Kids’ ward to get more staff

MORE staff are to be hired for the under-threat children’s ward at St John’s Hospital in Livingston.

NHS Lothian is understood to be close to finalising some appointments in a move that could avert a staffing crisis which has put the ward in danger of a permanent downgrade.

Linlithgow MSP Angela Constance and her SNP colleague Fiona Hyslop said they had received a firm commitment from health bosses that they remained committed to keeping the facility open.

“This is to be welcomed but NHS Lothian were left in doubt of the strength of feeling on the matter. I call on NHS Lothian to continue to be open about communicating the ongoing situation,” said Ms Hyslop.

Paediatric staffing is to be discussed by NHS Lothian’s board today.