To consider an update from Hampshire Hospitals on the Hampshire Together programme.
Minutes:
The Joint Committee received a presentation from Hampshire Hospitals NHS Trust (the Trust) setting out the background to the Hampshire Together programme. As part of the presentation, the following was noted:
Members welcomed the positive presentation from the Trust and praised the significant work that had so far been undertaken. The Committee recognised that, until funding had been agreed by Government, planning could only reach a certain stage.
In response to Members’ questions, it was noted that:
· The location of a new hospital and transport links to access was a crucial consideration. The Trust were working closely with the County Council’s Transport teams regarding connectivity and learning from travel innovations and solutions which already existed. The Trust were also linking with the Space Agency over the use of satellite to inform transport network decisions.
· Even with an extensive and proactive public engagement programme, it would not be possible to reach every individual depending on how they self-identify (for example, some carers do not term themselves as such) or how they prefer to engage and communicate. The Trust was planning to continue face-to-face sessions and working closely with charities and local organisations to engage with the population as creatively as possible.
· The Trust noted their focus upon designing a hospital where mental health provision was integrated throughout, not necessarily via a dedicated mental health unit.
· The Trust were liaising with Frimley and with Reading regarding locations for any new hospital builds as this could influence which site was selected.
· Public perceptions regarding the length of the programme were noted but that until funding had been secured from Government there were limitations which remained. It was noted that the public consultation was extremely important to ensure that as much public opinion as possible could be incorporated into planning.
· The Trust had been working with the primary care team regarding the future bed requirement and discussing how best to provide care for individuals where this might not necessarily mean in a hospital bed. The demands on social care were noted and the implication that this had for increased hospital bed occupancy.
RESOLVED:
That the Joint Committee note the update and that the next meeting of the Joint Committee be scheduled as required as the programme develops.
Supporting documents: