Health Minister Lord Howe visited South Central Ambulance Service NHS Foundation Trust’s (SCAS) Bicester headquarters on Monday 7 January 2013.
The Minister met with SCAS CEO Will Hancock, Trust Chair Trevor Jones and members of the Trust Board and was given an overview of 999 and NHS 111 services before visiting the Trust’s Emergency Operations Centre.
Will Hancock, SCAS CEO said:
‘The Trust is delighted that Lord Howe chose to visit our Bicester headquarters to see our 999 and NHS 111 services in action. The Minister met with Call Takers and Emergency Medical Despatchers in our Emergency Operations Centre and listened to a number of emergency calls, gaining an insight both into the way we respond to medical emergencies and into the many and diverse calls we receive.’
Lord Howe said:
‘South Central Ambulance Service NHS Foundation Trust’s two call centres take 1,030 emergency calls a day – 300 of which may be life threatening.
‘My visit provided a fascinating insight into the Trust’s work in responding to rising demand, minimising hand-over times, and piloting 111. I was able to see first hand the dedication of staff in responding to a high volume of diverse calls.
‘I am particularly grateful to the staff at the Emergency Operations Centre in Bicester for the opportunity to learn more about their work and the pressures they face.’
