Channel 4 News came to SpArC today after Heather challenged the proposed cut of 25% in the grant to the Centre by Conservative run Shropshire Council. Heather said “They picked up the story from the front page of the Shropshire Star and rang me up. Everyone – staff,campaigners and users alike, turned up to make the point just how much we value the visitors centre.”
racey Huffer
It’s come to my attention that MIU at Ludlow Hospital as now been closed for three days due to staff shortage,and could possibly remain so for longer.I am really dismayed at this precarious situation we are now in,it’s Bank Holiday weekend and Ludlow is at its busiest.
Patients have already presented at GP surgeries because they have been unable to seek care at MIU,but obviously these surgeries are not open at the weekend,so patients will either have to undertake a long journey to one of our acute hospital A&E or some may try to access the ambulance service.
This situation is dangerous,unacceptable and detrimental for people who live in Ludlow and the surrounding area,there should at least be something in place to support our GPs when this happens because they have to pick up the slack.
I am sorry to say this is not the only closure at Ludlow Hospital!,yesterday a GP was unable to admit a patient to the hospital,even though there are seven empty beds.The reason again lack of staff,the beds were blocked and a dying person had to be sent to a nursing home!
Whilst I fully appreciate that everywhere suffers with staff sickness and its peak holiday season,it’s still remains that there should be something in place to cope with this situation.
I have always supported the ludlow Hospital and will continue to do so,but I am afraid it appears that slowly it’s grinding to a halt.Please will one of you be honest and brave enough to admit that everything is not running smoothly,and tell us truthfully WHAT is happening to our hospital!
I am fully aware there are other feasible options available that could deliver sustainable,good health care provision that we could explore,but until a decision is made about current services we cannot move forward.
I look forward to your comments.
Tracey Huffer
Unitary Councillor for Ludlow Eas