Stakeholder update from Chief Executive Matthew Trainer: 5 June 2026
Dear colleague,
It’s Volunteers Week and I’d like to give a huge thank you to our incredible 326 volunteers who have already completed more than 12,000 hours of activity this year.
From wayfinder Lee, who was one of our Project Search graduates, a programme designed to help young adults with learning disabilities into employment, to Darren and Martyn who take care of our Lavender Garden, they greatly enhance the experiences of patients and staff alike.
We're incredibly grateful for their time, compassion and dedication. Stop and say hi next time you’re in – you can’t miss them in their purple tops!
If you’re interested in becoming a volunteer yourself, we’re always looking. Take a look at our volunteering page for more information on the roles available and how to apply.
New, faster MRI scanners
Our patients are set to benefit from the arrival of two new MRI scanners at Queen’s Hospital. They’re faster, particularly for patients needing imaging for back problems, joint pain, and muscle injuries; the imaging is clearer; and they’re more comfortable than the previous machines. It’s part of a wider programme of improvements to diagnostic and imaging services across Queen’s.
Last year we completed 49,138 MRI scans. By reducing the time scanning takes, we expect to be able to see more patients each day and help reduce waiting times for these important diagnostic tests.
Amending appointments just got easier
Since the launch of our electronic patient record last November, we are continuously looking to make it easier for patients to access their information at the touch of a button, via the NHS App.
Patients can now request to cancel or change their appointment quickly and easily by text or via the app, making managing appointments simpler and more convenient.
We’ll be offering further services over the coming months.
Saving energy, saving money, saving the planet
Despite only launching our three-year ‘Green Plan’ last October, we are already saving around £175,000 a year thanks to sustainable initiatives underway across our hospitals.
I previously mentioned the installation of solar panels on the roof of King George Hospital. 90% of lighting there is now LED, and we’re about to launch a campaign which will reduce our plastic waste by slashing the number of disposable gloves we use. We purchased 23million pairs in 2024/2025 alone.
And we don’t plan to stop there, by next March we plan to have panels installed on two further blocks at the hospital, increasing our green energy use and saving even more.
South Africa twinning
Lastly, we were delighted to host delegates from South Africa. They’ve been visiting as part of our work to create a structured twinning relationship between NHS and South African organisations.
The aim will be to support mutual peer learning rather than one-way teaching with a focus on areas such as hospital leadership, governance, and patient safety.
It’s a fantastic project that will reap benefits for patients and staff both in South Africa and here at BHRUT.
Best wishes,
Matthew