The children’s accident and emergency department at Ormskirk hospital closed between 10pm and 8am daily from Monday 6 April this year.

The decision to temporarily close overnight was made because the Trust could not maintain safe and consistent medical cover against the background of the surging Covid-19 pandemic. It was taken on the advice and recommendation of a team of senior Trust doctors.

The team have conducted a fresh assessment of the service, taking into consideration the impact of schools reopening and upcoming winter pressures.

Chief Executive Trish Armstrong-Child said: “A significant workforce challenge remains around 24/7 cover given the uncertainty around Covid infections and the continued, and potential, impact on staffing.

“However, I am pleased to say the clinical team have been able to strengthen cover available to extend the opening hours.

“From Monday 19 October 2020 when new rosters come into effect, children’s A&E will open from 8am to midnight.”

A review will take place in January 2021 to assess the impact of the pandemic on the service.