With the local NHS facing possible cuts in services as the government tightens its belt in the aftermath of the economic crisis, it has never been more important to stand up for the local NHS.  As your local MP, Martin has campaigned tirelessly for free local health services. Martin is married to a local doctor and four generations of his family have been cared for by Cheltenham GPs and hospital staff so he never forgets how valuable it is to have a good local health service free to all.

In 2006, Martin was a leading member of the coalition of local campaigners that fought the 26 different cuts and closures that threatened the long-term future of Cheltenham General and many local services.  That campaign secured the future of Cheltenham’s St.Paul’s maternity ward which was earmarked for closure.  Martin will continue to campaign for the services that matter most to people, like maternity and A&E, to be kept local and, for now, there is no immediate threat of these being removed from Cheltenham General. 

Other cuts like IVF services were also restored after pressure from Martin and others.  We did lose overnight inpatient beds on Cheltenham’s Battledown children’s ward and some local mental health service users are still suffering from the aftermath of the hurried cuts and changes. 

But Martin continues to lobby NHS Gloucestershire for the return of overnight care at Battledown ward, because he believes it is vitally important for sick children and their families to be close enough for regular visits.  If you don’t have a car, the round trip to Gloucester Royal would prevent a lunchtime visit during the working day, for instance.

And he has continued to argue with 2gether NHS trust who manage mental health services in Gloucestershire to make sure mental health service users get not only the services professionals think they should have but the services they want and need.