On Saturday 5 July 2014 I supported a Unite the Union backed campaign to support the NHS from Tory-led cuts harming the poorest in society.
Jeremy Hunt has changed how GP surgeries are funded. [1] This means many NHS GP surgeries around the country face closure. If these close, there will be fewer choices about the GP local people see, and people will need to travel longer to get there. It will become harder and harder to get the local care people need.
Unite the Union are supporting a number of local community groups. By working together, they have already won a temporary reprieve for at least one surgery. [2]
Local residents have come together to create this incredible campaign. There have been protests, petitions and press coverage. Jeremy Hunt has already bowed to some of this pressure.
The NHS is vital for equality in this country, and I will continue to support efforts to protect it whether in Meriden in the West Midlands or anywhere else. Without free and good quality health care, people will not receive the support they need to live happy lives and contribute to society and the economy.
NOTES:
[1] http://www.independent.co.uk/life-style/health-and-families/health-news/gps-rally-patients-against-cuts-which-would-see-up-to-100-practices-close-9448988.html
[2]http://www.pulsetoday.co.uk/home/finance-and-practice-life-news/minister-offers-practice-short-term-emergency-payments-to-keep-it-afloat/20006922.article
