About trauma services in Sussex

Major trauma means multiple, serious injuries that could result in disability or death. It is the leading cause of death for those aged 44 and under.

The network is part of a national strategy to improve trauma care and to reduce the number of deaths from major trauma. We also work hard to improve quality of life for trauma patients through rehabilitation.

Local services

At the heart of the network is the Major Trauma Centre at the Royal Sussex County Hospital. It is a multi-specialty hospital optimised for the provision of trauma care. The network also includes three trauma units, two local emergency hospitals, two pre-hospital care providers and other NHS and third sector organisations.

Depending on journey time and injury, patients can be transported directly to the Major Trauma Centre following on-scene assessment, or may be transferred from a trauma unit following initial care and stabilisation.

Trauma units play a vital role in the initial resuscitation of major trauma patients. They may also be involved in the on-going care, specialist needs such as burns, and rehabilitation.

Our team

The network is supported by a small team hosted at University Hospitals Sussex NHS Foundation Trust.

Clinical Lead: Dr Peter Westhead
Network Manager: Erin Burns
Rehabilitation Lead: Anna McLean
Education Programme Lead: Mr Geoff Bryant
Major Trauma Centre Clinical lead: Dr Stephanie Tilston

Where we are

Major trauma centre

Royal Sussex County Hospital, Brighton – University Hospitals Sussex NHS Foundation Trust.

Trauma units

St. Richard’s Hospital, Chichester – University Hospitals Sussex NHS Foundation Trust.
Worthing Hospital – University Hospitals Sussex NHS Foundation Trust.
Conquest Hospital, Hastings. Part of East Sussex Healthcare NHS Trust.

Local emergency hospitals

Eastbourne District General Hospital. Part of East Sussex Healthcare NHS Trust.
Princess Royal Hospital, Haywards Heath. Part of University Hospitals Sussex NHS Foundation Trust.