Local Lib Dems saddened by loss of emergency health provision in south west Lincolnshire

We are saddened by the loss of Grantham's A&E facilities and believe that emergency cover in the area is important. The NHS South West Clincal Commissioning Group (CCG) and the United Lincolnshire Hospitals Trust have found the best solution in the circumstances. Grantham will benefit from 24 hour cover in the form of the Urgent Treatment Centre which although not ideal at least gives some cover.

With a national shortage of clinical staff which seems to be impacting rural Lincolnshire ULHT were trying to cover 3 A&E sites with just 4 consultants, they were also struggling to provide junior doctor, nursing and other staff. This is a national problem largely caused by government underfunding of the NHS, and training of medical staff. Brexit is also having an adverse effect on NHS staffing, in 2017/18 just 800 nurses came to the UK from the EU compared to over 6,000 the previous year and 4,000 left the NHS. Unfortunately Grantham's MP has been part of the government which has pushed austerity and NHS cuts and is also pushing through brexit knowing that it is damaging the NHS.

Local residents are right to be angry that the Grantham A&E facilities are to be down-graded but that anger should not be directed at the CCG and ULHT who are doing their best with limited resources.

Neil Oakman, Chairman, Liberal Democrats South Lincolnshire Group