I joined fellow MPs to discuss the impact closing the Margaret Stanhope Centre in Burton would have on South Derbyshire

Submitted by Heather on 21 December 2011 - 4:36pm

On the 20th of December, I joined my neighbouring MP Andrew Griffiths for Burton to discuss the Margret Stanhope Centre in Burton, a very important mental health facility which is much needed and used by the people of Burton East Staffordshire and South Derbyshire, which has come under threat of closure.

Mr Griffiths called the debate as a means to discuss in more detail the impact closing the Margaret Stanhope Centre in Burton would have on the local community. For me I was keen to highlight the fact that my constituents have to travel either to Derby or to Burton, and my southern villages are covered by the South Staffordshire PCT, which is why I feel the continued existence of the Margaret Stanhope Centre is so important. I personally think it is outrageous that one of the reasons that the PCT is putting forward to support its closure is that people want care in the community. What people want is respite care, and that is why it is so important that the unit should stay open.
 
If you would like to see the whole debate then please visit the following link. The debate starts at 6:09 mark and you can see my speech at 6:37 mark: http://www.parliamentlive.tv/Main/Player.aspx?meetingId=9665
 
I will continue to work with Mr Griffiths to see what can be done to ensure the continued access to care at the Margaret Stanhope Centre. The Burton Mail has some excellent coverage on this issue; I would like to thank them for it as well as the campaigning work done by Dr Long and Mr Chatfield. South Staffs PCT has extended the deadline for Consultation for another 4 weeks; do get involved if you can. I hope in the New Year there will be an agreeable outcome, if not then the PCT have not listened to the local feeling at all. 
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Please note that all content dated prior to 7th May 2010 is from before I was elected a Member of Parliament.
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