4 March 2025, London: Virgin Media O2 Business has today announced a new partnership with Pennine Care NHS Foundation Trust (PCFT) to launch the Birch Hill Hospital’s first Digital Hub, a space designed to support NHS employees with digital skills training and improve accessibility to essential tech resources. Through close collaboration, the two organisations will enhance the Trust’s digital capabilities, improve patient outcomes, and empower staff with cutting-edge technology.
Serving 1.3 million people in Greater Manchester, PCFT provides mental health, learning disability, and autism services across 88 locations. A digital maturity assessment revealed that PCFT had one of the lowest digital maturity scores in Greater Manchester, highlighting the urgent need for change. Recognising the opportunities from embracing next-generation connectivity and digital upskilling, the Trust tapped Virgin Media O2 Business to help upgrade its connectivity, implement cybersecurity solutions, and roll out digital skills training hubs.
As part of its digital strategy, PCFT has rolled out 3 ‘Digital Care Hubs’. The newest hub at Birch Hill Hospital in Rochdale offers walk-in tech support and essential training for NHS staff, serving as a one-stop-shop for digital needs, from quick IT help to skills training. This comes as research from Virgin Media O2 Business found 86% of NHS professionals want to see more investment in digital skills for the NHS workforce. The investment into this new hub will empower Birch Hill staff to confidently use online resources while delivering high-quality patient care.
Monique Duffy-Brogan, Chief Information Officer, Pennine Care NHS Foundation Trust, says: “Technology plays such a large part in our day-to-day operations, so when it goes wrong, we need a quick solution for seamless patient care. By investing in enhanced connectivity, cybersecurity, and digital skills training, we are equipping our staff with the tools they need to deliver even better care. Our partnership with Virgin Media O2 Business is transforming the way we work, reducing administrative barriers, and ensuring our clinicians can focus on what truly matters – our patients.”
The partnership has also enabled PCFT to upgrade its IT infrastructure to create a faster, more secure, and reliable digital environment for staff and patients. With support from Virgin Media O2 Business, the Trust has transitioned to a software-defined wide area network (SD-WAN), improving WiFi reliability across all sites and allowing clinicians to seamlessly access patient information. This includes the introduction of a zero-trust cybersecurity model to protect against cyber threats and safeguard sensitive patient data.
With over 4,100 new mobile connections, staff can now securely access and update patient records in real-time, reducing delays and allowing more focus on care. Virgin Media O2 Business introduced a managed patient WiFi network, enhancing the patient experience by keeping them connected with loved ones and providing entertainment during their time in care. These enhancements streamline operations, reduce tech frustrations, and create a more efficient, digitally confident workforce.
Martin McFadyen, Director, Enterprise and Public Sector at Virgin Media O2 Business, adds: “The demands on NHS staff have never been greater, and access to reliable digital tools and training are crucial for delivering efficient, high-quality care. Our partnership with Pennine Care NHS Foundation Trust goes beyond technology upgrades—it’s about empowering a digitally confident workforce. We aim to provide the support, hands-on tech assistance, and training needed to navigate an increasingly digital healthcare environment with ease. Virgin Media O2 Business are proud to play a pivotal role in modernising NHS services, driving innovative solutions, and shaping the future of healthcare to enhance both staff and patient experiences.”
You can find out more about Virgin Media O2 Business’ ESG efforts including digital skills support, device recycling and tech donation programmes here.
