they may need. READ MORE...

Spot Inspection Finds Good Patient Care At Ash Green

Thursday 26th January 2012 A Chesterfield facility that caters for people with complex needs is celebrating after a report published yesterday (25th January) found good standards of care are being given to patients.

The findings follow an unannounced visit by the Care Quality Commission, to Ash Green's Hillside Ward back in November.

Hillside Ward, which provides assessment and treatment for people with learning disabilities, was found to be meeting all the essential standards of quality and safety for its patients... READ MORE...

New Hospital Facility To Create 88 Jobs

Tuesday 24th January 2012 There's more good news on the jobs front for Chesterfield today as Chesterifield Borough council has told us this morning that a specialist hospital facility at Mastin Moor in Chesterfield is set to create 88 new jobs, and contribute significantly to local growth.

The new facility, run by the health and social care organisation Turning Point, will provide services for people with complex needs.

As part of the planning permission for the development, an agreement was put in place to maximise employment and training opportunities for locals. READ MORE... 

NHS Reform - Hear How It May Affect You

Wednesday 18th January 2012 People wanting to find out more about how NHS reform is progressing in North Derbyshire are being invited to the first public Board meeting of GP's and clinicians poised to take over the running of the local NHS.

North Derbyshire Clinical Commissioning Group are to hold the meeting on Thursday, January 26th at their offices in Scarsdale on Nightingale Close, between 2.15pm and 4pm.

The group is currently shadowing the work of the local primary care trust in readiness for the handover of NHS budgets to GPs and clinicians in April 2013... READ MORE...

Cervical Cancer Checks - NHS Plea To Women

Tuesday 17th January 2012 Women are being urged by NHS Derbyshire County to take advantage of life-saving smear tests ahead of European Cervical Cancer Prevention Week, which runs next week from 22nd to 28th January.

Cervical cancer is the second most common cause of cancer in women under 35. But going for a routine smear test can make all the difference - helping medical staff spot potentially cancerous cells growing on the cervix, or neck of the womb, before it’s too late.

Now NHS Derbyshire County is urging all women aged between 25 and 64 to think twice before they dismiss screening appointment letters, as early detection through screening, followed by treatment, can prevent up to 75 per cent of these cells turning into cancer. READ MORE...

Scheme For Hard Of Hearing Extended

Tuesday 17th January 2012 It's been announced this morning that funding has now been approved to extend a Derbyshire County Council scheme to help people with hearing impairments feel safer in their homes after residents said it made them feel more secure.

The council fitted specialist door chimes with flashing lights and vibrating pagers to the homes of 400 people with hearing impairments between May 2010 and last October.

Out of 154 recipients surveyed, 97 per cent said it helped them... READ MORE...

Local Health Services Meeting Prime Minister's Standards

Tuesday 10th January 2012 Local Community Health Services have welcomed announcements made by The Prime Minister on Friday, 6th January on improvements which must be made to nursing care - and have stated they are leading the way in providing some of the best nursing care in the country.

PM David Cameron made four pledges to ensure that all hospitals in England are providing patient care to the best possible standard: Ensuring nurses spend as much time as possible by cutting out paperwork and bureaucracy wherever possible... READ MORE...

10,000 Calls To New NHS 111 Helpline In 2 Months

Monday 9th January 2012 Over 10,000 calls have been made to North Derbyshire's new non-emergency NHS 111 number since it went live two months ago.

7,956 people living in the Chesterfield, Bolsover, Bakewell and Matlock areas dialled the helpline direct between 25th October 2011 and 2nd January 2012, with another 2,425 automatically diverted to the service through their GP.

NHS 111 is a new health telephone number being piloted by NHS Derbyshire County and North Derbyshire Clinical Commissioning Group. The number is for people needing health and medical care when it's less urgent than 999. READ MORE...

Prescription For Exercise Leaves Killamarsh Dad Fighting Fit

Wednesday 4th January 2012 If your New Year's Resolution was to lose weight and you're already picking the lock on the biscuit tin then take heart from a local success story.

Dad-of-two Mark Ward has shed over two stones - and found a new lease of life - thanks to a scheme that helps people tackle health problems through exercise.

The 40-year-old from Killamarsh has lost over 15 percent of his body weight in just over 3 months after signing up to the Health Referral Programme because of a long-term back problem. READ MORE...

Hospital Visit Proves A Tonic For Young Patients

Wednesday 28th December 2011
Christmas is of course a time for families, and more importantly children. For some though, the period is spent in hospital whilst their children receive vital care.

For youngsters on Nightingale Ward at Chesterfield Royal Hospital however, a tonic came in the form of a visit from Chesterfield Football management and players, when they toured the Children's ward and handed out presents to those receiving treatment over the Festive period. Every member of the squad was there and young fans were delighted to receive goodie bags from the lads. READ MORE...

SJA Get Ready For Winter And Advise Everyone To Be Prepared

Wednesday 28th December 2011 St John Ambulance staff and volunteers in Derbyshire are now busy making preparations to support the emergency services should the county be hit by snow and freezing temperatures again this winter.

Last year, and in 2009, heavy snow fell across the region just days before Christmas leading to a greater demand for the service provided by the NHS. To help alleviate some of the pressure, St John Ambulance staff and volunteers supported the ambulance service with 4x4 ambulances enabling them to reach patients in remote areas and provide immediate emergency care and transport... READ MORE...

Police, Pharmacy And Bus Christmas Opening Schedules

Friday 23rd December 2011 We have gathered together as much information as we can for you with regard to any changes to the Christmas and New year opening times for local Police Offices, Local Pharmacies and Stagecoach buses.

This is the latest info from these sources but please remember, if you have an emergency, please contact them as normal via emergency numbers. READ MORE...

Chesterfield Patients Give GP's Thumbs Up In National Survey

Wednesday 21st December 2011 Patients in Chesterfield have given local GPs the thumbs-up in a new national GP patient survey.

Feedback from the 2011 National GP Patient Survey, which details patients' experiences of visiting their GP, shows that doctors' surgeries punched above their weight in five out of the nine areas questioned - with more patients than the England average saying they would 'definitely' recommend their GP to another person and that they had a 'very good' overall experience at their GP surgery. READ MORE...

Infection Control Is A Breeze At The Royal

Tuesday 20th December 2011 The Chesterfield Royal Hospital is keeping cool in its efforts to reduce the risk of infection.

The trust has taken delivery of 200 brand new fans from Whittington Moor firm Barton Electrical Services that are easier to clean, use less energy and are more comfortable for patients than traditional fans.

The Dyson Air Multiplier doesn't have any blades, instead, it uses an electric motor to feed air into the cylinder that is released as a breeze when it hits a slit on the inside of the tube. READ MORE...

Royal's Calendar Girls

Monday 19th December 2011 A woman who lost her baby to meningitis has been raising money to help the Chesterfield Royal Hospital ward that tried to save her son's life.

Jaden Green was just days old when he was taken to the Royal four years ago but, despite the best efforts of the staff on Nightingale, he couldn't be saved.

Jaden's mother, Rebecca Hinchliff, now has two sons and, with the help of friends and family has this year raised £600 for the ward by posing for and producing a calendar called 'Real Women 2012'. READ MORE...

On-The-Spot Treatment For Chesterfield Party Goers

Saturday 17th December 2011 Police and paramedics have once again teamed up to help keep Christmas revellers in Chesterfield safe and reduce unnecessary admissions to A&E.

Derbyshire Constabulary and East Midlands Ambulance Service are running the 'PolAmb' and town centre triage to provide a safe mobile first aid point and prevent trips to the emergency department.

This is the second year the two emergency services have run the scheme after its success over the festive period last year. READ MORE...

Bringing More Smiles To Children In Hospital At Christmas

Friday 16th December 2011 Employees at SCA Hygiene Products' Chesterfield Mill have played Santa Claus to children spending Christmas in hospital this year.

They joined together with colleagues from four of the company's other UK sites to buy and gift wrap almost 100 presents for young patients at Alder Hey Children's Hospital at Liverpool.

On top of this, SCA employees have also added an extra £1,000 to fund improvements to the hospital oncology ward's waiting room. READ MORE...

Christmas Comes Early On Nightingale

Thursday 15th December 2011 Nightingale Ward's very own Santa made sure that youngsters at the Royal will have a very merry Christmas.

Dennis Widdowson and his wife, Mary, have spent the year collecting and buying toys and games to give at Christmas and out-did themselves this year by delivering hundreds of gifts ahead of the festive season.

And the Chesterfield branch of the Co-Op put the icing on the cake by donating enough rolls of wrapping paper to ensure that it remains a surprise until Christmas Day. READ MORE...

Police Base At Hospital

Thursday 15th December 2011 A police base has been set up at a Chesterfield hospital to increase communication and help make staff, patients and visitors feel safer.

Police Community Support Officer Adele Chapman-Jones from the local Safer Neighbourhood team is now based within A&E at Chesterfield Royal Hospital one day a week.

PCSO Chapman-Jones will carry out patrols around the hospital, run crime awareness sessions and be a point of contact for hospital staff. READ MORE...

Invite To Rate Local Hearing Services On Pilot Website

Monday 12th December 2011 Action on Hearing Loss - formerly RNID - is inviting Chesterfield residents with hearing loss to be the first to rate their experience of local NHS and private hearing services on the charity's new pilot 'online comparison tool'.

The charity is urging people to log on to the ground-breaking website which will help individuals find their local hearing services and choose those that are best suited to their needs. Visitors are asked to score and comment on the quality of services they have experienced during the last three months - including the clarity of explanation about their hearing test results, the usefulness of information about communication support services, and whether the service was easily accessible. READ MORE...

Biking For Blood

Friday 9th December 2011 A new charity in Chesterfield is hoping to raise it's profile - and much needed funds - during tomorrow (Saturday 10th December) at Sainsbury's store on Rother Way.

Derbyshire Blood Bikes is a newly registered charity (August 2011), and everybody involved is a volunteer.

Their aim is to offer a free out of hours service to the NHS hospitals delivering blood, platelets, plasma etc as at present, the hospitals currently use taxis and courier services. READ MORE...

Derbyshire CCC Captain Luke Sutton Retires Over Health Issues

Thursday 8th December 2011 After a three-club career with Somerset, Lancashire and Derbyshire, Luke Sutton has decided to retire from the game.

The decision comes in the wake of an exhausting 2011 cricket season after which Derbyshire’s wicketkeeper-batsman and club captain sought treatment for depression and anxiety.

The 35-year-old wicketkeeper-batsman said, "I have been aware for some time that I have problems with certain aspects of my mental health. I have always pushed myself to the limit ..." READ MORE...

Public Backs Plans For Foundation Status

Monday 5th December 2011 Derbyshire Community Health Services NHS Trust has received overwhelming public support for its plans to become a Foundation Trust, it is announced.

More than 3,000 people have already signed up as members in support of the Foundation Trust plans, and results from a three month consultation on the proposals, which were published on 1st December, give a clear thumbs up from the vast majority of people canvassed.

The results reveal that most people are in favour and think it will benefit patients by providing a stronger local voice in the way community NHS services are run and developed in future. READ MORE... 

Chesterfield Royal's Timely Reminder From Chief Nurse

Tuesday 29th November 2011 The chief nurse at Chesterfield Royal Hospital is taking the lead in a bid to prevent the spread of infection on wards this winter.

Alfonzo Tramontano is reminding staff, patients and visitors that the best and simplest way to stop infection in its tracks is to wash hands with soap and water; and to use the gel dispensers available across the hospital - starting at the temporary front entrance.

"We treat over 60,000 in-patients on our wards every year and we have an excellent record," he comments. READ MORE...

Early 'Hospital Discharge' Advice Aids Care

Monday 28th November 2011 A new guide helping elderly and vulnerable patients in Chesterfield better plan their hospital stay will improve care and help them make a full and quicker recovery, health bosses from NHS Derbyshire County say.

Most patients stay in hospital for only a short time. But for those who stay in hospital for lengthier periods they may be unable to leave hospital, or transfer to community hospitals or residential homes simply because their care needs had not been planned earlier. READ MORE...

NHS Plans For Proposed Strike Action Announced

Wednesday 23rd November 2011 Patients in the area are being reassured that the NHS in Derbyshire is taking the strongest action possible to maintain essential and emergency services ahead of the proposed public sector pensions strike on Wednesday, November 30th.

NHS Derby City and NHS Derbyshire County say the local NHS is preparing for the strike, and disruption will be kept to a minimum - with plans in place to ensure services run as normal as possible. However, people should bear in mind that services are likely to be under extra pressure on the day. READ MORE...

Superhero Blasts The Bugs At Chesterfield Royal Hospital

Monday 21st November 2011 Children at the Chesterfield Royal Hospital have been visited by a different kind of superhero.

Hero Joe has been on Nightingale Ward to help raise awareness of the importance of hand hygiene and how cleaning your hands can protect you from a number of bugs and viruses.

Representing GoJo, who provides the Royal with a variety of hand gels and dispensing machines, the character visited a number of wards at a time of year when the importance of hand hygiene becomes particularly significant. READ MORE...

Giving Youth A Chance

Friday 18th November 2011 After figures released this week show that young people between 16-24 are suffering most during the recesssion Chesterfield Royal Hospital has announced that it is doing its bit to help give young people more job opportunities.

The Trust, in partnership with the Prince's Trust, is offering work experience to a group of 16 to 18 year olds from the Bolsover area with a view to helping them get full time employment.

The group of fourteen have been chosen from a taster session which took place at the Royal's Education Centre. The successful candidates will undertake four weeks within the central services directorate, culminating in a presentation on 16th December. READ MORE...

Ann's Generous Birthday Present to Children's Diabetes Charity

Friday 18th November 2011 Birthday girl Ann Mason from Brampton, Chesterfield, shared her happy returns and chose to present the £500 she received in lieu of gifts, to children's diabetes charity, the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation (JDRF).

The generous donation; which combines birthday money with additional donations from the Chesterfield Scarsdale Inner Wheel Club, co-insides with World Diabetes Awareness Month, currently occurring throughout November.

Grandmother of 5, and active Inner Wheel Club member, 70 year old Ann has worked tirelessly with fellow members to help generate funds for the JDRF, raising £2,000 to-date... READ MORE...

Free Parenting Skills Courses Across Derbyshire

Wednesday 16th November 2011
Parents and carers in Derbyshire are being invited to sign up for free courses offering informal and supportive advice on the ups and downs of family life with children and teens.

Two courses, called Living with Children and Living with Teenagers, are being offered across venues in Derbyshire at the beginning of 2012, and parents and carers who may want some reassurance or support with their parenting can sign up now.

Course organiser Jane Hawley said... READ MORE...

Healthy Walk For Christmas

Wednesday 16th November 2011 The Chesterfield FC Community Trust Walking for Health group is inviting Walking for Health groups in Chesterfield and North Derbyshire to join them on the 1st December 2011 for a Christmas walk followed by a Christmas lunch in the Legends Lounge at the B2net Stadium.

There will be two walks, the first will start at the stadium at 10.30am and will be for the more experienced 'moving on' group, this walk will be at a comfortable pace and will last for around 2 hours.

The second walk is for entry level walkers and will also be at a comfortable pace for around half an hour and will leave the stadium at midday. READ MORE...

Antibiotics Not 'Magic Cure' For Common Colds

Wednesday 16th November 2011 Antibiotics are not the 'magic cure' for flu and most coughs, colds and sore throats, which are caused by viruses, according to health experts at NHS Derbyshire.

Contrary to popular opinion, antibiotics are only effective against infections, caused by bacteria, and their overuse is contributing to a global rise in drug resistance - with more people being at risk of serious infections.

That's the latest call from local GP's and health bosses, who are reporting a rise in the number of patients with colds and flu-like symptoms expecting to be prescribed antibiotics as they prepare for European Antibiotics Awareness Day on Friday, November 18th. READ MORE...

Chesterfield's Angels Rewarded

Tuesday 15th November 2011 Chesterfield and North Derbyshire NHS held their 'Staff Recognition Awards 2011' or 'STARS' this weekend, which are designed to reward staff for outstanding contributions to patient care and hospital service.

There were more than 350 nominations, 38 individual and team finalists and below is a list of winners who were all proud and delighted to have won... READ MORE...

'Not The Olympics' Torch Relay Raises Money For Alzheimers

Tuesday 15th November 2011 Chesterfield-based chartered accountants Mitchells have helped raise £28,000 for Alzheimer's sufferers by taking part in epic national Olympic-style challenge.

The "Not the Olympics 2012" charity campaign was organised by the UK200Group of independent chartered accountancy and law firms, of which Mitchells is a member.

Twenty-seven participating member firms were tasked with relaying an Olympic-style torch across the country in imaginative forms of transportation, finishing at the Olympic Stadium in London on Thursday, 10th November. READ MORE...

Young First Aiders Honoured In County's Inaugural Awards

Monday 14th November 2011 Nine-year-old Emily Salmon didn't panic when her mum fainted in the bathroom, she put her in the recovery position and raised the alarm.

And just weeks later - during a trip to Toys'R'Us as a reward for her quick actions - Emily used her first aid skills again when a young boy collapsed with hypoglycemia. 

This week Emily, of Walton, won official recognition for her actions when she was presented with the Badger First Aid prize at Derbyshire's first ever St John Ambulance Youth Awards. READ MORE...

Open Invitation To Meet Local Healthcare Decision Makers

Monday 14th November 2011 NHS directors in charge of community healthcare in Derbyshire are inviting members of the public to join them in Chesterfield later this month when the Board of Derbyshire Community Health Services NHS Trust next meets.

Patients, families, carers and local residents are being invited to sit in on top level discussions about services provided by the Trust when the Board meets on Thursday 24th November in the Committee Room, Walton Hospital, Whitecotes Lane, Chesterfield, S40 3HW, starting at 9am.  READ MORE...

Self Care Leads To Better Health In Chesterfield

Thursday 10th November 2011 Guidance on how patients in Chesterfield can better manage their health is being issued by NHS Derbyshire to coincide with national Self Care Week.

By learning how to self care - many people in the Chesterfield area can enjoy a better quality of life, suffer less pain, anxiety, depression and illness. Keeping fit and healthy, taking medicines properly, seeking medical advice when they needed, and finding out how to treat minor illnesses are also key.

Self Care Week runs from Tuesday, November 15th to Monday, November 21st. Keith Mann, Head of Primary Care Contracts, for NHS Derbyshire, said: "Learning to look after your health puts you in control of your life. It also improves the quality of your life and helps you live more healthily." READ MORE...

Six Out Of Ten People With Dementia Go Undiagnosed

Tuesday 8th November 2011 Government launches new campaign in Derbyshire to raise awareness of the signs of dementia and importance of early diagnosis

In Derby and Derbyshire it is estimated that 12,704 people are currently living with dementia, with 62 per cent of those without a formal diagnosis. The total number of people in the area living with dementia is expected to reach 17,234 by 2021. READ MORE...

Five 60 To A Healthier Lifestyle

Tuesday 8th November 2011 It's been revealed that Chesterfield school children will soon benefit from a specialist healthier lifestyle programme designed to increase physical activity, raise awareness and knowledge of nutrition choices and healthy food and improve emotional well-being.

The 'Five 60' programme from NHS Derbyshire will be managed by Chesterfield Borough Council across Chesterfield Primary Schools over the next three years.

It's targeted at children in years 3, 4 and 5 to reduce the level of obesity as measured through the National Child Measurement programme in Y6. READ MORE...

Flashing Out Foetal Alcohol Syndrome

Monday 7th November 2011 Students from Chesterfield College recently took part in a 'flash mob' in the centre of Chesterfield in order to highlight the dangers of Foetal Alcohol Syndrome.

This syndrome affects thousands of babies a year and is the biggest non-genetic cause of mental handicap in babies. It is also the only cause that is completely preventable.

College Childcare students posed with balloons up their jumpers and stood perfectly still for 9 minutes (1 minute for every month of pregnancy) READ MORE & VIDEO...

Norovirus Warning From The Royal

Wednesday 2nd November 2011 Chesterfield Royal Hospital is urging people to watch out for the signs of Norovirus after an outbreak has led to a ward being closed.

Anyone experiencing the symptoms is being urged not to visit the hospital and to stay at home until you have been symptom free for at least 72 hours as you can still spread the virus on during that time, even if you feel well.

Senior Matron for Infection Prevention and Control, Diane Simpson said: "We've had an outbreak on Basil Ward and closed it to reduce the risk of cross-infection to other wards and departments." READ MORE...

Cold Weather Plan To Protect Patients This Winter

Wednesday 2nd October 2011 Emergency steps preparing the NHS for cold weather snaps will help save dozens of lives in Chesterfield and surrounding areas, according to NHS Derbyshire.

Last year 68 extra people died in Chesterfield because of treacherous freezing conditions - which leaves the most vulnerable cold, alone and more susceptible to heart problems, strokes, respiratory illness and falls.

Now health bosses from NHS Derbyshire say they welcome the publication of the Department of Health's cold weather plan... READ MORE...

Chesterfield Royal Hospital's Main Entrance Begins Treatment

Tuesday 1st November 2011

Chesterfield Royal Hospital has announced that the £1.6 million plus scheme to refit Chesterfield Royal Hospital's main entrance is underway - with contractors beginning to set up their site base from Sunday 30th October.

It's been four months since a major fire destroyed most of the Royal's main entrance facilities - including the convenience store, reception desk and cafe. Work behind the scenes since has seen demolition undertaken, new infrastructures starting to be put in place and a fresh design agreed to give the whole area a re-style. READ MORE...

Local MP Supports National Health Campaign

Tuesday 1st November 2011 Chesterfield MP Toby Perkins has pledged his support to a national health campaign by attending the launch of the 'Meningitis Changes Futures' campaign at the Houses of Parliament last week, and signing the Meningitis Trust education petition.

The Meningitis Changes Futures campaign was launched at the Houses of Parliament on Wednesday evening.

The campaign aims to raise awareness of the long-term after-effects of meningitis, many of which are 'invisible'... READ MORE...

Ambulance Service Announce New Chief Executive

Thursday 27th October 2011 East Midlands Ambulance service has today announced the appointment of a new Chief Executive.

Phil Milligan will take up his post on December 1st, "Marking a positive step forward for our organisation and the care we provide to local people," said Chairman Jon Towler.

For the past year Phil has been Director of Performance and Provider Development at NHS West Midlands and prior to that has performed at a Director level at several acute hospitals... READ MORE...

Sheffield Royal Hallamshire Statement

Wednesday 26th October 2011 Sheffield Royal Hallamshire has given us this statement regarding Mrs Murphy ("My Life In Their Hands" Story Here) and we're pleased to reproduce it in full.

"Mrs Murphy has not been able to undergo surgery until September as she has not been medically fit.

"Unfortunately when Mrs Murphy did become fit enough for surgery we had to cancel the two confirmed dates she was given last month for her operation at short notice because we had emergency patients which had to take priority. READ MORE...

Chesterfield FC Gets A Shot In The Arm

Tuesday 25th October 2011 Ahead of their visit to Spotland tonight Chesterfield FC players have already strengthened their defences against one of their most disruptive opponents this season - influenza.

Staff at the B2net Stadium lined up to tackle the threat and showed a red card to flu thanks to Doctor Mark Blagdon of Avondale Surgery, an NHS Clinic in Chesterfield. Dr Blagdon, who is also one of the football club's official doctors, made sure that winter flu was left firmly offside by delivering the jabs. Spireites Coach Mark Crossley said: "A flu epidemic in the dressing room could seriously affect the squad and have an impact on the team's results..." READ MORE...

"My Life Is In Their Hands"

Monday 24th October 2011 A woman from North Derbyshire is hoping that her operation to deal with a brain aneurism will go ahead on Wednesday after it was cancelled by hospital bosses a total of SIX times.

Marie Murphy, 47, suffered a stroke 18 months ago and during treatment, it was discovered that she had the aneurism which could rupture at any moment and kill her.

Surgery is the only option and Marie was booked into the Hallamshire in Sheffield in July for the life saving operation to take place. However, a phone call just before told her there was no bed available due to a shortage of anaesthetists. READ MORE...

100% Vaccine Success For Derbyshire GPs

Friday 21st October 2011 Doctors and nurses in North Derbyshire are leading the way in the fight against childhood illnesses, according to latest figures.

Ten GP surgeries in North Derbyshire smashed challenging global health targets during March and June this year to achieve a 100 per cent success rate with their childhood immunisation programme.

The figures, recorded by NHS Derbyshire, place North Derbyshire GPs in the top ranks of consistent performers when delivering childhood vaccines, and follow high success levels recorded during March 2010 to March 2011. READ MORE...

Traffic Lights Not Given Green Light By Hospital Bosses

Tuesday 18th October 2011 Anyone visiting Chesterfield Royal Hospital at Calow recently will not have failed to notice that Derbyshire County Council is currently working to upgrade the traffic and streetlights at the front entrance of the hospital.

A temporary traffic light system is in operation, which is causing disruption and delay to patients and staff particularly as they try to enter and exit the site. The system has been regulated by the Police as there have been two accidents already. Stagecoach has already intimated that they will consider withdrawing buses from the site if the disruption continues. READ MORE... 

NHS Chief's Pledge To Equalities Charter

Friday 14th October 2011 A new charter signifying the NHS' commitment to promoting equality for all patients and staff has been signed by NHS Derby City and NHS Derbyshire County.

Chief Executive David Sharp joined health colleagues from across Derbyshire to pledge support to the commitments set out in both the Charter and the new NHS Equality Delivery System at an event held at Derby's West Indian Community Centre.

The Equality Delivery System is a new nationally-backed initiative... READ MORE...

Health Bosses Advice To Arthritis Sufferers

Tuesday 11th October 2011 Advice to combat the crippling symptoms of arthritis is being issued by NHS Derbyshire to mark World Arthritis Day on Wednesday, October 12th.

Some of the best ways to ease symptoms - which affects 8.5 million people in the UK - include regular exercise, controlling weight and avoiding stress of injury.

Now health chiefs are calling on Derbyshire arthritis sufferers to stay physically active to help reduce pain, stiffness, restricted movement, inflammation and swelling of joints and bones caused by the disease. READ MORE...

Asbestos Related Cancer Mesothelioma Changes Everything

Monday 10th October 2011 Life changed dramatically for Brian Brough when he was diagnosed with asbestos-related cancer mesothelioma in March 2010.

Until the shock diagnosis he and his wife, Patricia, had been planning to spend their retirement doing what they loved - walking around Scotland. But the 5 years he spent working with asbestos as a roofer in Chesterfield from 1959 means their dream will have to remain just that. Brian, 70, said: "This disease has blighted us. We love walking and had decided to buy a motorhome. We just wanted to be able to up sticks when we wanted and go roaming around Scotland and the islands. There's no way we can do that now!" READ MORE...

FREE Training To Confront Hidden Killer

Monday 10th October 2011 Free training offer helps smash target to tackle 4000 asbestos death toll. Tradesmen in the East Midlands can now take advantage of hundreds of hours of free asbestos awareness training in a bid to tackle ignorance about Britain’s biggest industrial killer.

During October and November 296.5 hours of face-to-face training have been pledged for tradesmen the East Midlands with an additional 5,570 hours of web-based training also available which includes courses in Romanian, Russian and Polish. READ MORE...

Be Clear On Cancer

Monday 10th October 2011 A new lung cancer campaign is being piloted in Derbyshire, and across the Midlands, from today as the latest figures reveal that over 660 people aged 50 or over in the county were diagnosed with the disease in 2009.

The figures also show that in the same year lung cancer claimed the lives of over 520 people aged 50+ in the county - some of which may have been saved if diagnosed earlier.

Lung cancer is the biggest cancer killer in England. The Department of Health's new 'Be Clear On Cancer' campaign is aimed at helping people recognise the symptoms of lung cancer. READ MORE...

Parents' Support Keeps Weighty Problem On Track

Friday 7th October 2011 A high percentage of pupils have taken part in a national scheme designed to tackle rising levels of childhood obesity.

Over 14,000 pupils participated in NHS Derbyshire County's 2009/10 National Child Measurement Programme, with uptake considerably higher than the national average, at 94.8 per cent compared to England's overall rate of 92.9 per cent in four to five year olds.

Uptake for ten to eleven year olds was also high - at 94.1 per cent in Derbyshire compared to a national average of 89.9 per cent. READ MORE...

NHS Staff Stir Up Fundraiser For Cancer Charity

Monday 3rd October 2011 Coffee and homemade cakes were the order of the morning as health workers hosted a taste-tickling event in aid of a cancer support charity.

Staff at NHS Derbyshire County's Scarsdale headquarters in Chesterfield held the fundraiser between 9am and 11am on Friday, 30th September as part of Macmillan's World's Biggest Coffee Morning.

During the event an assortment of temptations were laid out, including ice cream cone cakes, lemon drizzle cake, a special Malteser cake ... READ MORE...

Your Hospital Needs You...

Monday 3rd October 2011 Chesterfield and North Derbyshire's Royal Hospital is pivotal to all of us. We all use it and at some point in our lives, all need it. Many have expressed opinions about how it's run and how it works.

Now, you could have the chance to represent your area and help shape the future of the hospital at Calow. The nomination process for the latest round of governor elections has begun and, if you are a member of the Foundation Trust, you can put yourself forward as a candidate to sit on the Council of Governors. READ MORE...

Boost For Bowel Cancer Awareness

Monday 3rd October 2011 More people in Derbyshire have been given a life-saving chance of beating bowel cancer thanks to an awareness-raising campaign.

Independent research published by CI Research found that 72 per cent of people in Derbyshire were able to name symptoms of bowel cancer without prompting - 6 per cent higher than the pre-campaign results. Over a fifth (23 per cent) said they would check for bowel cancer symptoms in the future.

The 'Hey you…Remember to Check Your Poo' campaign ran for four weeks in July to highlight the importance of recognising symptoms of one of the most common causes of cancer - with survival rates of at least five years considerably higher if symptoms are detected early. READ MORE...

Experts Award Staveley Centre Full Marks For Dementia Care

Monday 12th September 2011
A community care centre that opened its doors 18 months ago has notched up a top award from dementia experts.

Derbyshire County Council's Staveley Centre is the first community care centre of its kind in the county and provides specialist services for older people in its tailor-made dementia-friendly building.

Dementia experts from the University of Stirling visited the building in Calver Crescent, Middlecroft, and carried out a detailed audit. READ MORE...

Pledge To Tackle Local Share Of 4,000 Asbestos Death Toll

Thursday 8th September 2011 A poignant target of 4,000 hours of free asbestos awareness training has been set in a new initiative to help tradesmen in the East Midlands and across Britain protect themselves from the deadly dust.

The Health and Safety Executive (HSE), in partnership with the training industry, is calling for businesses to pledge free courses and hopes, during September to hit the target of 4,000 hours - reflecting the approximate number of deaths each year in Britain from asbestos-related diseases. READ MORE...

Prescribing Goes Digital At The Royal Chesterfield Hospital

Monday 5th September 2011 The Chesterfield Royal Hospital has announced that it is taking further steps to keep its patients safe, and pioneering a system across the region.

The Royal is the only Trust in the East Midlands to introduce electronic prescribing across the site which, according to a General Medical Council (GMC) report, is "12% less likely to be associated with a prescribing error than hand written prescriptions".

Martin Shepherd is the Head of Medicines Management and part of the project board that has overseen its introduction. He said: "It is widely recognised that electronic prescribing systems improve the legibility of prescriptions and remove the possibility of prescriptions being misplaced or lost." READ MORE...

Open Door For Public To Find Out About Their NHS

Friday 2nd September 2011 There will be a chance for local residents to talk to local health bosses about the latest developments in community healthcare across Derbyshire and Leicestershire and to have their questions answered during a meeting on Thursday 22nd September.

Derbyshire Community Health Services NHS Trust are throwing open the doors to display examples of their innovations in patient care and to present their 2010/11 Annual Report - their first as a fully-fledged NHS Trust.

One of the aims of the AGM evening - to take place in the Ballroom at The Whitworth Centre, Darley Dale, Matlock - will be engaging interest and providing opportunities for feedback and questions from the public about community healthcare. READ MORE...

A Life Saving Lesson For Deerpark

Thursday 1st September 2011 Junior pupils from Deer Park School in Wingerworth had a lesson with a difference - when they studied first aid, staying safe and life saving techniques.

And all the school - children aged from 4 to 11 - got the chance to climb aboard an Ambulance to see if they could bring the 'resus Annie dummy' back to life!

Working with their non-emergency transport contractors Ambuline, the Chesterfield Royal's Head of Communications, Sarah Turner-Saint piloted the first-aid day as part of Deer Park's health week. READ MORE...

Parking Fees Resume As Royal Hospital Recovery Continues

Wednesday 24th August 2011 Chesterfield Hospital has today said that parking will soon return to normal as services resume following the fire.

They have told us that barriers will be operational again from Tuesday 30th August, meaning the parking charges will apply for the first time since the fire devastated main entrance services in June.

Stuart Ellis, General Manager of Central Services said: "The barriers have been working but, because they were managed and monitored by security staff based in the main entrance, there's been no way to deal with any access problems visitors may have experienced." READ MORE...

BBC's Cancer Plot Brings Screening Message Home

Friday 12th August 2011A high profile cervical cancer storyline on the BBC's 'Eastenders' is to stress the need for more women to take routine smear tests, NHS Derbyshire cancer screening coordinators say.

Regular cervical screening can prevent cervical cancer through early detection of changes to the cervix. Early detection and treatment can prevent cancer developing in around 75 per cent of cases. 1 in 5 women in Derbyshire risk cervical cancer because they do not take up their screening invite which detects cancerous cells before they start to develop. Now EastEnders fans will see popular character Tanya Jessop's battle with the illness... READ MORE... Picture courtesy of the BBC

Eye Services Get A New Look In Chesterfield

Friday 5th August 2011 It's been announced that a £2 million project, which will revolutionise opthamology services in Chesterfield, has been authorised by Chesterfield Royal Hospital's Directors.

They say that the Chesterfield Eye Care Centre will house all specialisms under one roof and these will include cataracts, emergency care, age related macular degeneration and orthoptics and will mean an improvement in patient services and over all patient experiences. READ MORE...

Latest Fire Recovery Update From Chesterfield Royal

Wednesday 20th July 2011 Coming up to four weeks after the fire. We have the following updates and announcements from Sarah Turner-Saint (below) at the Chesterfield Royal Hospital, Calow.

Fracture clinic and orthopaedic clinic (out-patient suite 8) Since the fire, these clinical services have been situated on Staveley Ward. For the last 2 weeks work has been undertaken to rebuild the roof, repair damaged ceiling areas and to re-decorate.

THESE SERVICES WILL MOVE BACK TO OUT-PATIENT SUITE 8 ON MONDAY 25TH JULY 2011. READ MORE...

Chesterfield Health Issues Profiled In Report

Monday 18th July 2011 There’s good news for those of us who live in Chesterfield. as a recent survey taken shows that people in the town are getting healthier, with more of us living longer than they were ten years ago.

Figures just published by the Association of Public Health Observatories show that on average men live for 77.1 years and women 82.7 years - a few years less than the national average of 78.3 years for men and 82.3 years for women. Early deaths from cancer and from heart disease and stroke have also fallen. The report highlights that in Chesterfield's poorest communities life expectancy is 8.4 years lower for men and 4.8 years lower for women. READ MORE...

Can You Help Someone With Dementia?

Monday 18th July 2011 A local care home who are holding their annual Garden Party on 5th August are asking local companies for any donations of gifts or prizes to help their fundraising on the day.

The Staveley Centre is a specialist residential home that cares for people suffering from Dementia, a condition that currently affects three quarters of a million people here in the UK. Dementia is the term that is used to describe symptoms that occur when the brain becomes affected by specific diseases and conditions. Symptoms include loss of memory, confusion and having problems with speech and understanding. READ MORE...

'Gift By Text' Service Opens New Opportunity For Royal Charity

Monday 18th July 2011 An innovative new scheme to help the Royal Hospital receive donations has been launched this week.

Every year Chesterfield Royal Hospital benefits from thousands of pounds given in donations and bequests - with every penny spent to improve care, treatment and the environment patients’ experience.

Trust bosses say that the new Text Donation Service means there is now an even easier way for local people to make a charitable gift - 100% of their donation going straight to the hospital's charitable funds. READ MORE...

GP's Congratulated On Vaccine Success

Wednesday 13th July 2011 More children under five are being protected from serious illnesses thanks to a childhood vaccination programme run across the county.

Annual figures released by NHS Derbyshire show that on average over nine out of ten children living in Derbyshire are now vaccinated against MMR by the age of two years. The number of children having their preschool boosters, which protects against diphtheria, tetanus, whooping cough, polio and MMR, is also at a record high - with 93 per cent having this jab by the age of five. READ MORE...

Hospital Blaze Recovery Update

Monday 11th July 2011 Two weeks on from the fire that ravaged the main entrance area of Chesterfield Royal Hospital bosses there have today said that they hope to have front entrance services operational by March 2012.

They have also said that work towards replacing the severely damaged fracture clinic is going well and the facility (currently situated on Staveley Ward) could be back open in 2 weeks and a temporary reception area will be established within the clinic itself.

The hospital is keen to stress to patients that all services remain open and operating as usual. READ MORE...

Derbyshire Community Hospitals Praised For Patient Comfort

Wednesday 6th July 2011 Three hospitals in Chesterfield have just scored very highly after being rated by a patient safety agency.

Walton, Clay Cross and Bolsover Hospitals are providing high standards of cleanliness, privacy, dignity and excellent quality meals, according to the latest nationally recognised scores to measure how well hospitals are looking after the comfort of their patients.

All three community hospitals, run by Derbyshire Community Health Services NHS Trust, as well as another of its facilities at Ash Green Learning Disability Centre in Ashgate, were rated excellent or good in the latest Patient Environment Action Team Assessments READ MORE...

Independent Living Now A Reality For Local Residents

Tuesday 5th July 2011 More people with learning disabilities are living independently and taking control of their lives thanks to a project led by Derbyshire County Council and today, (Wednesday, 6th July), that will be celebrated at a daylong event at the Arkwright Centre in Arkwright, Chesterfield.

The morning session will be for professionals from all the organisations that have been involved in making the project become a reality.

The afternoon session, from 1.30pm, will be for people with learning disabilities who have found new homes through the programme to share their experiences, discuss the future and meet staff. READ MORE...

Leading The Way Down Under

Tuesday 5th July 2011 One of the Royal's nurse consultants is about to go 'down under' to teach the Aussies a thing or two about nurse-led endoscopy.

Ian Fretwell has been invited to speak about the development of nurse-led endoscopy clinics, traditionally led by medical consultants, at a conference in Cairns at the Tripartite Colorectal Meeting.

The tri-annual event is to share good practice between Europe, USA and Australasia and Ian has been invited to the event, fully funded by the organisers, on the legal issues, training and challenges in setting up a nurse-led service. READ MORE...

Latest Photos Of Chesterfield Royal Hospital After The Fire

Saturday 2nd July 2011 One week on from the fire at the hospital, they have today posted more pictures of the damage on their flickr page.

They show that, whilst the front of the hospital looks absolutely fine, behind the scenes is a different story.

Follow the link below and see for yourself just how much damage has been done to main entrance services and facilities. photos/chesterfieldroyalhospital

Up To A Year To Get The Royal Treated After Blaze Say Bosses

Friday 1st July 2011 Nearly a week after a blaze swept through the hospital, bosses at the Royal have tonight issued an update.

They say that, after experts have now thoroughly examined the areas affected by the fire it is expected to take between 8 and 12 months to repair. A large section around what was the shop will need to be demolished and work is expected to start on that in the next four weeks. When complete the area will be sealed from the elements and what's described, as a 'massive programme' will get underway to redesign and rebuild the facilities. A new infrastructure will also be needed featuring new electrics and IT systems. READ MORE...

Chesterfield Royal Hospital Fire - Latest Update & Video

Thursday 30th June 2011
Chesterfield Hospital has asked The Chesterfield Post to not only post the latest "Out Patient" video which we did HERE, which helps to explain the changes currently being undertaken at the hospital, but today, a further latest Video update from Chief Executive Eric Morton along with more images of the damage.

The hospital is working normally (The Editor can vouch for that after having spent time there last night and this morning there courtesy of a son and a broken wrist!) and there are lots of staff on hand to help. READ MORE...

Eyes Front For Free Health Advice

Thursday 30th June 2011 The eyes have it … NHS therapists donned funky glasses in an attempt to highlight the importance of regular sight tests for older people in Derbyshire as part of a falls awareness campaign.

The therapists from Walton, Clay Cross and Bolsover Hospitals gave falls prevention advice and information to nearly 200 people at a one-day health stall in Chesterfield market. Physiotherapist Karen Chapple, one of the event organisers from Derbyshire Community Health Services NHS Trust, said: "We had a very good response. Falls are a real risk as people get older and become less steady on their feet." READ MORE...

Chesterfield Royal Hospital Update

Tuesday 28th June 2011 - 22:00 A spokeswoman at Chesterfield Royal Hospital has tonight given us an update on services at the hospital.

All Out patient clinics have run today again and the temporary reception is working well. The re -siting of some facilities is still on going with the logistics of the placing of some services like Security, Advice centre and patient’s accounts still being looked at. READ MORE...

'Get Your Life Back' After Heart Disease, Diabetes Or Stroke

Tuesday 28th June 2011 Chesterfield residents are being invited to a free event offering support and advice for anyone affected by Heart Disease, Diabetes and Stroke on Wednesday, June 29th at 1.30pm in the new b2net stadium in Chesterfield.

The 'Get Your Life Back', event, on Wednesday, June 29th at 1.30pm will see renowned experts from across the UK speaking on Cardiac Rehabilitation, Angina and Stroke, Health and Social care. Voluntary organisations will be on hand to offer advice and chat about local issues. READ MORE...

"Sprinklers Would Have Been No Use" - Hospital Bosses

Monday 27th June 2011 After reports emerged this morning that Chesterfield Hospital did not have a sprinkler system in place at the time of the fire on Saturday night the Board has today issued a statement.

They say that, "A sprinkler system would not have affected an electrical fire of this nature. This hospital meets all the latest standards for fire prevention and safety and is fully compliant with current law. Investment in the main entrance (fire doors and shields) helped to prevent this fire from spreading further. They did the job they were intended to do. There is no legal requirement for sprinkler systems, but it is an issue the trust will review with experts..." READ MORE...

LATEST UPDATE: Statement For Patients From The Royal

Sunday June 26th 2011 - 21:30
Chesterfield Hospital has tonight released details of what s likely to be happening tomorrow on site after the devastating fire which happened around 24 hours ago. Photographs have also been released tonight by the hospital showing the true nature of the destruction inside the main entrance/ shop area.

The key messages are:
 • All services open - Out-patient appointments and in-patient operations to run as planned (with some location moves as necessary - see below). Patients who are registered with our mobile text messaging service will receive a text... READ MORE...

Chesterfield Hospital Fire - "It Could Have Been Worse"

Sunday 26th June 2011
The Chesterfield Post has just left a press conference where it was confirmed by Sarah Turner Saint, Head of Communications that the Estates team are now on site completing a Risk Assessment of the premises.

Reading from a prepared statement, she told the assembled press that, "Its fair to say the damage is substantial, with structural problems to parts of the roof above fracture and orthopaedic clinics. What we're looking at the minute is to relocate some services soon and are hopeful that some parts of the A&E will be open today from 2pm for emergency ambulance patients only." READ MORE & VIDEO...

Chief Fire Officer Speaks To The Post

Sunday 26th June 2011
Bob Currie is the Group Manager of Derbyshire Fire and Rescue and he was present at the incident the whole time.

He told the Chesterfield Post how the night unfolded and what the implications were as it spread, "The initial call came in at 9.20 pm and we initially attended with 3 pumping appliances. However, we soon realised that they weren't enough and by the end had 10 appliances here, having drawn on support from our colleagues at Long Eaton, Derby and Sheffield. That's normal for this type of incident however, as it was classed as a major incident." READ MORE & VIDEO...

Update After Hospital Fire

Sunday 26th June 2011 Chesterfield Royal Hospital is this morning assessing damage to it's A&E, Fracture Clinic and Main Entrance after fire ripped through the departments last night.

10 fire crews from all over Derbyshire and South Yorkshire were called to the scene after the alarm was raised at 9.20pm. 15 patients who were in the A&E dept when the fire broke out were stretchered to other hospitals, with what are described as 'walking wounded' treated elsewhere in the hospital. The Hospital was closed to Ambulance and 999 patients and remains so this morning, with patients being taken to Kingsmill Hopsital. READ MORE...

Hospital Fire Statement...

Sunday 26th June 2011 Further Statement issued 01:00 -

"Fire Brigade report that the fire is out. Crew undertaking a search to check for any remaining hot spots.  Considerable smoke and fire damage, particularly to A&E patient reception and the fracture clinic, as the fire had spread in to roof space above these areas.

A&E remains closed until further notice.  999 patients transferred to other available hospitals in the area. 

Stress that NO WARDS have been evacuated as part of this incident - this has been reported via Facebook and is incorrect.  Please re-assure relatives that their loved ones remain safe and secure on wards throughout the hospital."READ MORE...

Major Fire At Royal Hospital

Saturday 25th June 2011
There is a major incident at Chesterfield Royal Hospital tonight with 10 fire engines in attendance.

The first call came at 21.58pm with the Main Entrance reported as being on fire . Within half an hour 10 fire crews had been deployed from Alfreton, Ripley, Clay Cross, Bolsover and South Yorkshire also in attendance.

Police and Ambulances are at the scene along with Chesterfield council Planning Officers and Enviromental Health officers. READ MORE...

Local Health Services - YOUR Opinion Counts

Friday 24th June 2011 People living across Derbyshire - and beyond - are being urged to get more involved in their local health services at the start of a major consultation by Derbyshire Community Health Services NHS Trust.

Derbyshire Community Health Services NHS Trust launches it's consultation about becoming an NHS Foundation Trust on 1st July 2011 and will spend three months, until 30th September, canvassing interest in local communities across the county. READ MORE...

Chesterfield Football Club Pitches In To Help Prevent Falls

Tuesday 21st June 2011 As part of Falls Awareness Week, Chesterfield FC Community Trust will be holding a Falls Prevention themed Extra Time Social and Gentle Exercise Club on Wednesday 22nd June.

Every year, more than three million people aged over 65, including half of those aged 80+, will have a fall. The consequences can be devastating, both physically and emotionally. Age UK is encouraging people in later life to take simple steps to prevent falls, such as having an eye test and getting involved in a local Falls Awareness Week event. READ MORE...

Derbyshire NHS Employer Shortlisted For National Award

Tuesday 21st June 2011
It is not often that McDonalds and the NHS are mentioned in the same breath. But Derbyshire Community Health Services NHS Trust is punching above its weight by being shortlisted against McDonalds and other household names including Ladbrooks and the Cooperative Group in a national award for engaging with its employees.

Derbyshire Community Health Services NHS Trust has been named as one of only seven shortlisted organisations nationally - and the only NHS organisation - for it's outstanding employee engagement strategy READ MORE...

Watch Your Step

Friday 17th June 2011 Thousands of older people are at risk of losing mobility, confidence and suffering broken bones due to falls and are being urged to watch their step by NHS Derbyshire.

Figures released by the local health authority to coincide with National Falls Awareness Week (20-24 June) show that last year 38,452 people aged 65 or over fell in Derbyshire.

The personal cost of an accidental trip to an older person is enormous - with many suffering an earth-shattering loss of function, mobility, confidence and independence, as a result of injuries such as broken wrists, ankles or hips. Tragically, many also lose their lives. READ MORE...

Successful Blood Donor Sessions Return To B2net

Thursday 9th June 2011
After seeing previous sessions oversubscribed Chesterfield Football Club is again urging local people to do something amazing by giving blood as the NHS Blood and Transplant Service returns to the B2net Stadium for yet another lifesaving donor session.

There will be 2 upcoming sessions at the B2net; the first on Monday 13th June, with the second to follow shortly after on Monday 4th July. Normally walk-in donors are more than welcome but such is the demand for previous sessions at the B2net that advance bookings are being advised. Call 0300 123 23 23. READ MORE...

Top Recognition For Dronfield Medical Staff

Monday 6th June 2011 A Doctor's surgery in Dronfield has just scooped a major national award from the Royal College of General Practitioners for the second time running.

Medical and nursing staff from Dronfield Medical Practice - which relocated to larger, modern premises on Dronfield High Street three years ago - was the first surgery in North Derbyshire to pick up the prestigious Quality Practice award from the country's leading professional body in 2003.

Now the surgery won the accolade for a second time. READ MORE...

Get A Life

Monday 6th June 2011 Shocking statistics show that North Derbyshire has one of the highest rates of vascular and heart disease in the UK and that 'significant' numbers of people who have had a heart attack or stroke never take up follow up treatment offered on discharge and resume their old lifestyle.

Experts say that as many as 80% of patients fail to attend rehabilitation appointments and therefore face a higher risk of another attack. These figures come despite North Derbyshire providing an extensive rehabilitation and aftercare programme and they are keen to publicise this. READ MORE...

Bowel Cancer Breakthrough In Derbyshire

Friday 3rd July 2011 The rollout of a cancer-screening programme in Derbyshire that has seen people up to the age of 75 tested for bowel cancer has been hailed a success.

Growths that could have gone on to become cancerous were found in 176 people since NHS Derby City and NHS Derbyshire County extended the age limit to people aged between 70 and 75 in January 2010. Out of this group 32 were diagnosed with cancer, with a further 411 having abnormal results requiring hospital scans or internal checks. An additional 100 patients may also require further tests and checks to prevent the third most commonest cause of cancer developing. READ MORE...

Bank Holiday Doctor's Services

Friday 27th May 2011 Patients are being reminded that they can simply call their usual surgery number if they need a GP urgently when their surgery is closed over the Spring Bank Holiday. They will then be directed to the out-of-hours service.

NHS advisers in Derbyshire also recommend that any patient needing a repeat prescription or medicine call into their local surgery or pharmacy in good time.

The call, which is being issued by NHS Derby City and NHS Derbyshire County comes as local surgeries and the majority of pharmacies confirm they will be shutting on May Day, Monday, May 30th. READ MORE...

Chesterfield Dentists Face Standards Tests

Monday 23rd May 2011 As National Smile Month begins it’s been announced today that all 126 of NHS Derbyshire's dental practices are now successfully signed up to the National Care Quality Commission Scheme it's been announced today.

Under the scheme, dentists are required to meet a series of essential standards in quality and safety covering five areas. These include 'involvement and information', 'personalised care, treatment and support', 'safeguarding and safety', 'suitability of staffing' and 'quality and management'. They will face regular monitoring from the National Healthcare Regulator. READ MORE...

The Royal Leads In Stroke Care

Wednesday 18th May 2011 Stroke care at the Chesterfield Royal Hospital is the best in the East Midlands and amongst the best in the country.

The results of the National Sentinel Stroke Audit gave the Royal's stroke unit a Total Process Score of 93% compared to the national average of 78% and scored higher in all nine of the key standards that ensure a constancy of care across the stroke pathway. READ MORE...

Top Derbyshire Doctor Is Face Of New Campaign

Tuesday 17th May 2011 A top Derbyshire doctor has been chosen as one of the faces of a new campaign to encourage NHS staff to plan for their own future care.

Dr Ben Lobo, Medical Director at Derbyshire Community Health Services NHS Trust, is appearing on posters for the new 'Time to Talk' campaign for NHS staff across the East Midlands.

Dr Lobo said: "I am proud that staff working for the NHS dedicate so much time caring for patients, especially those near the end of their lives." READ MORE...

Man Jailed After Hospital Break In

Friday 13th May 2011 A man has been jailed after admitting breaking into workers' accommodation at Chesterfield Hospital.

Gavin Treweek, 41, pleaded guilty to burglary, and a separate offence of possessing an imitation firearm, at a hearing at Derby Crown Court on Wednesday, May 11th.

On April 24th, 2010 Treweek entered the nurses' accommodation block at Chesterfield Royal Hospital and stole a laptop from one of the rooms. READ MORE...

Local GP's In Landmark Talks On NHS Reform

Monday 9th May 2011 A landmark event discussing the future of the local NHS is to take place on Wednesday, May 11th at the Chesterfield Hotel between 2pm and 4pm.

GPs from Hardwick Health, who are trialling NHS reforms on behalf of 103,000 patients in Bolsover and North Derbyshire prior to the national 2013 deadline, will lead the high level talks.

The group of GPs was the first in the county to be awarded 'pathfinder' status by the Department of Health - an official recognition of the excellent track record they have in developing services... READ MORE...

Norovirus Closes Ward

Wednesday 4th May 2011 Chesterfield Royal Hospital is today urging people to watch out for the signs of Norovirus after an outbreak has lead to a ward closure.

Anyone experiencing the symptoms is being asked to stay at home until symptom free for at least 72 hours as the virus can still spread during that time, even if you feel well.

Diane Simpson is the Senior Matron for Infection Prevention and Control, and she had this message for residents of North Derbyshire: "We've had an outbreak on Basil ward and closed it to reduce the risk of cross-infection to other wards and departments." READ MORE...

No Decisions About You, Without You

Tuesday 3rd May 2011 A landmark event, aimed at helping shape the future of the local NHS is to take place at the B2 net on 5th May.

GPs from the newly-formed North Derbyshire GP Consortium, which includes 31 GP practices covering North Dales (Matlock to the Hope Valley), Chesterfield, Dronfield, Clowne and Bolsover, are testing government plans to reform the NHS ahead of the national deadline and are asking local people to attend to find out how any changes may affect them.

The event will kick off at the stadium at 6.30pm, running to 7.30pm with a buffet from 6pm. READ MORE...

Local GP's Trial Service Improvements

Friday 29th April 2011 A Scheme that aims to help GP practices spend more time with patients is currently being trialled at a Derbyshire medical centre.

Bolsover’s Welbeck Road Medical Centre is one of only seven surgeries in England and Scotland to be selected to take part in an initiative called Productive General Practice, reassessing the way GP surgeries work.

During the trials key staff at the practice, including receptionists, GPs, nursing staff, practice managers, secretaries and pharmacy dispensers, will look at ways in which they can use their resources better to improve services for patients. READ MORE...

10 Fingers, 10 Toes, 10 Years

Thursday 28th April 2011 The Chesterfield Royal Hospital has announced that once again it has been awarded Baby Friendly status.

The Baby Friendly Initiative (BFI) is a combined World Health Organisation and UNICEF project designed to assess the willingness of maternity services to support breastfeeding. The Trust was assessed against 36 standards and achieved 34 of these resulting in passing all ten standards. READ MORE...

Listening To How We Can Improve Dementia Care

Thursday 28th April 2011 Listening to frontline staff, patients and carers is an important part of making sure older people's mental health services in Derbyshire are of the highest quality and effectively meet patients' needs.

Around 160 nurses, health care assistants, carers and therapists - as well as patients and families affected by dementia - were invited to share ideas and suggestions for developing services for older people with mental health (OPMH) problems in Derbyshire's community hospitals. READ MORE...

Service Of Remembrance To Be Held At Royal

Wednesday 27th April 2011 The Chesterfield Royal Hospital is once again holding a Service of Remembrance for parents who have lost their children.

The annual event has taken place at the Royal for the past 20 years as part of the ongoing support for families who have lost babies and children through miscarriage, stillbirth, illness or accident. It is always set to take place on the Sunday after the Easter weekend, falling this year on Sunday May 1st. READ MORE...

Chocolate Treasure For Sick Children

Wednesday 27th April 2011

It was an 'egg-citing' time (sorry!) for sick children in hospital over Easter after a local company donated 164 Easter eggs and a bag of balloons to Nightingale Ward to help them celebrate the Bank Holiday away from home.

Right4Staff, based in Chesterfield, donated the prizes to help the staff prepare a treasure hunt for children being treated over the bank holiday weekend. It's an annual event which is organised by staff on the ward to allow children in hospital be a part of the experience and have a few chocolate eggs to enjoy READ MORE...

A Healthy Start For Local Low Income Families

Friday 22nd April 2011 Pregnant women and families on a low income are today being urged to take advantage of a free healthy vitamin scheme run by their local Chesterfield children's centre.

Nutritionists at NHS Derbyshire say vitamins are essential for healthy growth and development, and are currently available without charge to anyone qualifying for Healthy Start vouchers.

Healthy Start vouchers can be used towards the cost of healthy basic foods like fresh and frozen plain fruit, vegetables and milk READ MORE...

Ill Health Advice Over Easter

Thursday 21st April 2011 Patients are being urged to phone their own GP surgery should they need to see a doctor out of hours during the Easter break.

They are also reminded that they can simply call their usual surgery number if they need a GP urgently when their surgery is closed so that they can be directed to the out-of-hours service.

With 4 Bank Holidays coming up, NHS advisers in Derbyshire recommend that any patient needing a repeat prescription or medicine call into their local surgery or pharmacy in good time. READ MORE...

Ambulance Service Faces £5m Penalty

Monday 18th April 2011 We've been told today that it is 'highly likely' that a £5m penalty will be applied to East Midlands Ambulance Service (EMAS) after it failed to meet national response requirements throughout the last financial year.

NHS Derbyshire County, which oversees the performance of the service, has confirmed that the fine will be applied in line with national rules that say that penalties must be levied if the targets aren't met. However, they have stated that the cash will be ploughed back into EMAS to support performance improvement. READ MORE...

PCT Cluster Chief Executive Appointment

Monday 11th April 2011 It's been announced that Derbyshire Primary Care Trust Cluster now has a new Chief Executive after the appointment of David Sharp who will take up his post with immediate effect.

David has worked in the NHS since 1987 and worked in Board level positions in Nottinghamshire and Derbyshire since 1998. With a finance director background,he aims to use evidence to improve healthcare and patient experience within the NHS, and has a PhD based on work in that field.

As part of the NHS reforms, PCT's are working together in clusters to support the new environment of NHS commissioning by GP's and local authority-led, public health delivery. READ MORE...

Cricketer Yardy's Depression An Example To Us All

Thursday 7th April 2011 England cricketer Michael Yardy's decision to open up about his prolonged battle with mental illness proves there's never a wrong time to start fighting depression.

That's the message from Derbyshire County public health workers to people in Derbyshire who are in a similar position, and battling alone with the illness.

News of the spin bowler's illness hit the headlines recently when the Sussex captain announced he would be heading back home to England days before the widely anticipated World Cup Cricket quarter final was due to start. READ MORE...

New Regulations For Sunbed Operators

Monday 28th March 2011 Sunbed operators are today being warned that new rules are about to come into force from 8th April.

The Health and Safety Enforcement Officers at the Council have been advising of the new regulations that will require operators to:

• Prevent the use of sunbeds to under 18's.
• Provide sunbed users with prescribed health information about the risks associated with using sunbeds.
• Display prescribed health information.
• Ensure protective eyewear is available and 'so far as is reasonably practicable' used. READ MORE...

Parking Changes At The Royal

Thursday 24th March 2011 There's space for change at Chesterfield Royal Hospital - 50 spaces in fact!

They've announced that, over the next few weeks, free access car parking right at the front of Chesterfield Royal Hospital is set to expand - with around 50 new spaces on site for patients and visitors with 'blue badge' permits.

The revised layout will mean that around 120 spaces in car parks 1, 2 and 3 will provide the majority of blue badge parking on site - with around 30 other spaces available across the trust's grounds. It's aimed at keeping the main entrance area clear and meaning that traffic queues on the main road will be kept down to a minimum, ensuring emergency vehicles and public transport can get on site quickly and without problems. READ MORE...

H-A-P-P-Y

Thursday 17th March 2011 A report out yesterday suggests that staff morale within the NHS Derbyshire County remains among the highest throughout the NHS.

More employees are satisfied in their jobs than previously and more than before would recommend the NHS as a good place to work, according to the results of a survey conducted throughout NHS Derbyshire County and Derbyshire Community Health Services. READ MORE...

County's Dentists Champion Patient Scheme

Thursday 17th March 2011 Almost half of Derbyshire County's dentists are now championing a national scheme proving their commitment to patient care.

Thirty-eight of NHS Derbyshire County's 90 dentists have completed registration with the British Dental Association's 'Good Practice' initiative, where they sign up to a ten-point charter and undertake rigorous self-assessment.

Under the charter dental teams must demonstrate they can make dental treatment as comfortable and convenient as possible, review training plans once a year, and follow current guidelines on infection control. READ MORE...

The Royal Goes Global

Monday 7th March 2011 After conquering Facebook, the Chesterfield Royal Hospital has now reached another social networking milestone with its 1,000th 'YouTube' viewing.

Now having close to 4,000 Facebook friends the Royal has branched out further, delivering a range of its facilities and health information visually across twelve online videos.

The channel was created at the start of the year and already includes tours of the Chesterfield and Darley Birth Centres, the main entrance, the Advice Centre and news pieces on the Royal visits by the Countess of Wessex and Duchess of Cornwall. READ MORE...

Wards Closed At Royal Due To Infection

Saturday 5th March 2011 We have been told tonight that, due to an outbreak of Norovirus, three wards at Chesterfield Royal Hospital are closed to new admissions.

Relatives and friends of patients on Robinson, Murphy and Portland wards are being asked to visit only if strictly necessary and ALL visitors to the hospital are being asked to follow the hand washing procedure in order to stop the further spread of the virulent illness.

Royal Inspection For Hospital

Monday 21st February 2011 The Royal Hospital at Calow lived up to its name on Friday as it welcomed HRH The Duchess of Cornwall. The visit formed part of a tour of Derby and Staffordshire by The Duchess and HRH The Prince of Wales.

As reported previously in The Chesterfield Post, Her Royal Highness viewed and officially opened the Trust's £12 Million development of the Hasland, Elmton and Ridgeway Wards.

The Duchess was welcomed by a party including The Mayor and Mayoress of Chesterfield and then taken on a tour of the wards... READ MORE...

Safe And Sustainable

Monday 21st February 2011 A four-month long review of the future of children's congenital heart services is about to begin in England and the NHS is seeking the views of people in Chesterfield.

The NHS Safe and Sustainable committee has proposed four options aimed at reducing the number of hospitals providing children's heart surgery from 11 to 6 or 7. New quality standards are also proposed to ensure better care and survival rates for children. READ MORE...

X-Factor Family Ticket Draw In Aid Of Motor Neurone Disease

Thursday 10th February 2011 A fantastic opportunity to win a family Ticket for the X-Factor Show, Nottingham Arena, Tuesday March 22nd, while supporting the Motor Neurone Disease Association. All tickets are only £2 and available from the Co-op Department Store, Elder Way Chesterfield and the draw takes place on Friday 25th February.

Motor Neurone Disease is a progressive neurodegenerative disease that attacks the upper and lower motor neurones leading to weakness and wasting of muscles, causing increasing loss of mobility in the limbs, and difficulties with speech, swallowing and breathing. Please show your support and good luck!

A Royal Is Coming To The Royal

Wednesday 9th February 2011

Chesterfield Royal Hospital has announced today that HRH The Duchess of Cornwall will be performing the official opening of the new £12 million ward development at Chesterfield Royal Hospital NHS Foundation Trust.

The visit will place next Friday, Feb 18th, when Her Royal Highness will tour the new facility, meet staff, patients as well as the architects (The Manser Practice, Leeds), building contractors (GB Building Solutions, Wakefield) and others responsible for the modern, innovative, energy saving design. READ MORE...

Kick This Bug Into Touch

Monday 7th February 2011 Players and management from Chesterfield Football Club and nurses from Derbyshire Community Health Services have joined forces to give one of the most virulent and severe winter bugs the 'Red Card'.

The 'Kick out Norovirus' campaign aims to highlight the danger of the winter sickness bug, one of the most contagious bugs in circulation, causing violent stomach upsets, mild fever, aches and flu-like symptoms.

Nurses say there are ways to ease its spread if people avoid public places like hospitals, schools and nursing homes and stay at home... READ MORE...

Modern Makeover As Partners Merge To Put Patients First

Monday 7th February 2011 Over 450 stroke patients in Chesterfield are set to benefit after a £1.4 million scheme has meant a new purpose built facility for stroke sufferers will soon be open at the Royal.

What a spokesman at the hospital termed a "Thoroughly modern makeover" is taking place, converting Eastwood Ward at the Chesterfield site and Speedwell Ward at Walton to a one site care and rehabilitation centre at Calow. READ MORE...

Drawing Blood To A Score Draw For One Lucky Donor

Monday 31st January 2011 A local donor who was one of the first to give blood at the new B2 NET stadium was Guest of Honour to see The Spireites grab a draw in the dying minutes of the game against Bradford on Saturday.

James Taylor, who has donated blood 52 times, was the lucky winner of a VIP day out after entering the prize draw at the first ever session hosted by the National Blood Transfusion Service at the stadium last November.

Joined by daughter Jessica, they enjoyed a 3 course lunch, tour of the ground and seats in the HTM stand, all hosted by CFC Director Ashley Carson. READ MORE...

Local Pharmacist Wins Award In Parliament

Wednesday 19th January 2011 A Chesterfield Pharmacist was one of only SIX health professionals to win a prestigious award in recognition of her work in helping to combat the UK's biggest hospital killer - blood clots.

Chesterfield MP Toby Perkins last week presented an award to Anna Braithwaite at the inaugural Lifeblood Thrombosis Prevention Awards held in Parliament this week in order to help to highlight the killer which accounts for as many as 25,000 avoidable deaths every year.

Ms Braithwaite, who is Principle Pharmacist at Chesterfield Royal... READ MORE...

More Fans For Chesterfield Royal Hospital

Monday 10th January 2011 A few weeks ago Chesterfield Hospital was appealing for friends on Facebook - now they're proud to announce they have fans of a different kind.

One new ward, Ridgeway, has just had 34 fans donated, along with two salon quality hairdryers and ten shaving mirrors by a Chesterfield organisation after one of it's members became a patient on the ward and, after recovering, raised money to buy equipment needed for the Trust. Harry Johnson, from the Chesterfield and Mansfield Royal Antediluvian Order of Buffaloes (RAOB) was treated for Pneumonia ... READ MORE...

Flu Advice

Tuesday 4th January 2011 As swine flu cases once again begin to rise Chesterfield Royal hospital is advising people who think they or someone they know may have the illness to visit their website in the first instance for further advice. However they have this general information for anyone who may be worried -

1. Symptoms include fever or high temperature, tiredness, headache, runny nose, sore throat, cough/shortness of breath, aches, diarrhoea or vomiting.
2. If you think you have swine or seasonal flu then DO NOT visit your GP or hospital as you risk spreading it to the wider community, instead phone your GP or ring NHS Direct on 0845 46 47 for advice - this also applies... READ MORE...

Stroke Services Showcased At Hospital

Wednesday 29th December 2010 The statistics are frightening - around 150 000 people have a stroke every year, it's the largest form of disability and the 3rd most common cause of death in the UK - with 25 % of patients under 65 when they have one.

Women are also 3 times more likely to die of a stroke than Breast Cancer.

Causes range from smoking, drinking and lifestyle factors (weight and diet), to high blood pressure and diabetes. Family History of strokes can be significant, along with a history of previous small strokes (TIA's). READ MORE...

When A Child Is Born

Monday 27th December 2010 There were bumper bundles of joy at Chesterfield Royal Hospital on Christmas Day after 7 mums gave birth. 5 sets of parents gave permission for the details of the new additions to be released.

First born (that we have details for) was Poppy Louise Jones who arrived safely into the world at 6.59 am weighing a healthy 6lb 7oz.

Poppy had been due on Xmas Eve so proud parents - Amy and Craig from Higham - were prepared for a Christmas baby. Poppy is their third daughter, and new sister to Nicole (6) and Lily-May (3). READ MORE...

Ho Ho Ho-spital Visit For Spireites

Thursday 23rd December 2010 Chesterfield Manager John Sheridan and his players brought an early Christmas surprise to young patients in the Nightingale Ward of the Chesterfield Royal Hospital at Calow.

The Spireite players certainly took along some Christmas cheer as they greeted the youngsters at their bedsides, handing out goodie bags packed full of official club merchandise. The players and management team from the B2net had a private collection before their morning training session which was then passed on to Community Director John Croot, allowing the goodie bags to be filled with even more treats for the youngsters. READ MORE...

Don't Take Risks When Walking Home

Thursday 16th December 2010 As we're all out enjoying the Christmas Spirit, there's a warning that we need to take care whilst walking home. The message, from Derby and Derbyshire Road Safety Partnership is that the motorways and A roads are no place for pedestrians.

Partnership chairman Mike Ashworth said: "Every year, we see people taking risks after a night out. They try to walk home along busy dual carriageways such as the A38 and some even take a shortcut by running across the M1. READ MORE...

More MRSA Screenings Than Ever Before At Chesterfield Royal

Thursday 16th December 2010 The Chesterfield Royal Hospital has announced today that it has extended its MRSA screening programme to include emergency patients.

The infection control programme was introduced in March 2009 and meant that routine screening took place amongst all patients undergoing surgical procedures but, until now, that hasn’t included all emergency admissions. READ MORE...

Chesterfield Royal Gets Digital Tonic

Tuesday 7th December 2010 Chesterfield Royal Hospital is appealing for friends today.

It’s become one of the first trusts in the UK to set up a facebook profile (rather than a page) and it's hoped that they can use it to get messages across in a fast and effective manner.

There's also a new section on its own website where you can find videos showing more of the services the hospital has to offer and where to go to access them. READ MORE...

Give Blood, Give Life

Tuesday 23rd November 2010 As Christmas approaches, the NHS Blood Transfusion Service is asking people in Chesterfield to think about giving one free but valuable gift this Christmas and donate a pint of blood.

Winter is a crucial time of year for people who rely on blood transfusions, with winter illnesses and infections meaning donors are sometimes unable to give blood. Added to that, this year Christmas Day falls on a Saturday, which means that there will be a reduction in the number of donor sessions taking place over the two-week festive period. There will only be six full days and four half days instead of the usual full 10 days. READ MORE...

Hospital Make Contingency Plans Ahead Of Winter

Tuesday 2nd November 2010 Although it's only just November, Chesterfield Royal say they are already seeing a rise in admissions due to "winter illnesses", particularly on the emergency management and medical wards.

Hospital bosses are now advising that, in order to keep services moving and to make sure that patients continue to receive the high quality care and treatment they need, they have taken steps which mean that the hospital is less likely to close to emergency admissions. READ MORE...

New Era For Women's Health As New Unit Opens At Hospital

Monday 25th October 2010 A ground breaking Woman's Health Unit has opened today at the Chesterfield Royal and hopes to change the way the hospital provides gynaecology nursing and medical care.

The unit will house the Early Pregnancy Assessment Unit (EPAU), day case gynaecology surgery and a number of out-patient procedures, bringing all of those services into one place and providing a faster and more specialised service.

Matron Claire Lambie-Fryer is proud of the unit, saying "It's an exciting time and offers a much more efficient and streamlined way of managing and caring for our female patients who can be seen and treated without needing a hospital stay." READ MORE...

Doing Something Amazing At The B2net Stadium

Monday 25th October 2010
Now, we all know that many fans would do anything for their football team, but Chesterfield Football Club has been amazed by the response to requests to give blood during the NHS Blood and Transplant Service sessions at the B2net Stadium.

Already the first day, next Monday 1st November, is fully booked. Due to an overwhelming response, a second date has been added and bookings are now being taken for Sunday 21st November. There will be two sessions on this second day from 10.00am to 1.00pm and from 2.00pm to 3.30pm. READ MORE...

Your Hospital Needs You!

Tuesday 12th October 2010 North Derbyshire's patients are being asked to tell Chesterfield Royal how it can improve it's services.

850 questionnaires have been sent out to patients who had at least one overnight stay during August 2010 asking them for feedback on experiences ranging from quality of care, pain control, hospital food, cleanliness and information given during their stay.

Chief Executive Eric Morton said: "We pride ourselves on public engagement and listening to the patients that use our services and surveys like this one are important to help us find out what we’re doing right and where we could improve." READ MORE...

OTHER NEWS

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