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News

25 October 2011

 

RECORD LOW ON MIXED SEX ACCOMMODATION IN THE SOUTH WEST

Fewer patients in the South West than ever before are staying in mixed sex accommodation.


Figures released today show that since April 2011, when monthly collection of mixed sex accommodation became mandatory for all acute hospitals in the region, the number of reported breaches in the South West has fallen by 65 per cent. There were 277 reported breaches in April 2011, compared to just 97 across the entire region in September 2011 – a drop of 180.


What’s more, 13 of the 18 Acute Trusts in the South West (72 per cent) have reported no breaches at all.

Health Secretary Andrew Lansley said:
“This is great news for people in the South West – 180 less people are staying in mixed sex hospital accommodation, and 72 per cent of their hospitals are reporting no breaches at all thanks to open and transparent information on every Trust in the region.

“Hospitals across the South West have done a fantastic job getting to grips with this. No patient should have to suffer the indignity of mixed sex accommodation where it is not clinically justified. That is why we have introduced a fine of £250 for every breach, which can then be reinvested back into patient care.”

The 13 Acute Trusts in South West who reported no breaches in September are: