Hospital ward could close due to health service revamp (From Wilts and Gloucestershire Standard)

Hospital ward could close due to health service revamp

CLOSURE fears are hanging over services at Cirencester Hospital again.

The facility's Baunton Ward may be lost as part of a major revamp of county health services.

The Gloucestershire Partnership Trust (GPT), which is responsible for elderly and mental health care, says many of its beds are underused.

Health chiefs are recommending more resources should be ploughed into caring for people in their own homes, which will result in a reduction in the number of hospital beds available.

And, although a final decision has not been made, they will not rule out the complete closure of Baunton Ward.

GPT's care group manager for mental health services for elderly people, Bob Feirn, said: "It would be unreasonable to confirm or deny anything at this stage. There will be wide consultation.

"There will be a proposal to look at redevelopment so we have less beds and more community resources.

"We currently have low occupancy in some of our units. Older people with mental health problems are best kept out of hospital as long as possible. People prefer to be in their own homes.

"The occupancy has been variable in Baunton Ward."

Although Cirencester Hospital is managed by the Cotswold and Vale Primary Care Trust, Baunton Ward is managed by the GPT.

It currently has 16 beds and specialises in caring for elderly patients with problems ranging from Alzheimer's disease to depression.

The closure fears follow years of uncertainty over the possible downgrading of facilities at the hospital, including the Accident and Emergency department.

Some 3,000 people gathered at a protest rally in Cirencester Market Place two years ago calling for services to be saved.

The event was organised by the hospital's league of friends in support of the Standard's No More Cuts campaign.

The latest proposals are part of a county-wide strategy, which will be considered by the GPT and all Gloucestershire primary care trusts later this month.

It is believed public consultations will take place later in the year.