Jane Smailes has been appointed as officer to the hospitals Patient Advice and Liaison Service (Pals).

The service was launched by Middlesbrough Primary Care Trust to provide a phone advice line for people experiencing difficulties with local health services.

The Pals service offers a confidential support to patients and aims to deal promptly with any queries or concerns patients may have.

Miss Smailes said: "I will act on behalf of patients when handling concerns by liaising with staff, managers and relevant organisations to negotiate solutions. I can also refer patients and families to other organisations if appropriate."

She can be contacted on freephone 0800 0130255.