Supporting our local NHS

Helen Whately at Faversham Village Hospital

Healthcare affects us all, whether we’re patients ourselves or our families and friends. As a parent, I make regular trips to the GP with my children and occasional visits to A&E too.

The major hospitals around this area are all in difficulties and many GPs are full to bursting, with patients queuing at 8am for appointments. The future of Faversham Minor Injuries Unit is uncertain (as I write).

Our local health services are not alone; GPs and hospitals around the country are struggling to cope. Although every year the NHS provides millions of people with excellent care, shocking cases have emerged where patients have been treated appallingly.

It’s easy to be critical but not necessarily helpful. I will champion our local NHS, work for good decisions and a fair share of funding. I use these services too. I want the NHS to provide excellent care to everyone who needs it.

 

News

New measures to tackle coronavirus in Kent

While I’m glad to see the national lockdown coming to an end, I know some people will be frustrated that the whole of Kent is going into Tier 3 as part of the new local restriction tiers.

Charities in Faversham and Mid Kent get funding boost

I’m glad that several local charities in Faversham and Mid Kent have received almost £140,000 from the Government’s Coronavirus Community Support Fund.

Charities and volunteer groups are playing a crucial role in getting help to people who most need it during this pandemic.

National measures needed again to protect the NHS and save lives

This is a situation none of us wanted to be in, but we cannot wish it away.

We can’t ignore the rise in infections we’re seeing across the country, including in Kent. And we cannot ignore the pressure this is putting on our NHS hospitals and frontline services.

More support for council services in Kent

An extra £17.7 million is going to Kent County Council to support local services this winter.

The announcement last week means Kent has received over £138 million in extra funding from the Government since the pandemic began.

Enhanced NHS 111 service for people in Kent

People who use the NHS 111 service in Kent, Medway and Sussex will benefit from a wider range of healthcare professionals as part of an enhanced service.

First students take up their places at Kent Medical School

After years of hard work, the Kent and Medway Medical School has welcomed its first students this month.

I'm delighted that over 100 founding medical students have started their Batchelor of Medicine Batchelor of Surgery programme at the county’s first medical school.

More money for social care in Kent

An extra £1.6 billion is being provided by the Government to local authorities to help them respond to the coronavirus pandemic.

Councils and volunteer groups are playing a crucial role in our response to the coronavirus.

Debt write-off for hospitals to tackle coronavirus

Now more than ever, money needs to be spent where it’s most needed in the health service.

I’m pleased the Government has decided to write off £13.4 billion of debt from NHS providers across England, freeing them up to invest in vital services.