A REPORT has found that Cheltenham General Hospital, which is used by people in the North Cotswolds, is struggling to find enough doctors to cover its night shifts.

It was found that, while the employment situation had improved, the hospital trust was still facing challenges in terms of recruitment.

Members of Gloucestershire County Council have said they will write to the government and local MPs explaining the need for more overnight doctors.

In an attempt to rectify the problem, the trust changes its night time rotas to make the shifts less onerous on doctors.

Dr Clifford Mann, president of the College of Emergency Medicine, said the pressure of working in Accident and Emergency was “putting off recruits” and “making it difficult” to keep hold of current staff members.

Cheltenham’s casualty unit was downgraded last July because of lower demands at night and staff shortages - night time ambulances are now diverted to Gloucestershire Royal Hospital.

The review also highlighted concerns about the number of patient transfers between Cheltenham and other hospitals in Gloucestershire.

A spokesman for South Western Ambulance Service said it would continue to “ensure patients get the care they need, quickly and in the right place.”

For more information, visit www.gloucestershireccg.nhs.uk.