His Majesty, King Charles today officially opened the UK’s newest hospital, The Midland Metropolitan University Hospital.
Unveiling a plaque to mark the historic occasion at the West Midlands-based hospital, he interacted with flag-waving crowds who were delighted to see him visiting.
Beforehand, he met with dedicated NHS staff and toured the facility in Smethwick, which opened on 6 October 2024 and is run by Sandwell and West Birmingham NHS Trust.
The King was greeted by the Trust’s Chair Sir David Nicholson and Chief Executive Diane Wake.
He was then taken to meet patients and staff on the elderly care ward.
Eighty-five-year-old Jackie, from Great Barr, said: “He was brought into my room and shook hands with my husband first and then he shook hands with me. He held my hand most of the time I was talking to him, so it was a lovely experience.
“My parents and I have met him once before in the 70’s and I told him about that moment and how happy he made not just us, but everyone he comes to meet.”
Meanwhile Ward Sister Jane Burton said: “It’s been an absolute honour to meet the King and one of the highlights of my career. I was able to speak to him about how this new facility has helped to enhance the care we provide. He was really interested in the way the wards are configured and was impressed with the space patients have.
“He really brought a smile to everyone’s faces.”
Following his visit to the ward, King Charles was taken to the Winter Garden, which is situated on the fifth floor of the hospital, where patients, staff and visitors can seek respite in a bright and colourful area filled with vibrant plants, creating a peaceful and inviting atmosphere.
Whilst there, he spoke to new mum Elsie Kudozia and her newborn baby, Elyanna. Elsie said: “It was such a surprise to meet his Majesty just a few days after having my baby. He was so kind and it’s a moment I’ll never forget. Something very special to tell her when she’s older.”
During the tour he met with frontline doctors and nurses, as well as support staff, including Ward Services Officer Stephen Turner, who has worked for the organisation for over 50 years, and Jake Collins who has benefited from one of the Trust’s employment programmes. He also heard about the construction of the Learning Campus, which is overlooked by the Midland Met and will open early 2026, offering learning opportunities for local people.
Sir David Nicholson said: “Welcoming King Charles to our state-of-the-art hospital has been a real privilege. He has seen firsthand the amazing facilities that we are offering the population of Sandwell and West Birmingham, and how we are transforming healthcare across our community. He also showed a real interest in how we are educating the future workforce, with the construction of the Learning Campus and our collaboration with universities and colleges in the area.”
Diane added: “Today was a proud moment for the Trust. Not only was he able to tour our wonderful hospital, but His Majesty The King met with so many of our compassionate and ambitious staff who spoke passionately about their jobs and how they are really making a difference and improving patient outcomes.
“Our staff have worked hard to deliver Midland Met and today is a culmination of their dedication.”