Stunell fights to keep 24 hour Paediatric and Pregnancy Care at Stepping Hill

5.25.30pm GMT Mon 27th Nov 2006

Local MP, Andrew Stunell has stepped up his campaign for 24 hour Paediatric and Obstetric care at Stepping Hill Hospital, following news that the provision might be moved to Rochdale.

Commenting on the news, Mr Stunell said:

"A move would be a very serious blow to all parents and parents-to-be in Stockport.

"Stepping Hill Hospital helps hundreds of children, babies and pregnant mums every month. The loss of the 24 hour Paediatric and Obstetric provision from Stockport would be a disaster.

"I have called for an urgent meeting with the Chief Executive of Stockport Foundation Trust to ensure that the Obstetric and Paediatric services at Stockport will not be damaged by any decisions taken by Whitehall."

ENDS

Notes to editors:

The Government held a "Making it Better" consultation regarding changes to in-patient healthcare services for children, young people, parents and babies in Greater Manchester, East Cheshire, High Peak and Rossendale. The consultation closed on the 12th May 2006. All of the original proposed options included the 24-hour provision of Obstetric and Paediatric services at Stockport. But as a result of the consultation there is now an 'Option i' which proposes the substitution of Rochdale for Stockport.

Details of the "Making it Better" consultation can be found at http://www.bestforhealth.nhs.uk/page.asp?branchid=CHILDADULT