Feast@: West Atrium, Level 1, open daily 7am - 1am
Feast@ the Deli: West Atruim, Level 1, open Monday - Friday, 7am-3pm
Feast@ Café Bar: Out-patients East, open Monday - Friday, 7.30am - 4.30pm
Coffee House: Plaza (West), open MondayFriday, 7am - 6.30pm; Saturday, 9am - 4.30pm; Sunday, 9am - 3.30pm
Little Costa: Out-patients West, open Monday - Friday, 7am - 5.30pm
The Pod: Plaza East, open Monday - Friday, 7am - 8pm; Saturday, 9am - 6pm Charity Café: Car park G outside the Emergency Department, 7.30am - 4pm weekdays
The Mardle Café at Cromer Hospital: 8am4pm Monday to Friday
Shopping
WRVS: East Atrium, open Monday – Friday, 8am - 8pm; weekends, 10am - 6pm
WH Smith, M&S Food: Plaza (West), open Monday – Friday, 7am - 7pm; Saturday, 9am5pm; Sunday, 9am - 4pm
The Stock Shop: West Atrium, Level 2, open Monday - Friday, 9am - 5.30pm; Saturday, 12pm - 4pm. We open 8am Thursdays.
Services
Lost property: Call 01603 286803 or ext 2803
Patient Advice and Liaison Service (PALS): For confidential help and advice call 01603 289036
Chapel: Open to all. For details of services or to contact the Chaplains call 01603 287470 Cromer Hospital, call 01603 646200 Hospital Radio Norwich: To request a song or a bedside visit, call 01603 454585 or from your Hospedia bedside unit dial *800
Contact us
The Pulse Editorial team: call 01603 289822 or ext. 5822, email Communications@nnuh.nhs.uk Design: Medical Illustration
The Pulse is funded entirely from charitable donations: N&N Hospitals Charity, registered charity number 1048170
Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital Colney Lane, Norwich, Norfolk, NR4 7UY Tel: 01603 286286; Website: nnuh.nhs.uk
Cromer and District Hospital, Mill Road, Cromer, NR27 0BQ Tel: 01263 513571
WHAT’S ON Letters and social media @NNUH
I had a small operation to remove a cyst from my throat and the care and professionalism was second to none. The anaesthetic team were very reassuring and extremely nice as was Charlotte my nurse who took good care of me. The added bonus of chocolate milkshake and yogurt helped too.
KS
I recently spent 12 days on Guist ward. All the staff on the ward, from people carrying out maintenance checks on the oxygen facilities, cleaners, catering, HCAs, nurses, and consultants, were so kind.
The extra time each took to have a chat or explain something was really appreciated. I know that all the staff are always so busy, but the way they treated both me and my wife was really greatly appreciated.
LL
To all the Blakeney Ward staff, thank you to all the incredible midwifery, midwifery support, catering, housekeeping and admin staff who looked after us on the ward during our stay. Your care and support have been absolutely incredible, and we are so very grateful to you all.
NC
Could I send a really huge thank you to your A&E department, especially the two gentlemen manning the front door.
Please note that all opening times are currently subject to change.
I really was blown away by their efficiency and kindness, but most of all what touched me was how they greeted everyone with a smile, never belittling anyone, listening and explaining what they would do for every single person walking in the doors. They were so thorough and I honestly don’t think I’ve ever seen A&E so smoothly run.
Those two doctors are absolutely a credit to you and a real improvement to some of the upsetting memories I harbour of A&E. I felt very anxious about seeking help today and had probably put up with pain for too long but I’ve never felt in better hands.
RL
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The Paediatric Oncology Clinic were delighted to receive a donation of Easter Eggs from Tristan at Finnbars Force. Thank you on behalf of everyone at the Oncology Clinic and N&N Hospitals Charity.
You will no doubt be aware that the NHS is going through a period of massive change as we work to transform services to ensure our services are fit for the future for our patients. As custodians of public funds, it is imperative that we live within our budgets and at a time of financial uncertainty, it is more important than ever to modernise and ensure we are running efficient services.
By the time you read this, I will be the new Chief Executive of the Norfolk and Waveney University Hospitals Group, which means I will be expanding my remit from one hospital Trust to three.
I will continue to be the accountable officer for NNUH, but also fulfil this role for the James Paget University Hospital and Queen Elizabeth Hospital King’s Lynn - I will certainly be clocking up the mileage driving across the county as I am keen to see how all areas of the hospitals group work! You may ask how I am going to divide my time between three and I can assure you that we will be putting in place strong leadership structures to manage the day to day running of these three distinct hospital Trusts while I oversee the strategic direction and delivery of the hospitals group.
Forming a hospital group presents a fantastic opportunity for all three hospital Trusts to work more closely together for the benefit of patients across Norfolk and Waveney. We are already working together through the creation of an Electronic Patient Record system across the three Trusts, which is due to launch next year, and we have been running a shared pathology alliance for over ten years, which has unlocked efficiencies and boosted resilience within our laboratories.
More recently, as a system we have completed three new Community Diagnostic Centres to significantly speed up the time patients wait for scans and diagnosis. I attended the official opening of the CDC on Norwich Research Park with Lord-Lieutenant of Norfolk Lady Dannatt last month, to showcase the fantastic facility we have on our doorstep. The new building is an absolute triumph for the people who have all worked so hard to bring this to completion. We are in the early days of the formation of a hospital group. However, I’m looking forward to developing and accelerating this partnership and I am excited by the group model and to be working more closely with the James Paget University Hospital and Queen Elizabeth Hospital King’s Lynn. It is a huge privilege to be the first CEO of the Norfolk and Waveney University Hospitals Group and I want to see our organisations thrive. By joining forces, I fully believe we can attract the best and brightest people to Norfolk – we want to level up our services across the patch and this will benefit our communities.
Prof Lesley Dwyer, Group Chief Executive
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NNUH joins a world-leading Generation Study
Our hospital has joined a research study that aims to screen up to 100,000 newborns in England for more than 200 rare conditions.
The Generation Study, led by Genomics England in partnership with NHS England, will see newborns offered whole genome sequencing using blood samples from their umbilical cord.
The sequencing identifies treatable, rare conditions in otherwise asymptomatic babies where symptoms might not present until later in childhood. This means families can access the right support, monitoring and treatment much earlier, which can help to prevent longer-term health problems, keeping children out of hospital and helping them live healthier lives.
The study is open to all women over 16 who are pregnant with a single baby. Shortly after birth a blood sample will be taken by a midwife and sent to a laboratory for whole genome sequencing. The Generation Study is not intended to replace routine screening.
Research Midwife and Principal Investigator Leanne Trenerry said: “Ninety-nine per cent of women who take part will receive a letter or email telling them there is no condition suspected.
The other one per cent of families will be contacted by an appropriate NHS specialist team to provide further testing to confirm a diagnosis.
There is no obligation for women to take part in the study. Expectant parents will be informed about it at their 20-week scan appointment. If interested a research midwife will have a detailed conversation with them to decide if they want to take part.
The results will add to evidence that will inform future decisions on using whole genome sequencing to support newborn screening, including using it to accelerate diagnosis and access to treatments for rare conditions.”
Expectant parents can also self-refer by visiting www.generationstudy.co.uk/register-your-interest
Virtual Ward celebrates 50,000 milestone
Our Virtual Ward is celebrating the incredible milestone of reaching 50,000 bed days saved since its launch four years ago.
The Virtual Ward saw its first patient in February 2021 and at the beginning was predominantly used as a service for patients recovering from Covid-19. Since then, the service has gone from strength-to-strength and is used by all adult in-patient areas of the hospital.
The Virtual Ward has expanded from a ‘bed base’ of 20 to 60 patients and has been at 100% occupancy consistently for the last six months.
Claire Beard, Virtual Ward Manager, said: “We have had 6,553 patients through the ward with an average length of stay of 7.7 days. We have a fantastic team including nursing staff, pharmacist and pharmacy assistant, admin support, resident doctors, various Clinical Consultant Champions and we receive incredible help from our volunteer drivers.”
Consultant in Respiratory Medicine Sundari Ampi said: “There are many things at work that I do that I am immensely proud of but working with the virtual ward is one of the greatest pleasures of my job. We started the first 24/7 virtual ward during Covid and we have gone from strength-tostrength. The Virtual Ward team are dynamic, proactive and represent all that is simply amazing about the NHS that I have the privilege to work in.”
Consultant Crawford Jamieson added: “The Virtual Ward will have saved the hospital millions of pounds in bed days saved, but the biggest benefit is for the patients who get to sleep in their beds rather than a hospital bed whilst they recover and are monitored virtually.”
Join the Youth Forum
We are looking for some young people between the ages of 13 and 19 who have used our services to join our Youth Forum. You’ll get to meet other like-minded people, share your experiences and help shape future plans for our hospital.
Not sure it’s your cup of tea?
Listen to our podcast featuring some of our founding members https:// open.spotify.com/
Patient has vision restored using ‘off-the-shelf’ cornea
A North Norfolk woman has thanked our ophthalmology and oculoplastics surgery teams after having her vision restored thanks to an “off-the-shelf” corneal transplant known as Halo sterile cornea.
Traditional corneal transplants require donor tissue from an eye bank. However, in a pioneering procedure, the ophthalmology team successfully used off-theshelf corneal tissue to treat a patient with a perforated cornea, eliminating the need for a traditional corneal donor.
Consultant Ophthalmologist Mr Chrishan Gunasekera carried out the corneal graft procedure alongside Oculoplastic Surgeon Mr Chandra Rai.
The procedure, performed under local anaesthetic, involved securing the Halo sterile cornea using a gas bubble while also correcting the patient’s inturned eyelid.
Shirley Bugg, who developed a corneal perforation due to an eye infection, had her vision restored following the graft.
She said: “The whole experience was wonderful. Chrishan was absolutely brilliant, and I cannot praise the team enough. I didn’t feel a thing! The procedure lasted about an hour and a half, and while my vision isn’t 100% yet, it’s so much better. It was a complete success.”
“I could have travelled across the world and wouldn’t have found a better person to treat this.”
Mr Gunasekera explained: “Not many hospitals store Halo sterile corneas, but they offer a vital option for patients with corneal perforations.
The Halo sterile cornea has a shelf life of two years and can be used to repair a hole in the eye with a surgical graft. The tissue acts as a scaffold to facilitate healing, meaning the patient does not require stitches and can achieve excellent vision.”
The treatment is available at the Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital and the James Paget University Hospital, ensuring that more patients in the region have access to this innovative treatment.
By offering immediate availability and reducing dependency on traditionally donated corneas, this innovative approach represents a significant advancement in corneal surgery, providing patients with faster, sight-restoring treatment.
Listen to the latest NNUH podcast
Our latest podcast, Behind the Hospital Curtain, features Justine Williams, Clinical Educator in end-of-life care.
Justine talks about her role to deliver education so that all staff are confident in delivering high quality end of life care. We also discuss the importance of having conversations with loved ones about our future wishes and Advance Care Planning.
Listen on Spotify or Apple Podcasts and share with your friends, family and colleagues.
Change to in-patient ward visiting hours
Following patient, visitor, carers and staff feedback of a three-month trial of Open Visiting, we’re pleased to confirm new timings.
Visiting can take place anytime between 10am and 8pm. This came into effect on 1 April.
We’ve also updated our Visitors Charter, which outlines the expectations of both visitors and staff. Please remember to keep visitors to two people at any one time, but please discuss with the ward co-ordinator if you require additional flexibility with visiting times.
The 10am – 8pm visiting times will be reviewed in six months when further feedback will be gathered and assessed.
For more information, visit www.nnuh.nhs.uk/patients-visitors/visitor-information
Consultant Ophthalmologist Chrishan Gunasekera and Oculopastic Surgeon Chandra Rai
Community Diagnostic Centre is officially opened
HM Lord-Lieutenant of Norfolk Lady Philippa Dannatt MBE has officially opened our Community Diagnostic Centre (CDC).
The centre, which became fully operational at the end of February, was the last of three out-patient imaging facilities completed as part of a programme to deliver CDCs at each of the acute hospitals in Norfolk and Waveney, following a combined £85.9 million capital investment from the Department of Health and Social Care and the local health system. There was also a £1.6m grant from the N&N Hospitals Charity, in partnership with the Norfolk Heart Trust, towards a cardiac scanner and two CT scanners. The charity is also running the café in the centre.
Situated away from the main hospital next to the Quadram Institute on Norwich Research Park, the centre offers ultrasound, X-ray, CT and MRI scanning and is open between 8am-8pm seven days a week. At full capacity, the team will see 430 patients a day.
Clinical Lead and Consultant Radiologist Rayhaan Rahaman said: “These three centres will allow Norfolk and Waveney hospitals to support each other where necessary by sharing scanner and reporting capacity. It highlights the real impact they will have on the health and wellbeing of our community.”
Chair Tom Spink said: “It was a pleasure to welcome Lady Dannatt to open the CDC for us and to show her what a great facility this is. And with it being located on the Norwich Research Park – a centre of excellence in healthcare, research, innovation and advancement – it clearly demonstrates the partnership between the hospital and its commitment to ongoing research.”
Team members gave Lady Dannatt and guests a tour of the building, which incorporates calming patient-centred design and sustainability features including highly efficient air source heat pumps, LED lighting, solar panels and natural ventilation, all to reduce the demand on energy sources and minimise creation of operational carbon.
After unveiling a commemorative plaque, Lady Dannatt, who is also patron of our N&N Hospitals Charity, said: “This is such a wonderful facility and will undoubtedly lead to better health outcomes and improved patient experiences for which everyone in Norfolk and Waveney is truly grateful.”
Expansion of community glaucoma monitoring service
Patients under the care of Ophthalmology will be monitored by community optometrists following the resumption of a service that was paused during the Covid-19 pandemic.
The Norfolk Community Glaucoma Suspect Monitoring Scheme (NCGSMS) was set up for patients identified by our Glaucoma service as being at elevated risk of developing glaucoma, but who don’t currently require treatment.
These low risk “glaucoma suspects” can be seen by an accredited community optometrist (local optician) rather than remaining under hospital care. This frees up valuable capacity in the eye clinic and allows the patient to be seen by a suitably qualified clinician nearer to their home. Before the pathway was paused with the onset of the pandemic, over 1,000 patients were already placed into the pathway, potentially freeing up to 5,000 eye clinic appointments.
Dr Dan Rosser, Consultant Optometrist within the NNUH Glaucoma Service said: “Around 99 per cent of referrals for suspect glaucoma come from community optometrists. These patients require follow-up as glaucoma is irreversible and usually remains symptomless until the advanced stages. As such, patients require an annual review with a
suitably skilled and qualified clinician to avoid late detection of the disease.
As eye specialists based in primary care, community optometrists are perfectly placed to provide this service, and at a lower cost to the commissioner than attending an acute Trust.
The optometrist sees the patient annually for five years and refers the patient back to us if they suspect that glaucoma is developing.”
The scheme is funded by the Norfolk and Waveney Integrated Care Board so the additional glaucoma tests are free of charge and can be carried out alongside the patient’s regular NHS sight test.
Community optometrists wishing to be involved must gain accreditation by completing online learning and undergo a practical assessment. The accreditation also enables them to perform a referral refinement function to avoid unnecessary referrals.
Nuwan Niyadurupola, Dan Rosser and Rose Bliss
Heart Failure service adapts to meet rising demand
Around 1,100 people are admitted to our hospital every year with heart failure, yet with the right medications and support from our specialist team, more people are managing their condition at home. Since 2020 our heart failure service has expanded to meet the needs of our growing elderly population. The team increased from one and half to five full-time equivalent nurses. They offer more nurse-led clinics, review more in-patients and promote a specialist help line for heart failure patients to call for advice.
Historically, the heart failure nurses were seeing heart failure patients mainly on the cardiology wards, and this accounted for around 40% of all heart failure admissions. To reach more patients who need their specialist input they started proactively visiting Older People’s Medicine wards and identifying patients there. Now they visit virtually every ward across the hospital and in 2024 the team reviewed approximately 90% of all patients with heart failure. By visiting these patients they’ve been able to promote the dedicated phone line, advertised on helpful fridge magnets, so that once patients are discharged, they can contact our specialist nurses with any concerns about their symptoms. Last year the phone line received 3,500 calls, an increase of 1,000 on the year before.
Kristian Skinner, Consultant Cardiologist, said: “The phone line is manned by a duty nurse within the team. It’s been a great success. Patients with concerns or worsening symptoms who might have gone to their GP or Emergency Department, or just ignored it, can give us a call, and we can either give them advice over the phone, arrange blood tests or urgent review, or redirect them if it isn’t related to their heart failure.”
One such patient is 77-year-old David Ridel from Norwich. He’s been living with heart failure since he was diagnosed five years ago. He’s since had a pacemaker fitted and is on various medications to help him manage the condition.
“I used it when some of my indicators weren’t right” he said. “I was getting fluid build-up, so I spoke to my nurse Jo McFarlane, over the phone and I was referred in to see Dr Skinner directly. He changed my medication and now I’m seen by the community heart nurse regularly. The phone line’s been very useful, it makes the care all very joined up.
The team are superb, they’re always so calm when I come into hospital.”
The team can ask a patient to attend the Aylsham Medical Day unit for review or treatment. This is where patients come for diuretics, iron transfusions and other day case procedures. This can prevent a full hospital admission.
Jo Macfarlane, Heart Failure Specialist Nurse, said: “It’s not an emergency line but in some cases it prevents admissions to ED, especially when we’re getting into the day unit. We see around 10 patients a month as new patients to give out-patient intravenous diuretics and those are pretty much universally people that would have previously been admitted to hospital. And they’re almost all identified through the phone line.”
The service has also introduced new clinics in Cromer and NNUH this year, and with two nurses due to complete their prescriber training the team will be able to double its capacity.
The heart failure team also joins weekly meetings with GP surgeries, the community heart failure team and community virtual ward to identify patients with heart failure whose medication is not optimal or could need more advanced therapies like defibrillators or complex pacemakers.
Heart Failure screening success
Members of our Cardiology department held a Heart Health event in Norwich to screen members of the public for undiagnosed heart failure.
Dr Kristian Skinner, Cardiologist and Heart Failure lead said: “Nine of our heart failure nurses and three physiologists alongside clinicians from the James Paget University Hospital and the community met and reviewed 428 people alongside the charity Pumping Marvellous.”
Of those screened, 157 had high blood pressure and were recommended to see their GP, five had a new irregular heartbeat and were recommended to see their GP. Five had slow heart beats and will need further treatment, and four had abnormal blood tests suggesting they are likely to have heart failure. The event was a great success and the teams are now hoping to run further smaller events to reach under-served groups.
Amanda Wilkins, Jo Starr, Lucie Legg and Jo MacFarlane from the heart failure team
Volunteers’ amazing contribution to our hospitals
To mark Volunteers’ Week, we take a look at the support services delivered by volunteers in our hospitals and hear from the small, dedicated team of co-ordinators who run them.
Covering everything from companionship for in-patients to help and support after discharge from hospital, it’s the co-ordinators’ role to make sure that trained volunteers are in the right place at the right time.
“Each of the volunteer co-ordinator roles in the team is quite complicated and challenging, but our co-ordinators are all insightful, fantastic at problem-solving and hugely dedicated to their roles and to all the volunteers who they support,” said Sally Dyson, Volunteer Services Manager at the Trust for 20 years.
“I feel that our services are well-designed for the future to keep delivering for our patients and staff for years to come, though of course we’ll keep looking to innovate, improve and develop.
“Our volunteers love what they do and give back so much. We owe immense gratitude to all of our volunteers for their contribution; they are truly amazing.”
Helping on the wards
Whether it’s support from a mealtime assistant, a therapeutic hand massage or a visit by one of our Pets As Therapy (PAT) dogs, volunteers on the wards are here to help!
Organising and building on this programme of services is our In-patient Volunteer Project Co-ordinator, Louise Willimott.
“All our volunteers receive appropriate training and guidance from our specialist teams, such as Speech and Language Therapy, Complementary Therapy or Dementia Support, to deliver services to our patients.
“It’s amazing to be part of the Voluntary Services team supporting our volunteers. There’s always a great deal to do and I love it!”
Better patient experience
Our volunteers have helped to improve “Do Not Attend” rates and provide hours of support and companionship for our patients.
Reducing “Do Not Attends” (DNAs) through calls from volunteers, spending time with patients in Weybourne Day Unit and the Bleep Buddy team picking up errands, are examples of the services managed by the Out-patient and Offsite Volunteer Project Co-ordinator role.
Overseeing these services and the volunteers who Meet and Greet, support East and West Out-patient Receptions, and Patient Experience surveys, are Lucy Healey and Gemma Mercer who jobshare this role.
“Our first DNA project was with Diagnostic Radiology, checking with patients if they’re going to attend their appointment or if there’s a problem,” said Lucy.
“Volunteers talk with the patient and help them come up with a solution.
“If a patient won’t be attending, these appointments are offered to other patients.”
Gemma said: “Once the DNA project was established and working well, we knew we had a good model that was easily transferrable to other departments.”
Volunteers also provide support at the new Community Diagnostic Centre, Rouen Road and Cromer and District Hospital.
“Our volunteers help to give our patients a better experience and that is truly meaningful. In turn, this is changing volunteers’ lives,” said Lucy.
Volunteers Angie Chisholm and Audrey Batchelor supporting East Out-patients Reception
Andrew McAfee, Spiritual Healthcare Volunteer and Adrian Woodbridge, Head of Spiritual Healthcare
Practical support and peace of mind
Our volunteers help make a real difference to patients leaving hospital, offering practical support and peace of mind.
This is due to the collection of complementary volunteer services managed by Volunteer Discharge Project Co-ordinator, David Eastaugh.
“I manage the Volunteer Driver Service, the Volunteer Settle-in Service and the Volunteer Welfare and Safety-Netting Call Service – we also have volunteers who help in the Discharge Lounge,” said David.
“I train and support our drivers, and they enjoy helping the patients and driving them home.
“We have lovely feedback for this service, with patients often commenting how kind and thoughtful their volunteer drivers have been.
“Our Settle-in Service volunteers meet the patient when they return home from hospital and frequently spend two or three hours helping them. This can include some shopping, tidying up, checking the lighting and heating, removing trip hazards and making a cup of tea.
“Our Welfare and Safety-Netting Calls Service has had a tremendous response. They call patients the day after discharge and ask questions, including how they have been getting on and how their time was in the hospital.
“Our volunteers are all amazing, selfless and caring – last year volunteers in these services contributed 5,200 hours to the Trust.”
Support for patients in ED
Since launch in November 2020, the volunteers’ team in the Emergency Department (ED) has expanded across its key areas to support patients.
Managed by ED Volunteer Project Co-ordinator, Victoria Warren-Potter, this team has grown from two to 54 volunteers and developed a new Mental Health volunteer service.
“We have volunteers throughout areas in ED, from the front door and GP area to trolley bay,” said Victoria, a former Senior Nursing Assistant in ED.
”They help patients feel at ease, sorting out things for them, such as connection to the wi-fi to help them remain in contact with family. Things that may appear small, but can make a huge difference to that patient.”
In 2022 Victoria made a significant development in the ED volunteers’ service by recruiting volunteers who would be trained to offer support to patients on mental health.
“With the clinical teams, I identify patients who may benefit from support from a mental health volunteer in ED. These are patients who are low risk and may need some reassurance and someone to talk to while they’re waiting,” said Victoria.
“We offer additional training to these volunteers, such as mental health awareness sessions, mitigating risk and reflective feedback training. It’s gone well, and we now provide some mental health volunteer support on the wards which has been running for a year.”
Since launch, 8,481 volunteering hours have been completed in ED.
“Our volunteers receive a lot of positive feedback from staff who’ve told us that they’ve observed how the volunteers’ interactions with patients bring a therapeutic benefit,” said Victoria.
Calm and comfort
Sensitive and dedicated support services provided by our volunteers bring calm and comfort to patients.
These volunteer services include the Butterfly Volunteers, Palliative Care, Mortuary and Spiritual Healthcare and are managed by Caroline Stevens, End of Life Volunteer Project Co-ordinator.
“Our Butterfly volunteers achieved a huge milestone in March this year, having completed more than 10,000 visits to patients in the N&N since we launched this service in 2019,” said Caroline.
“Providing support and comfort to patients who are in their last days, weeks, or hours of their lives takes compassionate, caring and resilient volunteers. Our Palliative Care volunteers help in the office, for example, supporting the organisation of the Advanced Care Planning Conference. Volunteers who look after a patient’s property in the mortuary are providing an important service. They make sure that everything on a patient’s property list is present and do any necessary liaison with the wards.
“I love the enthusiasm brought by our volunteers,” said Caroline. “They help the team in the Chapel, and visit patients at their bedside.
“They bring a level of calm, you can see that patients are comforted by their visits.”
If you’d like to become a volunteer, please contact the Voluntary Services team at volunteers@nnuh.nhs.uk or ring 01603 286060.
Gerald Bradley, Volunteer Driver
NNUH researchers in UK first
Two of our Clinical Associate Professors are leading a study into the use of pharmacogenomics in palliative care, the first time this topic has been explored in the UK.
Pharmacogenomics is a potential tool to use in personalised medicine, studying how our genes affect how we respond to medicines, which can be used to guide individualised prescribing.
Dr Caroline Barry and Dr Martyn Patel, pictured right, began to explore the area due to a shared interest in medicines optimisation, and the need to improve symptom management across end-of-life care. They decided to carry out a review to question whether pharmacogenomics, a tool to assess our genes, can help clinicians choose the best medicines to manage symptoms for palliative care patients. During their review they found that many of the medications used in palliative care may be susceptible to drug-gene interactions, which may impact how effective those medications are at managing symptoms. The review was published in the latest issue of BMJ Supportive and Palliative Care and selected as Editors’ Choice.
Dr Barry, Consultant in Palliative Care, said: “Through our scoping review we found that it is both feasible and acceptable to test people’s genes in palliative care, however more clinical trials are needed to see if pharmacogenomics can improve symptom management for people receiving palliative and supportive care.”
The importance of this work has been recognised by the NHS Pharmacogenomics Network of Excellence who have funded NNUH to undertake further work in this area in collaboration with researchers from the Manchester Centre for Genomic Medicine.
Dr Patel, Consultant in Older People’s Medicine and Head of the UEA Medicines Optimisation Group, added: “We are due to start an observational trial called PISCES in this area to carry out genetic testing, which will help gather evidence on the prevalence of genes that interact with common symptom control medication, recruiting patients under the supervision of palliative care teams at NNUH. We are very grateful for all the assistance from the NNUH Research and Development team in reaching this step.”
Visit the webpage for more information on the trial at https://arc-eoe.nihr.ac.uk/researchimplementation/research-themes/supportageing-and-living-long-term-conditionspalliative
Hospitals Charity backed funding for seven research projects
An innovation fund which brings together Quadram Institute scientists and clinicians at our hospital has selected seven new projects for funding.
The Quadram Institute Clinical Seedcorn Fund was first established in 2021/2022 to help clinicians develop research ideas with scientists at the Quadram Institute. The fund supports secondments of NHS staff to Quadram Institute laboratories and associated research costs. Quadram Institute Bioscience (QIB) in partnership with the N&N Hospitals Charity have provided £150,000 each to jointly fund £300,000 of new collaborative projects.
The seven clinical research projects funded this year are:
• The role of the gut microbiome in pregnancy - Dr Antonietta Hayhoe and Prof Jonathan Lartey.
• Characterising the microbiome in relation to cholestatic liver disease - Dr Naiara Beraza and Dr Simon Rushbrook.
• Vitamin B12 and folate sufficiency in very pre-term babies at the time of discharge home - Prof Martin Warren and Dr Isabel Iglesias-Platas.
• Bloodstream infection diagnosis using metagenomics - Dr Matthew Gilmour and Dr Ngozi Elumogo.
• Establishment of an Oral Biorepository - Dr Jennifer AhnJarvis and Prof John Phillips.
• Use of organ-on-chip technology to address resistance to fungal infection in women - Dr Emily Jones and Dr Paul Simpson.
• Decreasing risk of urinary tract infections in Type 2 diabetes mellitus patients – Prof Alison Mather and Dr Jason Cheung.
Applications were assessed by a panel drawn from across NNUH, QIB and the UEA and considered applications for potential patient benefit, quality, feasibility, extent of collaboration, innovation and value for money.
Bernard Brett, NNUH Medical Director said: “Our hospital is working with our Norwich Research Partners including the Quadram Institute to strengthen our contribution to research that can positively impact on the lives or our population and patients. The NNUH is one of the four partners in the Quadram Institute and working together the Partnership is serving to increase knowledge and deliver benefits for our patients. This is important work, and we are delighted that our hospitals charity is supporting the research and innovation of NNUH clinicians working alongside scientists from the Quadram Institute.”
The importance of genomic testing and targeted therapies for advanced cancers
Genomic testing and targeted therapies for patients with advanced cancer could improve survival rates by up to 40%. This is according to researchers at our hospital, the University of Adelaide and University of Oxford.
A new systematic review published on the Cochrane Library has found that next-generation sequencing (NGS) could help guide matched targeted therapies for people with relapsed or metastatic cancer, delaying the progression of their cancer compared with standard treatments.
While matched targeted therapies (MTT) have proven effective in newly-diagnosed cancer cases, their effectiveness in advanced cancer has not been clear. However, this new research, which analysed data from 37 randomised controlled trials involving nearly 10,000 participants, demonstrates that a wider group of cancer patients can also benefit from NGS-guided targeted therapies.
Farasat Kazmi, Senior Oncology Registrar here at NNUH and lead author of the study, said that patients with late-stage cancer were previously considered unsuitable for targeted therapies. The review assessed whether matched targeted therapies using tumour genetic profiling provided better clinical outcomes than standardof-care treatments.
He said: “We have performed the largest and most comprehensive review to date, and it highlights the potential of genomic testing in guiding personalised cancer treatment.
It clearly demonstrates that matched targeted therapies significantly improve progression-free survival by 35 to 40%. While the research points to promising clinical outcomes, there is still limited evidence on the long-term effects of MTT in terms of overall survival, quality of life and severe adverse events.”
Researchers highlighted the need for equitable access to next-generation sequencing technology for all advanced cancer patients, regardless of disease stage. The review urges healthcare systems to prioritise NGS testing for these patients, potentially opening the door to more personalised and effective treatment options.
Jenny Nobes, Clinical Director of Oncology, added: “This study underscores the growing importance of molecular diagnostics in oncology.
At our hospital, we are committed to integrating genomic testing into routine cancer care, ensuring that more patients have access to the most effective, individualized treatments available.”
The full review, Next-Generation Sequencing for Guiding Matched Targeted Therapies in People with Relapsed or Metastatic Cancer, is available in the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews.
OT awarded NNUH Research Capacity Funding
Occupational Therapist Leanne Miller has been awarded NIHR Research Capacity Funding to develop a research proposal focused on the management of Dupuytren’s contracture.
Dupuytren’s contracture is a challenging and incurable disease affecting the skin layer in the palm of the hand. It causes thickening, nodules, and cords that eventually pull the fingers into the palm.
Leanne, pictured right, said: “Currently, patients are typically referred to a surgeon for surgery to remove the diseased tissue. While surgery can temporarily restore finger position, the condition often recurs. The research at its heart, is focusing on developing non-surgical management options for Dupuytren’s contracture so the condition does not worsen during the wait for their surgery.”
“The main approach I will be looking at developing is the use of a plastic splint. The splint will be moulded to the hand and worn at night, to prevent the fingers from contracting in the early phases of the disease. This could potentially make surgery less complex and recovery easier.”
“My research aims to determine the optimal time to apply the splint, possibly when patients are first diagnosed by their GP, to prevent disease progression during long waiting periods for surgery. The work is building upon small case studies that showed promise but lacked long-term follow-up.”
Leanne has been awarded the RCF funding for four hours a week to build her research team, including statisticians and mentors. She plans to submit a proposal to NIHR in November 2025, with the aim of starting the study in 2026. Additionally, Leanne is running an online focus group with patients at various stages of the disease to assess the clinical importance and acceptability of splinting, and to identify key outcomes for the study.
Dr Kazim and Dr Nobes
World specialists in Emphysema attend symposium
Healthcare professionals from the UK and abroad attended an invite in Norwich to discuss advances in managing emphysema, a respiratory condition which mainly affects smokers.
Emphysema is a chronic lung disease that damages the air sacs and other lung tissue, making it difficult to breathe. It’s a type of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and mainly affects middle-aged or older adults who smoke. There’s no cure for emphysema, but treatments can help manage symptoms, improve quality of life and slow the progression of the disease.
In the last year, we have become one of the leading centres in the interventional treatment of emphysema and for endobronchial valve insertion more specifically, a non-surgical volume lung reduction procedure for patients with emphysema. Surgical lung volume reduction interventions are also performed via robotic surgery allowing the team to offer such interventions to higher risk emphysema patients.
We are the regional centre and takes referrals from hospitals across Norfolk and Suffolk. Approximately 30 lung volume reduction interventions are performed here every year.
The service is mainly a collaboration between the respiratory and thoracic surgical teams led by Consultant Respiratory Physicians Dr Malcolm Marquette and Dr Sadiyah Hand and Consultant Thoracic Surgeon Mr Vasileios Kouritas. The service is formed around an emphysema multidisciplinary team meeting which also includes Intensive Care Consultant Dr Dhrampal, the Chest Radiologist Dr Spohr and the hyperinflation clinic nurses Ms Browne, Ms Braithwaite and Ms Posey. The whole service is coordinated by Ms Caroline Vlotman. The team discusses which option would be best for each patient after reviewing imaging and tests carried out in the clinic.
The team organised an emphysema symposium with internationally renowned guest speakers sharing their knowledge, discussing current UK and international emphysema data and future surgical and non-surgical treatment options.
Healthcare professionals including surgeons, respiratory physicians, trainees, nurses, physiotherapists and GPs as well as patients from across Norfolk and Suffolk attended the event.
Thoracic Surgeon, Vasileios Kouritas, said: “It was a massive achievement for these big names to be in our hospital discussing the importance of managing this condition. We are very proud of our emphysema service which is run by a multi-disciplinary team.”
‘Game changer’ research uses MRI technology to reveal heart age
Scientists at the UEA and our hospital have developed a revolutionary way of uncovering the “true age” of your heart using MRI.
Research published in the Open European Heart Journal reveals how an MRI scan can reveal your heart’s functional age - and that unhealthy lifestyles can dramatically accelerate this figure.
It is hoped that the findings could transform how heart disease is diagnosed - offering a lifeline to millions by catching problems before they become deadly.
The team say their cutting-edge technique is a “game changer”.
Lead researcher Dr Pankaj Garg, pictured, said: “Imagine finding out that your heart is ‘older’ than you are. For people with conditions like high blood pressure, diabetes or obesity, this is often the case. Our new MRI approach doesn’t just count your birthdays - it measures how well your heart is holding up.”
The research team collaborated with hospitals in the UK, Spain and Singapore and studied MRI scans from 557 people - 191 healthy individuals and 366 with conditions like high blood pressure, diabetes or obesity.
Using advanced imaging, they measured things like the size and strength of the heart’s chambers. Then, they built a formula to calculate the heart’s “functional age” and checked it against healthy hearts to make sure it was accurate.
Dr Garg added: “We found that an MRI scan can reveal your heart’s ‘functional age’ - how old it acts, not how old you are. In healthy people, we found that heart age was similar to chronological age. But for patients with things like diabetes, hypertension, obesity and atrial fibrillation – their functional heart age was significantly higher.
“People with health issues like diabetes or obesity often have hearts that are aging faster than they should - sometimes by decades. So, this could help doctors step in early to stop heart disease in its tracks. By knowing your heart’s true age, patients could get advice or treatments to slow down the aging process, potentially preventing heart attacks or strokes. It could also be the wake-up call people need to take better care of themselves.”
Supporting patients with Rheumatoid Arthritis
Consultant Rheumatologist Louise Hamilton answers your questions about Rheumatoid Arthritis.
What causes Rheumatoid Arthritis and under what circumstances should someone seek a hospital referral?
Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic autoimmune disease which primarily affects the small joints causing pain, stiffness, swelling and ultimately joint damage. It can also affect other parts of the body, including the lungs, heart and eyes, and may lead to fatigue and weight loss.
While osteoarthritis is associated with aging, rheumatoid arthritis can occur at any age, with a peak onset at 30 to 50 years - it is twice as common in women.
Patients with rheumatoid arthritis often have a genetic predisposition to the disease, but it tends to be something in the environment which triggers it off - cigarette smoke or occupational dust exposure damaging the lungs. Infections such as gum disease, and the hormonal changes of pregnancy are all known causes. The end result is that the immune system, instead of attacking bacteria and viruses, starts attacking a person’s own joints, causing a cascade of inflammation.
We know that if we can switch this inflammation off quickly, ideally within the first three months of joint swelling, people with rheumatoid arthritis have a much better long-term outcome. We run several Early Arthritis clinics each week where we aim to see people with suspected rheumatoid arthritis within three weeks of referral. Most of these people won’t have rheumatoid arthritis, but for those who do, rapid treatment can mean the difference between chronic disability and maintaining normal function. GPs will refer people to Early Arthritis clinic if they have pain, swelling or morning stiffness (lasting for more than 30 minutes) in more than one joint, or affecting the small joints of the hands and feet, which hasn’t settled after three to four weeks. We may request further investigations such as ultrasound scans of the hands and we work closely with our colleagues in musculoskeletal radiology.
What are the treatments?
We usually start with steroids - either tablets or an injection - as these work very quickly to control the inflammation. However, steroids have many side effects so long-term treatment is with Disease Modifying Anti-Rheumatic Drugs (DMARDs) such as methotrexate and hydroxychloroquine. There is a national target for patients to start a DMARD within six weeks of referral, and we rely heavily on our team of nurse specialists to educate patients on drugs and monitor the effects. Between us we will assess patients every few weeks initially, escalating treatment until their disease activity score (a combination of
patient symptoms, blood results and examination findings) is low. Most patients will go into remission with conventional drugs, but for those who don’t we have a number of biologic drugsmonoclonal antibodies or targeted synthetic DMARDs which block specific signalling molecules or enzymes in the inflammatory pathway.
We see approximately 40 new patients each month in Early Arthritis clinic and data from the Norfolk Arthritis Register (NOAR) suggest an average of eight patients each month at NNUH are diagnosed.
We are fortunate to work closely with a team of specialist rheumatology occupational therapists and physiotherapists who help patients manage their symptoms and maintain their independence. The need for surgery is much less than it was before biologic drugs, but patients with significant joint damage will often benefit from joint replacement surgery.
Are there diet or lifestyle changes to reduce the severity of Rheumatoid Arthritis?
The single most important thing is to stop smoking. There is some evidence that a Mediterranean diet can have an anti-inflammatory effect, and foods rich in omega-3 such as oily fish may be beneficial. Obesity is a risk factor and is associated with a reduced likelihood of achieving remission, so keeping a body mass index between 18 and 25 is a good idea. Low impact exercise such as swimming or walking is important in maintaining joint function and can reduce pain and fatigue.
The DESIGNA study, led by Professor Alex Macgregor and colleagues from the UEA, is examining the impact that different nutrients might have on arthritis. What support is there for patients with Rheumatoid Arthritis?
The National Rheumatoid Arthritis Society (https://nras. org.uk/) and Versus Arthritis (https://www.versusarthritis. org/) are national charities which provide information and support including helplines.
The Rheumatoid in Norfolk Group (The RiNG) is a social group for people with inflammatory arthritis and meets monthly at Hethersett Village Hall.
How do you see your role changing in the future?
While we are getting better at treating rheumatoid arthritis it remains a chronic disease - most people with it need to stay on treatment long-term or they flare. Immunotherapy is currently prohibitively expensive, but essentially resets the immune system so offers the possibility of a permanent cure for autoimmune diseases.
For very early disease, ongoing research is looking at whether rheumatoid arthritis can be cured in the first few weeks with biologic drugs.
First robotic-assisted oesphagectomy takes place at NNUH
A man from King’s Lynn is the first to have robotic surgery to remove part of his oesophagus and stomach.
Nicholas Penney, Consultant Oesophagogastric Surgeon, performed the 14-hour operation on 54-yearold Lee Moreton as part of his treatment plan for cancer.
It was the first fully Robotic Assisted Minimally Invasive Oesophagectomy (RAMIO) performed here which has become one of only five sites across the UK to offer this highly specialist surgery.
An oesophagectomy is a two-stage procedure performed within both the abdomen and chest. Both stages of the procedure, to remove a tumour from Lee’s oesophagus, were carried out robotically. He was discharged just five days after his surgery, two days earlier than usual after an oesophagectomy, and with no complications.
Traditionally, the procedure is performed either through open surgery, leaving much larger wounds, increased risk of infection, pain and a longer recovery time or minimally invasive laparoscopic and thoracoscopic techniques, which our Oesophagogastric team has been at the forefront in developing. Nationally, the average length of stay for oesophagectomy patients ranges from seven to 13 days across different centres. We have an excellent track record, with a current average length of stay of seven days, one of the top performing centres in the country. The hope is that a robotic approach will help improve recovery further still for patients.
Robotic-assisted surgery has benefits for patients over previous techniques, including reduced pain and blood loss, shorter hospital stays and quicker recovery times. The surgery requires only very small incisions, which are possible thanks to the use of miniaturised cameras and instruments, controlled remotely by a surgeon, via the robotic system’s console. This allows greater visibility and precision than would be available in conventional techniques, making procedures easier for surgeons and safer for patients.
Nicholas said: “The case was very challenging due to the tumour being densely adhered to the lining of the heart and airways following radiotherapy treatment. Previously this would have necessitated the procedure being performed through an open thoracotomy incision. However, the improved 3D vision, dexterity and precision of the robot allowed the procedure to be performed minimally invasively through small incisions. The hope is that this type of robotic surgery will continue to reduce complications such as pneumonia following surgery, reduce length of stay and aid in a quick return to full function for our future oesophagectomy patients.”
Lee had previously had surgery for bowel cancer six years ago and was given the all clear last year. However, he contacted his GP last August after suffering new symptoms of struggling to swallow. An endoscopy revealed a tumour in the oesophagus. He is now recovering at home after his surgery and is waiting to find out the next steps of his treatment plan.
He said: “I can’t believe the general lack of pain and the mobility I have after surgery, it’s absolutely fantastic. I had open surgery years ago and that was much more difficult to deal with. I was told I’d be in at least a week so to go home after five days was great. It’s amazing what is available now.”
Alex Allen, Clinical Lead for Perioperative Theatre Equipment and Robotic Surgery, added: “It is an honour to be able to contribute to the care of a patient when they are at their most vulnerable, ensuring all their needs are met and that we maintain high standards of practice. With the development of robotic surgery here at NNUH, we are able to improve the patient’s outcome with the innovative technology the system provides. As the Clinical Lead for robotic surgery, I’m excited to be involved in the expansion of this service and continue to develop our knowledge and skills.
“I would also like to take this opportunity to thank the surgical team.
They show such integrity and dedication to the care of the patients every day, on many occasions staying beyond their time to ensure the patient’s needs are met.”
The N&N Hospitals Charity is running an appeal to fund two new robots to help deliver more specialist surgery. To find out more or to contribute, visit https://www.justgiving.com/campaign/robots
Connecting Hearts exhibition at NNUH
An art exhibition telling the stories of families who’ve benefited from donated breast milk and those involved in the Human Milk Foundation charity is being held at NNUH.
“Connecting Hearts” features paintings with accompanying narrated audio from the subjects to explain the importance of donor human milk for families who have experienced premature birth, having a sick baby and baby loss. The artwork includes portraits of parents, babies, donors and those involved in the charity including Blood Bike volunteers. QR codes are displayed alongside the paintings for people to scan and listen to the stories behind each image.
Leanne Pearce is a unique portrait artist who celebrates early years, breastfeeding and parenthood. Her approach focuses on showcasing human kindness and emotion.
The Human Milk Foundation provides donor human milk to sick, premature babies in hospital neonatal intensive care units and families at home through the Hearts Milk Bank. Donor milk is donated by mothers with milk which is surplus to their own baby’s needs.
In 2019 the charity opened a dedicated donor milk hub at Hellesdon Hospital in partnership with Norfolk Blood Bikes, which provides more efficient transport of donor milk to hospitals and families in the region.
Emma Jarvis, Environmental Arts Manager said: “Leanne is an incredibly powerful artist who has really brought these stories to life through her captivating artwork. The event will be a celebration of the wonderful work of the charity and highlight the huge impact donor milk can have on babies, families and donors.”
The N&N Hospitals Charity purchases breast milk for NNUH babies from the HMF and funds the costs of Blood Bike deliveries. £16,500 was spent on donor breast milk for NICU babies in 2024 thanks to donations made to the charity’s NICU fund.
Family optician support hospitals charity to help premature babies
A family optician has chosen our Neonatal Intensive Care Unit to be its charity for the year after experiencing first-hand the care from the NICU team.
William Amey and the team at Cecil Amey Opticians & Hearing Care will be raising money throughout the year in their 13 branches across Norfolk and Suffolk. Donations will go towards purchasing a piece of equipment to diagnose and plan treatment for sight threatening Retinopathy of Prematurity (ROP) and other eye-related conditions in premature babies.
William and Alexandra’s son Ralph was born in NICU last August. He said: “On the day, until the point Ralph was sent to NICU everything was going perfectly. My wife was booked in to have a Caesarean section and she was the first patient of the day, the nurses and midwives that day were brilliant and they couldn’t have made my wife more relaxed. “
“Unfortunately, about 45 minutes after birth - Ralph started to grunt. This was picked up straight away and a nurse from NICU was called to assess Ralph in recovery and a decision was made to move him to NICU. He spent a few days in room two, before being moved to room three and then his final night was spent with us in one of the flats in NICU itself.
“We used all support areas; the pump room, the rest area, the flats in NICU and McKee House on the NNUH site.”
The family’s experience was behind the decision to support the N&N Hospitals Charity NICU fund to purchase equipment to reduce the risk of irreversible loss of vision in a baby by enabling potential progression of any disease to be spotted by use of serial images.
In the womb, the retina develops slowly and the retinal blood vessels often only complete growing by the end of gestation. If a child is born prematurely, these blood vessels can grow abnormally causing damage to the retina and vision. This is called Retinopathy of Prematurity and affects around 20% of babies who are born prematurely. The Charity is hoping to purchase equipment which will enable ophthalmologists to see how much of the eye is affected and how severe any damage might be.
To find out more about the work of the N&N Hospitals Charity and their work across the N&N or to support the charity, email charity@nnuh.nhs.uk
Leanne Pearce with her artwork
Ralph Amey shortly after his birth
Boy completes marathon for hospital department that saved his life
An eight-year-old boy who spent his first weeks in our Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) has completed a marathon run raising more than £2,000 for the department which cared for him.
Theo Harrison was born with a serious lung defect but instead of asking for toys for his birthday, he asked for a pair of new running shoes to take on the challenge to run 26 miles throughout March.
The youngster, from Cringleford, smashed his £1,000 target, raising an incredible £2,190 for the NICU fund, part of the N&N Hospitals Charity.
Mum Sam said: “Theo spent one month in total at NICU and Great Ormond Street Hospital, which is where he had surgery at 19-days-old to remove a lesion from his left lung. The team at NNUH played a huge role in Theo being transferred to GOSH to get the surgery that he needed - we will be forever grateful to Dr Florence and the team for really fighting Theo’s corner.
“For his 5th birthday, Theo asked for friends to donate books instead of gifts which he wanted to give to the NICU and as we approached his 8th birthday he suggested running a marathon, to which I suggested we do so across a month rather than in one go!
“He has fitted in the runs around school, football and golf! He’s had a lot of support from loved ones with some even running with him which he has loved.”
The money Theo has raised will go to NICU, the N&N’s highly specialist unit looking after the needs of premature and critically ill babies.
Julie Cooper, Head of Charity at N&N Hospitals Charity, said: “The donations Theo has received for NICU will help us care for babies with the most complex needs. In the past, donations have been used to purchase new Babyleo Incubators, helping to give babies the environment they need to thrive, they have funded accommodation for parents who need to stay on site to be near their babies and they have provided specialist training for NICU nurses.”
If you would like to support our NICU, you can do so by visiting https://www.justgiving.com/campaign/ nnuhnicu
Family fundraise for orthopaedic centre
The family of a woman who suffered life-changing injuries in a road traffic accident has donated more than £5,000 to the N&N Hospitals Charity for the ward where she was treated.
Tracey Webb was a passenger in a car travelling along the A47 in Norfolk last September when she sustained severe hand injuries and was taken by ambulance to NNUH.
The main artery in Tracey’s wrist was severed in the crash, but the trauma team was able to save her hand with metal rods and plates inserted into her arm. She was treated at the Norfolk and Norwich Orthopaedic Centre (NaNOC) which opened last summer.
Tracey’s son John and his partner Jade and daughter Lisa and partner Paddy together run Fendick’s Fishery, near Thetford, and the onsite Hubbles restaurant and Rondo’s bar, raising £5,246 for the NaNOC.
Tracey said: “I am so grateful to the Trauma Orthopaedic Consultants Christopher Ingham and Ken Wong who were able to save my hand. I can’t work anymore and I can’t lift my great granddaughters up but I’m having physio every week and I am so thankful for everything the team have done. My granddaughter was also in the car and suffered bruising from the seatbelt, but it could have been so much worse.”
The NaNOC was created as a patient-centred unit, developed with its own facilities including a same-day admissions unit, treatment rooms, two laminar flow theatres, Post Anaesthetics Care Unit, a 21-bedded ward, physiotherapy rooms and a pharmacy and dispensing room.
Some of the most up-to-date surgical equipment has been provided by the N&N Hospitals Charity which supported the build with a £2m grant – the biggest single grant in its history. If you would like to support the N&N Hospitals Charity or find out more information about the work of the charity, email charity@nnuh.nhs.uk.
Lisa, left, Tracey, centre and Jade, right, present the cheque to the NaNOC team
