The New Hospitals Programme Case for Change report was launched in July 2021 with an external communications campaign, a new Case for Change conversation on the Big Chat, and regular internal communications updates.

What we heard: MPs

Letters were issued on 15 July 2021 to local MPs, who were widely supportive of the Case for Change. The MPs we spoke with through group meetings from July to September 2021 agreed that travel, and accessibility considerations would be of great importance for their constituents in the development of proposals. They were also eager to support investment in specialised services (e.g., trauma and radiotherapy) and supportive of any initiatives that make Lancashire and South Cumbria more attractive to recruiting and retaining a skilled and resilient workforce. They also made it clear that hospital sites are just one, but an important, “part of the jigsaw”, and that community care and prevention is another significant consideration (for example, when tackling issues such as smoking and / or obesity, etc.).

What we heard: patients

A survey to ask people for feedback on the Case for Change was live on the Lancashire and South Cumbria New Hospitals Programme website between 19 August and 30 September 2021. Most participants were patients (58%), and 12% of respondents were NHS staff. Overall, the Case for Change was generally supported, however people said they would like to see an acknowledgement that the stated issues cannot be solved simply with the building of new facilities, echoing feedback from MPs. Respondents also acknowledged that solutions to the health problems in the area are complex, requiring an integrated approach to planning, with a deep understanding of the issues faced and links with other services available. Concerns were expressed about the lack of clarity about the fate of existing sites and services, with further information requested.

In common with the previous phase of engagement, the most important issue was that respondents wanted to ensure there were local facilities and services that were accessible for the population. Many highlighted issues with patients having to travel long distances already and concerns that some may struggle to access services due to transport links. When asked what a reasonable travel time is to expect for various treatments, responses fell between 20 and 48 minutes.

Many survey respondents were in favour of investing in existing facilities as opposed to investing in new buildings; they felt investment in new buildings should not be done at the expense of existing ones.

What we heard: NHS staff and Foundation Trust Members

Between 22 July and 27 August 2021, more than 750 people joined the second Big Chat to share their feedback on the Case for Change. Most respondents were either NHS staff (51%) or Foundation Trust Members (27%). Staff feedback on the key themes followed the same pattern as observed in the website survey, indicating clear agreement between the views of the public and NHS staff on the Case for Change.

"Easy access to public transport, taking patients to the new facilities is the main hope for the future, along with improved car parking facilities, ensuring transport is simple for everyone, whether they can drive or not."

Janet Miller, Public Governor at Lancashire Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust