The consultation has now started and the materials are available on the CCG website at www.kentandmedwayccg.nhs.uk/get-involved/ruby-ward. Information can also be requested in hard copy by calling 01634 335095 selecting option 2, or emailing kmccg.engage@nhs.net. The consultation will run until midnight on Tuesday 21 September 2021.

There will be opportunities for patients, the public and staff to get involved over the next seven weeks, through virtual public meetings and face to face drop in exhibitions. More information on these opportunities will be published shortly. In addition, the CCG will carry out some telephone polling and targeted focus group discussions to ensure a wide range of views are captured.

Labour councillors want to make sure the views of the Medway mental health community are heard in this consultation. Ruby ward is an in patient facility at Medway maritime hospital for older mental health patients and those with severe dementia. KMPT want to move the ward to Maidstone hospital because the old style dormitory facilities are not compatible with modern mental health care and new single rooms and outside space will be in the proposed new facility.

Contact Teresa Murray – teresa.murray@medway.gov.uk if you would like to get involved.