A series of drop-in sessions will be held to tell people about the merger between Newham, Whipps Cross and Barts and the London hospitals.

They will take place at Newham General hospital in Plaistow, throughout October and early November on the following dates:

• October 21 – Zone 6, Ground Floor, 9.30-11.30am

• October 25 – GSC, Ground Floor – 9.30-11.30am

• November 2– St Andrew’s Wing, Ground Floor, 9.30-11.30am

You can pick up a copy of the merger prospectus, which sets out the benefits for patients and staff of the merger and have any questions answered.

Newham, Whipps Cross and Barts and the London hospitals are working together to develop a business case for a merger between the three organisations. This move will reduce back-office duplication, in areas such as finance and HR, and release significant savings for reinvestment back into patient care. The Trusts are expected to submit their full proposals to NHS London in the autumn.

All three organisations believe a merged organisation will be able to compete clinically with the best in the world. Mike Gill, Medical Director at Newham, said: “The merger is a marvellous opportunity to improve services for our patients. By working with GPs, commissioners and patients, we have a unique opportunity to innovate and improve the health of our community.”

For more information about the merger, call (020) 7092 5287 or send an e-mail to merger@elca.nhs.uk