"Is anyone home?"

First up, the last time I visited the hospital it was more than satisfactory. Very clean, helpful staff....no complaints other than navigational difficulties. However.....my mother and I (who live 200 miles away so can't just pop in) have been trying to get through on the phone regarding my grandmother, who was taken seriously ill yesterday, since 9am this morning. We've tried the ward and the main switchboard. Many, many times. We're now convinced that the lack of any living being on the other end of the phone must mean that the apocalypse has begun in Stoke. We would appreciate it if someone could answer the phone to confirm whether or not this is the case.