'More than a hospital!': 13 fantastic images of the Midland Metropolitan University Hospital as it celebrates its first anniversary
The Black Country's newest hospital has marked its one-year anniversary with a joyous celebration event.
Sandwell's Midland Metropolitan University Hospital, in Smethwick, celebrated its first anniversary on October 6, ending the year with thousands of operations carried out and thousands of patients seen.
The hospital, which is operated by the Sandwell and West Birmingham Trust, opened on October 6, 2024, following a six year delay and has now marked its one-year anniversary with a special celebratory event.
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The one-year event was marked by a day full of activities, including a circus skills workshop, Zumba classes, and arts and crafts for all ages.
As well as activities, there was also a live performance from Dhol drummers, and music from Cape Hill Primary School choir, and local composer Kyle Corbin, who performed pieces that he wrote to mark the Windrush and Covid-19 pandemic.
In the year, the trust revealed that the hospital has carried out 4,750 operations, 45,217 ambulances seen, and 139,994 patients seen within the Emergency Department, as well as 5,177 babies delivered.
The hospital has also seen a number of prestigious visitors come through its doors to visit patients and open its wards, including Harry Whitwell and Grady Diangana of West Bromwich Albion and even King Charles III himself.
Sir David Nicholson, chair of the Sandwell and West Birmingham NHS Trust, said: "This past year has been more than just the opening of a hospital; it’s been the beginning of a new way of caring for our communities.
“From improved patient outcomes to stronger community ties, the last 12 months have shown us what’s possible when we work differently, together.
“We look forward to sharing more about what’s next and continuing to shape a future that puts our patients, people and our population at the heart of everything we do."
The 'super hosptial' opened following a six year delay, and was noted as a 'key milestone' and 'key moment' for the region by trust chair, Sir Nicholson.
Diane Wake, chief executive of the Sandwell and West Birmingham Trust, said: "The past year has been one of real progress. We’re seeing the benefits of our new clinical model, our commitment to prevention, and our focus on community-based care.
“I would like to thank our staff, partners, and our community for their dedication and support."
To mark the occasion, we have created a gallery of images that we have taken in our many visits throughout the year, including those from King Charles II's visit, and the Albion legends.
See 13 images of the Midland Metropolitan Hospital throughout its first year below:
