Nursing Union Expresses Alarm Over Potential Hospital Ward Closures

The Royal College of Nursing (RCN) has expressed its “concern” regarding potential closures at Goole and District Hospital, stating that it learned of the proposal solely through media coverage. Multiple hospital employees informed the BBC that they attended a meeting on Friday where they were notified of the impending closure of several wards in the new year. Sarah Dodsworth, the RCN regional director, has advocated for a “meaningful consultation process” concerning any prospective plans for the hospital. A statement from the Northern Lincolnshire and Goole NHS Foundation Trust (NLaG) indicated that no final decision has been reached, and the trust is currently examining “possible options” for the hospital’s future. Ms. Dodsworth has pressed NLaG to initiate a “formal consultation” and to “set out their plans in full.” She further stated: “The people of Goole and neighbouring communities rely heavily on services provided by their local hospital.” “This will be a very worrying and anxious time for patients and staff.” BBC Look North received information indicating that the trust intended to close a minimum of four inpatient departments, while outpatient care and the urgent treatment centre would continue to operate. Sir David Davis, the Member of Parliament for Goole and Pocklington, reported that he was unaware of the trust’s intentions until he was contacted by members of the public. He is scheduled to participate in an “urgent meeting” with East Riding of Yorkshire Council leader Anne Handley and NHS officials to “get to the bottom” of any proposed plans.