Dream team at Humber NHS help give energy efficiency a boost

We visit hospital sites to discover how patients and planet will be impacted by decarbonisation works

Teamwork is proving central to Humber Teaching NHS Foundation Trust’s net zero journey, with £1.8 million in government funding powering major energy efficiency upgrades across the region.

The Trust secured the investment through Phase 3b of the Public Sector Decarbonisation Scheme, enabling modernisation at four sites: Hornsea Cottage Hospital, Alfred Bean Hospital, St Andrews Place and Westend. Between them, these sites provide a range of community, learning disability and mental health services for adults and children and young people.

The works include installing air source heat pumps, LED lighting, and insulation, helping to cut carbon emissions while improving the comfort of patients and staff.

The works include installing air source heat pumps, LED lighting, and insulation, helping to cut carbon emissions while improving the comfort of patients and staff.

Balancing heritage with innovation

During a recent visit, our team spoke to project leaders about the energy efficiency works – we’ve been working closely with the Trust to see the project delivered.

Trust leaders showcased how Hornsea Cottage Hospital, a building dating back to the 1880s, has been sympathetically adapted to embrace modern energy solutions without compromising its historic character.

At Alfred Bean Hospital, teams are preparing to bring new air source heat pumps online once final connections are made to the district network operator (DNO).

Anne Gorman, estates projects officer at the Trust said: “It’s been key to us that access to services is maintained throughout the net zero works. Teamwork and communication have been vital, with strong relationships between our partners and the full backing of the Trust.”

A collaborative approach

Our Salix client support officer Kiara Sagoo, who visited the sites, added: “It’s very helpful to see the works in progress. 

“It gives us a real insight into how decisions are made, the challenges faced, and the solutions that bring everything together. The age of the buildings has posed difficulties, but ensuring services continue without disruption has always been the priority.

“Once the works are completed, the patients, the teams, visitors and the community, will have not only more energy efficient buildings, but ones that are more comfortable to be in.

“The NHS has challenging net zero targets, and we are proud to be able to support Humber Teaching NHS Foundation Trust on this journey.”

A wider commitment to sustainability

As one of the largest employers in the East Riding of Yorkshire and Humber region, the Trust views sustainability as both an environmental and social responsibility.

Its Green Plan sets out environmental objectives for the next three years, embedding sustainable development into its strategy.

Environmental officer Alex Fowler at the Trust said: “We’ve achieved a lot already, but it’s just as important that we change our habits and improve how we engage with our natural environment.”

With works still ongoing, Humber Teaching NHS Foundation Trust is demonstrating how collaboration, innovation, and determination can help healthcare meet the dual challenge of protecting patient services while tackling climate change.

Thank you to Humber Teaching NHS Foundation Trust for hosting our team on the day and providing valuable insight into project work.