PEH ward to finally reopen

PATIENTS have finally been rebooked into a ward closed nearly a year ago as a 'temporary measure' in the wake of Health and Social Service's £2.5m. overspend.

De Sausmarez Ward will reopen on Monday 4 November – a week after planned.

Director of corporate services Richard Evans said the further delay was due to the need to ensure the right staff were available. 'Recruitment of staff is difficult for us. We always have staff turnover, there are always people coming and going,' he said.

'To open a ward with 16 beds you need to have the right number of people with the right skills and the right mix.

'We've been trying to recruit posts for a long time – it was hoped we could open on 29 October – but posts could not be finalised in time so we will open one week later.'