A well-known soap star has expressed her support for a struggling hospital following her experience at its A&E department. Michelle Collins, recognized for her role as Cindy Beale in the popular series EastEnders, received treatment at Queen Elizabeth Hospital in King’s Lynn while visiting friends in Norfolk over the Easter holiday.
Actress Shares Experience at Queen Elizabeth Hospital
During her visit to Norfolk, Collins suffered an injury after tripping and injuring her knee. She received treatment for cuts and bruises at the hospital. After her visit, the actress took to Instagram to share her positive experience with her 168,000 followers. Despite being labeled as the worst performing hospital in the country, Collins highlighted the excellent care provided by the staff.
Support Amid Criticism
- Collins praised the hospital staff for their dedication and care.
- She called it unfair to label the hospital negatively.
- The morale among staff is reportedly affected by such ratings.
In her Instagram post, Collins emphasized that the care she received was commendable, stating, “It seems so unfair to label a hospital like this.” She also noted the low morale among the staff, a sentiment echoed by one of the nurses she interacted with.
Hospital’s Challenges
Queen Elizabeth Hospital has faced ongoing challenges due to its aging infrastructure. The hospital was identified as the worst performing NHS Trust in England in September 2025, ranking last out of 134 trusts, based on statistics from NHS England.
The facility has parts supported by steel and timber structures, indicating significant structural issues. Furthermore, the presence of reinforced autoclaved aerated concrete (RAAC) has raised concerns regarding safety.
Future Developments
Plans are in place to rebuild the West Norfolk hospital, with construction expected to commence between 2027 and 2028. This redevelopment aims to address the pressing issues and improve facilities for patients and staff alike.
Amidst the hospital’s struggles, Collins took the time to honor her late dog, Humphrey, by scattering his ashes on Old Hunstanton beach during her Norfolk visit. This personal moment underscored the poignant experiences she had during her stay in the area.
