Doctors, nurses and security staff fear patients' and staffs' safety will be put at risk if hospital chiefs go ahead with cuts. Bosses at East Sussex Hospitals NHS Trust have said they will save up to 50,000 a year if they reduce security staff levels by 50 per cent. Chiefs also expect to save around 100,000 if they out-source security to a private company. The proposal first came to light in August when the Observer received an internal document outlining the plans. The hospital's Friends also fear staff will be placed at greater risk of being assaulted or attacked. Margaret Williams, secretary of the Friends of the Conquest, said: "The nurses, particularly in A&E, the baby unit and St Anne's need the peace of mind to know that not only are responsible security men on duty but on call 24/7." The charity has written to chief executive Kim Hodgson expressing its concerns. The hospital Trust is currently 5million in debt and is exploring ways of saving money. David Philliskirk, the Turst's director of estates and facilities, said: "No decisions have been made. As part of the review of security at the Conquest we have been exploring options for changes and looking at incidents reports from both the Conquest and Eastbourne DGH. "We hope to have some firm options within the next two weeks and we will be consulting with the security guards." The Conquest has a 24-hour, seven-day a week security service. Mr Philliskirk stressed that would remain in place whatever changes are implemented.