WORK to provide state of the art accident and emergency facilities for the New Millennium will get underway at Trafford General Hospital within weeks.

The £1 million-plus upgrade at the accident and emergency department is due to start in the new year and be completed by next autumn.

Hospital bosses are delighted the work is going ahead - but are keen to stress the unit will be open for business as usual.

The department is temporarily shifting from its present location at the front of the hospital to what was the physiotherapy department off Bowers Avenue, at the rear of the hospital.

Claire Summers, consultant in accident and emergency medicine, says of the improvements: "This is a great opportunity for Trafford, we are all looking forward to treating patients in our upgraded department.

"But the most important message I would like to convey is that we are not closing and therefore will be open for business as usual!"

The department will be shifted on Sunday, December 5. The original unit and the new site will both be open on the day the relocation takes place. The 'old' accident and emergency department will close during the afternoon and all casualties will then be seen at the new location, which will be clearly sign posted. The physiotherapy department will relocate to ward 10.

Improvements being carried out at the accident and emergency unit are designed to protect patient and relative privacy, while a link corridor will create a new main entrance to the hospital.

Other improvements will include:

Resuscitation services will be brought to the front of the department for more rapid access in emergencies.

Staff safety will be enhanced by eliminating security 'blind spots'.

There will be dedicated facilities for patients with mental health problems.

Separate children's facilities. This will include a waiting area for children with their families, two treatment rooms and a quiet area. There will also be a 'snozzle' room with specialised lighting and toys, where children can relax.

David Cain, chief executive of Trafford Healthcare NHS Trust, said: "We are all very pleased to see the start of the work to modernise our accident and emergency department. The funds will be used to provide better facilities that are much needed."

THE OLIVER'S Army campaign is raising funds to furnish and provide toys for the children's casualty area - anyone who can help should call Angela Gray on 748 0017.

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