Save Bitterne walk-in centre!

The NHS has announced a six month ‘temporary’ closure of the Bitterne walk-in centre in Southampton. After trying to close it in 2010, we believe this is another attempt to close permanently a much used service.

Despite patients who visit the centre telling us it is usually very busy, the Trust is claiming that it is underused and suffering from staff shortages. They propose people should travel to the minor injuries unit at the Royal South Hants Hospital (RSH), phone NHS 111 or visit a pharmacist if they can’t see their GP.

Opposition

For many who have difficulty travelling this will remove vital access to healthcare. In 2010 over 3,000 people signed a petition to oppose the closure. We need to fight to ensure the voice of local people is heard again.

We believe the real causes of this threat to local services is the funding cuts and privatisation of the NHS over recent years. If there are staff shortages then extra staff must be recruited immediately. If funds are short, then private contracts to companies like Care UK who run the RSH for profit, should be cancelled immediately and full funding to the NHS restored.

TUSC public meeting

2pm, Saturday 25 October
Bitterne United Reformed Church, Bitterne Precinct (above Iceland), Southampton