IRP spells RIP for 24 hour A and E at Chase farm

Enfield Council has expressed its disappointment that despite taking residents concerns to the highest level of Government, the future of 24 hour A&E at Chase Farm Hospital looks doomed.

After vigorous campaigning by local residents and a Joint Scrutiny Committee of the London Boroughs of Barnet, Enfield and Haringey, the Secretary of State for Health agreed to a review by the Independent Reconfiguration Panel (IRP).

However, despite speaking to residents and those who use Chase Farm, local MPs, councillors and Save Chase Farm campaign, their final report has backed the plan to reduce A&E services to a day time only urgent care centre.

Cllr Anne Marie Pearce, the Chairman of the Joint Scrutiny Committee said: “This was an opportunity to show that the views of local people can make a difference. So many people have given up their time and three councils have worked together to scrutinise plans in detail, but we haven’t been listened to when it comes to the big decisions.

“We all want the very best for our borough. Our residents have waited a very long time to see safe, accessible and efficient health services. We will now strive to work with the Primary Care Trust to ensure that the promised * up front investment in GP and community health services is realised before any reduction in hospital services.”

Cllr Michael Rye, Leader of Enfield Council, said: “It is disappointing that on the fundamental issue of 24 hours A&E, local people have not been listened to. I would like to pay tribute to the work of residents who have campaigned tirelessly on this issue, and the Joint Borough Scrutiny Committee who have investigated and raised very real concerns over this proposal.

“We would all welcome the commitment to ensure that new services are in place before any changes or reductions happen at Chase Farm. But the Secretary of State’s failure to make additional money available to achieve this is disappointing, and can only make it more difficult for the local NHS to deliver change and ensure safety in the meantime.”

* As recommended by Lord Ara Darzi, professor Sir George Alberti and the Joint Borough Scrutiny Committee.

This document was last updated on 2008-09-04 12:33:20 published by the Communications team. Document Reference:LBE_133286