Welsh Ambulance Service unveils new hub in Newport
THE Welsh Ambulance Service has unveiled a new facility in Newport.
The 5,000 sq. ft. Ambulance Care Hub on Newport’s Phoenix Business Park is the new home of colleagues in the Trust’s non-emergency service.
Formerly the Non-Emergency Patient Transport Service, Ambulance Care is responsible for providing non-emergency and pre-planned transport to people’s routine hospital appointments in England and Wales.
The service acts as a vital link between communities and is an integral part of the overall package of care that the Welsh Ambulance Service provides.
Paula Griffiths, Operations Manager (Ambulance Care), said: “I am thrilled to announce the creation of the first ever Ambulance Care Hub in the south Aneurin Bevan University Health Board area, marking an incredible milestone for our organisation.
“This achievement fills us with immense pride as it reinforces our commitment to enhancing the services we provide.
“The opportunity to create this dedicated space signifies an important step forward in non-emergency transport, which is an integral part of the Welsh Ambulance Service.
“The relocation of our staff to this facility has been met with equal enthusiasm, as they now have a place they can truly call their own.
“The exceptional environment we have created will foster collaboration, efficiency and innovation, empowering our team to deliver even better care to our communities.
“We believe that this hub will not only meet our current needs but also offer opportunities for future growth.
“We are excited about the potential it holds and the positive impact it will have on our ability to serve the people of south Aneurin Bevan.”
The hub boasts a 3,600 sq. ft. garage space with electrical charging points, a sluice, internal clean down area and entry and exit doors that will allow for quicker deployment and keep team members safe from turning vehicles.
There is also a large mess area, changing facilities and showers to ensure crews are well rested and ready to support the community.
Teams previously based in Newport, Bassaleg and Cwmbran stations have moved to the new facility, including 10 non-emergency transport colleagues, eight discharge and transfer colleagues and three operational team leaders.
Richard Davies, the Trust’s Assistant Director of Capital and Estates, said: “Phoenix Park was chosen because it gives excellent access to the community, allowing WAST to continue to support Newport, Bassaleg and Cwmbran and the surrounding areas.
“The move to Newport Care Hub is part of a wider modernisation programme undertaken by WAST, a programme that will keep the Trust moving towards its environmental and sustainability goals and ultimately keep our communities safer.”
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For more information, please email Head of Communications Lois.Hough@wales.nhs.uk