Charity scheme aims to free up A&E staff

NHS staff in two hospital emergency departments will have more time to treat patients through a new support scheme from a charity, health bosses say.

It will see workers with the British Red Cross help at the Royal Shrewsbury Hospital and Telford's Princess Royal Hospital.

The move follows a similar scheme last winter when the same charity helped some patients leaving hospital with transport home and short-term aftercare.

The aim is to help patients in stressful and overwhelming periods as well as easing pressure on staff, a Shropshire NHS spokesperson said.

The Red Cross' efforts would help improve the flow of patients through A&E, cut down inappropriate use of emergency services and free up staff for medical care, they added.

The charity will provide things like blankets, food and drinks as well as liaising with NHS staff on behalf of patients.

NHS Shropshire, Telford and Wrekin bosses said feedback showed the British Red Cross had made a significant contribution to improving patient flow and cutting delays.

They added that the vast majority of staff who they surveyed felt the service freed up NHS workers and improved their wellbeing.

"Their team provides the kind of support that makes a real difference, whether it's helping someone get home safely or simply offering a listening ear," said hospital chief executive Jo Williams.

Their presence helped identify and address issues like loneliness and access to food, factors that could lead to to further hospital visits, a hospital spokesperson said.

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