As a former Health Minister and someone with a close understanding of the incredible role our NHS plays each and every day, as well as having grown up and lived in rural East Anglia for the majority of my life, I know the crucial role local community pharmacies play in our rural towns and villages – and the importance of being able to access services and pick up prescription when we need too.

That’s why I share the widespread local concern around Watton following Boots’ recent announcement that they will be shutting their Chaston Place branch in the new year. Only the brilliant Total Health pharmacy in Gregor Shanks Way will remain in the town – which, given the scale of new development in recent years, cannot meet community demand alone.

Having been in close contact with local councillors Tina Kiddell and Claire Bowes, I can confirm that I am raising this matter with the Norfolk and Waveney NHS Integrated Care Board to find out more information about Boots’ decision and ensure proper measures are being put in place to provide Watton with the pharmacy provision it needs.

Rest assured, I am determined to make Watton’s voice heard and ensure it is being heard at the very highest levels. I hope to provide a further update in the near future.

In the meantime, please see today’s EDP article here

To find out more about my work on GP appointments and local pharmacies, please click here and here