7am to 8pm opening hours confirmed for Bridlington UTC
NHS Humber and North Yorkshire Integrated Care Board (ICB) has approved permanent 7am to 8pm opening hours at Bridlington Urgent Treatment Centre.
Since March 2022, the UTC at Bridlington Hospital has been open from 7am to 8pm, rather than 7am-11pm.
The reduced hours were originally introduced because of sustained low demand in late evenings, and staffing pressures.
The decision to make the revised opening hours permanent follows public engagement last year involving more than 1,200 residents, alongside a comprehensive review of clinical evidence, demand patterns and workforce pressures.
The ICB’s Clinical Lead, Dr Nigel Wells, said: “We fully appreciate the strength of feeling in Bridlington and want to thank people for sharing their thoughts. We acknowledge some people wanted to see longer opening hours.
“However, the data consistently showed very low usage after 8pm prior to the temporary changes being brought in and no evidence of displaced activity elsewhere after the changed hours were introduced.
“This decision ensures the right blend of care – focusing clinical staff where patients need them most. We will continue to monitor population changes and demand closely, and we remain committed to revisiting the model if future needs evolve, and in line with ongoing discussions on how neighbourhood health fits together with existing systems in our localities.”
An ICB spokesperson said: “Operational data shows local demand for urgent treatment after 8pm is very low and does not justify extending the service to 11pm. This trend has remained stable throughout the temporary period.
“During the period of reduced hours, no formal complaints have been recorded relating to the earlier closing times.”
To ensure any impact is reduced for patients who rely on UTCs later in the evening, the ICB said it is committed to:
•Clear, accessible public information about what UTCs provide and where to go for urgent care after 8pm.
•Working with local authorities to explore transport improvements, including community transport for rural and older residents.
•Strengthening pathways between UTCs, NHS 111, GP out-of-hours and community pharmacies for seamless care.
•Supporting digital and remote consultation options, while always providing alternatives for people without digital access.
•Reviewing the permanent changes after 12 months, and again every 2–3 years, to ensure safety, effectiveness, and responsiveness to local need.