13/06/2026
SOS Causeway Hospital have offered their congratulations on the 25th anniversary of Causeway Hospital.
Speaking today Gemma Brolly, chairperson of the organisation stated "We would like to offer our sincere congratulations to all at Causeway Hospital on reaching 25 years of service. This milestone reflects the commitment and professionalism of staff who have delivered care through some of the most challenging periods our health service has faced. Their dedication is deeply appreciated by the entire community."
Reflecting over the past, Ms. Brolly continued, "Marking 25 years also requires honest reflection. As in most walks of life, there have been lessons learned and mistakes made, particularly around communication and consultation. It is fair to say that SOS Causeway Hospital has repeatedly raised concerns about unclear processes, late engagement, and the lack of meaningful dialogue from the NHSCT board with the public. We also want to acknowledge that there has been some improvement in communication in recent times, which we greatly welcome and appreciate. However, the long‑standing pattern of consultations being carried out, responses being gathered, and then little weight being given to the views of local people remains a serious issue. Communities have taken the time to respond thoughtfully, only to feel unheard. That must change, particularly in the face of yet another centralisation proposal in the form of emergency surgery, out of Causeway Hospital to l to Antrim Area Hospital, it is vital that lessons are learned quickly. Decisions of this scale cannot be made without robust evidence, transparent reasoning, and genuine engagement with those who rely on Causeway Hospital every day. The geography of this area, the travel times involved, and the safety implications for patients must be fully recognised and respected."
Ms. Brolly continued "Causeway Hospital has enormous strengths: dedicated staff, strong community support, and a proven record of delivering high‑quality care. But it also faces real threats including underinvestment and the ongoing erosion of acute services. The community cannot be expected to continually fight to retain essential care.
SOS Causeway Hospital will continue to champion Causeway as a full, functioning acute hospital. We will oppose any attempt to remove emergency surgery without clear evidence that access to the best standard of care and patient safety will be protected. We will insist that consultation responses are not only collected but genuinely considered. And we will continue to call for honest communication, early engagement, and decision‑making that reflects the needs of the people this hospital serves."
The SOS Causeway Hospital chairperson concluded: "Above all, we reaffirm our heartfelt gratitude to the staff of Causeway Hospital, past and present. Their dedication and care at the coalface will never be forgotten. Their skill, compassion, and resilience are the foundation on which the next 25 years must be built. The community stands firmly behind them, in deep gratitude."
ENDS
