Health

Most services at Ashford and St Peter's Hospitals are running as normal.

Staff at the two sites have been braving the snow and ice to make sure they can get into work anf keep clinics and appointments running as smoothly as possible.

Valerie Howell, chief operating officer, said: "In the event that we do have to cancel an individual clinic or operation, we will contact patients directly. If you haven't heard from us, then we are expecting to see you.

"However, if patients feel that it's not safe to make the journey into hospital, we will of course reschedule their appointment at another time. Please don't put yourself at risk.

"Over the last few days staff at the two hospitals have made a supreme effort to come into work and keep our services going.

"We would like to say a big thank you, both to our staff and to the general public for their co-operation."

Ambulance chiefs have declared a major incident in the wake of heavy snowfall across the area.

Patients are being warned to stay away from Accident and Emergency at St Peter's Hospital, Chertsey, and bosses at South East Coast Ambulance Service are warning people to stay indoors if they can.

Sue Harris, director of operations at SECAM said: "We are prioritising life-threatening calls above all others, and due to the adverse conditions, it is unlikely that we will reach patients with minor injuries and symptoms in worst hit areas.

"We urge people to stay indoors unless it is absolutely necessary. Driving conditions are extremely hazardous and we want to reduce the risk of injury on the roads as much as possible."

Ashford and St Peter's Hospitals have warned the public not to visit A&E unless it is an emergency in the wake of a fortnight of unprecedented levels of activity.

Icy conditions on the roads, coupled with the increased risk of an outbreak of the norovirus in the winter months have put increased strain on hospital staff.

A new scheme is being trialled by Age Concern in partnership with Ashford and St Peter's Hospitals.

The 'courtesy call' service is for frail and older people who are being discharged from hospital and may need information, advice or help to live independently at home.

Hospital staff will refer patients by phoning the service on the day the patient is allowed home, or by giving the patient a booklet of information.

A spokeswoman for Age Concern said: "This new service has been going for a few weeks and has already ensured that many older people have been discharged home with the support they need.

"The relevant Age Concern branch will contact the patient within 48 hours to discuss their needs, provide information, and suggest services or a home visit."

One such service, the Road to Recovery scheme operated in Spelthorne, provides free help for six weeks with chores such as housework and shopping as well as accompanying clients to appointments, while they recover.

For more information, contact either Age Concern Runnymede on 02932 566 040 or Age Concern Spelthorne on 01784 444 200

Blood donors are needed for two sessions at the Runnymede Centre in Chertsey Hall, Addlestone on Monday October 19.

The sessions, run by the NHS, will be from 2-4.30pm and 5.30-7.45pm.

For more information, call 0300 123 23 23 or visit www.blood.co.uk.

Baby Charlotte Barber (left) who was born on Thursday September 18 at St Peter's Hospital, weighing 6Ib 9oz. Parents Steve and Jackie Barber live in Addlestone with Matilda, one, Alyssa, two, Mia, four, Savannah, nine, and Aimee, 14.

Meanwhile Addlestone also welcomes baby Barney Harman (right) was born on Monday September 15 at St Peter's Hopital, Chertsey, weighing 7Ib 15oz. His parents are Rosanna and Barry Harman, who live in Green Lane.

The Runnymede Dolphins' assisted swim sessions are due to restart on Tuesday 9th and Thursday 11th of September at the Woking Leisure Centre.

If you are a disabled person with physical or sensory problems, but would like to have fun and get fit, this is the place for you! A happy atmosphere, group physiotherapy given in the pool and transport for Runnymede residents if needed. The cost is £1.50 per session.

Give us a call for more details: Wendy on 01483 874611 or visit our website for further information.

Young people will have access to sexual health advice at Addlestone Youth Centre on Wednesday August 13.

They'll be offered confidential advice on contraception and staff from Ashford and St Peter's Hospitals NHS Trust will be there from 3-5pm to test for some sexually transmitted diseases.

For more information contact Rebecca Rutah on 01932 722664 or 01932 723734 or email her on rebecca.rutah@asph.nhs.uk.

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