Royal Oldham Hospital gets its own PC

PC Rosie Richardson - hospital beat

SECURITY has been stepped up at Royal Oldham Hospital in a zero tolerance approach following a spate of thefts.

A dedicated police officer, PC Rosie Richardson has been assigned to the hospital to protect and educate staff, patients and visitors.

The new post is an addition to the local neighbourhood policing team already based at the hospital and a much-needed boost for hospital security staff.

PC Richardson’s role will not include dealing with troublemakers in the A&E Department on busy Friday and Saturday evenings — that is already patrolled by officers.

PC Richardson (28) said: “A lot of people think because it’s a hospital they can leave their belongings around — but unfortunately you can’t do this.

“There has been a few theft problems, for example a member of staff had her car keys stolen and her vehicle was taken — plus outside workers, contructing the new maternity unit have had items stolen. So many people come into the hospital and my job is to educate people about the risk of crime at the hospital and make people more safe in a comfortable environment.”

PC Richardson has been working as an officer in Oldham for five years and is fresh from maternity leave.

She warns those who step out of line face being slapped with anti-social behaviour orders for the hospital. Surrounding areas remain a “chronic hot-spot” for vehicle crime, according to police.

An Oldham Council report highlights that hospital developments — which include The Christie and the redirection of Rochdale’s maternity and accident and emergency services to Oldham — have caused an increase in on-street parking.

Pam Miller, associate director of facilities at The Pennine Acute Hospitals NHS Trust, said: “The safety and security of our patients and staff is extremely important to us.

“We work closely with Greater Manchester Police and constantly look at ways in which we can work together to support and improve the Trust’s security arrangements wherever possible.

“PC Richardson will work closely with our staff across the hospital and members of the public when necessary.”