A Consultation inviting the public to comment on the proposals for the new community hospital in the Forest of Dean will launch on Thursday 22 October.
Planning for the hospital is now at a stage where the proposals for the inpatient unit, outpatient services, urgent care, diagnostic services and other facilities on site can be discussed with the local community.
The site for the hospital, which will be built and operated by Gloucestershire Health and Care NHS Foundation Trust, is the Lower High Street Playing Field in Steam Mills Road, Cinderford. This was announced in December 2019.
Paul Roberts, Chief Executive of the Trust, said: “We want to provide a modern, purpose built hospital which will deliver high quality care in the Forest of Dean now and for many years to come.
“That means we have to make decisions on design, the layout and services which will be included, and we believe it is vital that the people who will use the new hospital have a voice in this process.
“I would urge everyone in the Forest of Dean to read through the proposals and provide feedback to help us make informed decisions about what we’re sure will be a fantastic addition to local services.”
Proposals being put to the public are for a 24-bed inpatient unit, urgent care facility, x-ray, ultrasound and endoscopy, and a range of consultation and treatment rooms for outpatient appointments. Experiences of providing care throughout the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic will also influence the final design, to minimise the risk of infections spreading and to allow for social distancing between staff and patients.
Dr Andy Seymour, Clinical Chair at NHS Gloucestershire Clinical Commissioning Group, said: “Healthcare is always moving forward. The pandemic has offered everyone a very clear example of that throughout 2020, but the NHS is constantly responding to new technology, new treatments and new ways of working.
“The NHS has an exciting opportunity to provide a wonderful new hospital in the Forest of Dean which can support modern healthcare and meet the needs of patients and staff. We look forward to listening to, and reflecting on, the views of local people.”
The public consultation will run for eight weeks from Thursday 22 October to Thursday 17 December. The consultation materials and survey will be available online at www.fodhealth.nhs.uk or getinvolved.glos.nhs.uk
Written booklets can be requested by:
- sending an email to: glccg.participation@nhs.net
- by writing to: FREEPOST RRYY-KSGT-AGBR, Fit for the Future: FOD Hospital, Sanger House, Valiant Court, Gloucester Business Park, Gloucester, GL3 4FE
- by leaving a message on the Freephone number: 0800 0151 548
EasyRead versions of the consultation document are also available on request.
