Henderson Hospital Reprieve

6.17.39pm GMT Fri 14th Mar 2008

Local MPs Paul Burstow and Tom Brake have today welcomed the news that the closure of Henderson Hospital has been postponed to allow for full public consultation.

NHS bosses have acknowledged the need to provide adequate for residential tier 4 personality disorder services in the area, and this would include those already provided by Henderson Hospital.

Both local MPs have been arguing the case for retaining the Henderson to provide a residential service for people with personality disorder.

Tom Brake said:

"This reprieve is welcome. But we will need to maintain the pressure - the consultation will have to be the real thing - not a window-dressing exercise."

Commenting, Paul Burstow said:

"The fact that the NHS has accepted the need for residential services is a step in the right direction. It is good news that NHS bosses have bowed to local pressure and agreed to consult. The breathing space this consultation gives must be used to make the case for the Henderson to stay open."