Two-thirds of all NHS trusts across England were treating more coronavirus patients last week than they did at the peak of the first wave of the pandemic, a Guardian analysis reveals. Figures show that in 17 trusts the number of people suffering from coronavirus outnumbered all other patients. On the current trajectory, the number of people being treated for Covid in England’s hospitals could be double that of the April 2020 peak within weeks..
Businesses are once again pulling together to support the staff of West Hertfordshire Hospitals NHS Trust during the latest national lockdown. Much like the first lockdown last year, Watford FC is the base for an effort that is being driven by Watford Chamber of Commerce. The Chamber and its connections are supplying sandwiches, drinks, snacks and a place of respite for the hospital staff at the Watford Hospital site. The volunteers are working tirelessly to support this operation. Operation Sarnie is composed of the Chamber of Commerce, the Chamber of Conscience, Watford Football Club, F3 (Watford FC Hospitality and Events), Aramark, Tesco, Costco, The Gate Group, The Grove Hotel, Asvina UK Ltd, Warner Bros., Eagle Cars, Barnett’s Coaches, Wenzel’s Bakery, Clock Limited and nation-wide charity SEWA Day.
FIVE YEARS AGO Hospital chiefs admit they need a bigger A&E unit after it reached crisis point. The lack of beds and over-stretched services forced West Hertfordshire Hospitals NHS Trust to suspend services for adults with minor injuries or illnesses several times this week. Patients have faced long waits to see a doctor and others have described how there were trolleys queuing up outside the A&E ward with patients waiting to be seen. David Gaunt, divisional director for unscheduled care at Watford General Hospital, admitted the hospital needs a bigger A&E department to cope with patient demand.