Health plans could spell the end for St Helier

Commenting on the proposal to downgrade local hospitals in South West London, Siobhain McDonagh has warned this could spell the end for St Helier.

With health bosses under pressure to make savings of more than £370m a year, St Helier would be the most downgraded hospital in South West London, losing its A&E, maternity unit and hundreds of beds across a range of departments.

Siobhain complains the planned consultation process is flawed because it takes place during the summer holidays, and has called for residents to be allowed more time to comment on the plans.

Siobhain said:

"These plans could spell the end for St Helier, and it is clear they haven't been propertly thought through. Tens of thousands of people use St Helier's A&E every year, and will have nowhere to go. GPs won't see them, and the 111 service is falling apart.

"These proposals represent a significant reduction in the quality of our local NHS.

"It is wrong to consult about such big plans over the summer holidays. Ministers should make sure there is enough time to make the best decision, and should not rush into such a bad decision."

Siobhain is calling on local residents to oppose the consultation process taking place over the summer holidays. Residents wishing to complain should read her latest Newsletter here for advice on how to complain.