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ARCHIVE NEWS
25/03/08
Horton Hears a Yes - Panel Finds in Favour of Hospital
A similar battle to our own has been going on at Horton Hospital in Oxford. And we are delighted that the Independent Review Panel (IRP) found in favour of the hospital.
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On the left is the IRP report to the Secretary of State for Health. The report not only recommend the Secretary of State to reject the proposals but also recommends a lot of further work.
Click on the icon on the left to download the report (.PDF, 378kb)
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22/03/08
High Court Judicial Review
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The decision to cut maternity facilities in the area will be undergoing Judicial Review.
The papers have been served at the High Court against the PCT and we now need to fundraise. Any money that is not used for the Judicial Review will be spent at the Conquest by the Friends, and it is therefore “a win, win” situation.
If you are able to contribute, please contact us at
donations@handsofftheconquest.org.uk
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20/03/08
Margaret Williams (HoTC) on Nick Yeo’s departure
In response to Nick Yeo’s (Chief Exec, PCT) move away from this area, Margaret Williams had the following comments to make:
Firstly let me say that I am not in the least surprised that Nick Yeo is leaving, and fully expect others to follow. The decision to single site maternity is wrong as the Health Overview Scrutiny Committee have acknowledged by referring that decision to the Secretary of State for Health and on to an Independent Review Panel. The campaigners have always said that those making such a dangerous decision should leave.
Nick Yeo has shown that he is not committed to the area. He was brought in by the Strategic Health Authority to do the job of single siting maternity, and since he has not managed to carry that through he is now moving on to pastures new. I only hope that he does not intend to carry out another hatchet job in Hampshire.
My one hope now is that the new Chief Executive comes from the area in order that loyalty to the residents can once again become the most important factor of the job. In the past we have always had long standing, caring, local people and I trust that after this disastrous interlude once again common sense will prevail.
Margaret Williams
Chair Hands off the Conquest Campaign
Secretary Friends of the Conquest
15/03/08
Agenda for HOSC on Thursday 20th March 2008 - County Hall, Lewes
Item 5 on the agenda for this HOSC meeting is entitled Fit for the Future – update. The full 12-page document to accompany this can be found by clicking here (it requires Adobe Acrobat reader); the introduction is reproduced below:
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Agenda Item 5
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Report to:
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East Sussex Health Overview and Scrutiny Committee (HOSC)
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Date:
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20th March 2008
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By:
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Director of Law and Personnel
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Title of report:
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Fit for the Future – progress update
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Purpose of report:
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To summarise developments in relation to the Fit for the Future process in East Sussex following HOSC’s decision to refer the Primary Care Trusts’ proposals to the Secretary of State for Health.
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RECOMMENDATIONS
HOSC is recommended to:
1. Note the developments in relation to Fit for the Future.
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1. Background
- HOSC has a duty to respond to East Sussex Primary Care Trusts’ (PCTs’) consultation on Fit for the Future proposals for obstetrics, gynaecology and special baby care, making recommendations based on the evidence available.
- On 10th October 2007 HOSC agreed a series of recommendations to the PCT Boards on issues which the Committee believed should be taken into account when the Boards are considering the various potential configurations of services. HOSC did not endorse any particular configuration of services, but recommended that the PCT Boards undertake a full assessment of the additional potential options which had emerged during the consultation process.
- On 20th December 2007 a joint committee of the two PCT Boards took a decision on the future model of services. The decision was for a consultant-led obstetric unit, special care baby unit and inpatient gynaecology service at the Conquest Hospital, Hastings with a midwifery-led maternity unit at the Eastbourne District General Hospital, and enhanced ante and post-natal care in the community.
- On 28th January 2008 HOSC held a special meeting to consider the PCTs’ decision. The Committee heard from the PCTs about the reasons for their decision and the decision making process. HOSC also took evidence from proposers of alternative options about the way in which their proposals had been assessed. HOSC decided, based on the totality of evidence collected throughout the Fit for the Future process, that the PCTs’ decision is not in the best interests of health services for East Sussex residents. The Committee agreed to exercise its power to refer the PCTs’ plans (with the exception of the enhanced ante and post natal care) to the Secretary of State for Health for independent review. This referral was conditional on the PCTs being given an opportunity to respond and the PCTs confirming their intention to proceed with their decision.
2. Further developments
- Following HOSC’s meeting on 28th January 2008, the HOSC Chairman wrote to the Chief Executive of the PCTs to confirm the Committee’s position, including the reasons for the decision to refer the proposals to the Secretary of State. A copy of this letter is attached at appendix 1.
- On 20th February 2008 the Chairman received a response from the PCTs’ Chief Executive. This response is attached at appendix 2. In summary, the letter outlines the PCTs’ perspective on HOSC’s concerns about the proposals and reiterates the PCTs’ view that the proposed model of care is the best way forward. It confirms that the PCTs’ plan to proceed with implementing the decision made by their Boards on 20th December 2007 and expresses their concern that a referral to the Secretary of State would delay implementation of what they believe to be the best service model.
- The HOSC Chairman responded to the PCTs’ letter on 3rd March 2008. This letter is attached at appendix 3. As the PCTs have confirmed they plan to proceed with their original decision, the letter indicates that HOSC’s decision to refer the plans to the Secretary of State stands and that the Committee will proceed with the referral.
3. HOSC referral to Secretary of State
- The HOSC Chairman’s letter of 3rd March 2008 (appendix 3) indicates that HOSC shares the PCTs’ desire for a swift resolution to the future configuration of services, in order to provide certainty for the public and staff. As there is a clear difference of view between the PCTs and HOSC on this matter an independent review initiated as soon as possible will give the best opportunity to achieve this.
- HOSC officers are currently compiling the detailed evidence to support HOSC’s decision to refer the proposals to the Secretary of State from the information obtained during HOSC’s evidence gathering programme. It is anticipated that this process will be completed, and the information sent to the Secretary of State, by the end of March 2008.
- The Secretary of State has said that, whilst Lord Darzi’s national review of the NHS is still underway, he will pass all referrals he receives from HOSCs to the Independent Reconfiguration Panel to seek their advice. The Independent Reconfiguration Panel is a national panel comprising clinical representatives, NHS management representatives and lay representatives. More information about the panel can be found here.
- 3.4 The Independent Reconfiguration Panel has set up a process for dealing with referrals whereby a sub-group of the panel undertakes an initial assessment of the issues to determine whether a full review by the panel is required. An initial assessment generally takes about one month and a full review a further three months. The Secretary of State will then require some time to consider the panel’s recommendations. If a full review is undertaken, the entire process from HOSC submitting its referral to a Secretary of State decision will take approximately six to eight months.
ANDREW OGDEN
Director of Law and Personnel
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13/03/08
Nick Yeo leaves East Sussex Downs and Weald and Hastings and Rother PCTs
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Press Release
10th March 2008
Nick Yeo appointed as Chief Executive of Hampshire Partnership NHS Trust
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Nick Yeo, the Chief Executive of East Sussex Downs and Weald and Hastings and Rother Primary Care Trusts (PCTs), has been appointed as Chief Executive of Hampshire Partnership NHS Trust which provides services for people with mental health needs and people with learning disabilities.
Nick will be taking up his new post in the summer.
Since joining the East Sussex PCTs in October 2006, Nick has overseen their development under a single senior management team.
Nick will be leaving both trusts well on the way to delivering ambitious plans for improving health and healthcare for their respective populations and in stronger financial positions, with both balancing the books in 2007/8.
In announcing his departure, Nick commented “It has been my privilege to be involved in the development of the local NHS within East Sussex. During my time here I have received great support and cooperation from across the local area, for which I am grateful.”
“I believe that both trusts, working with staff, partners and the local community, are well placed to develop services and improve the health and wellbeing of the local population in the years to come. I will be leaving to take up an appointment working with some of the most disadvantaged groups in our society and whilst I will be very sorry to leave colleagues within East Sussex, I am looking forward to the important challenges ahead.’
Nick was heavily involved in the public consultation on the future of maternity, in-patient gynaecology and special care baby services in East Sussex which culminated in a decision by the primary care trust boards in December 2007. The East Sussex Health Overview and Scrutiny Committee (HOSC) has now referred that decision to the Secretary of State for Health for independent review.
John Barnes, Chairman of East Sussex, Downs and Weald PCT, said “I am grateful to Nick for the considerable work that he has undertaken in moving NHS services forward in the local area. This includes his leadership in setting up the new primary care trusts and building a strong senior team to work across both organisations. We shall be very sorry to lose him but wish him well in the demanding task he is undertaking.”
“As a result of the work done in the last eighteen months we have re-established financial control within East Sussex Downs and Weald PCT. This gives us a platform to make real progress in the months and years ahead.”
Chairman of Hastings and Rother PCT, Charles Everett, added “Nick leaves the new Hastings and Rother PCT in a strong position. He will be missed and I am sorry to see him go, but we wish him well for the important work he will now be undertaking within Hampshire. He leaves us with well established and ambitious plans for improving health services in Hastings and Rother.”
Nick Yeo has given a commitment to support his successor in particular to ensure that the Independent Review Panel for the recent consultation on maternity services has all the evidence necessary for its work following the decision of the HOSC to refer the issue to the Secretary of State for Health.
The primary care trusts are currently finalising the arrangements for appointing Nick’s successor.
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04/02/08
HOTC have issued a press release to the media regarding the HOSC decision (see below) - please click here to read it in full.
As the new press release is on the home page, the HOTC response to the PCT decision to proceed with Option 4 has been moved to the Editorials section - please click here to read it.
31/01/08
Fit for the Future: HOSC decision and referral to Secretary of State
HOSC met on 28th January 2008 to consider the PCTs’ decision on the Fit for the Future. I am pleased to confirm the outcome of the meeting. HOSC agreed the following:
- To support the PCTs’ decision to improve ante and post-natal care and associated outreach services as there is strong evidence that this is in the best interests of health services for East Sussex residents.
- That the PCTs’ decision to establish a single obstetric unit in Hastings and a midwife-led unit in Eastbourne is not in the best interests of health services for East Sussex residents.
- That HOSC will refer the PCTs’ decision to the Secretary of State subject to 3 conditions:
- The improvements to ante and post natal care being excepted from the referral.
- The PCTs’ being given the opportunity to respond to HOSC’s agreed position
- The PCTs’ response confirming their intention to proceed with implementing their decision or no response being received from the PCTs within 28 days.
The main reasons for HOSC’s decision to refer the PCTs’ decision to the Secretary of State were agreed as follows:
- Evidence relating to the impact of longer travel times to the obstetric unit on the safety of women and babies.
- Evidence of safety concerns relating to the distance of the midwife-led unit from the consultant-led unit and questions over whether this is the best configuration for midwife-led care.
- A lack of convincing evidence that patient outcomes will be improved with a single site configuration for consultant-led care.
- Evidence that there may be a reduction in choice due to the geography and the proposed configuration of services, which may be compounded in areas where there is significant deprivation
- Evidence that possible alternatives which could maintain services on two sites may not have been fully explored and considered.
- The divergence of clinical opinion on what configuration of maternity and obstetric services will be best for the residents of East Sussex.
HOSC has invited the PCTs to respond to the Committee’s decision and to confirm whether or not the PCTs intend to proceed with the decision made by the joint boards on 20th December 2007. As mentioned above, HOSC requested a response within 28 days and if no response is received, the Committee will proceed to make the referral to the Secretary of State for Health
Stephen Springthorpe, Independent Councillor for Silverhill, has made available his comments to this decision - please click here to read them.
22/01/08
East Sussex Health Overview and Scrutiny Committee , Monday 28th January 2008
An East Sussex HOSC (Health Overview and Scrutiny Committee) has been called on the 28th January to discuss the PCT’s proposals. Both Margaret (HoTC) and Liz (Save The DGH) have been invited to contribute documents and attend the meetings.
Reproduced here is the letter from Councillor Sylvia Tidy inviting their contributions:
10th January 2008
HOSC is meeting on the 28th January to consider the East Sussex PCTs’ decision on the Fit for the Future proposals (for single consultant-led maternity, special baby care and inpatient gynaecology units in Hastings and a midwife-led maternity unit in Eastbourne) and the response to HOSC’s recommendations published in October 2007.
The process to be followed at the meeting will be set out in the agenda to be published on 18 January but one of the key tasks for HOSC at the meeting will be to decide whether the PCTs have adequately assessed the alternative options, in line with HOSC’s recommendation that a full assessment of all proposals should be carried out prior to PCT decision making.
As one of the proposers of an alternative option, HOSC would like to give you the opportunity to provide a summary of your views on the PCTs’ assessment of your proposed option, specifically addressing the following points:
- Whether you agree that the PCTs have undertaken an adequate assessment (in comparison to their own options) of your proposal(s) and your specific reasons/evidence for this opinion.
- If you do not believe the assessment was adequate, the specific aspects of your proposals where you believe the assessment is inaccurate or incomplete.
- Whether you had opportunities to provide input to the assessment process (for example, clarifying the nature of your proposal) and the opportunity to comment on the final assessment of it.
Due to the volume of evidence HOSC has to consider, please limit your response to a maximum of 2 sides of A4 addressing the specific points above which HOSC will be considering on the 28th.
I would also like to invite you to attend HOSC on the 28th to give HOSC members the opportunity to ask questions to clarify the points you make in your paper. If you would like to take up this opportunity, please contact [name removed]
Please could you let us have your 2 sides summary by 12 noon on Thursday 17th January 2008 so that the paper can be included in the agenda pack sent out to HOSC members and witnesses within the statutory deadline. It would also be helpful to know if you do not intend to submit a response.
Regards
Councillor Sylvia Tidy
Chairman
Health Overview and Scrutiny Committee
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Margaret (HoTC) has put forward the following to the HOSC meeting
EAST SUSSEX HEALTH OVERVIEW AND SCRUTINY COMMITTEE
MONDAY, 28TH JANUARY 2008 AT 3.30PM
SUMMARY OF VIEWS FROM HANDS OFF THE CONQUEST CAMPAIGN
WITH REGARD TO OPTION 5
Firstly may I thank HOSC for giving us this opportunity for comments to address the following points:-
Whether you agree that the PCTs have undertaken an adequate assessment (in comparison to their own options) of your proposal(s) and your specific reasons/evidence for this opinion.
Our answer to that is an unequivocal NO.
- We have asked since the beginning of the consultation for risk assessments on Options 1-4. These have never been forthcoming. We even asked in December 2007 with no reply. Therefore, we do not believe any adequate risk assessments have been carried out for Options 1-4 and that being the case no adequate risk assessment can have been carried out for Option 5.
- The New Assessment Panel only came into being after other Options (other than Option 5) started to appear. Up until that point Option 5 was going to be assessed by the PCT within 3 weeks of the start of the consultation. This was never done.
- Although the public heard about Option 5 (one campaigner was allowed on the PCT panel at public meetings) there was never anywhere for the public to comment on Option 5, only Options 1-4. The PCT then decided in their results not to include any Petitions or Voting Forms. We believe that since people put names and addresses this should have been regarded as a comment.
- We do not believe that adequate financial risk assessments have been carried out. The costings for Options 1-4 were extremely late, and we have never received detailed costings of Option 5.
- There were 5 Criteria used by the PCT
a) Clinical Effectiveness b) Health gain and demographics
c) Sustaining two viable hospitals d) Access and Choice and
e) Financial viability
a) We do not believe single siting to be clinically safe. This is the main concern of GP’s in both Towns.
b) We do not believe there is any health gain in single siting.
c) We do not believe two viable hospitals are able to be sustained when removal of an emergency core service will result in the domino effect. Paediatrics must follow consultant led obstetrics and SCBU.
d) We do not believe there is more accessibility or choice in fact with believe that the reverse is true.
e) All Options cost more, and with the right staffing levels a two site option is financially viable.
If you do not believe the assessment was adequate, the specific aspects of your proposals where you believe the assessment is inaccurate or incomplete.
- When, towards the end of the consultation the New Assessment Panel was created with Professor Field as the “independent chair”, we were not allowed direct access to him. We could only contact him via the PCT.
- In order for a full assessment to be made it was essential that our medical experts had direct and constant contact with Professor Field in order that any queries could be discussed. This did not happen.
- The PCT, not the campaigners, decided to split Option 5 into Option 5a and 5b. We were not aware of this until the next meeting with Professor Field. We were never given the opportunity of revoking this or even deciding whether this was a way forward, and this then resulted in complete confusion among all interested parties.
- Although I have an email from the Chief Executive Nick Yeo stating that the East Sussex Hospital Trust would be able to consider Option 5 at their recommendation meeting in July this was not done. I attended that Board meeting only to be told that on instructions from the PCT only Options 1-4 could be considered.
Whether you had opportunities to provide input to the assessment process (for example, clarifying the nature of your proposal) and the opportunity to comment on the final assessment of it.
- We had very little opportunity to provide input into the assessment process since the meetings with Professor Field always took place at a time which was most inappropriate to our medical advisors. They are full time working people looking after the public and are not able to simply leave their surgeries in order to comply with meetings arranged by managers.
- Although the Assessment Panel was supposed to be made up of two campaigners, or medical advisors and two PCT representatives, every time Michael Wilson was there to “take notes”. However, although the campaigners were not allowed to participate, Michael Wilson frequently did, therefore the Terms of Reference were broken.
- No minutes of the meetings were received by campaigners.
- We have never had any opportunity to comment on the final assessment and have no knowledge of what the final PCT assessment was or how the conclusions were reached. The last we knew was receipt of Professor Field’s Final Report in July. We have not been approached by the PCT for any input into the assessment since then.
We have been asked to keep this statement brief, however should you require any evidence to support any of the above statements they can, of course, be made available to you. We would ask all members of HOSC that if you have the slightest doubt that the decision reached is the right one, then you should refer the matter to the Secretary of State for Health or the Independent Review Panel.
Margaret Williams (Chair, Hand Off the Conquest Campaign)
28/12/07
Rob Seaber has written to the PCT raising a number of issues regarding the public consultancy and the extent to which the information collected was used in the decisions made regarding maternity facilities. Rob’s full letter can be read by clicking here.
A big thank you to Rob - we await the reply with great interest.
24/12/07
Having had the march and rally in Eastbourne there was a card filled with signatures from all those attending. It was agreed that Hastings should do the same and so Amber Rudd (Parliamentary candidate for the Conservatives) agreed to provide a card to the Hastings and 1066 end of the County.
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The Christmas Cards...
...as signed by a LOT of people |
We took this down to Priory Meadow (thank you once again Priory Meadow for you unfailing support) on the day Father Christmas arrived in Town. Arrow fm held a Roadshow and with their help and unstinting support we filled the card on three sides with hundreds and hundreds of signatures within one and a half hours.
Both the Cards asked that Alan Johnston (Secretary of State for Health) give the residents of East Sussex an early Christmas present by keeping two consultant led maternity units and thanked him for saying that “20 miles was too far to have to travel for mums in labour”. Nigel Waterson (Eastbourne MP) arranged for the cards to be delivered to the Department of Health.
No Minister would accept them, however we did leave them in reception for them to be taken to the Secretary of State.
A big thank you to everyone who signed the cards.
Photos and text supplied by Margaret Williams
21/12/07
Just a few thoughts that occurred whilst updating the site:
Are we really surprised that senior figures in a government agency couldn’t care less what the public thinks? Two words: “European Referendum”.
Have the decision-makers listened to anyone during the “consultations”? If they had already made their minds up, as seems entirely plausible bearing in mind they are ignoring up-to-date information, then why waste all this time and money on consultations other then to pretend they actually care about what happens?
Will the decision-makers still be there in years to come should the worst happen? Or will they have moved to other positions and not concern themselves with the damage done by their decisions?
Should the worst happen and this decision costs a baby’s life, will the decision-makers come forward and accept responsibility for the death?
Some people - who shall remain nameless at this point - are saying that we in the Hastings area should be happy because we have “won”. Let’s be clear: when lives are put at risk, NOBODY HAS WON! Would these same people refuse to give to charity because they are doing fine themselves? And, if so, what would that say about the type of people they are?
I think Tory leader Stanley Baldwin said it best way back in 1931:
“Power without responsibility: the prerogative of the harlot throughout the ages.”
- Danni, webmaster, handsofftheconquest.org.uk
20/12/07
 24 Hours to back Option 5 by Nick Perry
So, let me start by wishing you and those you love a very happy Christmas!
I guess we all know that Christmas can be a time of highs and lows. I am a social worker in a mental health crisis team, and Christmas can be a particularly difficult time for people that we work with. Not only can it be a highly emotional time, but it can be difficult money-wise: to get things on the table and make sure there are presents for everyone.
And it will be a strange time for my own family this year. We lost my mum in the middle of October, and welcomed our daughter, our first child, in the middle of November. 2007 has been a whirlwind for us, with lots of changes. And I have to say that I will be glad when the New Year comes…
On the day that this column goes up on the Observer website, there will be 24 hours to save local maternity services. On 20 December, our local PCTs decide whether or not to preserve a maternity unit both at Eastbourne and Hastings.
The irony has not been lost on me that at a time of year when traditionally many of us are thinking nativity, we have our own peculiar maternity story in East Sussex.
It is disgraceful that things have come to this. We are the fourth largest economy in the world, and yet we can't seem to provide a high quality essential service to each of our country's towns. NHS manager-bureaucrats and even, dare I say it, our own MP, will try to blind you with science if you ask why it is that, with more money than ever going into the Health Service, we are faced with outcomes like this.
The Liberal Democrat Party has been the only political party that has been united (across the county) in its support for the retention of a consultant-led maternity unit in both Eastbourne and Hastings. We have been fighting tooth and nail alongside Margaret Williams of Hands off the Conquest, and her colleagues over at Save the DGH. This column is my last opportunity to try to affect the final decision of the relevant management boards.
So I say to them - please let your Christmas present to local people be the fact that you have really listened, and that finally, you will back Option 5.
Original article: Hastings Observer
Commentary on Dr Leece’s Independent View.
This letter was received in response to Dr Geoff Leece’s letter offering an independent and unbiased view of the facts surrounding the future of the maternity units; the full letter is reproduced in the editorials and can be read by clicking here. Additionally, Dr Vincent Argent’s comments on Dr Leece’s letter can be read by clicking here.
Wow! This letter is absolutely convincing. No wonder Mr Leece is angry that misleading information has been presented by the current Chief Executive. No sensible, whole-witted or independent person could support the closure of Eastbourne (or Hastings) given the known facts. Clearly ALL the arguments, strongly support the retention of both units BUT the desicion makers seem only interested in saving cash and asserting their authority.
Sadly, the risks to patients are being dismissed by the bean-counters who have been placed on these "Trusts". I continue to hope that they will see sense but accept that they will be removed from their profitable sinecure if they were to support option 5.
12/12/07
The East Sussex Health Trust held an Extraordinary General Meeting on the 5th December 2007. The purpose of the meeting was for the Board to assess the Options and give advice to the Primary Care Trust as to how they felt was the best way forward in Obstetrics.
“The presentation given by the Medical Director was not balanced, but was completely biased in favour of a single site Option as set out in his presentations in the early stages of the stakeholders meetings over 18 months ago. It completely misled the Board by referring to out of date and erroneous material and did not adhere to any advice given by the intercollegiate document “Safer Childbirth” written by the four Colleges involved.”
Margaret William’s letter to John Lewis (Chair) and Kim Hodgson (Chief Executive) of the East Sussex Hospitals Trust gives a complete breakdown of what else was or wasn’t said. To read the letter in full, click here.
9/12/07
HOTC supporter, Nick Perry, has been challenging the local media regarding headlines regarding the future of the Conquest and Eastbourne DGH
Dear Editor
I take issue with your headline in last week’s paper. It implies that a single site solution for local maternity care services is inevitable.
You will know that Margaret Williams, Hugh Nicholson and I attended the constituency office of our MP, Michael Foster, last week, in order to have him back, without equivocation, a two site solution to the proposed maternity care changes. We want him to exert whatever influence he has over the PCTs in question to back a two site solution. I urge them to do so.
I am also very concerned about information that is now in the public domain about future training for paramedics. It seems that, on the basis of proposed training plans, paramedics will need to be able to cope with increased numbers of births in ambulances.
We must be absolutely clear that not only will increased journey times in ambulances in obstetric cases increase risk for mothers and babies, but it will have knock on effects for other vulnerable members of our community.
I am an approved social worker under the Mental Health Act 1983. At present, people with mental health problems who are assessed as needing compulsory admission to psychiatric hospital are not considered to be emergency cases. They can expect to have to wait for six hours to get an ambulance to take them to hospital.
This can only get worse and worse if more ambulances spend more time on the road trying to get women and babies to hospital.
It is not rocket science.
Our PCTs must back a two site solution to local maternity care provision, and they must do it as soon as possible.
Yours truly,
Nick Perry
Parliamentary campaigner
Hastings & Rye Liberal Democrats
29/11/07
Have Your Say on Access to Local Services
Action in Rural Sussex wants to find out how significant a problem accessing services is for people living in rural Sussex. We are asking people to complete an online consultation to determine whether rural people can access the services they need. We would like to know how long it takes, how much it costs, and which services are accessible; which are not or whether there are gaps where certain services are not being provided, e.g. for older people or young people.
The survey can be accessed from our website at www.ruralsussex.org.uk. It takes about 5 minutes to fill in and will provide us with invaluable evidence to support the argument for more accessible service provision in rural Sussex.
25/11/07
East Sussex Senior Forums speak out on Maternity
Why would seniors have an interest in maternity matters? John Appleyard, Chair of the East Sussex Seniors’ Association, explains all in his letter to Health Secretary Alan Johnson and asks for answers on key matters. Click here to read the letter along with the responses received from East Sussex MPs.
An Interesting Exchange in the Commons
Dateline: 14th November, 2007
MP for Wealden Charles Hendry spoke out in the House of Commons this week over the imminent threat to hospitals across Sussex. Speaking in the chamber, Hendry pointed out to the Health Minister that maternity units were bursting full and closure of any unit would simply lead to chaos:
Charles Hendry (Wealden) (Con): Is the Minister aware that on the first Sunday in June, the maternity units at Brighton, Eastbourne, Worthing, Hastings and Haywards Heath were all full and stopped admitting pregnant mothers? With a rapidly growing population in Sussex, and with units already at capacity, is it not madness to be suggesting that there should be fewer units, rather than maintaining those that are there now?
Ann Keen: I am sorry to keep repeating this, but there is no other answer. We have to look at the safest practice for mothers and babies, and clinicians are asking us to do so. I am sure that the local health economy has taken these points into account.
Hendry commented on the Minister’s response: “Clearly, I am very disappointed that the Minister did not recognise that our local maternity units are often already at capacity.”
Source: Charles Hendry MP’s Web Site
23/11/07
Aftermath of the 17th November March and Rally
Coverage of the events of the 17th can be seen on the Eastbourne Herald web site - please click here to visit their site where you can view the report, video footage and a slideshow from the day. A big thank you to our friends at the Eastbourne Herald for making this all available.
In addition, HOTC chair Margaret Williams was allowed to address the Hastings And Rother PCT Board Meeting on 20th November armed with a mandate granted at the rally. This is what she had to say to the board meeting:
“Thank you for allowing me to address the Board. After 20 months of deliberations, I would ask that you please remember, especially the non executive directors, that you represent the people of the Hastings & Rother area. You are the elected and appointed custodians of our local Health Services. Almost half the population have recorded their demands both to Mr. Blair as Prime Minister and yourselves. You are therefore obliged not to treat the public’s demands with contempt, but you must support the massive public view.
“If you vote against maintaining core services on both Hastings and Eastbourne sites the public have given us their mandate and they will demand your resignations. This was confirmed unanimously last Saturday at our combined rally in Eastbourne.
“The campaign groups, as the voice of the people, are committed to working with you in maintaining two consultant led obstetric units by incorporating the best of all the double sited options, however rest assured if you fail in your duty of care, we will demand a Vote of No Confidence and ultimately your resignations, and take the matter further to the European Court of Human Rights.”
20/11/07
We would like to extend our congratulations to Nick Perry, a LibDem campaigner and regular supporter of the Campaign, on his recent fatherhood. Based on his experiences with the birth of his daughter, Nick has written to Health Secretary Alan Johnson in support of the aims of the Campaign, and has supplied us with a copy reproduced below:
Dear Mr Johnson,
I am writing to you as a Liberal Democrat, but also as a first-time father of a daughter who is one week old.
I want to tell you about my recent experience of maternity care in Hastings, and urge you to do everything you can to ensure that all parents have access to high quality community midwife and hospital maternity care services – wherever they live.
Happily, my family’s recent experience of local services was extremely good.
Last Friday evening, my partner laboured at home as planned, but there was a complication in the labour, and we had to go to the local Conquest Hospital in order for the labour to be assisted instrumentally.
We were able to transfer from home to hospital within 20 minutes of the decision to do so.
You may know that, at present, our local PCT is considering the possibility of downgrading one or both of the Conquest or Eastbourne District General Hospital maternity care services. Their decision is imminent.
I hope that you will have been told by our MP, Michael Foster, that the local road infrastructure currently militates against any such downgrading.
I want, as I am sure you do, to ensure that all parents have access to essential, high quality, specialist services quickly and easily.
I am relieved that my daughter and partner were well cared for.
I am writing to you in the hope that you will ensure such basic access to crucial services right across the country, and particularly, for the people of our neighbouring town, Eastbourne.
I look forward to your response; yours truly,
Nick Perry
Parliamentary campaigner
Hastings & Rye Liberal Democrats
We look forward to a response.
09/11/07
An Open Letter from Hands Off The Conquest and Save The DGH Campaigns
As chairs of the Save the DGH Campaign and the Hands Off The Conquest campaigns, you know we am very involved in campaigning to keep our local hospital services particularly the ones known as the ‘core services’. These are the essential emergency services such as Maternity, Pediatrics, A & E, emergency medicine and surgery etc; the services that even our local GPs say would be too dangerous to remove. And not only our GPs, many other doctors and health professionals are very worried about the effect of any downgrading or closure.
There’s no doubt (political or not) that any downgrading or closure of maternity will ultimately affect you as the way doctors training is now undertaken and anesthetists keep their skills are just two reasons that will make it extremely difficult to retain ‘core services’.
The decision concerning the provision of maternity at the DGH and the Conquest is due to be made public at the beginning of December.
Basically, the local joint Primary Care Trust Board of Directors (East Sussex Downs & Weald and Hastings & Rother) will be deciding if core services should continue or not to be provided at the DGH and/or Conquest hospitals or amalgamated to one of the hospitals. If maternity is downgraded at either hospital, it is certain that other services such as paediatrics & accident & emergency will follow, known as the domino effect. We think essential core services should be maintained at BOTH hospitals.
In view of an imminent decision, we (the Save the DGH Campaign and the Hands Off the Conquest Campaign) are holding another march on Saturday 17th November (please see below for details).
The campaigns are supported by ALL the local political parties, local Churches, local businesses, along with many other organisations too numerous to name. We are hoping that Nigel Waterson MP (for Eastbourne), Michael Foster MP (for Hastings & Rye), Norman Baker MP (for Lewes and Weald), Greg Barker MP (for Stone Cross, Pevensey, Battle & Rother), Charles Hendry MP (for Weald) and may be other MPs, as well as the local town mayors, and Wallace Benn, the Bishop of Lewes, are among those who will be marching in support.
Success for the campaign is far from guaranteed, but we need to speak out now as it likely will be the last chance. Please don't complain later if we lose these services as it will then be too late! So we are asking if you will personally make a stand and march with us on the 17th November.
You could further help us and be a part in changing the way our health service is delivered in the future! There is no doubt that had we not had the thousands of supporters we have, services would have already been downgraded or cut!! This was planned for August 2007! So, for example, every mother whose baby was born by emergency caesarean section, and their baby(or babies) since that date at either Eastbourne DGH or the Conquest hospital at Hastings could have been seriously affected or worse still died. This situation is so serious that we need to get the message across at this time.
If you are able to help in any way, please let us know, and at the very least, please support us by marching and bring as many people as possible with you. We do really need as many people as possible to march with us.
Many thanks and best wishes
Liz & Margaret
Liz Walke (Mrs) & Margaret Williams (Mrs.)
Chair – Save the DGH Campaign/ Chair – Hands Off the Conquest Campaign
Scheduled Times for the March
The planned times for the march are as follows:
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10:00am
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Stewards meet at Eastbourne pier
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10:30am
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General public meet at pier to get ready for march
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11:00am
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Start marching from the seafront end of Terminus Road
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11:20am
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1st people to arrive at the Town Hall
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11:35am
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Geoff Clarke from BBC hosting a rally bringing people up to date with frequently asked questions and answers.
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12:45pm
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Approx finish time
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28/10/07
Make your voice heard for the future of local maternity care by joining us for a march and rally in Eastbourne where you can help make a difference that could save lives!
Date: 17th November 2007
Meeting Point: Eastbourne Pier
Meeting Time: 10:30am for 11am start
Route: Along Terminus Road to the Town Hall for the Rally
Details of the Rally:
Amongst the key attendees at the rally will be:
- Geoff Clarke (BBC1 News) who will chair proceedings
- Vincent Argent
- John Clarke (Eastbourne GP)
- Hugh Nicholson (Hastings GP)
- Liz Walker (Save the DGH)
- Margaret Williams (Hands Off The Conquest)
- all the local MPs have been invited to join us
There will be a short presentation of where we are at, followed by question and answer from the public.
We will also have a giant Christmas Card for signing with a message “All we really want for Christmas is 2 consultant led Maternity Units” This will somehow presented to the Alan Johnson, Secretary of State for Health.
The finale will be a vote on a “Vote of No Confidence in the PCT” if they decide on single site.
This is an important chance for everyone who could be affected by the decisions made in our name but without our consent to send a message to the decision makers:
“DON’T PUT MOTHER’S AND CHILDREN’S LIVES AT RISK!”
Hands Off The Conquest and Save The DGH to appear on TV
The BBC have been filming at both Eastbourne and in Hastings for a documentary about the state and future of the NHS. Both Liz Walker (Save the DGH) and Margaret Williams (Hands Off The Conquest) were interviewed for the show.
We have been told that the show,“Inside Out”, will be broadcast on BBC 1 on Wednesday 7th November at 7.30 pm.
25/10/07
The Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists held a meeting on the 12th October attended by Mr Richard Warren (Honorary Secretary RCOG), Dr. Hugh Nicholson (GP, Hastings), Mr Michael Foster DL MP, Mrs Margaret Williams (Hands Off the Conquest), Mrs Charnjit Dhillon (RCOG Head of Professional Standards), Gregory (from Royal College connected with Brighton), Ms Jessica Britton from the PCT in an observer capacity, Dr. Keith Brent (Consultant Paediatrician from Eastbourne) and Dr Tahir Mahmood (Vice President (Standards) RCOG).
To read the full minutes of this meeting, please click here.
21/10/07
Further to Michael Foster’s Press Statement in the press, we believe that the public deserves to be given all the facts so they can make an informed decision. To see what the Primary Care Trust (PCT) has been saying, and what the Royal Colleges - who the PCT have been quoting - have been saying, please click here.
20/10/07
Father-to-be Nick Perry chases answers from the PCT
Nick Perry, the Lib Dem parliamentary campaigner for Hastings & Rye and father-to-be, has been chasing PCT Chief Executive Nick Yeo for answers to issues that concern him regarding the threat to maternity services.
To read the correspondance, please click one of the following topics:
17/10/07
Michael Foster MP’s statement about his support for Option 4
In view of Greg Barker MP’s comments regarding Michael Foster MP’s backing of Option 4 (to read these comments, please click here), we felt it only fair to give Mr Foster the chance to put his point of view. These are his comments on the matter as received:
“Hands Off the Conquest (and that means Maternity too)” says MP
The job of the Hastings and Rother Primary Care Trust is to represent local opinion. This year they have an extra £14 million to spend. Next year a further £14 million. It’s all needed of course but with that sort of extra money they are not strapped for cash.
When it came to the Accident & Emergency debate we said “Hands Off the Conquest” and we won. Thanks to Margaret Williams and the strength of local opinion (and perhaps the visit to the Prime Minister I arranged) the PCT just “didn’t go there!”
Now maternity is different. Some say a single site provides a more comprehensive service than two small units in Eastbourne and Hastings. What I have told the PCT is that whilst I understand the argument between comprehensiveness of service and access my preferred option is to maintain a consultant led service on both sites unless that is inconsistent with safety and the interest of my constituents.
What I am clear about however (as are all the consultants I have spoken to) is that the Conquest must retain the consultant led service.
The “why” is clear given the social disadvantages and the geography of the area. It is unthinkable that Conquest should lose its consultant led service.
What I have said consistently is that personally I do not see an equality of value in the claims of Hastings and Eastbourne and that therefore if the single site option is decided upon that it must be in Hastings. That is non-negotiable.
- Michael Foster MP, October 2007
HOSC Report on “Fit For The Future” now available
Following the Health Overview and Scrutiny Committee (HOSC) meeting last week which agreed the Fit for the Future recommendations, the HOSC’s Final Report is now available. Please click here for more information.
29/09/07
Democracy v Lip Service part 2
Suzanne Gooch, Communications Manager for the Hastings and Rother Primary Care Trust, has issued a response to the Democracy v Lip Service letter from Margaret Williams. Click here to read the original letter and response, or click here to go straight to the response.
25/09/07
Democracy v Lip Service
When the consultation closed on 27th July 2007 there existed the four “official” Options and the HOTC/DGH Option 5 Saving Lives which was drawn up by medical professionals with patient safety as the main criteria. Since then 8 new options have been created, yet it appears there is to be no further consultation.
HOTC Chair, Margaret Williams, has written a letter for the Hastings Observer outlining the facts of what has happened and highlighting flaws within the apparently “democratic” process.
Read the full letter by clicking here
What the Health Secretary says, and what we ask
A couple of quotes from Health Secretary, Alan Johnson, that bear scrutiny:
(Regarding MRSA) “A new regulator - Ofcare - will be given powers to fine dirty hospitals and close wards”
Comment: Wouldn’t it make more sense to ensure that hospitals were cleaned properly and that wards were kept open? How will reducing a hospital’s budget improve the service it provides?
Comment: Presumably that would be hospital cutbacks, closure of maternity facilities and ignoring the opinions of the very people who work in the NHS and understand the local issues.
18/09/07
Ulrika Jonnson Speaks Out in the News Of The World
In her column in Sunday the 16th’s News Of The World, Ulrika Jonnson offered the following thoughts on the current maternity situation:
MOTHERS' SERVICES BELLY UP
IF YOU are in the late stages of pregnancy and live near Eastbourne then you had better start praying for a miracle when those contractions start. Because NHS cuts mean that the local maternity unit has had to close, while the midwives themselves are on maternity leave, because of a lack of covering staff. As a result, expectant mothers are being forced to travel 20 miles to the nearest hospital.
I know every mum out there will agree with me when I say that this decision can only have been made by a man. Will the pen-pushers who trimmed down those budgets look back on a job well done if, perish the thought, a mother or baby is lost during that long drive?
Maternity care is not an area where cuts should ever be made. Full stop.
Source: News Of The World
17/09/07
Following on from yesterday’s story about Dr John Clarke, we can now reprint the full text from the Eastbourne Herald.
16/09/07
Dr John Clarke, an Eastbourne GP, has written to medical practices and GPs in the area as a response to the PCT's "Fit for the future " consultation process and has received huge support. Read the first draft of his letter by clicking here, and find out what the doctors - the people who actually deliver our medical services - think of the council’s backing of Option 4. a response to the PCT's "Fit for the future " consultation process
12/09/07
“Barker accuses Foster of mistake over Conquest”
BEXHILL MP Gregory Barker has accused his Hastings contemporary of backing the wrong 'option' in the shake up of local health services. Mr Barker, Conservative shadow environment minister, made his comments about Labour MP Michael Foster at a meeting with 'Hands Off The Conquest' chairman Margaret Williams at the De La Warr Pavilion on Monday.
The decision on the future of maternity services in the area due is to be made in November. The local Primary Care Trust (PCT) has proposed four options for 'modernising' local hospitals. All involve losing the consultant-led maternity unit from either Hastings or Eastbourne. It means expectant mums could face a journey of more than an hour for specialist treatment.
The 'Hands Off The Conquest' campaign have put forward a fifth proposal ('Option Five'), which they say is the only safe choice for this area. Their proposal would see both hospitals would retain a specialist maternity unit. Mr Foster has spoken out strongly on the benefits of option four recently - replacing Eastbourne's maternity unit with a 'midwife birthing centre' and creating a special care baby unit at Hastings - though he has previously said he would back option five until it is, "found to be completely impossible."
Mr Barker confirmed he will remain committed to saving both maternity units. He said: "Michael Foster has come out behind option four, closing the Eastbourne unit, and I think that is the game the Government thinks we are all going to play, pitting us against each other. "I think it is absolutely vital Eastbourne AND Hastings stand shoulder to shoulder and don't let the Government and those at the PCT who want to close one come between us.
"I have come to reaffirm my whole hearted backing for option five which is the option of keeping consultant led maternity units at the Conquest and Eastbourne. It is incredibly important for the Bexhill area. Some members in my constituency in the west will want to go to Eastbourne and others will want to go to the Conquest."
Margaret Williams said: "It beggars belief. To keep two consultant led maternity units is so vital. Babies will die otherwise."
Source: Bexhill Observer
These comments are particulary relevant in light of the articles here and here.
07/09/07
If David Cameron Opposes Maternity Closures...
A new advert for the Conservative Party shows leader David Cameron sat at a desk writing; next to his image are the words "The NHS comes first" and "It's time to fight the closure of A&E and maternity units across the country."
Source: AOL News
Maybe Mr Cameron should start by talking to our local Conservative councillors who seems to have a different view on the matter.
Lib Dems Condemn Tory Refusal On New Maternity Vote
Following a special meeting of Hastings Borough Council, called at the insistence of Liberal Democrats and independent Cllr Stephen Springthorpe, local Lib Dems have condemned the decision of the Council not to vote again on local maternity care options.
Cllr Peter Armstrong made a request at the special meeting for the Council's decision (to back Option 4) to be looked at again. Cllr Armstrong said after the meeting, "I am stunned that Cllr Finch could say that "We've all had a good debate" but refuse to organise a new vote. The fact is that many councillors on the Conservative and Labour benches have changed their minds on this issue - and quite right too. We need a new vote to reflect this."
Cllr Richard Stevens, leader of the Lib Dem Group, added, "It was interesting to see that the Labour benches were so quiet. And it was telling that the responses of Cllrs Daniel and Kramer were so lame. I could have sworn that, at one point, Cllr Kramer tried to blame the Conservative governments before 1997. Quite extraordinary. Shame on them."
Source: www.har0ld.org.uk
30/08/07
David Hancock, local party chair for the Liberal Democrats, has kindly forwarded us a copy of the letter written to PCT Chief Executive Nick Yeo highlighting the death risk increased with longer ambulance journeys. Read the full letter by clicking here.
25/08/07
Are your maternity units safe only if your MP is mates with the Health Secretary?
We have been repeatedly informed that decision regarding the future of maternity services will be based purely on “clinical need”. The following story, reported widely across today’s newspapers, seems to shatter that claim.
The following is an extract from the article appearing on The Sun web site:
SNEAKY Health Secretary Alan Johnson was yesterday accused of saving the local hospital services of two Labour ministers.
Opposition MPs were furious that the cabinet’s Hazel Blears and health minister Ivan Lewis had dodged NHS closures on their doorsteps.
Both ignored Government protocol and joined picket lines to try to save maternity units in their areas.
And yesterday the Department of Health slipped out the announcement of reprieves.
Shadow Health Secretary Andrew Lansley said it was because they had “Gordon Brown on their speed dial”.
Read the full article by clicking here. You can also read The Sun’s editorial on the matter - click here then scroll down to the 3rd article entitled “Al and his pals”.
22/08/07
“The East Sussex LMC has therefore taken a unanimous view that the options initially proposed in the “Fit for the Future” consultation paper are unsafe.” Read the full letter from Dr Hugh Nicholson to Michael Foster MP by clicking here.
Handling Misconceptions in the Media
One of the wonderful things about the world we live in is the ability for people to freely offer their comments on any given subject. Recently there have been comments made in a letter in the local press about the Campaign that were inaccurate, and it only seems fair to correct them:
1. Option 5 is too costly
The PCT has repeatedly stated that any decisions would be made on the basis of clinical need and was nothing to do with money, something referenced by Cllr Stephen Springthorpe in his letter below.
2. The Campaign has gone quiet
Just because not everything that is being done is being done in the media spotlight, it certainly doesn’t mean nothing is happening. There is a lot happening but the Campaign would prefer to put information when it is ready to be presented rather seeking publicity for the sake of it or releasing factually incorrect statements.
3. The Campaign should now support Option 4
Option 4 has been dubbed clinically unsafe by local doctors. This may not be of concern to those who have completed their families and have no use for maternity, but I’m sure all those expecting or wanting children would not want a maternity service that is branded clinically unsafe by the people who actually understand the medical implications of it.
4. We should be delighted that Hastings is keeping the focus of services
Why should we be delighted that the lives of mothers and children are being put at risk simply because it is in a neighbouring town? based on this assertion, should we stop donating to charity simply because we are not suffering?
13/08/07
Hands Off The Conquest at the Hastings Carnival
The Campaign, along with members of the Save the DGH, marched at the Hastings Carnival on 11th August. Amongst those marching were Pam Brown OBE (past mayor and now Freeman of Hastings), Stephen Springthorpe (ex-Conservative Councillor who resigned from the party over this issue and is now an Independent), Margeret Williams (HoTC Campaign), Suzie Cullen (nursery nurse at the Conquest) and Fred Cullen OBE (Chair of the Health section of the Seniors Forum).
Thanks to Monica for the photo.
31/07/07
An Open Letter from Cllr Stephen Springthorpe to the Primary Care Trust
I issued the e-mail below to the PCT last Friday evening, in which I draw attention to the fact that the Hastings cabinet decision does not seem to represent the view of many councillors and their residents. Naturally, I hope these comments will be taken into account in their "deliberations".
To whom it may concern:
I wish to make it known that, although the impression created by the Cabinet at Hastings Borough Council is that the town supports the idea known as Option 4, in fact the majority of councillors that sit on HBC who have expressed a view have stated their continued backing for Option 5.
Some time ago, 7 000 people marched along Hastings seafront supporting the campaign for Option 5.
Many councillors feel a sense of duty to the people from their wards who cared enough to take part in this march. Moreover, we do not see maternity services as being significantly different to Accident and Emergency care, as childbirth can so easily require emergency specialist care. For these councillors and their residents, it is a matter of conscience that they will not support any of the other options which would see a reduction in services together with the attendant risk to human life.
Leaving aside the feeble excuse offered by some of our councillors that they "want what is best for Hastings" (ie don't care what happens to mums and babies elsewhere), we do not consider the principle of ANY potentially life-threatening cuts to either of the hospitals to be acceptable. We remain concerned at the potential future threat to other services - and lives - posed by simply accepting the principle of reduced services.
If this is not about money (which I am convinced it is) and you wish to make improvements to one of the sites, I see no reason why you should not do so - provided that you leave the other site completely intact.
On the basis of the information above I suggest to you that the Cabinet support for Option 4 should be disregarded as it clearly cannot be considered to represent the position of the majority of our councillors and the residents of our town, who do want what is best for Hastings and who are not prepared to meekly subscribe to life-threatening cuts now, or in the future, here or in Eastbourne.
Yours sincerely,
Cllr Stephen Springthorpe
For the record, councillors who have re-affirmed their continued support for their residents and Option 5 are:
- Cllr Richard Stevens, LibDem (Old Hastings)
- Cllr Paul Smith, LibDem (for Castle)
- Cllr Vivienne Bond, LibDem (for Gensing)
- Cllr Sue Palmer, LibDem (for Old Hastings)
- Cllr Peter Armstrong, LibDem (for Castle Ward)
- Cllr Richard Vallery, Conservative (for Baird Ward)
- Cllr Matthew Beaver, Conservative (for West St Leonards)
- Cllr Stephen Springthorpe, Independent (for Silverhill)
30/07/07
Show Your Support at the Hastings Carnival
Hands Off The Conquest are taking part in the procession of Hastings Carnival. This is on the 11th August. We are to meet at the Sacred Heart School, Old London Road, Ore at 3.45pm.
We would love to see as many mums and dads (and children) joining us to walk behind the Hands Off the Conquest Banner to show the local politicians what the people they were elected to serve really think.
We are hoping to be joined by representatives from our friends at the Hands Off The DGH in Eastbourne who we have been campaigning alongside.
29/07/07
Dispelling Myths - a report by Keith Brent, Consultant Paediatrician at Eastbourne
Keith Brent (Consultant Paediatrician at Eastbourne) recently issued a document entitled “A paper to dispel myths about the proposed reconfiguration of maternity and special care baby services in East Sussex” which completely undermines the arguments put by the Primary Care Trust regarding changes to the service.
The paper runs to 31 pages an is essential reading for anyone interested in the welfare of our hospital facilities.
The report can be downloaded by right-clicking on one of the icons below and then choosing the Save Target As... option:
Please distribute this file, or a link to this page, as widely as you can to make sure as many people as possible know the realities of what is happening.
Hastings Young Persons Council. supports Option 5
Tracey Johnson at the Hastings Young Persons Council has contacted us with the following information:
The Hastings Young Persons Council have confirmed their backing for the Hands Off The Conquest Campaign.
After discussion the youth councillors at the Hastings Young Person Council decided that there were only two viable options on the table - those of Option 4 and Option 5. They decided to take a vote the following week and the results are:
- 14 youth councillors voted in FAVOUR of Option 5 and
- 2 youth councillors in favour of Option 4.
We have given this feedback to Michael Wilson of PCT and we hope to publicise the fact that Youth Councillors back OPTION 5 next week.
A big thank you to Tracey for the information.
25/07/07
Unison - the public service union - has been in contact about NHS staff being victimised for opposing the cutbacks throughout the NHS. Read the worrying story here.
Cllr Susan Prochak (Lib Dem) and Cllr Stephen Springthorpe (Ind, ex-Conservative) have both voiced their opinions on the undemocratic support for option 4. Click on their names to read the editorials they have written for this site.
16/07/07
Urgent Press Release re Hastings Councillors
Hastings and Rother Councillors have made a grave mistake in voting for Option 4. Not only is it parochial it is dangerous. I have followed this debate since day one and it very soon became clear that the campaigns in Eastbourne and Hastings had to become united if one of the Towns were not to lose out.
We have stayed united ever since. Without that unity we would not have been able to produce Option 5 Saving Lives and the Primary Care Trust would have pushed though whichever Option they wanted.
By dividing the Councils our Councillors (yes we vote them in (and out)) have fallen into the trap of divide and rule. It has been completely obvious to anyone who has not had their head buried in the sand that the vast majority of the people in both areas want to keep a Consultant led Maternity Unit. Why do the councillors feel justified in going against those wishes?
Yes I understand they say they are only thinking of Hastings and Rother, but how will they live with themselves when the first baby or mother and baby dies because of their decision.
If they were not sure or could not comprehend the immense importance of this decision they should have said nothing and left it to the campaigners.
Margaret Williams
Chair, Hands off the Conquest
GPs say Options 1-4 not clinically safe
The conclusions of the LMC (Local Medical Committee), the only body that represents 600 GPs in the area on the options proposed. As highlighted in the next article, Option 5 has not been made official or fully assessed yet, despite PCT promises that it would be, so could not be considered alongside optinos 1-4..
“East Sussex LMC, having carefully considered the proposals, does not feet able to support any of the options outlined in the consultation document, nor does it feel able to support Option 5. A motion to this effect was unanimously passed at the LMC meeting on June 29th 2007.”
You can read the full text of the letter by clicking here.
What is really happening with the consultation process:
Reproduced here is a letter from HoTC to HOSC (Health Overview & Scrutiny Committee). The points raised here expose the serious failings of the consultation process, a process which is meant to ensure the views of the public are reflected in the decision-making process:
“These are the concerns that both the Friends of the Conquest and the Hands Off the Conquest Campaign Group have regarding the Consultation Process.
- The PCT were given Option 5 prior to the start of the Public Consultation, and yet it has never been officially included.
- At all the Public Meetings there were at least 3 people speaking for the single site Option and only one campaigner. The times of the meetings meant that the campaign medical team could only attend a few of these meetings and it was therefore left to lay volunteers to give a Presentation.
- The Assessment Panel started in April and we were assured by Nick Yeo that Option 5 would be assessed quickly with fortnightly meetings. To date our Option still has not been assessed and there have been only 3 official meetings.
- The PCT now say that ALL Options will be assessed after the end of the Consultation. How can that be democratic since the Public will not be consulted, and will not be able to make comments.
- The Assessment Panel Chairman is supposed to be independent. How can this be when he is a GP in Manchester involved in reconfiguration and paid by the PCT. Only the PCT are able to contact him, the campaigners are not allowed his contact details after repeated requests.
- The campaigners are not allowed to Present Option 5 to the Hospital Staff nor to the Hospital Board.
- We believe the Public have been misled at all the Public Meetings since the LMC (Local Medical Committee) representing 600 doctors state that they do not support Options 1- 4 as the PCT has not proved clinical safety.
- HOSC has been misled for the same reason and the fact that the PPI Forums stated that the Forums were in support of a single site when this matter has not been discussed among the members of the Forum.
- Campaigners have constantly asked for risk assessments for Option 1 – 4 and templates to enable them to assess Option 5. These have not been forthcoming.
- Why has the PCT disbanded the Public Reference Group when their Terms of Reference were to oversee the Public Consultation? The PRG was disbanded on 6th July when HOSC asked that the Consultation did not finish until 27th July 2007.
- The PCT state that an independent analyst will be employed to collate all the material gathered during the Public Consultation and either come up with a Report and Recommendation, however if no Recommendation is made a Report which the joint PCT Boards will consider and make a final decision. Once again we ask how this person can be independent when paid by the PCT?
I could go on, however I think you will now have a flavour of how we feel.”
A Note On The Lack Of Recent Updates
I would like to extend my apologies for the lack of recent updates on the site. I have been battling with a condition known as Agoraphobia in recent months, which has severely limited the work I have been able to do. I am making a gradual recovery and am now getting back to something approaching normality and should be able to keep things up-to-date from now on.
Thank you for your understanding.
Danni Segal, webmaster, HandsOffTheConquest.org.uk
12/04/07
 Protest March wins Orange Pip Award for service to Democracy
The Hastings Democratic Alliance (HDA) announces the People’s Prizes for the BEST and WORST in Local Democracy in Hastings and East Sussex, all of which is based on a public vote.
We are delighted to announce that the Friends of The Conquest - the people behind the Hands Off The Conquest Campaign - received the HDA ORANGE PIP AWARD. This award is given for a Service to Democracy (a single contribution or event), and is in recognition of the huge seafront march in support of keeping A&E and maternity at the Conquest.
A huge thank you to all the members of the public for voting for us.
20/03/07
The following dates have been announced by Nick Yeo of the PCT for the next set of Stakeholder Consultation Meetings.
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