Run by Dorset HealthCare, the opening hours at the MIU at Swanage Hospital were reduced on a temporary basis in the summer. They dropped from 8am-8pm to 9am-6pm due to the impact of staff shortages.

The unit was due to revert to 8am-8pm in September, but a review of staffing has led to a decision to maintain the current arrangements through to the end of March 2024.

“We really value this service and know how important it is to the community – we value their support and fully understand their concern about this change,” said Jane Elson, service director for Integrated Community Services. “We reluctantly took this decision to ensure our hard-working staff are supported to run the unit safely and effectively. We aim to extend the hours again when it is safe to do so.”

A review of the number of people attending the MIU during the additional hours (8am-9am and 6pm-8pm) for the two years from April 2021 to March 2023 shows that on average there were between one and five people attending during these hours each day.

The figures also show that demand tends to be lower at these times during winter, reflecting the increase in the summer population in Swanage.

People can still access care during these hours via the 111 service and other MIUs such as Wimborne, where longer opening hours are available. The Urgent Treatment Centre at Poole Hospital is also available.

People needing urgent medical attention or advice should always call 111 (or visit 111.nhs.uk) in the first instance. If face-to-face treatment is needed, staff will make an appointment at the nearest appropriate NHS site as quickly as possible. In an emergency or life-threatening circumstances people should ring 999.