GLOWING tribute has been paid to Airedale Hospital's endoscopy unit.

The department has once again been awarded full accreditation by the Joint Advisory Group (JAG) of the Royal College of Physicians.

JAG sets out standards for endoscopy units throughout the UK, to ensure quality and safety of patient care.

To achieve the accreditation, the unit had to demonstrate excellence across several areas – including clinical quality, patient experience, workforce and training.

Assessors were particularly impressed by the cleanliness of the unit, strong leadership and clear patient information.

They praised a paging system for relatives, and open days which give visitors a behind-the-scenes look at the department.

Julie Blackburn, lead nurse for endoscopy services at Airedale NHS Foundation Trust, said: "Our patients are our absolute priority and the whole team is delighted the unit has been recognised once again as providing an outstanding service.

"The inspection regime was rigorous and to gain accreditation we had to provide detailed evidence that we were performing to the highest standards in every aspect of care."

The unit – which is staffed by nurses, endoscopists and support workers – cares for around 11,000 patients a year. There is also a team dedicated to the bowel cancer screening programme.