Plan to tackle nursing shortages

Hinchingbrooke Hospital is acting as the scheme's main centre

A new scheme to address the problem of nursing shortages has begun at Hinchingbrooke Hospital in Huntingdon.

The project will give nurses and other health care professionals the chance to work flexible hours.

They would be available to cover last minute shortages in hospitals, clinics and at patients' homes.

It operates 12 hours a day and is designed to reduce the number of agency nurses hospitals use to cut costs.

Staff will be paid weekly, and it is hoped this will help attract employees who are looking for flexible working hours.

Although Hinchingbrooke will be the main centre of the project, Papworth Hospital and Huntingdonshire Primary Care Trust will also be able to call on staff.