HEALTH bosses are opening the doors of Teesdale’s community hospital this autumn to give residents the chance to see what goes on behind the scenes.
The Richardson Hospital, in Barnard Castle, will be throwing open its doors on Tuesday, October 8, offering tours of some of the less visible areas of the complex as part of a wider initiative by County Durham and Darlington NHS Trust.
The trust is inviting members of the public to join tours at eight hospitals in the region, including University Hospital Durham, Darlington Memorial and Bishop Auckland Hospital, in September and October.
The tours will highlight some of the trust’s newest and most innovative facilities, such as the simulation training centre at Bishop Auckland Hospital and other vital services such as the catering facility at Darlington Memorial Hospital, which annually provides a staggering 1,162,890 meals for patients across the trust area.
Chief executive Sue Jacques, said: “We’re very proud of our services and, in particular, the dedicated and skilled teams running them.
“I hope people will take this chance for a fascinating glimpse behind the scenes.
“For instance, many of us will have had a blood test, but how many of us know what happens to the sample once it reaches the laboratory?
“We probably also all know someone who has had an MRI scan, but what does that involve and how do scans help in diagnosing serious conditions?”
She added: “We’ve identified areas at each hospital that we hope people will find interesting and enjoy seeing up close.
“Or, if you want to find out more about some of the jobs there are in the NHS, and the qualifications you need to do them, why not come along?”
There will also be an opportunity at the end of each tour to meet members of the trust’s executive team for a short question and answer session over a tea or coffee.
The tours kick off at Darlington Memorial Hospital on Tuesday, September 10.
Then on Tuesday, October 1, Weardale Community Hospital will be opening its doors.
Richardson Hospital, in Barnard Castle has tours on Tuesday, October, 8, followed by Shotley Bridge Community Hospital the following day.
Chester le Street Community Hospital will welcome visitors on Wednesday, October 23, and Sedgefield Community Hospital on Tuesday, October 29.
Anyone interested in taking a look at any of the hospitals will need to book a place either by visiting www.cddft .eventbrite.co.uk or phoning 01325 743786.
