Hospital's novel bid for savings

Hospitals in Sheffield are trying to save £500,000 by turning off electrical equipment when not in use.

The Sheffield Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust is giving staff ideas on how to reduce the amount of gas, electricity, oil and water being used in hospitals.

It says its energy saving campaign could save more than £200,000 in the first year, which would then be used to improve hospital facilities.

The trust's energy bills currently add up to more than £5m a year.

Hospital budget

Around 250 staff will be sent on a course to teach them how to waste less and save more.

Campaign co-ordinator Johnny Cole said they were looking at the possibility of using any savings to buy new equipment for the hospitals and improve their decor and surroundings.

"Within the Sheffield Teaching Hospital we use a large amount of water and energy resources," he said.

"We are aware of our impact on the environment, but also the impact this use has on the hospital budget.

"We're looking to reduce both, for the good of the environment and also the healthcare of people in Sheffield."