Did you know that the NHS is about to bring in a radical Sustainability and Transformation Plan? As Phil Confue, Senior Responsible Officer for the Cornwall and Isles of Scilly STP says: “We have a once in a generation opportunity to transform local health and care services over the next five years through the NHS England required Sustainability and Transformation Plan.”

The plan aims to better integrate social and health care and the draft document lists a range of potential cuts as the new integrated service is put in place. Faced with a financial deficit, very difficult decisions will need to be made and it is important that our local voice is heard.

There are several ways to be involved. There’s a chance to discuss the changes at the Cornwall Gateway Community Network Panel meeting taking place at Saltash Guildhall on Thursday 12th January from 6.30-8.30pm. There is more information about the process and details of other consulation meetings locally on Cornwall Council’s website and a chance (until 20th January) to have your say through their online survey. You can also contact your Patient Participation Group at your local GP surgery (find information for these on our Health & Social Care Network page).