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Next steps and proposed timeline

Next steps

The Trust are currently undertaking various activities to gather important feedback from staff, patients, the local public and partners that will help shape these plans. This activity will be taking place from September 2020 to November 2023.

As previously stated, there are many factors that contribute to service changes being implemented, including significant engagement with our staff, patients, public and stakeholders. Therefore this is not a confirmed timeline and just proposed at this stage.

Proposed timeline

April 2020 – July 2020: Developing the proposal – Complete
September 2020 – ongoing: Staff, Patient and Public Engagement – in progress
February 2023 – December 2023: Capacity planning – in progress
August 2023 – March 2024: Development of workforce plan – in progress
February 2023 – October 2025: Transition Planning and Operational readiness for the proposed move – in progress
October 2025: Move the service to the L&D – in progress

Unexpected closure of lifts in Beeden House and reduced lift capacity in the Main Block, Bedford Hospital

Beeden House

We have had to make the difficult decision to close both lifts in Beeden House after finding an unexpected fault during routine maintenance.

This means that there will be disruption to services and appointments on the upper floors of Beeden House.

We are currently contacting patients to find the best individual solution for them, minimise disruption and ensure they continue to receive the care they need. At this point you do not need to contact us, we will contact all affected patients.

The decision to close the lifts was hard, but we felt it was the safest decision to best protect our patients and staff.

Reduced lift capacity in the Main Block

Please be aware our lifts in the Main Block currently have reduced capacity. In order to maintain lift functions and minimise traffic in the remaining lifts, we will be prioritising high priority movements.

Staff, patients and visitors can access the main block lifts if required, but may be asked to wait at main reception while other priority movements are made. A minimum of 4 people will be required before the lift departs. Security staff operating the lifts will be mindful that not all disabilities are visible and make appropriate accommodations for non-ambulant staff and visitors.

We apologise for the inconvenience the closure of lifts and reduced lift capacity will cause.

Thank you to everyone for your patience and support.