"Exceptional care from a highly engaged workforce!"

Anything else?

I was unexpectedly admitted to Airedale hosptial whilst in Skipton on business. On arrival at the hospital I didnt quite know what to expect - my first thoughts were "goodness what a strange, tired looking hosptial". However, as I soon learnt looks can be deceiving! From stepping onto Ward 13, I was greeted warmly with care and understanding. Not one member of staff from cleaner to consultant could have been more supportive, friendly and helpful. I have stayed in private hosptials and other NHS hospitals but none of them came anywhere close to the care I received at Airedale! It was most unexpected given the stretch on the NHS at the moment and previous experiences of being made to feel you were a hindrance to the staff when making even the smallest of requests. Everyone was incredibly helpful not just responding to my needs but also proactively spotting opportunities to help such as noticing I didn't have a dressing gown whilst I was waiting for my scan, escorting me to my car to retrieve some personal belongings, bringing towels etc. I also noted that tea/coffee was offered regularly throughout the day, sweet, drinks, newspaper and magazine trolleys were available, beds were changed/made-up daily, along with the daily cleaning of the ward. Water jugs were washed and replenished throughout the day and nurses responded to alerts very quickly. No one was left waiting or wanting. The team work at this hosptial was fantastic, everyone was cheery, seemed genuinely happy to help and just made you feel safe and very well cared for. It just goes to show that personal attitude and engagement can make all the difference to create a high performing organisation (even with all of the staff/resource shortages) - Airedale should be very proud!