17 May 2010
Epsom and St Helier University Hospitals NHS Trust is pleased to announce that 2009-10 was one of the most successful and exciting years in the history of the organisation - despite having to overcome a number of major challenges.
The Trust's Chief Executive, Samantha Jones said: "Now that the new financial year is underway, the Trust is looking ahead and making plans for the future. But it's also important to take time to look back and reflect on the 12 months that have passed. And what a year it was.
"Despite the challenges we faced, such as going through the coldest winter in six decades, the past year has undoubtedly been one of the most successful in the history of the Trust. And it is with great pride that we can say we met the key standards expected of NHS hospitals for the third year running.
"Importantly, we know that this achievement, coupled with our other successes in the year, simply would not have been possible without the hard work, dedication and commitment of all our staff and volunteers."
Perhaps the biggest news for the Trust during 2009-10 was getting government approval for the redevelopment of St Helier. With work due to start in 2011, the project will see a staggering £219 million being spent on the site.
Plans to spend £70 million at Epsom Hospital also took significant strides forwards during the year. Initial plans for the redevelopment, known as a strategic outline case, are currently with our strategic health authority for approval and, once agreed, the Trust can start to develop more detailed proposals, including designs and drawings of what the improved site will look like.
Samantha added: "2010-11 will pose many new challenges for the Trust, not least the impact of the global recession, tougher targets for the number of cases of MRSA we have and the need to further improve the service we provide to stroke patients. However, we know that one thing will stay the same, and that's our unwavering commitment to giving our patients the very best level of healthcare."
