Earlier this year, the inpatient ward at Longridge Hospital was temporarily reduced to five beds, from the previous fifteen, to account for fire safety measures for safe evacuation of frail and older patients in this unit.
Safety is a key priority for the Trust (LCSFT) and there is a continual programme of estates work in place to always ensure safety first. Due to further inspections from NHS Property Services, and advice from the Trust fire officer, it is with regret, that the Trust, with support from Lancashire and South Cumbria Integrated Care Board (ICB) has taken the decision to temporarily close the remaining five inpatient beds at Longridge Hospital to ensure ongoing safety for our patients and colleagues.
Working closely with their families, patients who require ongoing care have been transferred to alternative facilities. Colleagues have been made aware of the decision, and we are working with them on the next steps.
The Trust will no longer be able to accept referrals into the Longridge inpatient ward and primary care partners have been made aware of the temporary closure. Clinics onsite at Longridge Hospital will continue and remain safe until we are advised otherwise.
We are working together to now identify alternative accommodation for future patients who require the services that this hospital delivers for the local community.
We understand that this decision will be disappointing for the community and our colleagues as Longridge has long been a valued community hospital. Safety must always remain our priority. We will provide updates on the next steps as soon as we are able.
Lancashire and South Cumbria NHS Foundation Trust ( LSCFT)
Lancashire and South Cumbria Integrated Care Board ( ICB )
Please note: clinics remain open as usual until we are advised otherwise.
