My part in Midland Met

Arlene Copland, Alcohol Nurse Consultant

From now until when we move into Midland Met, we will be sharing updates with you about the many people involved in the project and the role they each play.

The successful opening of Midland Metropolitan University Hospital relies on many people, teams and stakeholders. Once open, it will have a far reaching impact – not only on those we care for but also on colleagues and our community in terms of regeneration, jobs, housing, charitable endeavours and so much more.

Getting us to Midland Met is a team effort. We all have a part to play in making it #morethanahospital!

How long have you been at SWB and what is your current role?

In 2017 I joined as the lead alcohol nurse to set up the alcohol care team. Since then, the team has expanded following national recognition, and I am now an alcohol nurse consultant and work with NHS England as the national lead alcohol nurse.

What part does your role contribute to the Midland Met project?

The alcohol care team provides services to support people with alcohol dependency and those who are drinking excessively. We provide specialist assessments and tailored treatment plans to ensure patients get the care and expert support they need.

We will continue to support patients at Midland Met when it opens, and we are currently working with teams to build awareness of what we do and to help them understand the services available to support patients.

How are you preparing for the opening of Midland Met in your team?

I am collaborating with the toxicology and gastrointestinal departments to prepare for the transition to Midland Met. An education programme is necessary as numerous nurses will require additional skills to care for patients with substance abuse issues.

In what ways will our new hospital help to shape your role for the better?

Moving into Midland Met will allow our small team to work as one which will improve service delivery and team bonding.

The biggest benefit that Midland Met will bring in your opinion is...

It will improve patient experience as the hospital is purposely designed to meet the healthcare needs of the local population.

Have you been on a site tour? If so, can you share your feedback with us?

We have been on a site tour and thoroughly enjoyed it. The team are excited about moving into the new hospital, it’s an impressive building, and we can’t wait to get moved in so we can care for our patients in a modern healthcare setting.