The Northern Trust is pleased that Whiteabbey Hospital was one of three singled out recently for special mention by Health Minister, Michael McGimpsey.

A KPMG audit of environmental cleanliness at Whiteabbey saw its score rise from 61 percent, classed as band 4, to 87 percent, placing the hospital into band 2 against other hospitals across Northern Ireland.

Assistant Director of Facilities for the Northern Trust, Maire Bermingham, is delighted with the result.

“This could not have been achieved without the commitment of the entire Domestic Services team led by Donald McWhirter, Support Services Manager.

“The effort is more than cosmetic. Whiteabbey is one of our older hospital buildings and therefore some minor refurbishment also took place. Old fixtures and fittings were replaced, new flooring was laid, and minor repairs were carried out in parts of the hospital. There was also work done to reduce the amount of clutter, and new curtains and disposable screens made a real difference.

“I think, however, that the most important change was one of attitude. The effort of the team has really restored a sense of pride in the hospital and the environment.”

Maire added that the multi-disciplinary approach, involving both Nursing and Estates Services was critical to the recent success. She also acknowledged that there was room for further improvement.

“The fact that Whiteabbey is an old building makes it more challenging for our staff to meet the exacting modern standards. However, with the renewed enthusiasm this announcement has given us, I am confident we can maintain and improve upon the high standard we have already achieved.”