Staff who work in paediatrics at Walsall Manor Hospital have spoken of the “huge difference” its new Urgent and Emergency Care Centre will make to their service – and to young patients and their families.

Work on the multi-million pound project, being delivered by Tilbury Douglas Construction Limited, will significantly improve Walsall Healthcare NHS Trust’s emergency care facilities and capacity. It includes an Urgent Treatment Centre (UTC); Emergency Department (ED) including Resus and Rapid Assessment and Treatment (RAT) area, and Children’s ED; co-located Paediatric Assessment Unit; Acute Medical Unit and provision for Ambulatory Emergency Care services in a future phase.

Artist’s impressions and 3D images have been generated and Suzanne Jarvis, Care Group Manager – Paediatric and Neonatal Services and Ward 21 and PAU Matron Tania Bruce can’t wait to see the new work environment finished.

Suzanne said: “It will make a huge difference to staff and our patients, particularly after what has been a really challenging winter in paediatrics.

“Looking at all the space that will be available will certainly help us better cope with the increased demand on our services.”

Tania added: “It is so exciting to be able to visualise the new provision in this way. We can’t wait to move in!”

The project also includes re-configuration of the current Emergency Department footprint, to incorporate improved Ambulatory Emergency Care and Imaging services.

Various specialist facilities are located throughout, such as an isolation room for infectious patients, bariatric provision and digital x-ray rooms. All areas have been designed specifically to enhance clinical staff efficiency, provide improved quality of care, improved patient experience, and a much improved working environment for staff.

The project is now entering its final few months with everyone’s sights set on completion in the autumn.