A SERIES of community events are to be held across the region to gather public views on care homes and cottage hospitals.
Dumfries and Galloway Health and Social Care Partnership (DGHSCP) are launching what they call “a very significant piece of engagement work” with communities.
A spokesman explained it will “look at how we employ bed-based resources to best meet people’s needs now and moving forward” and he added: “This engagement will take in everything from care homes to respite care and cottage hospitals, and we will be encouraging everyone to get involved through this process.
“We are in the process of confirming dates, times and venues for these engagement sessions and will communicate these widely as soon as we can.”
Meanwhile, over 4000 people have now signed public petitions demanding a full return of all health services previously delivered at local cottage hospitals – namely at Moffat, Kirkcudbright, Newton Stewart and Castle Douglas.
The campaign is being driven by Finlay Carson MSP who is keen to encourage NHS Dumfries and Galloway to offer better services at a local level.
He is delighted by the huge public response and said: “I think it is abundantly clear already that people wish to be cared for as close to home as possible.
“Given the current crisis facing the NHS, it would also possibly ease some of the pressure currently being witnessed at Dumfries and Galloway Royal Infirmary.
“It is only right that they have services available locally and previously many were offered at our cottage and community hospitals which is why I believe local health bosses must listen to the people.
“We absolutely appreciate that staffing is of major concern, however many of the patients transferred to our cottage hospitals would not need the intensive medical care that DGRI provides and family and friends would be far more able to support their loved ones through their recuperation or in their final days.”
Commenting on the NHS’ engagement plans, mentioned above, he expressed concerns such a consultation could unduly delay events.
And he said: “This is absolutely unacceptable and is evidenced by the strong public opinion growing by the day. It is time for them to stop sticking their heads in the sand and start to be honest and transparent with the public, and that is what and are demanding.”
n To add your support to the campaign, go to www.change.org/p/save-our-local-cottage-hospital-services.
