An exercise to test emergency response plans and procedures in the event of a major incident will be taking place at Walsall Manor Hospital next week – with a host of agencies involved.
The main atrium of the hospital will be the focus for the exercise which is happening next Wednesday 24 June.
Members of the public are being reassured that exercises such as this form a vital part of Walsall Healthcare NHS Trust’s Emergency Preparedness, Resilience and Response (EPRR) programme.
The NHS needs to plan for and respond to a wide range of incidents and emergencies that could affect health services or patient care. Exercises such as this are a vital way of testing the arrangements in place in the event of an emergency or major incident.
There will be an increased emergency services presence around the hospital and people may hear shouting and loud noises as part of the exercise.
High-visibility exercise control staff will be present at the hospital to reassure members of the public and healthcare services will run as normal for anyone who needs them.
The exercise is not linked to intelligence or an increased threat to the hospital or the area.
Liam Ferris, Head of EPRR at Walsall Healthcare, said: “Exercises like this are an important part of ensuring we are prepared to respond effectively to a wide range of incidents. They allow us to test our plans, strengthen partnership working with emergency services and other agencies, and identify any areas where we can improve.
“We would like to thank patients, visitors and local residents for their understanding while the exercise takes place and reassure them the hospital and its services will continue to operate as usual at this time. A huge thank you also goes to the volunteers and staff who will be giving up their time to take part.”
The exercise will take place between 8pm and 4am.