Local communities, as well as those moving into new developments, need to know that they can access the local services they need, when they need them.
That’s why, throughout my time as a local MP, I have consistently made clear (locally and to ministers) my belief that new developments in our rural towns and villages must be sustainable, accompanied by the necessary infrastructure and services required to support both the new development itself and the pre-existing community. Health provision is an integral part of that.
On Friday, I welcomed the chance to chair the latest ATTCARE virtual summit – which aims to address exactly that issue. In attendance were local councillors and representatives from ATTCARE, Attleborough Town Council, Attleborough Surgeries, Norfolk Community Health and Care Trust, Norfolk County Council, Breckland Council, Ptarmigan, Homes England and Castlemeadow Care.
The conversations were positive once again with the sub-working groups reporting back on the progress they have made to date, as well as on their work moving forward. The news that a modular extension will now go ahead at the Attleborough Surgeries’ Station Road site is also very welcome. Although only a temporary solution, the extension will allow the practice’s dedicated team of staff to tap into additional resources, expand capacity and strengthen the services they can provide patients. Work should begin imminently. (See more in the recent EDP article here)
A number of follow-up- actions are being pursued and all those gathered remain committed to working collaboratively. Rest assured, I am determined to do whatever I can to support the work of ATTCARE and their partners on this work. There remains much work to be done but, together, we hope to deliver the short term boosts the town wants to see, as well as the longer term solutions that will ensure Attleborough has the long term health and social care services it requires to sustain the community.
To see more about my previous work on this issue, please click here and here
I look forward to providing further updates in due course.
