I HAVE followed with local and professional interest the debate about the continued use of The Alexandra Hospital in Redditch and the continued financial problems with the Worcestershire Acute Services NHS Trust.

It would appear that the local Redditch Hospital is to bear the brunt of any cuts to ameliorate the Trust’s financial position.

While I am more aware than most of the local population as to the role of CCGs and Trusts, I am not aware of the action being taken by Healthwatch in seeking to retain services at the Alexandra for the people within some areas of Worcestershire, Warwickshire and Birmingham.

You were quoted in a local paper some time ago that people of Worcestershire would grow to understand the situation [sic]. I am not aware of this from my contacts within the county.

I write to ask the following in terms of a response: - What, apart from extending the consultation period, has Healthwatch done to safeguard existing services at the Alexandra, bearing in mind the domino effect of service cessation?

Mike Marshall Rock Hill Bromsgrove.