MP Theresa Villiers will lobby the Government to invest even more in local NHS services following the setting up of a new ward at Barnet Hospital to deal with expected winter pressure.
The 35-bed Rainbow Ward at the hospital in Wellhouse Lane is part of the Royal Free London NHS Foundation Trust’s Covid planning and will increase in-patient and critical care capacity.
Speaking in parliament Theresa asked Health Minister Edward Argar: “The capacity of Barnet Hospital to cope with winter pressure is being assisted by a brand-new modular ward with 35 beds.
“Can the Minister assure me that there will be continued investment in expanding NHS services in Barnet so that it can cope with any covid pressures this winter and also help to clear the backlog of people who have been waiting for treatment for other conditions?”
In response the minister said: “The new ward at Barnet Hospital will add to its capacity to cope with winter pressures. More broadly, we have invested £2.5 million in Royal Free London NHS Foundation Trust, of which Barnet is part.
“She is, of course, right to make the case for continued investment in the longer term, with her typical effectiveness and commitment to her constituency, and I am always happy to discuss that further with her.”
Speaking afterwards Theresa added: “It’s great that the brand new ward at Barnet Hospital will open soon. My office is setting up the meeting promised by the Minister to discuss what else can be done to help our local NHS services, both during this winter and longer term. It has always been my priority to ensure we have the health services we need and that will not change.”
The Government is committed to raising annual cash spending on the NHS by £33 billion.
