Last week, we took to the highways and byways of north Cumbria to find out what local people thought about the proposed changes to the healthcare services in their area.
After a successful day in Carlisle, the team travelled south to Penrith on Tuesday, before making our way through the lakes to Millom on Wednesday. This was followed by a beautiful coastal drive to Whitehaven and then Workington before finishing up the week in Maryport.
While many claim society is becoming more apathetic by the day, we were met with the same response we get in all of our engagement with local communities : people want to be consulted!! They are pleased - and sometimes quite surprised to be asked for their views - are are keen to find out what changes are planned and have their say.
We spoke to hundreds of local people in GP surgeries, libraries, shopping centres and hospitals about health issues ranging from acute hospital reform to GP home visits. The overwhelming sentiments were:
- People in Cumbria want services closer to their homes
- People do not want to travel as far to visit their relatives in hospital
- People support the PCT's commitment to Community Hospitals
Above all, it was fascinating to talk to interested local people about issues that affect them so closely. Thanks to everyone who found the time to talk to us - it's much appreciated!
In line with the PCT's commitment to engage with as many people as possible, we will be returning to north Cumbria in January to visit some even more rural areas such as Brampton and Keswick - Watch this space!!
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