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FACILITIES MANAGEMENT ANNUAL WORKSHOP - 2001

Thursday and Friday, 20th and 21st September 2001

Low Wood Hotel, Lake Windermere, Cumbria

Once again the Low Wood Hotel overlooking Lake Windermere was the venue for the 3rd Annual Facilities Management Workshop held on 20th and 21st September 2001.

The workshop, aimed at Senior Managers and Directors working within the areas of Facilities Management and Other Support Services, attracted 40 delegates not only from the Northwest, but also from the Northeast, Wales and the Midlands.

The pace of change in today's NHS gave the organisers a problem of knowing which of the many topics on a Trust Facilities agenda to address. However, the balance struck during the event gave the delegates plenty of food for thought. The topics covered a wide range of issues, from an excellent insight into the challenges facing a PCT Chairman, through the concept and application of Facilities Management within the NHS, to a series of presentations on the requirements of the NHS Plan.

Following the formal presentations, which attracted lively questions and debate, the group enjoyed a short cruise on lake Windermere, organised by Carol Molyneux. Unlike the previous year, the weather was kind, to the extent that, except for a few delicate souls, the majority stayed on the upper deck to enjoy the views. The tour was enlivened by a close fly past of a large military helicopter, explained by the fact that a number of NHS Estates staff were on-board. Views differed as to whether the aircraft's close attention was for security purposes or to check up on their whereabouts! Either way, nice one NHS Estates!

SAILING !

Following the cruise, the group split up to discuss four topical issues, Best Value, Leadership, an idealised model of Facilities and responding to the NHS Plan. As was to be expected from Facilities Professionals, many worked hard late into the night in the bar, on these topics.

Friday 21st saw the presentations from these workshops prior to delegates departure after lunch.

The measure of the success of the event will be, as one delegate remarked upon leaving, how much of the information obtained and the ideas exchanged, will be put into use in the next twelve months.

This remains the challenge for us all!

Paul Bond,
Director of Estates and Facilities (FM TAG Member)
North Cheshire Hospitals Trust, Halton General Hospital