18 Oct 2006 - FORA gives support to campaign in defence of Whipps Cross Hospital

Our local newspaper, the Leyton and Leytonstone Guardian, is mounting a campaign to defend Whipps Cross University Hospital against drastic cuts in services. Local MPs, NHS staff, and other groups are also campaigning.

FORA's Chair, Peter Leighton, has had the following letter of support published in the newspaper:

"As direct neighbours of Whipps Cross University Hospital, members of Forest Residents Association have a personal and direct interest in its future. Many of us have used it for a variety of treatments over the years. So have our friends and relatives. We have been alarmed at reports that a radical shake-up of NHS medical services in our part of London could see those at Whipps drastically reduced. We want it to remain a District General Hospital with an A & E department, and providing a full range of services. For local people, especially those who are elderly and infirm, the idea of being forced to travel to Oldchurch Park Hospital in Romford or King George in Goodmayes for essential treatment is hardly credible. I have been asked by our committee to express the Association's strong support for the Guardian's campaign to keep our health services local.

Peter Leighton
Chair, Forest Residents Association"