Patients receiving dialysis treatment at the Countess of Chester Hospital NHS Foundation Trust are set to benefit from the latest generation of dialysis technology thanks to a major £350,000 investment in new equipment.

The Trust has invested in 22 new Fresenius 6008 dialysis machines, replacing equipment that has reached the end of its operational life.

Following staff training, the new machines are expected to be introduced in September, and feature advanced technology designed to improve treatment precision, safety and patient comfort.

Enhanced monitoring systems and more accurate fluid management will help clinical teams deliver dialysis treatments more safely and consistently, while giving staff greater flexibility to tailor care to each patient's individual needs.

The technology will also help clinicians personalise dialysis treatment more closely to each patient's requirements, supporting a more individualised approach to care.

More precise treatment delivery may help reduce treatment-related symptoms and improve patients' experience during dialysis sessions.

As well as benefiting patients, the machines have an intuitive design and user-friendly interface, helping staff work more efficiently while allowing nurses to spend more time providing direct patient care.

Rojamol Jobins, Renal Unit Manager, said: "This is a very exciting milestone for our renal team.

"Replacing all 22 dialysis machines demonstrates a major investment in our service and reflects our commitment to continually improving the care we provide for our patients.

"The new machines will give us access to the latest dialysis technology, helping us deliver safe, effective and more personalised treatment.

"It is fantastic news for both our patients and staff, and we are looking forward to introducing the machines later this year."

Cathy Chadwick, Chief Operating Officer at Countess of Chester Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, added:

“This investment is great news for our patients and staff.

"These new machines will help ensure people receiving dialysis continue to benefit from modern, high-quality treatment, while giving our teams the equipment they need to provide the best possible care."

The £350,000 investment demonstrates the Trust's commitment to continuing to improve services for patients and supporting staff with modern equipment.

Patients say their experience at the Countess of Chester Hospital has significantly improved, according to the latest national Adult Inpatient Survey, the main annual measure of patient feedback for NHS Trusts.

The results show clear gains across every area of care, with the Countess of Chester Hospital NHS Foundation Trust showing a marked improvement from its previous position in the opinion of patients.

The Trust has risen 58 places overall in the national rankings to position 59 out of 131 Trusts. This represents a substantial year‑on‑year improvement in patient experience. It has also risen more than 50 places in several key sections of the survey, including admission to hospital, care and treatment, respect and dignity, and overall experience.

Patients rated their overall experience more positively too, with 80% giving a score of 7 out of 10 or above – the Trust’s best result in seven years.

The Trust performed better than the national average in six areas, including waiting times, the care and treatment received, respect for individual needs, and the kindness and compassion shown by staff.

The detailed scores tell an even more positive story, with improvements across all 12 categories of questions compared with last year’s results.

These findings come after a run of improvements at the Trust. Earlier this summer, improved CQC ratings in all three services it inspected were awarded, and the Trust has climbed the national NHS performance tables, rising from 133rd to 98th out of 134 Trusts since last September. Together, these results show that the changes made across the organisation are having a positive impact on patient experience.

Jane Tomkinson OBE, Chief Executive Officer, said: “Patients and families are at the heart of our organisation, and their feedback shapes the improvements we are making. This survey shows that those changes are impacting, with clear gains across every area. Colleagues work incredibly hard, and it is encouraging to see that effort recognised nationally. There is more to do, and we will keep building on this progress so every patient receives safe, kind and timely care all the time.”

Neil Large MBE, Chair, said:“These results are a testament to our dedicated staff and align with the improvements seen in recent inspections and national performance measures. The Trust is moving in the right direction, and the Board will continue to support the organisation as it works to improve care for our community.”

The Adult Inpatient Survey is carried out annually by the CQC, the independent regulator of health and social care in England. The latest survey, conducted in November 2025, reflects the views of tens of thousands of patients across the country and provides a broad national picture of patient experience. As the CQC’s largest patient survey, it offers the best overall insight into what most adult inpatients experience in hospital.

People living, working and visiting the Upton area will now be able to access two new public access defibrillators at the Countess of Chester Hospital 24 hours a day, seven days a week. 

The Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) are located in secure external cabinets outside the Education and Training Centre and Moston Lodge, always making them publicly accessible.  

Their prominent locations ensure they are available not only to visitors and staff, but also to the many people who pass through the park every day.

The defibrillators form part of the network of Public Access Defibrillators (PADs) available across the local area and can be used by anyone in the event of a suspected cardiac arrest, with both devices specially positioned to provide access for people across the hospital site, surrounding car parks and the wider community. 

Previously located inside the Education and Training Centre and Moston Lodge, the AEDs could only be accessed during the opening hours of those buildings.  

Their relocation to external cabinets means they are now available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. 

Sue Pemberton, Director of Nursing & Quality and Deputy Chief Executive Officer, said:  "Making these defibrillators publicly accessible 24 hours a day is an important step in improving emergency response for both our hospital site and the wider community.  

"Rapid access to a defibrillator can make a vital difference during a cardiac arrest, so relocating these devices into externally accessible cabinets ensures life-saving equipment is available whenever it is needed. 

"We are grateful to our charitable funds for supporting this initiative, which strengthens patient safety, supports community wellbeing and improves access to life-saving treatment for everyone,” she added.  

Every year, thousands of people suffer a cardiac arrest outside of hospital, where immediate treatment can make all the difference.  

According to Resuscitation Council UK, a person's chance of survival decreases with every minute that passes without CPR and defibrillation, while early defibrillation within three to five minutes can significantly improve survival rates. 

The newly relocated public access defibrillators are available for anyone responding to a suspected cardiac arrest.  

And whilst the cabinets are locked to protect the equipment, they are registered with the North West Ambulance Service, meaning that when a 999 call is made, call handlers can identify the nearest device and provide the access code. 

The initiative, developed by the Trust's Resuscitation Team and supported by charitable funding, forms part of the Trust's ongoing commitment to improving patient safety, supporting community wellbeing and increasing access to life-saving equipment. 

The Countess of Chester Hospital NHS Foundation Trust has become the first organisation in Cheshire and Merseyside to achieve a fully Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ) compliant fleet, marking a significant milestone in its commitment to reducing emissions and improving local air quality. 

The achievement supports the Trust's wider sustainability ambitions and reflects ongoing investment in greener ways of delivering services across the organisation. 

Cathy Chadwick, Chief Operating Officer at the Countess of Chester Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, described the milestone as “another strong step forward” for the Trust.

She explained: “Becoming the first fully ULEZ‑compliant fleet in Cheshire and Merseyside is another strong step forward for us. It reflects the momentum we’re building as a Trust that’s modernising and moving forward for our patients and our community.  

“As we continue to strengthen our services and grow our teaching hospital ambitions, we want local people to feel proud that their hospital is increasingly leading the way.” 

The milestone marks significant progress in the Trust’s journey towards a greener NHS, as it works to reduce its carbon footprint while continuing to deliver high-quality patient care. 

To support its services, the Trust operates a wide range of vehicles, including cars, vans, and rapid response units, and as part of the NHS’s national ambition to reach net zero, is working towards a future where its entire fleet is zero-emission. 

The Trust’s Facilities Services transport team plays a vital role in supporting both hospital and community services, providing a comprehensive non-patient transport service.

This includes collecting specimens from GP surgeries and other hospitals, transporting essential items such as post, supplies, health records and medical equipment, and delivering complex care packages to patients’ homes.

These packages, which are received and coordinated through the Trust’s stores, contain vital medical supplies and equipment for patients with complex care needs, helping to ensure they can receive safe and effective care in their own homes.

The team also supports community maternity care by delivering and collecting equipment for expectant mothers, alongside operating a seven-day shuttle transporting specimens to microbiology laboratories in Bromborough.  

Covering around 5,000 miles each week, the service is essential to maintaining timely diagnostics and patient care across the organisation. 

Recognising the impact of air pollution and climate change on health, the Trust is taking ambitious steps to reduce its environmental impact and accelerate its journey to net zero. 

Under NHS targets, all non-emergency patient transport and standard vehicles will be zero-emission by 2035, with the full fleet, including emergency ambulances, following by 2040. 

In line with these goals, sustainability is now embedded into all vehicle purchasing decisions at the  Trust, ensuring owned, leased and contracted vehicles align with national carbon reduction targets. 

A key part of this transition is the introduction of seven new electric and hybrid fleet support vehicles, replacing older diesel models. 

The vehicles are already delivering measurable benefits, including estimated fuel savings of around £3,500 per vehicle each year, a 20% reduction in maintenance costs, and a projected reduction of 283 tonnes of CO₂ emissions over five years. 

Jill Morgan, Sustainable Travel and Transport Manager at the Countess of Chester Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, said: 
“We are delighted to introduce these new electric and hybrid vehicles as part of our commitment to a cleaner, more sustainable NHS fleet. 

"This is an important step forward in reducing emissions, improving air quality and supporting the health of our communities." she added. 

By leading the way on ULEZ compliance and embracing low-emission transport, the Trust is demonstrating how healthcare organisations can play a vital role in creating a healthier, more sustainable future for everyone. 

This latest achievement comes as the Trust continues to improve patient care and experience as part of its long-term transformation of local hospital services.  

It follows another significant milestone last year, when the award-winning Women and Children’s Building opened as the first Net Zero building in the NHS.  

The Countess of Chester Hospital NHS Foundation Trust has achieved some of its best-ever cancer results, consistently meeting two key NHS standards over the last four months and ranking among the top-performing trusts nationally. 

The results mean more patients are receiving answers about their condition sooner and starting treatment more quickly, helping to reduce the anxiety and uncertainty that can come with suspected cancer. 

One of these measures, known as the Faster Diagnosis Standard, looks at how quickly patients referred with suspected cancer receive an answer. It aims for patients to be told whether they have cancer, or whether cancer has been ruled out, within 28 days. 

Since October 2025, the Trust has performed above the national average, achieving its best-ever result in March 2026 when it ranked fourth in the country. 

Patients are also starting cancer treatment more quickly, as the Trust has consistently met the NHS target for patients to begin treatment within 62 days of an urgent referral. 

In April 2026, the Trust ranked fourth nationally for the proportion of patients starting cancer treatment within 62 days of an urgent referral, continuing to outperform the national average and helping more patients access treatment sooner when time matters most. 

And June saw further improvements in cancer care, with the Trust meeting all three national cancer targets for the first time since December 2025.

More patients are receiving a diagnosis and starting treatment sooner, with the Trust achieving its best-ever performance for providing answers within 28 days and significant improvements in treatment waiting times.

These improvements mean more patients are receiving a diagnosis sooner and beginning treatment more quickly, helping to reduce waiting times and improve patient experience.

Achieving this target reflects wider collaboration across Cheshire and Merseyside, which relies on close partnership working between the Trust, specialist hospitals and cancer centres across the region, ensuring patients can move through their care journey as quickly as possible. 

For example, recent NHS data shows Cheshire and Merseyside are among the best‑performing areas in England for a key skin cancer target - ensuring patients with suspected skin cancer start their first treatment within 62 days of being referred.

This is because hospitals in the region work closely together, sharing staff, planning clinics jointly and removing duplicate appointments, so patients are able to move through diagnosis and treatment faster.

Cathy Chadwick, Chief Operating Officer at the Countess of Chester Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, said: 

“Receiving news that you may have cancer can be an incredibly worrying experience for patients and their loved ones. That's why making sure people get answers and begin treatment as quickly as possible is so important." 

"We're incredibly proud to be among the best-performing trusts in the country for both cancer diagnosis and treatment times. These results are a testament to the hard work and dedication of colleagues across our cancer services and the excellent partnership working with specialist centres across the region." 

"Improving cancer performance is not only making a real difference for patients, it is also contributing to the Trust's wider improvement in performance, reflected most recently in a 24-place jump up in the main national ranking – the best in Cheshire and Merseyside.

“We remain focused on continuing this progress and delivering the best possible care for our communities."  

The achievements come as NHS organisations across the country work towards national targets requiring at least 80% of patients to receive a diagnosis or have cancer ruled out within 28 days, and 80% of patients to start treatment within 62 days of an urgent referral. 

The Trust continues to invest in cancer services to improve patient experience and ensure people can access diagnosis and treatment as quickly as possible.  

Recent developments include the opening of the newly renovated Chester Haematology Centre, alongside a wider programme of work aimed at further improving cancer care and performance against national standards. 

Published: 28/08/26

People in Chester, Ellesmere Port and surrounding areas are now being seen and treated much faster, as the Countess of Chester Hospital NHS Foundation Trust delivers one of the strongest improvements in waiting times seen anywhere in England this year. The progress has been recognised nationally, with Chief Executive Jane Tomkinson OBE invited to No.10 Downing Street in June to celebrate the Trust’s achievements on behalf of staff.

Under the NHS Constitution, patients should start routine treatment within 18 weeks of being referred. Over the past year, the Trust – which runs the Countess of Chester Hospital, Ellesmere Port Hospital and services from Tarporley War Memorial Hospital – has made major strides towards this standard. By April, most patients were being treated within 18 weeks, compared to average waits of around 24 weeks last autumn. The number of people being seen within this timeframe by the Trust continued to increase in May. Only a very small number of people (less than 0.8%) are now waiting over a year for treatment, marking one of the fastest reductions in long waits anywhere in England.

For local people, this means faster access to surgery and specialist care, less time living with pain or restricted movement, and a quicker return to work, family life and everyday activities.

Pictured: the Radiology team, whose work to speed up scans and X‑rays has helped patients get diagnosed and into treatment much sooner.

Staff have made these improvements by changing how some services work so patients can be seen more quickly. More than 500 people with skin problems have been seen in community clinics instead of waiting for a hospital appointment. Some patients who need vascular tests now have everything done in one visit instead of returning several times. Additional clinics, including at weekends, have also been added in busy specialties to increase capacity.

Pictured: the Theatres team, who treated several hundred extra patients in March (a record month), helping more people receive life‑changing surgery such as hip and knee replacements.

Cancer services continue to perform well, with most patients being seen within national timeframes, and the Trust remains one of the best in Cheshire and Merseyside for meeting cancer targets.

Cathy Chadwick, Chief Operating Officer at the Trust, said: “People can feel the difference. More patients are getting care in the place that’s right for them, whether that’s in hospital or closer to home, because we’re directing people to the right service first time and improving how clinics run. It means they’re being seen sooner and treated faster. Our staff – many of whom live in the communities we serve – have worked incredibly hard to make this happen, and I’m proud of what they’ve achieved for the people of Chester and beyond.”

This improvement in elective care has also helped drive wider progress across the Trust. In the latest national performance table for acute trusts, the Trust moved up 24 places – rising from near the bottom last September to 98^th out of 134, the biggest jump in Cheshire and Merseyside.

Pictured: the ENT team, who tackled the Trust’s biggest backlog of year‑long waits. Their extra weekend clinics have helped bring those numbers right down, making a big difference to how quickly patients across the hospital are now being seen.

Cathy continued: “Over the past year our teams have continued to focus on what really matters – getting people treated sooner so they can get back to everyday life. Every patient counts, and that’s been our mindset throughout. When you see someone get the treatment that changes their quality of life, it reminds you why the hard work is worth it.”

The Trust says these improvements are part of a wider plan to modernise services across all its sites. Alongside reducing long waits, the Trust is investing in new buildings, upgrading clinical areas and expanding care closer to home to make services easier to access.

 Published: 21/08/2026

The Countess Charity's Extra Mile Appeal has raised an impressive £160,000 in its first year, funding additional equipment that is already improving patient care across the Countess of Chester Hospital NHS Foundation Trust.

The funding has enabled the Trust to invest in equipment that supports quicker diagnosis, more efficient care and a better experience for patients.

Now entering its second year, the appeal is aiming to raise further funds to provide additional equipment for the Breast Care Unit, Intensive Care Unit (ICU) and various hospital wards.

Following the success of the charity’s Blue Skies Balcony and Retinal Scanner appeals, the Extra Mile Appeal was launched last year after The Countess Charity asked frontline staff which additional resources would have the greatest impact on patient care.

Angie Lopez, Head of Fundraising at The Countess Charity, said: "This appeal was inspired by conversations with frontline staff about what would make the biggest difference to their day-to-day work.

"Many told us that having extra equipment available would help them provide even better care for patients."

Since its launch, the appeal has funded an additional ultrasound scanner for theatres, extra ECG machines, extra bladder scanners, a specialist hearing device for patients unable to use conventional hearing aids, more mobility equipment for the Emergency Department and a saturation monitor to support patients moving from intensive care to a ward setting.

Angie added: "The NHS provides the equipment our teams need to deliver safe and effective care, but the Extra Mile Appeal allows us to fund additional resources that can be accessed more quickly when needed.

"That means less time spent locating equipment, faster diagnosis and treatment, and more time focused on caring for patients. It also gives teams a real sense of pride in having equipment readily available for those they care for."

Sue Pemberton, Deputy Chief Executive and Director of Nursing and Quality at the Countess of Chester Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, said:

"The impact of the Extra Mile Appeal is already being felt by both our staff and our patients.

Thanks to the support of our local community and The Countess Charity, teams across the Trust have quicker access to additional equipment when and where they need it. This means less time spent locating or sharing equipment and more time focused on caring for patients.

“We are incredibly grateful to everyone who has supported the appeal and helped ensure our staff have the resources they need to deliver the very best care."

The charity is now looking to build on the appeal's success by funding a number of new projects requested by frontline staff.

A key priority is an additional ultrasound scanner for ICU, helping clinicians access vital imaging equipment more quickly when caring for some of the hospital's most seriously ill patients.

Funds will also support improvements for breast care patients, including replacing seven visual arts therapy screens that help create a calming environment during appointments and treatment, alongside a dedicated ultrasound scanner to increase diagnostic capacity.

Meanwhile, the appeal will fund four additional bladder scanners for wards across the hospital, reducing the need to share equipment, supporting faster diagnosis and helping staff spend more time caring for patients.

To help reach its £200,000 target, The Countess Charity is encouraging supporters to take part in this year's Chester Business Club Walk.

The annual six-mile sponsored walk starts and finishes at Chester Racecourse and offers participants the opportunity to support the Extra Mile Appeal, helping fund equipment that will benefit patients across breast care, intensive care and hospital wards. Participants can choose which area that they would like their sponsorship to go to.

The event is free to enter, with fundraising support available from The Countess Charity, including sponsorship forms and charity T-shirts.

Anyone interested in taking part or supporting the Extra Mile Appeal can find out more by contacting the fundraising team on 01244 366240 or emailing coch.fundraising@nhs.net.

A senior clinician at the Countess of Chester Hospital NHS Foundation Trust is one of just 109 people across the UK to receive a prestigious Churchill Fellowship this year, to explore innovative approaches to frailty care around the world.

Rob Loughran, an Advanced Clinical Practitioner within the Trust’s Community Healthy Ageing Team, has been chosen to travel to Australia and Japan as part of the prestigious programme, where he will explore pioneering community-led approaches to frailty care.

His work will focus on prevention, healthy ageing and helping older people stay well and independent for longer.

Frailty is increasingly recognised as one of the biggest challenges facing health and care services as populations age, and can leave older people more vulnerable to falls, illness, hospital admission and loss of independence.

Across Cheshire and Merseyside, there is unwarranted variation in frailty care, with older people living with frailty being conveyed to hospital disproportionately.

At the Countess of Chester Hospital, there is an average of 13 Emergency Department attendances and 21 acute medical admissions each day among people aged 75 and over.

Older people living with frailty are among the highest users of health and social care services, accounting for 10.7% of healthcare costs, while the local population aged over 75 is forecast to grow by 45% by 2040.

Countries like Japan and Australia are recognised for their innovative approaches to supporting healthy ageing, helping older people remain active, independent and connected to their communities for longer.

Through the Fellowship, Rob will have the opportunity to learn from leading experts and explore how successful approaches from overseas could help shape future services for older people closer to home.

Speaking about his award, Rob said:  "I am absolutely thrilled to have been awarded a Churchill Fellowship for 2026.

“This is a fantastic opportunity to learn from world-leading experts in community frailty care and see first-hand how other countries are supporting older people to live healthier, more independent lives.

“I’m passionate about making a real difference locally, and I look forward to bringing this learning back to help improve care and outcomes for older people in our communities," he said.

Julia Weston, Chief Executive of the Churchill Fellowship, said: “In a world where looking outwards has never mattered more, there is something genuinely hopeful about people choosing to seek out new ideas, build connections across borders, and use that knowledge to create positive change.”

“I am delighted to welcome our 2026 Fellows. Each of them shows the power of curiosity, openness, and a willingness to learn from others. We’re all looking forward to following their journeys and seeing the difference they make across the UK.”

Jonathan Develing, Director of Strategy & Partnerships, added: “We are incredibly proud of Rob on receiving this prestigious Churchill Fellowship.

“His selection is a testament to his dedication, expertise and passion for improving the lives of older people across our communities.

“Frailty is one of the most significant challenges facing health and care services, and this Fellowship provides a unique opportunity to learn from international best practice and bring innovative ideas back to Cheshire and Merseyside.

“We look forward to supporting Rob as he shares his learning and helps shape the future of community-based frailty care for the benefit of our patients and population.”

More than 300 extra ophthalmology appointments will be offered throughout July and August, with the sessions aimed at people who have been waiting the longest for specialist eye treatment. Further additional clinics are also planned for September.

Demand for NHS eye care is at an all‑time high nationally, and ophthalmology is one of the busiest services at the Countess of Chester Hospital, so increasing capacity is essential to help bring waiting times down. The clinics will run across some of the hospital’s busiest services, including cataract reviews, glaucoma follow‑ups and retinal assessments.

By dedicating whole weekend clinics to specific eye conditions, specialist teams can see more patients in one go, streamline appointments and reduce the time people spend waiting in the department.

The move follows the Trust’s successful use of weekend “Super Clinics” in other areas. Earlier this year, a similar approach in Ear, Nose and Throat (ENT) services helped bring average waiting times down from more than 26 weeks to under 18, allowing hundreds more patients to be treated sooner. The Trust hopes ophthalmology will see the same benefit.

Craig Parkes, Consultant Ophthalmologist at the Countess of Chester Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, said: “We know waiting for an eye appointment can be worrying, especially when changes to your vision begin to affect everyday life. These Super Saturday clinics will allow us to see hundreds more patients this summer and help those who’ve been waiting the longest receive specialist care sooner. We’ve already seen how this approach has reduced waiting times in ENT, and we’re confident it will make a real difference for people waiting for eye care too.

“I’m incredibly grateful to colleagues who are giving up their weekends to make these clinics possible. Their commitment means more local people will receive the care they need without waiting longer than necessary.”

The Super Saturday programme forms part of wider efforts to reduce waiting times across planned care.

Over the past year, the Trust has significantly improved long waits, with around two‑thirds of patients now starting treatment within 18 weeks and less than 1% waiting more than a year. This progress has helped the Trust climb 24 places in the latest national performance table for acute trusts – the biggest improvement in Cheshire and Merseyside – taking it from near bottom last year to 98^th of 134 now.

Patients offered a weekend appointment will be contacted directly, with further extra clinics planned throughout the summer.

Date published: 14.08.2026

The Countess of Chester Country Park has once again been recognised as one of the UK's finest green spaces after securing a prestigious Green Flag Award for the ninth consecutive year.

The international quality mark, awarded by environmental charity Keep Britain Tidy, recognises parks and green spaces that are welcoming, well managed and deliver real benefits for their communities.

The unique green space which is situated next to the Countess of Chester Hospital, is among a record-breaking 2,391 sites across the UK to achieve Green Flag status, a testament to the dedication of staff, volunteers, partners and supporters who work year-round to maintain and enhance the park for local residents, visitors and the wider NHS community.

It follows a landmark year for the park, which has also been named Community Space of the Year at the Land Trust's Managing Partners Awards and recently celebrated 10 years of parkrun, highlighting its important role in supporting health, wellbeing and community connections across Chester.

As part of the celebrations, the Green Flag was officially raised last week by Nicola Perrins, Event Director for Chester Parkrun, marking a decade since the launch of Chester Parkrun at the park.

She was joined by Cllr Simon Eardley, Chester MP Sam Dixon, representatives from Cheshire and Wirral Partnership NHS Foundation Trust (CWP), Countess of Chester Hospital, Friends of Countess of Chester Country Park, The Conservation Volunteers (TCV), and members of the local community.

There was also a light-hearted moment during the celebrations when the MP officially named a new flail mower, Tinkerbell, which had been generously provided on long-term loan by the Life for a Life Memorial Forest charity to TCV and the Friends of Countess of Chester Country Park and will help support the ongoing maintenance and enhancement of the park.

Andy Scargill, Chair of the Friends of Countess of Chester Country Park, said:

"Winning a Green Flag Award for the ninth year in a row is fantastic recognition for everyone who contributes to making the park such a special place. Our volunteers, Friends Group members, partners and supporters give their time, energy and enthusiasm to help maintain and improve the park for the benefit of the whole community."

"What makes the park special is the warm welcome people receive when they visit – whether that’s by taking part in parkrun, joining a walking group, volunteering, or simply enjoying some time outdoors, the park brings people together and helps them connect with nature.  We're delighted to see its value recognised once again through this prestigious award,” he added.

Jon Develing, Director of Strategy and Partnerships at the Countess of Chester Hospital said: 

“Winning the Green Flag Award for nine consecutive years reflects the dedication of our partner organisations and our shared belief that working together can make a real difference.  Access to green spaces is linked to improved health outcomes, and the park supports a wide range of therapeutic activities that promote health, wellbeing and rehabilitation,” he said. 

Sarah Palgrave-Neath, Head of Estates North for the Land Trust, said:

"Receiving this award for the ninth-year running is something we are immensely proud of. It reflects the continued commitment, care and enthusiasm that so many people invest in Countess of Chester Country Park throughout the year.

"To also be recognised as Community Space of the Year in the same year that the park celebrates 10 years of parkrun demonstrates the vital role it plays in bringing people together, supporting health and wellbeing, and creating opportunities for people to connect with nature.

“We are incredibly grateful to our staff, volunteers, Friends Group, partners and local community who continue to make the park thrive."

Paul Todd MBE, Green Flag Award Manager at Keep Britain Tidy, added:

"Parks are essential public spaces that support our wellbeing, our communities and our economy. Yet for millions of people, particularly in the most deprived areas, local parks simply don't feel safe or welcoming.

"With public services under pressure, investing in parks is not a luxury, it is a practical, preventative solution and one of the most visible ways to improve people's quality of life.

"Both Land Trust and The Conservation Volunteers (TCV) have shown what can be achieved when parks are properly supported and managed. As we celebrate 30 years of the Green Flag Award, we want every community to have access to green spaces like this that are safe, welcoming and maintained to a high standard. Congratulations to everyone involved."

Notes to editors:

• One of the area's thriving natural environments, the Countess of Chester Country Park provides a unique green space that supports patients, visitors and healthcare staff and is regularly used for walking meetings, lunch breaks, rehabilitation activities and moments of quiet reflection, while ongoing collaborative projects continue to strengthen the link between nature and wellbeing.
• The park offers a diverse range of activities and facilities designed to bring people together and encourage healthier lifestyles. These include Forest School sessions, weekly volunteering opportunities, walking groups, Nordic walking and outdoor yoga classes. Visitors can also enjoy a range of distinctive community features including the Friendly Bench, book swap box, Life for a Life Memorial Forest and the Memory Milk Bank remembrance area, which offers a peaceful space for families affected by baby loss.
• A dedicated Friends Group and team of regular volunteers play a key role in caring for the site and ensuring it remains a welcoming environment for everyone.
• The Green Flag Award scheme is managed by environmental charity Keep Britain Tidy under contract from the Ministry of Housing, Communities & Local Government. It sets the benchmark standard for the management of recreational outdoor spaces across the UK and internationally.
• The latest award reinforces Countess of Chester Country Park's reputation as a valued community asset, providing a welcoming, accessible and inclusive environment where people can improve their wellbeing, connect with nature and come together as a community.

More than 1300 entries were received this year, with 231 projects and individuals reaching the final shortlist. The high volume and exceptional quality of applications showcases the impressive levels of innovation and care continually being developed within the UK’s healthcare networks.

Following the thorough judging process, the new Women and Children’s Building was shortlisted, ahead of the official awards ceremony to be held later this year (19th November), with its achievement to deliver the first NHS net zero carbon building standing out as a real ‘success story’ worthy of a prized place on the panel’s shortlist.

The Countess of Chester Hospital’s £110m Women and Children’s Building has earned national acclaim after becoming the first completed NHS building in England to meet the NHS Net Zero Building Standard. Fully electric and gas‑free, it produces its own clean energy, monitors carbon emissions in real time and meets the BREEAM Excellent benchmark, placing it among the most energy‑efficient healthcare buildings in the country. Bringing maternity, neonatal, paediatric and women’s outpatient services under one roof, the building was shaped with extensive input from staff, patients and the local community to ensure a modern, welcoming environment that puts families first.

Its commitment to sustainability is matched by a focus on comfort and accessibility, with natural light throughout, wide corridors, family‑friendly facilities, landscaped courtyards and specialist spaces such as the Lavender Suite and neonatal garden. The project also broke new ground by introducing a Net Zero Carbon Coordinator to oversee energy and carbon decisions – a role now being viewed as a model for future NHS builds. The building has since attracted interest from NHS leaders, universities and maternity teams across the country, who are visiting Chester to learn how the Trust delivered a carbon‑neutral facility that is both environmentally responsible and designed around the needs of local families.

Jane Tomkinson OBE, Chief Executive of the Countess of Chester Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, said: “This building has put Chester on the map. Families felt the difference from day one, and the rest of the NHS is now looking to us for ideas, with the whole construction industry recognising it as among the best built in the last year for its sustainable design and the way families and staff shaped it from the start. It shows what modern healthcare can look like – welcoming, sustainable and designed around the people who use it.

We are delighted to be shortlisted for a HSJ award – it will be a huge boost for our dedicated and hardworking team, especially in a year when the competition was so tough with an unprecedented volume of entries from so many other equally deserving Trusts and individuals.”

“We’re proud of what this means for our community.”

HSJ editor Alastair McLellan, adds; “It always gives me great pleasure to congratulate our finalists at this stage of the judging process and this year is no exception as we acknowledge the Countess of Chester Hospital for being shortlisted in the category of Towards Net Zero Award.

“However, it’s always important to remember that the HSJ Awards are not just a celebration of success stories but also a platform to shape the future of the NHS.

“We can’t wait to welcome our finalists to the awards ceremony in November and to recognise and applaud such impressive achievements across the sector. Huge thanks also go to our headline partner, Lloyds Clinical, who share our mission of driving the standard of healthcare excellence and creating better patient experiences.”

The selected winners will be announced during the awards ceremony at Evolution London on 19th November 2026. The event not only reflects the HSJ Awards’ enduring ethos of “sharing best practice, improving patient outcomes and innovating drivers of better service” but will also serve as a timely and well-deserved thank you to the sector.

The awards judging panel was once again made up of a diverse range of highly influential and respected figures within the healthcare community, as well as a range of esteemed board level executives from NHS Trusts across the UK.

The full list of nominees for the 2026 HSJ awards can be found at

https://awards.hsj.co.uk/shortlist-2026 alongside details of the Awards partners at

https://awards.hsj.co.uk/partners.

About the HSJ awards

The most coveted accolade in UK healthcare, the HSJ Awards is the largest annual benchmarking and recognition programme for the health sector. Over the last 40 years, the awards have been celebrating healthcare excellence through huge political, technological and financial challenges within the sector.

Through a rigorous, fair and transparent judging process the awards produce a roll call of the best organisations, teams and people in the NHS and the wider health sector.

About HSJ

The Health Service Journal is the only title to cover all aspects of publicly funded healthcare, providing news, analysis, best practise information from some of the most powerful and respected figures in health. The HSJ audience is formed of healthcare leaders from both clinical and non-clinical backgrounds and both public and private sectors.

The Countess of Chester Hospital NHS Foundation Trust is marking World Breastfeeding Week by shining a spotlight on the support available to families throughout their feeding journey.

Throughout pregnancy and after their baby is born, families can access a range of support, including free workshops, one-to-one appointments and specialist advice both in hospital and at home.

After birth, trained maternity staff are on hand to support families with their baby's first feed and provide practical advice on feeding, bonding and recognising their baby's needs.

Ongoing support is then available through follow-up calls, home visits, clinics and local support groups.

The Trust has also invested in dedicated feeding facilities within its new Women and Children's Building, making it easier for parents to feed and care for their babies while visiting the hospital.

Feeding and changing rooms are available on every floor, along with a private feeding room in the paediatric waiting area of the Emergency Department, with support tailored to each family's individual needs and feeding goals.

Whether parents choose to breastfeed, combination feed or formula feed, the Trust's teams are on hand to provide practical advice, answer questions and help families to feel confident in feeding and caring for their baby.

Emma Harrison, Infant Feeding Lead for Maternity Services, said:

"World Breastfeeding Week is a chance to celebrate the support available to families and raise awareness of where to get help.

Every family's feeding journey is different, which is why it's important that parents have access to information, guidance and reassurance that helps them make the choices that are right for them and their baby.

From pregnancy through to the early weeks at home, our teams are here to provide practical support, answer questions and help families feel confident as they get to know and care for their newborn.

We want parents to know that they don't have to navigate feeding challenges alone, and that support is available whenever they need it,” she explained.

Specialist support is also available for families whose babies require care on the neonatal unit, where feeding can bring additional challenges and concerns.

Amy Davies, Infant Feeding Lead for Neonatal Services, said:

"For families whose babies need neonatal care, feeding can sometimes feel overwhelming.

Parents may be coping with an unexpected hospital stay while also learning how to best feed and care for their baby.

This is why we work closely with families to provide the support, reassurance and advice they need, helping them feel confident and involved in their baby's care from the very beginning.

Our aim is to ensure parents feel supported every step of the way and empowered to make the feeding choices that are right for them and their baby.”

The neonatal unit also offers dedicated feeding support, breast pump loans and personalised feeding plans tailored to the needs of babies and their families.

Published: 06 August 2026 

Around six months after the new approach was introduced, May was the hospital’s best month for emergency care performance in over four years, with 65.2% of patients seen, treated and either discharged or admitted within four hours – representing clear progress. Work to improve this further continues.

Demand for urgent care continues to rise, with attendances around 8% higher than this time last year and 19% higher than before the pandemic, meaning improvements like this are being made against a backdrop of increasing demand.

The improvements follow a major redesign of how patients are seen when they arrive. Instead of waiting in one long queue, patients are now assessed as soon as they enter the department and directed straight to the team best placed to treat them.

Photo: New streaming pods mean patients are now assessed more quickly on arrival and directed straight to the right team.

The final phase of the work has focused on children’s emergency care, with a newly refurbished paediatric A&E which is now open, including a redesigned waiting area, new family room and improved clinical areas, creating a calmer and more welcoming environment.

Photos: The refurbished paediatric A&E includes a redesigned waiting area, new family room and upgraded clinical spaces, including a new children’s resus bay.

The investment focuses on what matters most to patients – how quickly they are seen and the environment they are cared in. Improvements include:

• A front-door triage system so patients are assessed as quickly as possible after arrival
• A refurbished A&E with improved spaces and facilities for people with different needs
• An expanded Discharge Lounge to help more patients go home sooner and to free up beds in the main hospital for other patients
• An expanded Urgent Treatment Centre so less urgent patients can be treated more quickly

Together, these changes are helping patients receive the care they need more quickly.

Around seven in ten patients are now assessed and directed to the right team within 45 minutes of arriving, meaning patients are seen much earlier in their visit.

The time it takes to make a decision about a patient’s care has also reduced by a third – from around three hours to two. This is how quickly clinicians decide what happens next. Faster decisions mean patients spend less time waiting for answers, helping to ease pressure in A&E, reduce overcrowding and make care safer.

Photos: The new atrium, part of a £7.1m upgrade, provides the space needed for front‑door triage, with streaming pods and an initial waiting area for rapid assessment.

Staff say the changes are already noticeable.

Dr Lottie Elliott, Lead Consultant within the Emergency Department, said: “It feels like a different place when you walk in now. Patients are being seen much earlier and there is a calmer, more organised flow through the department. That’s better for patients and for staff.

“We’ve had really positive feedback from patients, from organisations like Healthwatch, and from colleagues visiting from NHS England and other hospitals. It’s not just a feeling – people can see that things are working differently.

Photo: Dr Lottie Elliott inside the A&E department at the Countess of Chester Hospital 

Hospital leaders recognise that many people still experience long waits when attending A&E, and that rebuilding confidence will take time.

Cathy Chadwick, Chief Operating Officer, said: “We know people haven’t always had a good experience of A&E, and we understand why their confidence in us needs to be rebuilt.

“What these improvements show is that change is underway. We are clear though – this is early progress, not the end point. With demand continuing to rise, improving waiting times will become even more challenging, which is why progress like this matters. It will continue to come from small changes across every part of the service adding up to make a real difference to our patients – and we are committed to building on that.”

These changes are part of a wider shift in how urgent and emergency care is delivered across the hospital, with teams working more closely together across hospital and community services, rather than care being centred in A&E alone.

Further investment is planned as part of longer-term plans to continue improving urgent and emergency care at the hospital.

Date published: 03 August 2026

Inspectors looked at Urgent and Emergency Care, End of Life Care and Medical Services. They saw clear improvements across all three areas, with changes providing patients with safer care, better experiences, improved treatment spaces and more timely access to care.

The Trust welcomed the Good rating for its Medical and End of Life care. This reflects better experiences for patients and their families, with a strong focus on kindness, dignity and compassion.

Jane Tomkinson OBE, Chief Executive Officer at the Countess of Chester Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, said: “This is a proud moment for our teams and an important message for our patients and their families. The CQC report demonstrates that the actions we are taking are improving the quality and experience for patients. 

“I am extremely grateful to colleagues across the Trust for their professionalism, compassion and commitment. We recognise there is more to do – especially in Urgent and Emergency Care – and we will continue to drive forward the improvements, to ensure every patient receives safe, timely and high‑quality care.”

Neil Large MBE, Chair of theCountess of Chester Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, said: “This achievement has come from colleagues working together with a strong focus on listening, learning and making changes that matter to patients and their families.

“On behalf of the Trust Board, I want to thank colleagues across our hospitals for their dedication and professionalism.”

The inspection took place during the Trust’s busiest month on record, when emergency care demand was around 8% higher than the same time last year. Despite this pressure, CQC inspectors saw clear improvements in how patients were assessed, treated and supported in the Countess of Chester Hospital’s emergency care facilities.

Since the inspection, the Trust has completed a £7.1 million upgrade to the emergency department and the discharge lounge. A new arrival and streaming process is helping patients reach the right care more quickly, senior clinical capacity has increased during peak times, and progress is being made with earlier discharge planning to support smoother patient journeys.

These changes sit alongside major milestones achieved over the past year, including the Trust being recognised as one of the most improved in England.

The full CQC report was published on Friday 31 July 2026.

Publish date: 31 July 2026

The renal dialysis team at the Countess of Chester Hospital is introducing a new approach to care that will give patients more choice and control over their treatment.

The Shared Care initiative is a national programme designed to help people on dialysis play a more active role in their own healthcare if they want to, rather than having everything done for them.

Patients are able to choose whether to get involved in simple parts of their treatment, such as helping set up the dialysis machine, taking basic observations, or learning more about how dialysis works.

Some patients may also choose to insert their own dialysis needles, although this is entirely optional. There is no pressure to take part - patients can choose what feels right for them and progress at their own pace.

The team is starting the programme with a small pilot involving four patients who have chosen to become more involved in their care, and staff will provide full training, support and supervision throughout to ensure everything is done safely.

Three team members have already completed specialist training in Shared Care and will support the pilot, as well as help train colleagues across the unit.

For many patients, dialysis can sometimes feel like something they have little control over  -  which is why Shared Care aims to change that by helping patients feel more informed, confident, and more in control of their treatment.

Patient Paula Maguire, who has been receiving dialysis at the Trust for almost 10 years and is taking part in Shared Care, said:

"My confidence has changed for the better -  it's given me more understanding and made me feel better about dialysis, as well as helping me understand how the machine works and why things need to be done,” she explained.

"I got involved with Shared Care because I wanted to have more of an insight into my treatment. I’m currently helping with some parts of the treatment, such as passing equipment and supporting a step at the end called ‘washback’, where the blood is returned to the body.

"The support from staff has been excellent - if I don’t understand anything, they will explain it to me.

“I enjoy learning new skills and felt excited in a way, especially the feeling of being partly in control, with staff support. I have really enjoyed the experience - it’s something I really wanted to try and I’m glad I did,” she said.

Rojamol Jobins, Renal Unit Manager, added:

"Shared Care is about giving our patients real choice. Some people want to be more involved in their treatment, while others prefer not to -  and both are fine.

“This approach allows patients to build confidence, understand their treatment better, and feel more in control, all with the full support of our team,” she explained.

“And with patient feedback already helping to shape the pilot we hope, if it is successful, to expand the approach to more patients and across more dialysis sessions at Chester”.

Countess of Chester Hospital research bus visiting Chester city centre to spotlight critical illness study for premature babies

The Countess of Chester Hospital NHS Foundation Trust's innovative mobile research bus will be at Chester Town Hall this Friday (24 July) as part of efforts to raise awareness of a study investigating why some people are more vulnerable to illnesses than others.

The research will explore which parts of DNA may be associated with an increased risk of serious illness in babies born under 32 weeks, potentially providing valuable insights into the genetic factors behind disease.

By improving understanding of why some individuals are more susceptible to severe illness than others, the study could support the development of new and more effective treatments in the future.

Taking part in the study will involve providing a simple saliva sample, which researchers use to analyse DNA.

Researchers will compare genetic and health information from participants with wider population data to help identify patterns that may explain differences in how people respond to serious illness.

Participation is entirely voluntary, and the research team will be available on the day to answer questions and provide information so that people can make an informed decision about whether the study is right for them.

Although those who take part are unlikely to benefit directly, the knowledge gained through the study could help researchers develop a better understanding of critical illness and support advances in patient care for future generations.

Jude Prince, Research Coordinator at the Countess of Chester Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, said:

"Research plays a vital role in helping us better understand why some people become seriously ill and how we can improve care in the future.

“By taking our research bus out into the community, we're able to talk directly to people about the studies taking place across the NHS, answer their questions and explain how research is helping to shape the treatments of tomorrow."

Friday’s visit forms part of the work of the Trust's mobile research bus, one of only four across the North West.

Funded by NHS research partners, including the NIHR Applied Research Collaboration North West Coast and the Regional Research Delivery Network, the vehicle was launched in 2024 to bring research directly into local communities, making it easier for people to find out about studies taking place across the NHS and helping widen access to research across the region.

It also gives researchers the opportunity to engage with a broader cross-section of the community, helping to ensure studies better reflect the populations they serve.

The vehicle forms part of a wider investment in the Trust's growing research programme, alongside a dedicated three-bed clinical research unit.

Notes to editor:

The research bus and members of the research team will be outside Chester Town Hall on Friday 24 July from 11am-2.30pm

Members of the public will have the opportunity to speak to members of the research team, find out more about the study and ask any questions they may have.

An innovative new service at the Trust is improving patient care and freeing up valuable operating theatre time, following the success of its Procedure Bay initiative.

The Trust initially piloted the scheme earlier this year after identifying the need for a safer and more efficient way to treat stable patients who require urgent procedures but do not need a full operating theatre.

Based in the theatre recovery area, the Procedure Bay provides a dedicated space for anaesthetic procedures such as nerve catheter insertions and complex intravenous access.

By carrying out these treatments outside of the main theatre environment, patients can be treated more quickly in a calmer, more organised setting.

Since launching, the service has already delivered clear benefits. It has supported 20 urgent procedures and freed up 27 hours of operating theatre time  -  saving the Trust around £32,400.

As a result, waiting times have reduced and theatre space has been made available for more complex cases.

Following its success, the Procedure Bay has now become part of routine practice across the Trust.

Consultant Anaesthetist Thomas Rudnick, Lead for Emergency Theatres,  said the team is extremely proud of the impact the initiative is making:“Our new procedural area in theatre recovery is a first of its kind initiative in the region which we’re extremely proud of,” he said.

“Our biggest success so far has been with the insertion of nerve catheters for patients with rib fractures and serious circulation problems.

“They are now being inserted far more efficiently, greatly improving patients’ experience and outcomes, as well as saving hours of emergency theatre time and Trust expenditure,” he explained.

Nigel Scawn, the Trust’s Medical Director added:

“This initiative is a great example of how innovation and teamwork can deliver real benefits for patients and staff. By creating a more efficient pathway for urgent procedures, we are not only improving patient experience and outcomes but also making better use of our theatre capacity so we can treat more people more quickly.

“I’m incredibly proud of the teams involved in developing and embedding this approach into everyday practice,” he said.

The Countess of Chester Hospital NHS Foundation Trust has this month introduced a new, advanced pacemaker technique that could significantly improve long-term outcomes for patients with slow heart rhythms, becoming one of only a small number of Trusts in the region to offer it outside of Liverpool Heart and Chest Hospital.  

Until now, patients at the Trust who require a pacemaker for dangerously slow heartbeats have typically been treated using a conventional pacemaker device which delivers electrical signals to the right side of the heart to help maintain a regular heartbeat. 

Whilst effective, this approach can, in some cases, impact how the heart contracts over time, meaning some patients may require ongoing medication or, occasionally, a further procedure to upgrade to a more advanced pacemaker. 

However, in a significant step forward, the Trust has now started using a more advanced type of pacing technique called Left Bundle Branch Area Pacing (LBBAP). 

Unlike traditional pacemakers, which stimulate the heart by placing a wire into the heart muscle, this newer technique places the wire directly into the heart’s own electrical system.  

By working with the heart’s natural signals, it helps the heart to beat in a more coordinated way, helping patients to maintain better heart function over time after receiving a pacemaker. 

The Trust has treated its first patients using the new LBBAP technique earlier this month, supported by leading cardiology specialist Dr Dan Keane from the Royal Free Hospital in London and Dr Patrick Hayle from Liverpool Heart and Chest Hospital.  

The rollout follows specialist training for the Trust’s cardiology consultants, catheter laboratory staff and cardiac physiologists, ensuring the technique can be delivered safely and effectively. 

Consultant cardiologist Dr Dennis Caulfield said: “This is an extremely exciting step forward for our cardiac services here at the Countess of Chester Hospital.  

“By using a more natural way of pacing the heart, we hope to help patients maintain better heart function in the long term and reduce the need for additional treatments. 

“It’s a really positive development for our patients, giving them access to the latest techniques and improving the overall quality of care we can provide locally,” he said. 

Nigel Scawn, Executive Medical Director at The Trust, added:  “This is a fantastic example of how we are continuing to invest in innovative, high-quality care here at the Countess of Chester Hospital. 

“Introducing this advanced pacing technique means our patients can benefit from the very latest developments closer to home, without the need to travel to specialist centres, and it reflects our commitment to improving patient experience, outcomes and access to leading-edge treatments across our services.” 

The building won Project of the Year – Cheshire, Wirral & Warrington and Sustainability Award, recognising both its family‑focused design and its forward‑thinking approach to energy use and carbon reduction.

The £110m building opened in early September 2025 and beat tough competition at the awards. Judges said it stood out because it was designed around families and built with the future in mind.

Local families noticed the difference straight away. In the first week of opening in September last year, twice as many expectant parents contacted the hospital to book their maternity care, with opening day reaching six times the usual number. Parents said the building felt light, bright and calm, with individual rooms and spaces that made them feel safe and supported. The first baby born there, Wateen Mohammed, arrived on opening day – a moment staff described as “special”.

Soon after opening, the building reached a national milestone. It became the first completed NHS building in England to meet the NHS Net Zero Building Standard. This means it uses no gas, makes its own clean electricity and tracks its energy use in real time. It is one of the most energy‑efficient healthcare buildings in the country.

Since then, the building has attracted attention from across the NHS. National leaders have visited to learn how the project delivered strong value for money. University teams including at Chester have toured the site to understand how carbon‑neutral design works in real life, and maternity teams from other parts of the country have come to listen and share ideas.

The project was delivered by construction partners IHP – a joint venture between VINCI Building and Sir Robert McAlpine – with many subcontractors being local businesses. They were supported by Ecospheric, a sustainability consultancy that helped the building meet the NHS Net Zero Standard, and CCL Solutions, who led the project management.

Jane Tomkinson OBE, Chief Executive of the Countess of Chester Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, said: “This building has put Chester on the map. Families felt the difference from day one, and the rest of the NHS is now looking to us for ideas, with the whole construction industry recognising it as among the best built in the last year for its sustainable design and the way families and staff shaped it from the start. It shows what modern healthcare can look like – welcoming, sustainable and designed around the people who use it. We’re proud of what this means for our community.”

The awards come at a time when the Countess of Chester Hospital NHS Foundation Trust is seeing real improvement. Waiting times for planned treatment and urgent and emergency care have come down, cancer care has stayed strong and there has been a renewed focus on staff wellbeing and patient experience. These changes have helped the Trust climb 35 places in the national performance table of 134 hospital trusts – including a recent jump of 24 places, the biggest in Cheshire and Merseyside. It means the hospital is no longer near the bottom and is moving firmly in the right direction.

New facilities are also opening across the site. A modern Stroke Ward opened in October, and the new Chester Haematology Centre will open this summer. A £7.1 million upgrade to the front of A&E and related areas has already made a difference, and more investment is planned to expand the area inside the department where patients are assessed and monitored.

The Trust is focused on taking more care into the community, with plans for a second Community Diagnostic Centre, continuing work to bring down long waits and has more major estate improvements in tow, as it moves towards its ambition to become a teaching hospital.

How to refer yourself

Expectant parents can bypass the initial GP appointment and self‑refer directly to their chosen hospital for maternity care. Choosing the Countess is simple and open to everyone, whether you live locally or further afield – simply refer yourself using this form. Midwives will provide support, information and ensure patients are cared for throughout their journey.

Published: 09/07/2026

Practice Development Lead Nurse Kelsey Jones and Women and Children’s Service Manager Kirsty Simmonds were among the 17 people selected from the whole of NHS England’s North West region. Their invitation comes during a year of major progress for the Trust, which was recently named one of the top 10 most improved Trusts in England and achieved the biggest improvement of any Trust in Cheshire and Merseyside in the latest NHS Oversight Framework.

Kirsty, who began her NHS career at the Countess of Chester Hospital at just 16, said the invitation felt like a milestone she never expected. “Apprenticeships have helped me build skills, confidence and a career I’m proud of. I hope my journey shows young people in Chester that you can start anywhere, grab every opportunity your job offers, and still achieve something incredible.”

Kirsty has completed four NHS apprenticeships – a rare achievement – and last year won Young Person or Apprentice of the Year at the West Cheshire and North Wales Chamber of Commerce Awards, before being named North West Rising Star of the Year at the Department for Education’s National Apprenticeship & Skills Awards, selected from more than 1,100 entries across the private and public sectors.

Kelsey was recognised for transforming how nurses at the Countess of Chester Hospital are trained, supported and developed. Over the past year she has brought training teams together, strengthened support for new starters and created a clearer, more consistent approach to developing nursing skills.

Kelsey said: “When I took on this piece of work a year ago, we knew we wanted to strengthen nursing practice and give staff the confidence and skills they need to deliver the best care. I’m proud of what we’ve achieved together – safer practice, stronger skills and better support for staff. When nurses feel confident and well trained, it means better care for patients and helps prevent things like falls, infections or pressure ulcers.”

Sue Pemberton, Deputy Chief Executive Officer and Director of Nursing and Quality, said: “Kirsty and Kelsey’s invitations to No.10 are a wonderful moment for them and for Chester.

“Kirsty and Kelsey represent the very best of what the NHS can achieve when talented people are supported to grow, lead and make a difference. Their dedication is inspiring, and it’s uplifting to see Chester on the national stage.”

For local people, the recognition of Kelsey and Kirsty is a reminder of the exceptional talent working inside their hospital. Staff across the Trust are delivering safer care, modernising services and shaping the future of the NHS, supported by the Trust’s ambition to grow as a teaching‑focused organisation.

Their achievements come at a time of sustained improvement for the Countess of Chester Hospital NHS Foundation Trust. Over the past nine months the Trust has risen to 98th place out of 134 in the national NHS performance rankings, moving up from near the bottom. Emergency care has improved following a £7.1 million upgrade to A&E and related departments, waiting times for planned treatment have reduced, and the number of people waiting for treatment has fallen by nearly 17%. More patients are now starting treatment within the NHS’s 18‑week standard, with average waits reduced from 23 weeks to 15 weeks.

The Trust has also opened major new facilities, including the award‑winning £110 million Women and Children’s Building, with the Chester Haematology Centre set to open this summer. These developments form part of a long‑term plan to modernise services and strengthen care for the community.

Published: 07.07.2026

A pioneering online rehabilitation service supporting stroke patients across Cheshire and Merseyside has received national recognition after winning a top award at the Advancing Healthcare Awards 2026 in London.

The NeuroRehabilitation OnLine (NROL) service received the award for Best Collaboration Across Clinical, Academia and Industry, recognising the strong partnership between clinicians, researchers, NHS organisations, patients and carers.

The accolade reflects the collective effort to redesign rehabilitation services to make them more accessible, effective and patient-centred.

In a highly competitive category, judges praised the collaborative approach that underpins NROL and its impact on improving patient care.

The Cheshire and Mersey NROL service, which launched in 2024, delivers rehabilitation to stroke patients through real-time, therapist-led group sessions.

Delivered virtually via Microsoft Teams, the programme brings together NHS therapists from hospital trusts across Cheshire and Merseyside to provide a range of support including physical rehabilitation, cognitive therapy, talking therapies and community-based sessions.

By enabling patients to access therapy from their own homes, NROL helps to increase both the frequency and intensity of rehabilitation, whilst also building confidence, promoting self-management and reducing isolation through group-based support.

The initiative has been supported by the Stroke Quality Improvement for Rehabilitation (SQuIRe) programme and is available to patients receiving care through a range of NHS trusts across the region, including the Countess of Chester Hospital NHS Foundation Trust and Cheshire and Wirral Partnership NHS Foundation Trust.

This latest accolade recognises the hard work and dedication of the Cheshire and Mersey Stroke Network, clinicians and the NROL team, as well as the vital contribution of patients and partners who have helped shape and develop the service.

Amy Bastow, Project Lead for Cheshire and Mersey NROL said:

“We are incredibly proud to receive this national recognition for NROL. This award reflects the strength of collaboration across our teams, partners, and the patients and carers who have helped shape the service,” she said.

“NROL is about making rehabilitation more accessible, flexible and meaningful for people in their everyday lives, and it’s fantastic to see the positive difference it is making across Cheshire and Merseyside.

“This achievement is a testament to the dedication, innovation and commitment of everyone involved,” she added.

Sue Pemberton, the Trust’s Depurty Chief Executive Offcer and Director of Nursing and Quality said:

“This is a fantastic achievement for everyone involved and a clear demonstration of what can be achieved through strong partnership working. NROL is transforming how we deliver stroke rehabilitation, helping us to reach more patients, reduce variation in access, and provide high-quality care in a way that better fits people’s lives.

“I’m incredibly proud of the teams across Cheshire and Merseyside who have made this possible,” she added.

Notes to Editors

• NeuroRehabilitation OnLine (NROL) is a group-based rehabilitation programme for people who have had a stroke or other neurological conditions.
• The service is delivered online using Microsoft Teams and is facilitated by NHS therapists from partner trusts across Cheshire and Merseyside, with dedicated technology support available.
• The programme includes physical therapy, cognitive rehabilitation, talking therapies and community support sessions, tailored to individual patient needs.
• Patients typically begin with an introductory “Meet and Greet” session, allowing them to meet the team and test the technology before starting their personalised programme.
• The aim of NROL is to increase access to neurorehabilitation by offering additional supervised therapy sessions in a convenient, real-time, home-based format.

Work is underway at the Countess of Chester Hospital to create the newly named Chester Haematology Centre, providing a calmer, brighter and more appropriate environment for people attending hospital regularly for treatments for blood cancers and blood disorders.

The centre will open in late July, relocating haematology day‑case services from the main hospital building into a modern clinical space on the Countess of Chester Hospital site as part of the Trust’s wider estate plans.

Patients receiving treatments such as chemotherapy often spend many hours in hospital, week after week. The new centre has been designed to make the experience less stressful, with bigger and lighter spaces, improved privacy and quieter surroundings away from the busiest parts of the hospital.

Moving the service into a standalone building will help protect immunocompromised patients - including people receiving treatment for blood cancers, such as leukaemia, lymphoma and myeloma – by reducing their exposure to infections in the main hospital. This supports safer care for some of the Trust’s most vulnerable patients, many of whom need frequent day‑case appointments for chemotherapy, transfusions and procedures.

Alongside haematology care, the centre will also support outpatient treatments for other medical specialties, helping more patients to return home sooner and come back for planned treatment, rather than remaining in hospital longer than necessary. This approach supports modern models of care and helps to make the best use of inpatient capacity.

The refurbishment will deliver larger consultation rooms and a dedicated procedure room for tests such as bone marrow biopsies, allowing care to be delivered in a way that feels more private, dignified and personal. The layout has been designed to support a smoother experience for patients and efficient use of space across the day.

Wellbeing has been a key focus of the design. A significantly improved indoor quiet room, with natural light and facilities for making drinks, offers patients and families a more comfortable and private space, including when receiving difficult news. Enhanced outdoor space, including a seating area and garden, gives patients and families somewhere calm to step out to afterwards – something patients consistently say makes a real difference.

These changes form part of a wider approach to refreshing the hospital’s estate, improving first impressions for patients and visitors and ensuring buildings are used in ways that best support current and future clinical needs.

Cathy Chadwick, Chief Operating Officer at the Countess of Chester Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, said: “Many of our haematology patients, particularly those with blood cancer, come to hospital regularly and often spend long periods of time here. Creating a dedicated, quieter space away from the busiest parts of the site is a deliberate decision to improve patient safety and make those visits less stressful, particularly for people whose immune systems are more vulnerable.

“This move is part of a wider plan to use our buildings more sensibly and adapt the hospital to how care is delivered today and in the future. By treating more people as outpatients in the right setting, we can help patients get home sooner, make better use of our estate, and continue improving care in a planned and sustainable way.”

Dr Sean McGoldrick, Consultant and Clinical Lead for Haematology, said: “Our staff are excited about this move because they know how much it will mean to patients. The design, the extra space, the daylight and the therapeutic features will all help us deliver care in a way that feels calmer, more personal and more dignified. This is a real stride forward for the service.”

Once the move is complete, the existing haematology unit in the main hospital building, currently located behind the Same Day Emergency Care facility, will be repurposed for future clinical use.

The Countess of Chester Hospital NHS Foundation Trust has delivered the biggest improvement of any trust in Cheshire and Merseyside in the latest NHS Oversight Framework league table, rising 24 places to position 98 of 134 Trusts. It is a clear sign that the Trust’s recovery plan is working and that services for local people are improving.

The rise follows a 10‑place improvement during the middle part of the financial year and an earlier rise in ranking, giving the Trust – which runs the Countess of Chester, Ellesmere Port and Tarporley War Memorial hospitals – nine months of sustained progress. This trend has seen the Trust move out of the bottom‑ranked group of acute Trusts nationally, known as Segment 4, with the Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC) showing greater confidence in its stability, leadership and delivery.

Hospital leaders say the improvement reflects an improvement in the Emergency Department (which includes A&E), a significant reduction in long waits for planned care, and a clear plan for modernising services across Chester and Ellesmere Port.

The Countess of Chester Hospital is among the most improved in England over the past 12 months because of consistent delivery across a range of cancer standards and significant reductions in the length of time patients are waiting for planned treatment and diagnostics.

Alongside these improvements, the Trust is also updating its buildings to support better care. The new £110 million Women and Children’s Building opened in September 2025, and work has begun to remove the old building to make space for future clinical services. The renovated Stroke Ward is now open for the many patients who need specialist stroke care, and the new Chester Haematology Centre will open in the summer to give people receiving cancer treatment a safer, more comfortable space. The Trust has also secured further funding to continue investment in its Emergency Department, this time to expand the area where patients are assessed and monitored. These changes are part of a long‑term plan to modernise the site and improve the experience for patients and staff.

Together, these improvements demonstrate the Trust’s unwavering focus on putting patients first and delivering outstanding care to the communities we serve.

Health and Social Care Secretary, James Murray, said: “Patients deserve honesty about how their NHS is performing. By being transparent about outcomes, we're empowering patients, driving improvement and ensuring every part of the NHS is focused on delivering the best possible care.

“These results show where the NHS is getting it right and where we must go further. They also recognise the dedication of NHS staff, including those in Chester, who have worked tirelessly to deliver excellent care for patients.

“After years of underinvestment and falling performance, we're turning the NHS around – cutting waiting lists, improving services and rebuilding a health service people can once again be proud of.”

Over the past year, the Trust has delivered some of the strongest improvements in Cheshire and Merseyside:

• The number of people waiting for treatment has dropped by nearly 17%. This means thousands more people are now closer to getting the care they need.
• More patients are being seen within the NHS’s expected timeframes (the 18-week target). Last year, fewer than half of patients (47%) started treatment within the usual NHS timescale. Now, around two‑thirds do (66.5%) – a big step forward.
• People are waiting less time overall. The average wait has fallen from 23 weeks to 15 weeks, meaning patients are being treated much sooner.
• The Trust is now considered the best in Cheshire and Merseyside for treating minor injuries and illnesses in the Emergency Department. This follows major changes to how emergency care works.
• More people are being seen in A&E within four hours. Performance has risen from 55% to 62%, even though demand has gone up.
• Despite this, A&E is busier than ever. Attendances have risen by 11% in two years (from 83,492 to 92,760), showing the pressure staff are working under.

Jane Tomkinson OBE, Chief Executive of the Countess of Chester Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, said: “Our teams have delivered these improvements while facing rising demand and the greater expectations from service users and their families. The commitment, skill and resilience from our staff are the reason people can see real change happening across our hospital – from the improvements in our Emergency Department (A&E) to the new facilities opening on site.”

“We have a clear plan and we are proud of the progress so far, but we are not complacent. We have exciting capital proposals already with NHS England for consideration, and more in development. All of this is about delivering the right care, in the right place, first time and ensuring we meet the requirements of the NHS Ten-Year Health Plan.”

The Trust says the next phase of improvement will focus on bringing more care into the community, including plans for its second Community Diagnostic Centre; continuing to reduce long waits; securing major capital investment to further modernise the estate; expanding research capability; and building towards teaching‑hospital status to strengthen academic partnerships and research opportunities.

Further updates will be shared over the summer as the Trust continues to deliver its improvement programme.

Staff at the Countess of Chester Hospital NHS Foundation Trust are once again taking part in unannounced cardiac arrest simulations, helping to ensure teams are ready to act quickly and confidently in a real emergency.  

Cardiac arrests at the hospital are thankfully rare, affecting fewer than one in every 1,000 patients admitted - which is one of the lowest rates in the region.  

While this reflects the high standard of care patients receive, it also means staff have limited opportunities to practise these life‑saving skills, while working together as a team in real situations. 

Reintroducing simulation training allows teams to practise safely in a realistic setting, with these unannounced exercises bringing together staff from different professions to respond just as they would to a real cardiac arrest.  

Surprise simulations are planned in advance with a designated team member to allow arrangements that ensure clinical time and patient care are not disrupted.

When the training team arrives unannounced, selected participants are informed of their involvement, and the objectives of the session are clearly outlined at the start.  

Although everyone involved in the training refresh are already highly trained, the focus is on working well as a team - clear leadership, good communication and smooth coordination - as well as refreshing skills that may not be used often. 

John Bethel, Resuscitation Services Manager at the Trust, explained: 

“These simulations are designed to feel as close to real life as possible. Cardiac arrests don’t always happen on wards - they can occur in corridors, outpatient areas or even outside on hospital grounds - so practising in different locations helps staff prepare for the additional challenges they might face, such as limited space or access to equipment.  

"Alongside core skills like CPR and defibrillation, we also focus on the human factors, including situational awareness and decision‑making under pressure.  

"Staff have been really engaged, and the immediate debriefs after each exercise have been particularly valuable for learning and reflection.”  

Nigel Scawn, Medical Director at the Trust added:  

“We have invested significantly in our simulation facilities, including high‑fidelity mannequins, and we’re using learning from real incidents to shape future training and continuously strengthen patient safety.  

“This programme has been carefully designed with staff wellbeing in mind, recognising that realistic simulation can be demanding even for experienced clinicians.” 

“Throughout each session, staff are fully supported, with dedicated time afterwards for structured debriefs to reflect on what worked well, agree key learning points and check in with colleagues,” he added.

Continual learning is central to the Trust’s five-year plan to enhance services and build a stronger workplace culture.

By investing in staff development and confidence, the Trust can ensure patients receive the right care, in the right place, at the right time. 

Notes to editor: 

In a timely development, The Trust has announced the arrival of Sim Man, a new CPR training mannikin funded through charitable donations received from The Ursula Keyes Trust Fund (£50,000) and the Countess of Chester Hospital Fund (£46,000).  

Sim Man offers enhanced simulation capabilities that mimic real-life cardiac arrest scenarios with startling realism.  

Sim Man is part of a broader investment in high-tech, interactive CPR training led by the hospital’s Resuscitation Team, which brings over 25 years of combined expertise.   

The team delivers immersive, hands-on sessions using advanced equipment such as feedback-enabled defibrillators and illuminated mannikins that guide correct technique. 

The Countess of Chester Hospital NHS Foundation Trust is celebrating a milestone moment for health after helping Chester become one of the first areas in the country to effectively eliminate Hepatitis C.   

The city has recently achieved official micro-elimination status, meaning the virus has been brought under control in the community for the first time ever since the Hepatitis C Elimination campaign began in 2015, and is no longer a common threat locally. 

Although it hasn’t disappeared completely, the number of people with the virus is low enough for it not to be spreading in the way it once did.  

The impressive achievement places the borough of Cheshire West and Chester among the first areas in the country to meet national standards set by NHS England and The Hepatitis C Trust, with the Countess of Chester Hospital NHS Foundation Trust playing a key role in driving this work during the past three years.   

As part of this work, the Trust has been working closely with the Cheshire and Merseyside Operational Delivery Network, supporting local recovery centres to find and treat people with Hepatitis C.  

It has also continued to provide treatment within the hospital and taken liver health services out into the community, ensuring that support reaches people who might not otherwise access traditional hospital care. 

Much of the treatment’s success is down to the dedicated outreach of Jayne Rose, Community Hepatology Specialist Nurse at the Trust, who has worked closely with local drug and alcohol services and the Cheshire & Merseyside Operational Delivery Network to reach the people most at risk.   

Jayne's work made it easier for residents to access testing and treatment, including those who may not regularly use NHS services.  

She said: “This has only been possible because of strong partnerships and the willingness of services across Chester to work differently.   

"Achieving micro elimination status means we’ve protected people’s health, prevented future illness and shown what’s possible when the community comes together.”  

Jonathan Develing, Director of Strategy and Partnerships at the Countess of Chester Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, added:  

“This is an outstanding example of prevention in action and fully aligns with our strategic commitment to improving health outcomes by tackling illness earlier and closer to where people live. 

“By moving prevention and care into the community, particularly for people who may not traditionally access hospital‑based services, we are demonstrating exactly how we see the future of healthcare developing.  

“It is an extremely proud moment for everyone involved.” 

The achievement ties in closely with the Trust’s priorities, showing how a focus on prevention and care within local communities can improve quality and safety while making the most of our resources. 

By working in new ways and alongside our partners, the Trust is helping to create smoother, more effective care pathways and reach people who might not otherwise come into hospital. 

It also shows how taking services out into the community is changing how care is delivered by improving people’s experiences, reducing avoidable harm and helping the Trust continue to meet the standards expected by regulators and commissioners. 

Notes for editors:  

• Hepatitis C is a blood‑borne virus that is most commonly spread through sharing unsterilised needles or injecting equipment. 

• The virus is highly prevalent among people who inject drugs, with an estimated 50% of this group affected in the UK. 

• Additional risks include the use of unsterilised medical or tattoo equipment and sharing personal items that may come into contact with blood, such as razors or toothbrushes. 

• Hepatitis C can cause serious illness if left untreated, but often has no symptoms, meaning many people don’t realise they are carrying the virus.   

• The result also supports England’s ambition to eliminate Hepatitis C as a public health concern by 2030.  

Scorching temperatures failed to ruffle any feathers as dozens of charity ducks took to the River Dee for Chester’s 12th annual Duck Race. 

The popular event, held by The Countess Charity, took place on Saturday and raised more than £25,000 for the Extra Mile Appeal, funds that will help provide an additional ultrasound scanner at the Countess of Chester Hospital NHS Foundation Trust.  

Strong winds at the start of the race briefly sent the ducks off course, but quick action from paddleboarders and Queen’s Park Chester Rowing Club helped guide them back in the right direction and safely towards the finish line at the bandstand. 

The race was attended by Lord Mayor Sherin Akhtar, who judged the Best Dressed Duck and Best Look‑a‑Likey Duck competitions alongside Trust chaplain Holly Torr.  

In total, 82 local businesses sponsored a duck, with 22 schools also taking part.  

Entertainment throughout the day included live commentary from Chester’s Dee Radio and local DJ Ian Gibbons, performances by the AmaSing Children’s Choir, and family activities like Hook a Duck, a duck quiz and face painting. 

Previous duck races organised by The Countess Charity have helped to fund vital hospital equipment, including an outdoor balcony for the Intensive Care Unit a balcony that gives seriously ill patients safe access to fresh air and natural light during recovery, and most recently, an advanced retinal imaging scanner, which means the Trust is able to offer clearer, wider and more detailed images of the back of the eye.

Emma Boylan, Digital Fundraiser at The Countess Charity, said: 

“We’re incredibly proud of the success of the Chester Duck Race and the amazing support shown by our community.  It was fantastic to see so many people come together along the river. A huge thank you to everyone who supported, sponsored a duck or volunteered their time.” 

Notes to editor:  

Hickory’s was the main sponsor, while Admiral Taverns supported the event by sponsoring the raffle. 

A vibrant collection of artwork created by local artists has become the first official artwork to be installed in the Countess of Chester Hospital NHS Foundation Trust's new Women and Children’s Building.

The new artwork, titled The 6×6 Project, features individual oil paintings, all created by students of local art group Cheshire Art Classes ranging from the age of 16 - 82.

Each artist chose their own subject and worked on a 6×6 inch canvas, resulting in a colourful and varied display that includes birds, flowers and even shoes.

The artwork is now on display in the atrium of the new Women and Children’s Building, where it is hoped it will bring comfort, inspiration and a moment of calm to patients, families and staff for years to come.

Dan Bethell, who runs Cheshire Art Classes which hold sessions across the county, said the project has been a huge confidence boost for those involved.

“It’s lovely to contribute to something that people can enjoy for the next few decades,” he said. “A lot of us have personal connections to the Countess - some of our artists even work here -  so it feels especially meaningful.”

"The artwork is also in a great location, in a nice, calming environment and there's a nice range of pictures that I hope will make people stop, take a look, and feel a bit brighter afterwards."

The Trust is the first organisation to receive donated artwork from the group, who are now working on another collaborative project to donate to a different organisation later this spring.

Liz Kewin, Divisional Director for the Women and Children’s Division at the Trust, added: “Creating a welcome, calm environment is an important part of patient experience, particularly for women, children and families.

“This wonderful artwork reflects the strength of our local community and we’re incredibly grateful to the artists for choosing to donate such a thoughtful and lasting piece to the hospital.”

The colourful artwork is now on public display in the Women and Children’s Building reception, offering a lasting reminder of local talent and the power of art to bring people together.

Notes: The panels for the project were donated to Cheshire Art Classes by Jackson’s Art Supplies.

Mums in Chester who have to stop breastfeeding because of cancer treatment will soon be able to access human donor milk for their babies, thanks to a new project being launched by the Countess of Chester Hospital NHS Foundation Trust. 

The CHERISH scheme, which is due to roll out this spring, will support mothers who are told they must stop breastfeeding for safety reasons when they start chemotherapy or radiotherapy treatment. 

Human milk is still considered the best option for babies, but until now there has been no reliable way for local families in this situation to access donor milk. 

By creating a new route to donor milk, the project run by Chester Milk Bank, aims to ensure that no child misses out on the benefits of human milk purely because their parent needs urgent cancer care. 

Laura Atherton, Bereavement Lead at the Countess of Chester Hospital, said: 

“We see the shock and distress families experience when a new cancer diagnosis suddenly means a mother has to stop breastfeeding. It’s an emotionally overwhelming time, and having to pause something so meaningful can add to that pressure. 

“Donor milk can’t remove all of the worry, but it can offer comfort, reassurance, and a sense that parents are still able to give their baby something they had hoped to provide themselves.” 

“The CHERISH project is about compassion, dignity and making sure no family feels forgotten.” 

One local mum who received donor milk during her own cancer treatment described just how much it meant to her: 

“Donor milk was a precious gift when cancer meant I couldn’t breastfeed. Cancer brings fear, disruption and a brutal treatment schedule, and being forced to stop breastfeeding suddenly on top of that would have been devastating. It helped nourish my baby while I was too unwell to feed her from hospital and made it possible for us to return to breastfeeding.  

“I’m so grateful to the milk bank and generous donors – without them, our feeding journey would have ended far too soon. I hope more mums facing cancer can find the same support through CHERISH.” 

Cathy Chadwick, Chief Operating Officer at The Countess of Chester Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, added: 

“This wonderful new scheme will send a clear message that parents facing cancer in early parenthood should not have to choose between lifesaving treatment and the wellbeing of their baby. 

“It reflects our commitment to compassionate, family centred care, and to making sure every baby in our community has the strongest possible start in life, regardless of the challenges their parents are facing.” 

Notes to editor:  

This initiative is a social value project funded by The Milk Bank at Chester and delivered with the support of the South Central and West Child Health Information Service and the charity Mummy’s Star. 

Martha’s Rule is a national patient safety initiative that gives patients and families a clear way to request an urgent clinical review if they feel someone’s condition is deteriorating and this hasn’t been recognised. At the Countess of Chester Hospital (Chester’s main district general hospital), this is delivered through Call 4 Concern, which allows patients, relatives or carers to contact a dedicated team directly when they feel something ‘isn’t quite right’ and hasn’t been spotted by staff.

Call 4 Concern, Chester’s version of Martha’s Rule, was first trialled on three wards before being rolled out across the main hospital in April 2025. Since then, patients and families have used it 107 times, with more than a third of calls (36%) leading to a rapid assessment by the Critical Care Outreach team.

The pilot phase beforehand showed similar levels of engagement, with 33 calls made in the first year, and 21% resulting in a rapid review, showing that patients, families and staff were confident using the process from the outset and was being consistently used.

Since beginning in April 2024, Call 4 Concern calls have been received from a range of inpatient areas. Some were prompted by sudden changes in the patient’s condition; others came from families who felt something wasn’t quite right. Staff say this breadth shows that speaking up early is becoming a normal part of how concerns are raised – and that families feel able to act when something doesn’t seem right.

The patterns seen in Chester are similar to those reported nationally. NHS England’s figures for September 2024 to December 2025 show more than 10,000 calls to Martha’s Rule helplines, with around one third (34%) prompting urgent clinical review.

Andrea Reynolds, Lead Nurse for the Critical Care Outreach team at the Countess of Chester Hospital, said:“What matters most is that people are calling us when they are worried. When they do, the outreach team responds – that’s exactly how the system is designed to work. Sometimes the review simply offers reassurance, but in other cases it allows us to assess someone whose condition may be changing. Acting early can make a real difference.”

Dr Nigel Scawn, Executive Medical Director at the Countess of Chester Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, said: “National evidence shows that families often notice the earliest signs that something isn’t right. Having a clear, well‑publicised route to raise concerns is an important part of keeping patients safe and in some cases saving lives. If you are worried, we want to hear from you. Families play a vital role in recognising early changes and Call 4 Concern ensures their voices are heard.”

Because families often spot subtle changes before they show up in routine checks, giving them a clear route to escalate concerns is a vital safeguard – and exactly the purpose of Call 4 Concern. Patients and families are given information on arrival to help them understand how to request a review, and further details are available here.

-ends-

Notes to editor:

Call 4 Concern figures from the Countess of Chester Hospital from April 2025 to February 2026:

• Total calls: 140
• Rapid reviews: 45 (32%)
• Pilot phase (Apr–Mar 2025): 33 calls, 7 clinical reviews (21%)
• Post‑rollout (Apr 2025–Feb 2026): 107 calls, 38 clinical reviews (36%)
• Calls by specialty: 53% medical, 25% surgical, 22% other specialties
• Highest‑activity month: January 2026 (14 calls; 50% review rate)

References:

NHS England’s national update on Martha’s Rule (9 March 2026):

• https://www.england.nhs.uk/2026/03/over-10000-calls-to-marthas-rule

Background on Martha’s Rule:

• https://www.england.nhs.uk/patient-safety/marthas-rule/

A Countess of Chester Hospital NHS Foundation Trust clinician has been named a national finalist at the Student Nursing Times Awards 2026. 

Claire Slater, an advanced clinical practitioner in the Trust’s Acute Medical Division, is one of just ten finalists in the Learner of the Year: Post Registration category and will attend an awards ceremony in London on 24 April. 

Claire was nominated by Liverpool John Moores University where she obtained a postgraduate apprenticeship in advanced clinical practice, in recognition of the exceptional progress she made during her Master’s degree.  

Throughout her studies she consistently achieved top grades, grew significantly in confidence, took on additional responsibility as a cohort representative, and continued to excel in her work at the Trust - all while coping with multiple personal challenges and bereavements. 

Her nomination also follows praise for her quick thinking during an off duty emergency in August 2024.  

After leaving a retail park on the Wirral, Claire noticed a member of the public in severe medical distress.  With no equipment or team around her, she immediately assessed the situation, began CPR and directed bystanders to call 999 and fetch a defibrillator until emergency crews arrived.  

She later received a full debrief, along with support and reassurance from the Trust’s Resuscitation Team and has since become an advocate for improved aftercare for bystander CPR in the community - highlighting how the experience can leave individuals with unanswered questions about the patient’s outcome and whether they did everything they could. 

Sallie Kelsey, The Trust’s Head of Education said: "We are committed to creating a learning environment where our staff can truly thrive, and Claire is an outstanding example of the highly skilled, compassionate and resilient professionals that are now coming through our education pipeline and into our local NHS workforce.  

"Her dedication to her studies, her clinical excellence and her ability to remain composed under pressure are a great example of the qualities we strive to nurture.  

"We are incredibly proud of her achievements and delighted to see her recognised on a national stage,” she added. 

Claire said: “Being nominated for a Student Nursing Times Award is an incredible honour. The last two years have been challenging in many ways, so to receive this recognition means more than I can say.” 

Her commitment to learning has also been acknowledged within the Trust, where she was shortlisted for the Commitment to Learning category at the 2025 Countess Staff Awards.