Trust announces temporary closure of the Minor Injuries Unit at Kingsbridge hospital during overnight periods.

Staff shortages have forced the minor injuries unit at Kingsbridge hospital to shut overnight for up to six months.

The unit at South Hams Hospital will be closed overnight from 11pm to 8am, the South Hams and West Devon Primary Care Trust said in a statement.

It blamed the difficulties in recruiting trained nurses and a shortage of trained staff with specific skills in minor injury care for the decision.

The statement said: “We apologise for any inconvenience this will cause to local residents. However, we would like to stress that these cases are minor injuries, such as a sprained ankle.

"Any person requiring emergency treatment, which is life threatening, will continue to attend Derriford Hospital which is equipped to deal with emergencies.”

Alan Tibbenham, Chief Executive of the PCT, also said the decision had not been taken lightly and is the option which affects the least number of people.

He said: "The annual MIU attendance figures at South Hams Hospital indicate that, on average, there are only two to three attendances per week between 11pm and 8am.

“It should be emphasised that recruitment issues are affecting most MIUs, but unlike many other PCTs, South Hams and West Devon PCT remains committed to returning to a full 24-hour service as soon as possible."

During the overnight closure arrangements are as follows:
- Normal daytime and evening MIU services (up to 11pm) at South Hams Hospital, when the vast majority of patients are treated, will continue as usual.

- As always, any resident with a serious or life-threatening condition should dial 999 and attend the Accident & Emergency department at Derriford Hospital.

- Residents with minor injuries can obtain advice and treatment from the Minor Injury Unit (MIU) at Totnes Hospital 01803 862622.

- For NHS professional telephone advice, please ring NHS Direct on 0845 46 47.