HOLLY HOUSE HOSPITAL – COMMUNITY OPEN DAY

Buckhurst Hill based Holly House Hospital has played host to a community open day today, giving local residents a rare opportunity to see behind the scenes of the private medical centre, including theatres, outpatient consulting rooms, diagnostic centre, day unit, decontamination department and physiotherapy unit. The event has taken place as the Hospital embarks upon a £21 million redevelopment and expansion project.

Visitors were able to take part in a variety of interactive games and activities for the whole family to enjoy, such as trying your hand at keyhole surgery, learning how to resuscitate somebody, taking on a fitness challenge, having your blood pressure and BMI checked, carrying out a laboratory test and so much more! Healthcare staff were available throughout the day to meet visitors, offer advice and answer any questions, including a former Paralympic gold medallist and physotherapist, providing tips on getting fit and preventing injuries.

One of the invited guests was Eleanor Laing MP who explained: “I was most impressed by the wide range of activities going on. It was a brilliant idea to involve local people in the work of the hospital and to use the occasion to educate us about many aspects of healthcare. I was pleased to have the opportunity to have my BMI checked, and relieved that it is okay! It was also good that people were learning how to give immediate first aid in the event of a heart attack – and children were learning to wash their hands properly – all very useful information.” Further information about a career in healthcare or to ask about any job vacancies or work experience opportunities are available from Holly House on 020 8936 1214 or e-mail at info@hollyhouse-hospital.co.uk

PICTURE CAPTION: Epping Forest MP Eleanor Laing pictured with hospital director Jackie Row, deputy director Matthew Hayday & Holly the Hippo.