During his trip, Mark rolled up his sleeves (to comply with hygiene regulations), and was taken on a tour of the hospital by Jacqueline. He was able to visit a number of departments, including the new bereavement centre, recently opened by the hospital as somewhere people can go if they have suffered the loss of a family member or close friend. The suite includes a spacious and comfortable seating area where relatives can see the hospital’s full-time bereavement co-ordinator, Debbie Allman, who will advise and support them.
Commenting on the visit to Southend Hospital, Mark said:
“I enjoyed the visit to Southend Hospital, and I thought it was important to introduce myself to the new Chief Executive, who seems very businesslike and has a background in front-line nursing. We discussed a number of issues during my tour, centring on the quality of care for elderly patients at the hospital, which is an area which is area where I think there is still further room for improvement. I had a productive visit and I very much look forward to remaining in touch with Southend hospital in the future.”