Date: 4 December 2007

Clyde Independent Scrutiny Report shows need for NHSGG&C to take consultation seriously - UNISON

UNISON today welcomed the report from the independent scrutiny panel set up to examine NHS Greater Glasgow & Clyde (NHSGG&C)'s proposals for changes to health service provision in the Clyde Area.

The criticisms from the panel mirror many of the views expressed by UNISON members and the community served by the Vale of Leven Hospital. The panel found that the NHS board, included too few options for change and, in most cases, failed to provide full analyses of cost and benefits.

UNISON Regional Officer Matt McLaughlin said, "NHSGG&C must now step up to the plate, take on board the findings of the panel, and come forward with a much more comprehensive series of options that provide the local community with a real choice on their health services."

The union also welcomed the recognition by the panel of the 'excellent standards of care currently being delivered, but said that the failings in the change proposals were not the first by the board.

Matt McLaughlin said "The work that staff have been doing in difficult circumstances has been exemplary and we are gl;ad the panel has recognised this.

"This appears to be yet another issue where NHSGG&C are being criticised over the assumptions that they have taken and the quality of consultation that they proposed to take. There is positive work for NHSGGC to do around the panel's specific recommendations, but the Board really needs to stop and take a hard look at itself and how it approaches consultations that relate to major issues for staff and communities."

ENDS

For Further Information Please Contact: Matt McLaughlin (Regional Organiser) 0870 7777 006 (w) 07904 341 979 Chris Bartter (Communications Officer) 0870 7777 006(w) 0771 558 3729(m)

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