Patients warned of 'shouting and loud noises' as emergency test to take place at West Midlands hospital

Patients visiting Walsall’s acute hospital next week have been warned to expect loud noises.

Walsall Healthcare NHS Trust said a host of agencies will be involved in an emergency exercise at Walsall Manor Hospital on Wednesday (June 24) to test plans and procedures for major incidents.

The test will see a number of agencies work around the main atrium of the hospital.

The trust has moved to reassure patients and the wider public, saying the exercise forms a “vital part” of its Emergency Preparedness, Resilience and Response (EPRR) programme.

Liam Ferris, head of EPRR at the trust, said: “Exercises like this are an important part of ensuring we are prepared to respond effectively to a wide range of incidents.

“They allow us to test our plans, strengthen partnership working with emergency services and other agencies, and identify any areas where we can improve.

“We would like to thank patients, visitors and local residents for their understanding while the exercise takes place and reassure them that the hospital and its services will continue to operate as usual at this time.

“A huge thank you also goes to the volunteers and staff who will be giving up their time to take part.”

The exercise will take place between 8pm and 4am on Wednesday, and will see an increase in emergency services staff around the hospital, and some shouting and loud noises as part of the procedures.