No consultation on NHS bed cuts

The trust manages Singleton and Morriston hospitals in Swansea

Hospital mangers say they will not be consulting the public over plans to cut 86 beds and lose 750 jobs in Swansea.

The city's NHS said its efficiency drive aimed at stopping it going £15.5m in debt would not reduce any services, so it was not obliged to consult.

Members of Unison have reacted angrily to the plan and union leaders are still seeking talks over the issue.

The trust said it would still treat the same number of patients but would reduce the time they spent in hospital.

Director of nursing Liz Rix said the trust had requested a meeting with the local community health council and would be discussing the issue with the NHS watchdogs.

"Public consultation usually takes place when a major service change is planned," she said.

"These bed closures are the result of improved clinical efficiencies and will not result in any service reduction or movement of services.

"In fact, Swansea NHS Trust will still see the same number, or more, of patients, but will be more efficient in the way we manage them."