Adam Dance MP urges Government to commit to properly funding Yeovil Hospital in NHS funding debate
Liberal Democrat MP for Yeovil, Adam Dance, has urged the Government to commit to maintaining and properly funding a general district hospital in Yeovil, during a recent Westminster Hall debate on NHS funding in the South West.
Speaking in the debate secured by fellow Liberal Democrat MP Steve Darling, Mr Dance praised the work of NHS staff in Somerset but raised deep concerns about the ongoing pressures facing Yeovil Hospital, including the recent temporary closure of maternity services and the earlier closure of the hyper-acute stroke unit.
“Our NHS in Somerset has been left on its knees,” said Mr Dance. “These are decisions being made in the name of safety, but I fear they may end up putting patient safety at greater risk in the long run. That is why we continue to push for the safe reopening of maternity services as soon as possible.”
Mr Dance also confirmed he will soon submit a second formal request to the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care to call in the decision to close the stroke unit, amid continued local concern.
During the debate, he welcomed confirmation from the Government that Crewkerne Health Centre and Church View Medical Centre in Neroche will receive a share of the £102 million national fund for GP upgrades. However, he warned that much more must be done to support general practice and dental services across the region.
“Without enough properly supported and funded staff, the NHS cannot function,” he added. “We need to see a plan for recruiting and retaining NHS workers in the South West, and real investment in improving working conditions and staff wellbeing.”
Mr Dance also raised concerns about the implications of ongoing cuts and mergers within the Integrated Care Boards (ICBs) and the lack of progress on reforming the broken NHS dental contract.
“The people of Yeovil deserve access to safe, local healthcare. The Government must act urgently to deliver the support our NHS needs.”