LOCAL leaders have hit out at the trust after Care Quality Commission inspectors branded it ‘inadequate’.
The leader of Bromsgrove district council Councillor Margaret Sherrey said: “In my experience, as a former nurse, the behaviour of the Trust has been absolutely unacceptable. They have not listened to their community and its leaders and now look at the position they are in.
“We have watched as the healthcare services at the Alex have been slowly and sneakily dismantled despite the public outcry and continued hard work and care given by staff during a time of such uncertainty.
“It is absolutely essential we stop talking about this – we need action and I hope now the Trust has come under scrutiny, that the powers in Westminster give this the attention it deserves and sees that our residents in Redditch, Bromsgrove and South Warwickshire get the healthcare that they deserve.”
Her opposite number in Redditch, Coun Bill Hartnett, said: “This latest news has sadly come as no surprise and our fears have been confirmed.
“But the time to talk is now over – and we need action so we can protect vital health care services for our residents.
“It really is a matter of life and death and I call upon the Government to take action as a matter of urgency.”
Bromsgrove MP Sajid Javid said: “The Chief Inspector has made clear that we have an important divide: staff are committed and caring to patients, but they’re not getting the leadership and support they require.
“Placing the Trust in Special Measures is a significant step, but clearly necessary for patient safety.
“I am now calling on the Health Secretary’s offer of support to get an action plan in place.
“We need to turn this situation around.”
