Farron: Mental Health Ward Must Be Saved

South Lakes MP Tim Farron has today launched a campaign to save the Kentmere Ward at Westmorland General Hospital, following revelations that the ward could face closure.

Concerns have been raised with Tim that the Partnership Trust, who run the ward, don't have the funding to make upgrades to the ward to meet CQC guidelines.

Tim has written to Government ministers and spoken with local health bosses to stress the crucial importance of this ward, and has launched an online petition so that members of the public can show their support.

The Kentmere Ward, also known as Ward 4, provides adult mental health services. It is run by the Cumbria Partnership NHS Foundation Trust.

Tim said: "Mental health services are absolutely critical. Local people in vulnerable situations rely on these services, and government cuts cannot be allowed to push this ward into closing. The long-term effects of closing the unit would be far greater than the short-term savings, as access to mental health services would deteriorate. If the ward is closed, vulnerable patients will have to travel long distances to access the services they need.

"A recent CQC report raised a number of important points about the Kentmere Ward, and these improvements must be made, but there can be no question of the ward closing either temporarily or permanently. What is needed in our area is not for this ward to close, but for it to improve.

"For many years, the Lib Dems have worked to push mental health up the agenda. Closing this ward would be a backwards step for mental health care in South Lakeland. I will fight these plans, to ensure that local people can access the mental health services they need.

"Ten years ago we successfully fought to save Ward 4 - I am determined that together we can do so again."

To sign Tim's petition and show support for the continued provision of adult mental health services at Westmorland General Hospital, please go to: www.timfarron.co.uk/kentmereward