Colleagues at Blackpool Teaching Hospitals continue to work closely with patients and their families, as well as the wider health and social care system in Lancashire, to respond to a critical incident declared earlier today.
Chief Executive Trish Armstrong-Child said: “The basement of the Women and Children’s Unit at Blackpool Victoria Hospital experienced severe flooding during heavy rain on Monday night which led to a loss of power and network access in the building.
“As part of our response to the incident, the Trust moved some patients into other areas of the hospital immediately and some operations and outpatients appointments were cancelled. I am sorry to everyone who did not attend for their scheduled treatment today and am grateful for their patience and understanding. The Trust will ensure things are rearranged as soon as possible.
“Today the team has worked hard to support those affected and ensure everyone in our care was safe, despite the increased pressure on the hospital created by the flood.
“We asked people not to visit where possible today and this remains in place for the rest of the night, except in the case of terminally ill patients who can have visitors at any time. We recognise the emotional impact of this on those who want to see and check in on loved ones, so we will review this and share an update as soon as we can. Please be assured that all patients within the hospital are safe and continue to receive appropriate care.
“We will be working through the night to resolve the issues and repair the damage but it is possible we will need to cancel some activity again tomorrow, Wednesday November 8. We will contact those affected directly, so if you don’t hear from us, please attend your appointment as normal.
“The hospital’s A&E department continues to see high numbers of people attending and remains under significant pressure. Please think before attending for urgent or emergency care and use NHS111 for advice and guidance beforehand if you’re not sure.
“Lastly, thank you to everyone who has supported us today from across Blackpool, Fylde and Wyre – this includes Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service and other public organisations. Most importantly I would like to thank the team here at the Vic for everything they have done and continue to do to care for people and keep them safe in very difficult circumstances indeed.”