Whitchurch beds threatened by health cuts?

Following the news that Cardiff and Vale Health Boards have a budget deficit of nearly £6 million, it has been reported that measures to save money could include the closure of mental illness beds at Whitchurch hospital.

In order to make savings the two Health Boards are reportedly proposing a number of cutbacks including reducing the spending on drugs, closing the minor injuries unit in Barry Hospital and axing health provision to asylum seekers.

Sian Richards, Chief Executive of Cardiff LHB, said: “We have a statutory responsibility to eradicate the deficit and achieve sustainable financial balance. Within this context we must make sure that we use our resources (in consultation with our partners), in the best and most effective way possible.”