Eastbourne DGH boss thanks public for support through a difficult year

Joe Chadwick-Bell has thanked people for their ‘overwhelming support’ and cooperation as ‘the year like no other’ comes to an end.

Ms Chadwick-Bell said, “In the first wave of the pandemic we appreciated the immense outpouring of support and encouragement from our local communities as our dedicated 7,000-strong team at the healthcare trust worked hard to provide patients with the best possible care.”

She said how the recent increase in Covid cases across East Sussex has shown people the pandemic is ‘far from over’.

Ms Chadwick-Bell said, “Our usual winter pressures have been compounded by the significant impact of positive Covid patients being admitted to our hospitals – this is already triple the number that we cared for in the first peak. Numbers are still increasing and our hospitals are far busier than usual.”

She said as a result of this increase, non-urgent surgery is being postponed so staff can safely manage the demand faced on them.

Ms Chadwick-Bell said there are a number of ways people can support the NHS such as following the relevant tier guidelines imposed on them and using the NHS services wisely to make sure the people that need care the most are seen to. People can also call NHS 111, their GP or local pharmacist for non-critical care and advice over the phone and the chance to book appointments and order prescriptions.

She said, “We must all work together to help reduce the spread of the virus in East Sussex by following - Hands, Face, Space. Without a doubt, following this simple advice is the best thing you can do to keep yourself, your family and the NHS safe this Christmas.

“It’s important to also remember that the less contact we have with others, the less this virus will spread and affect those we love. We know this is difficult and we know it is asking a lot, because like you, we all want to spend time with our friends and loved ones over the festive season. However, with an effective vaccine in sight and the roll-out already happening across East Sussex, now is not the time to be complacent.

“As a community we have shown what we can do when we put our mind to it. Together we have reduced the rate of transmission once and helped to keep each other safe. It’s important that we work together to do this again.”

Appeal to the residents of East Sussex