I am deeply concerned by reports of the proposed closure of Orchard House Day Hospital in Royton and, in particular, by the apparent lack of communication from Pennine Care NHS Foundation Trust with service users, their families and my office.
I have made enquiries with the Trust on behalf of everyone affected to understand the reasons behind this proposal, what consultation has taken place, and what support or alternative provision is being offered to those who rely on this important service.
Orchard House provides a valued service for older people in our community, supporting those with a range of mental health needs and helping many to maintain their independence, wellbeing and connection with others.
I am also deeply concerned by the continued erosion of community-based health and social care services, which will almost certainly prove to be a false economy. I remain of the view that the pressures facing the hospital with A&E constantly backlogged and ward beds in short supply are partly the result of the loss of the town centre urgent care centre and the closure of numerous GP practices, including those in Limeside, Freehold, Rochdale Road and the town centre. Community mental health support is already under pressure.
If we fail to provide adequate community-based healthcare, we force more people into hospital and more intensive, expensive treatment. That is bad for the NHS and bad for local people.
I will continue to press Pennine Care for answers and ensure that the concerns of service users, their families and the wider Royton community are fully represented.
I will also make it clear to health trusts and health service commissioners that the continued erosion of local services, coupled with a lack of meaningful consultation, is simply not good enough.
Jim McMahon OBE MP 