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Campaign shows Minor Injuries Unit can take the strain

As many of us begin to feel the strain - and sprains - caused by the winter weather as it takes hold across the region, a new campaign was launched last week to raise awareness of the services available at the Minor Injuries Unit (MIU), based at the Royal Victoria Infirmary (RVI) in Newcastle.

The MIU chose the skate park in Newcastle’s Exhibition Park to highlight that the facility provides treatment for a wide range of minor injuries and ailments - from cuts and bruises, aches and pains, to strains, sprains and broken limbs.

Staff from the MIU were on hand to explain that around 40% of people who end up in the Accident and Emergency department could be treated faster at the MIU. Some of the most common injuries that can be dealt with at the MIU include sprained ankles or wrists and minor breaks, while earache, sore throats and unidentified aches and pains are the most commonly treated ailments.

The MIU’s services will be promoted through a radio campaign as well as a series of surprise/ambient ads appearing underfoot at The Gate complex illustrating that the Unit is only a short trip away.

Judy Scorgie of the MIU said: “We want people suffering from minor injuries and ailments to be aware of the wide range of services we have here at the RVI’s MIU, as it could save them both time and discomfort. “This will ultimately help ease waiting times at A&E for those people who have a critical injury or illness, so by coming to us people can help themselves as well as others.”

The MIU’s services are available at the RVI seven days a week, 9am-4pm, including most bank holidays. For further information about the MUI visit www.newcastle-hospitals.org.uk.

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Ruth Mitchell .