The Shadow Secretary of State for Health, Stuart Andrew MP, visited Burnham-On-Sea this week alongside local MP Ashley Fox to hear directly from patients, staff, volunteers, and community groups about pressures facing local health and care services.
The visit formed part of a wider constituency day focused on frontline experiences across the NHS and adult social care.
In Burnham, the pair met with the Friends of Burnham Hospital, including Chair Ceri Joyce and Vice Chair Paul Hambleton, who raised several ongoing concerns.
They highlighted the frequent closure of the Minor Injuries Unit due to staffing shortages, despite the hospital serving more than 25,000 residents across a wide rural area.
Volunteers also pointed to the additional seasonal pressure of around 20,000 holidaymakers per week during the summer months, which places further strain on local services.
The group also discussed the reduction in inpatient beds from 16 to 8, difficulties securing home care support for patients after discharge, and the impact of changes to local GP services on demand at the hospital.
Later in Bridgwater, Stuart Andrew and Ashley Fox visited Bridgwater Community Hospital, where they met Trust Chief Executive Peter Lewis and staff.
Speaking after the visit, Ashley Fox said: “It was valuable to welcome Stuart Andrew MP to Burnham-On-Sea and Bridgwater to hear directly from those on the frontline of our health and care system.”
“Staff are working incredibly hard, but services are under real pressure. From the ongoing issues at Burnham Hospital’s Minor Injuries Unit to the wider challenges in adult social care, there are areas where the right support and better coordination are needed.”
“These visits are important to make sure that the reality on the ground is heard at the highest levels, and I will continue to put forward the case on behalf of my constituents.”
