AFTER an absence of three decades, matrons will once again be returning to wards at the Alexandra Hospital, writes Helen Clarke.

Fifteen 'modern matrons' will be in post in Redditch, Worcester and Kidderminster by April.

They will be in overall charge of groups of wards and departments, setting high standards of nursing care and with the power to put right any shortcomings in service to patients.

They will wear distinctive uniforms to make sure they are visible to patients and their families and will also oversee the spending of ward budgets.

Worcestershire Acute Hospitals NHS Trust has so far appointed 12 matrons, leaving just three positions to be filled.

Among the new appointments is Sister Glenis Adams, senior nurse for medicine.

The role of the modern matrons includes leading the nursing team, demonstrating to other nurses the high standards expected, making sure wards are kept clean, that food is good and patients are treated with respect.