Monday November 17th 2025
Borders General Hospital
Written by Local Democracy Reporter, Paul Kelly
Vital measures to keep health services operating at Borders General Hospital this winter have been revealed.
The region’s healthcare system will be under significant pressure over the upcoming few months.
NHS Borders is taking a few simple steps to ensure services are available for those who need them most.
A comprehensive Winter Plan has been put in place to prepare for the challenges ahead.
This includes the opening of a new Fraility Unit at Borders General Hospital.
This dedicated unit will provide tailored care for older patients and aims to help them return home within four days. It’s not just for winter – it will be a permanent part of the hospital.
Additionally, a Integrated Discharge Team will be created.
This team will work across our hospitals and social care to make sure patients can leave hospital safely and quickly when they’re ready.
Meanwhile, capacity at the hospital is being increased in Hospital at Home and Home First services, along with extra social care support, so more people can be cared for in their own homes.
NHS Borders is also strengthening its infection control measures, including moving to essential visiting quicker during outbreaks.
During winter more cases of flu, COVID-19, RSV and norovirus are seen in the hospital’s wards. These can lead to room or whole ward closures depending on the situation.
Visitors can unintentionally introduce and spread these illnesses, increasing the risk to staff and patients who are already really unwell.
To keep everyone as safe as possible, where a virus is present in two or more rooms within a ward, the whole ward will be closed, and essential visiting will be put in place.
Oliver Bennett, Interim Director of Acute Services at NHS Borders, said: “Winter brings extra challenges for health and social care services, and this year will be no different. We’ve worked closely with our teams and partners to make sure we’re as prepared as possible, with new initiatives that will improve patient flow and care year-round.
“But we can’t do it alone, we need the public’s support to use services wisely, plan ahead and help us keep care moving for those who need it most.”
Gareth Clinkscale, Director of Urgent Care, Community Services and Mental Health, said: “One of the most significant changes we’re making this winter is about supporting older patients to recover in the best possible environment.
“Our new Frailty Unit and expanded community services will help people return home safely and with the right support in place. This is all about improving outcomes and ensuring care continues in a way that works best for patients and their families.”
For more information about accessing healthcare visit: www.nhsborders.scot.nhs.uk/accessing-healthcare
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