Publish date: 29 April 2026
I want to take this opportunity to thank everyone in Knowsley Urgent Community Response, for the dedication and commitment they have shown over the years, in providing an essential service to our local communities.
Following a recent review and in line with regional service transformation priorities, Cheshire and Merseyside ICB has confirmed that the contract for delivering the Knowsley Urgent Community Response (UCR) service will transfer from Mersey Care to Mersey and West Lancashire Teaching Hospitals (MWL).
MWL will become the new provider on Friday 1 May 2026, and staff currently delivering the service will transfer on the same date under TUPE arrangements.
The Knowsley UCR service provides urgent community-based care for adults experiencing a health crisis and helps to prevent unnecessary hospital admissions. The decision to transfer the contract was made to improve access to urgent care, reduce waiting times, and create a more seamless experience across Knowsley services.
The transfer represents an important step towards greater integration and efficiency in urgent community care across the region. Through careful planning and close collaboration between organisations, the transition aims to deliver benefits for patients, staff, and the wider health and care system.
Finally, I would just like to wish everyone the best with the transfer to MWL and thank you once more for the continued commitment to strive for perfect care, which I know you will continue to do.
Best wishes
Lee McMenamy
Divisional Director, Community Care Division