Trafford General consultation documents not received by some residents (From Messenger Newspapers)

Trafford General consultation documents not received by some residents

4:00pm Friday 21st September 2012 in News By Kate Banks, Reporter

MP Kate Green and the Save Trafford General group have raised concerns that some residents have still not received the consultation document on proposed changes to Trafford’s health service.

The document, which was meant to be sent to every household in Trafford on August 13, allows residents the chance to have their say on the plans, which include major changes at Trafford General Hospital - including turning its A & E department into an urgent care centre.
 

However, some residents with an M41 or M43 postcodes – two of the areas closest to the hospital – have yet to receive the document and are having to request them directly from NHS Trafford.
 

Jo Harding, campaign co-ordinator of Save Trafford General, said: “This is a complete shambles. People are being denied a consultation document which they should have been sent automatically weeks ago.
 

“Health bosses have no idea who has had one and who hasn’t.”

The group has also threatened to mount a legal challenge in the High Court.
 

Bill Walsh, of Flixton Road, Urmston, said: “We have an M41 postcode so we are more affected than anybody else.
 

“The year it was taken over by the NHS was the year I was born and I’ve lived close to it all my life, my children and grandchildren were all born there.
 

“I really depend on Trafford General, it’s our pride and joy so we’re hanging on for dear life.”
 

Kate Green said: "I'm shocked at reports that local people in parts of the borough feel their concerns aren't being heard.

"There were initial problems with delivery of the consultation document, and while NHS managers tell me they've taken steps to resolve that, it simply doesn't give time for everyone to respond.
 

A spokesman for NHS Trafford said: “From our careful monitoring of the situation, we are aware that there have been some problems with the local distribution of the documents in small pockets of the borough, and are currently working with distributors to address the situation.
 

In the meantime, document can be requested by phoning 0161 873 6048 or emailing newhealthdeal@trafford.nhs.uk .