We feel ‘helpless’ over hospital shake-up plans

A SHAKE-UP to maternity and children’s services in local hospitals is on the cards as health officials consider the future of Darlington hospital.
The NHS is reviewing the local health system under the Better Health Programme which aims to “future proof” health and social care.
The proposed shake up of services could affect Darlington Memorial Hospital.
One option believed to be on the table is the downgrade of services at Darlington Memorial Hospital in favour of specialist A&E centres further away but no decisions have yet been made. A number of proposals will be presented to the public in the summer.
Consultation meetings took place last year on some services. A further public event is taking place this week so residents can give their views on maternity and children’s services in the county.
The programme was discussed at Teesdale Action Partnership’s (TAP) last board meeting. Members of the partnership were urged by the public to “take some leadership” in the matter.
One resident, who did not wish to be named, said: “I really think and hope that this board will pay attention to these issues. This is something that is really going to affect our area. I would like TAP to take some leadership and put this on the agenda.”
One of the board’s public representatives who supported the resident’s view was Caroline Hardie-Hammond.
However, Ms Hardie-Hammond admitted she did not know what to do to help.
She said: “The closure of the accident and emergency services is a major issue. I don’t know how to get in there to make a difference. Whenever I try they say that is not us, that is someone else.”
Another public representative on TAP, Ros Evans said: “I think that members of the community are saying things but I don’t think the messages are getting where they should.
“Whatever is done it does not seem to make a difference. Things are still closing and services are getting further away. As a member of the public, I don’t think there is anything I can do to change that decision which is such a shame. If TAP can do something then I would like to know.”
Ms Hardie-Hammond added: “I really want to get involved with this. It is going to have a major impact on people’s lives.”
The board agreed to look into how a considered response could be made about the proposals.
Services at the Richardson Hospital, in Barnard Castle, were also discussed.
One resident said: “The Richardson Hospital has moved from a situation where the ward was on closure pending recruitment of staff. Now we are being told it is a semi-permanent situation. It is under utilised and nobody seems to be paying attention to that.
“We now need clear information and confirmation that they are going to make damn sure that these community hospitals are put to full use.
“I can’t tolerate this wall of silence that has gone on for month after month after month.”
Becky Haynes, from Durham Dales, Easington and Sedgefield CCG, which commissions local health services, attended the meeting.
Ms Haynes spoke about the options that are available to people in the dale should anyone need health advice.
She said: “There will be a lot of engagement between now and the end of March about the services that are available.”
The NHS is holding a public meeting at the TCR Hub, in Barnard Castle, on Thursday, February 9, as part of the Better Health Programme.
Residents will be able to have their say on maternity and children’s services. The event is on from 4pm to 6pm.
A spokesman said: “The events will focus on what’s important to you about the care you and your family receive and how we can make it better, and what would influence your choice about where you would have your baby.”
To register your attendance visit www.nhsbetterhealth.org.uk.