Today, alongside Dereham South County Councillor Phillip Duigan, I met with Tracey Bleakley, CEO of NHS Norfolk and Waveney Integrated Care Board (ICB), to discuss the concerning proposed closure of Dereham’s Toftwood Surgery. With over 4,000 patients in the Toftwood area potentially affected, I’m focused on doing everything I can to ensure that South Dereham continues to have reliable GP services.

As Dereham continues to grow, it’s clear that we need more GP practices in our area, not fewer. I’ve been hearing from many of you in Toftwood who are deeply worried about losing access to local healthcare, and I want you to know I am committed to protecting this essential service for all our residents.

During my meeting with the ICB, I stressed the need for a clear, long-term plan for healthcare in Dereham, especially given our expanding population. I’ve also encouraged everyone in the community to get involved in the current consultation, as your input is essential at this critical stage.

The consultation closes on 21 November. 
See link here and have your say: https://www.smartsurvey.co.uk/s/toftwoodmedicalcentre/

To make sure we’re covering every possible solution, I’ll be holding further discussions with the ICB to explore ways we can strengthen and secure local healthcare access. As Chair of the Dereham Action Partnership, I’ve invited ICB representatives to our next meeting, as I believe we need all local stakeholders working together to plan for Dereham’s future.

Our healthcare system should grow with our community, and I’m dedicated to making sure we get this right for the long term. Together, I believe we can create solutions that will protect and expand GP services for all of Toftwood and South Dereham.