Dorset residents will be able to get a behind the scenes look at the inner workings of Dorset County Hospital next month when it throws open its doors for its annual public open day.
The event will take place on Saturday, October 4, from 2pm to 5pm.
A range of departments throughout the hospital will be open for tours and Damers Restaurant will host a wide selection of displays and hands on activities manned by hospital staff.
There will also be the chance for free health checks and the recruitment team will be on hand to give information about job opportunities at the hospital.
Hospital governors will also be attending to tell people more about becoming a member of Dorset County Hospital NHS Foundation Trust.
A new attraction for young visitors this year is the Teddy Health Check Clinic.
Children can bring along their favourite cuddly toys or dolls to get checked over by our friendly nurses and learn about bandaging wounds or using a stethoscope.
Departments open for tours this year include the clinical simulation suite, radiology, day surgery, special care dentistry, sterile services, the kitchens and the equipment library.
The hospital’s arts co-ordinator will also be running a tour of the facility’s many artworks.
There will be information stands in the restaurant – from recruitment, research, dietetics, ICT, patient involvement, resuscitation, the library, Ridgeway Radio and hospital charities.
Dorset Eyecare will also be there to book appointments for free eye tests in their on-site clinic.
The hospital’s very own Rock Choir will also be entertaining visitors with performances.
Acting chief executive Patricia Miller said: “This is a chance for us to showcase the wonderful work that goes on at the hospital, often behind the scenes.
“Visitors can be sure of gaining a fascinating insight into the many different departments and services within the hospital.
“Staff have put a lot of work into organising this afternoon and I hope as many people as possible will make the most of this opportunity to find out more about how their local hospital operates.”
Tours and displays will run from the hospital’s Damers Restaurant, which can be found in North Wing, Level 2.
For details call 01305 255419, or email foundation@dchft. nhs.uk
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