More than 100,000 diagnostic tests have been delivered in 18 months at Crawley Hospital following the expansion of community diagnostic services (CDCs) at the site. 

Surrey and Sussex Healthcare NHS Trust’s diagnostic services were first expanded in April last year as part of a national NHS programme to increase community access to care.  It is one of 165 CDCs open across England.  Tests included in the newly expanded services are MRI and CT scans, x-rays, ultrasounds, and blood and respiratory tests.  A new mammography machine will be introduced from December. 

The final phase of the Crawley CDC project is expected to open in 2026 when the hub will offer patients a 12 hour service, six days a week.

Surrey Fire and Rescue Service is calling on the public to help make this Christmas a little brighter for children who will be spending time in hospital over the festive period.

From now until 19th December, Reigate Fire Station will serve as a drop-off point for new toy donations, which will be distributed to children at East Surrey Hospital and other local children’s services.

To ensure fairness and meet hospital guidelines. Gifts must be new, not wrapped and money, food or perishables are not accepted.

A family in South Nutfield has been told their children’s free bus passes have been cancelled as there is a three-mile “safe route” to school across fields and over an unguarded railway line.

Joe Massey said the decision by Surrey County Council had left his family feeling “let down” because the route, which he described as “plain dangerous”, was found by officials.

Clare Curran, SCC’s cabinet member for children, families and lifelong learning, said: “Amidst a set of challenging financial circumstances, the council is not in the position to continue to pay for transport for families”.

The councillor said the family was able to appeal the decision.

Crawley Borough Council is offering drop-in services to help people who are applying for Pension Credit.

Sessions at the Town Hall, every Tuesday and Wednesday throughout November between 9:30am and 3:30pm.

Residents can also contact Access Crawley on 01293 438101 at the Town Hall, or their local Citizens Advice or Age UK for help .

Eligible residents have until 21 December 2024 to apply for the benefit.