LOCAL leaders have hit out at the trust after Care Quality Commission inspectors branded it ‘inadequate’.
Redditch Borough Council Leader, Councillor Bill Hartnett, said: “This latest news has sadly come as no surprise and our fears have been confirmed.
“But the time to talk is now over – and we need action so we can protect vital health care services for our residents.
“It really is a matter of life and death and I call upon the Government to take action as a matter of urgency.”
His opposite number at Bromsgrove district council, Coun Margaret Sherrey, was even more scathing: “In my experience, as a former nurse, the behaviour of the Trust has been absolutely unacceptable. They have not listened to their community and its leaders and now look at the position they are in.
“We have watched as the healthcare services at the Alex have been slowly and sneakily dismantled.
“It is absolutely essential we stop talking about this – we need action and I hope now the Trust has come under scrutiny, that the powers in Westminster give this the attention it deserves and sees that our residents get the healthcare that they deserve.”
Local MP Karen Lumley said: “I am not surprised to see the Trust being placed into special measures. This is a significant step, but clearly necessary for patient safety.
“I will be meeting the CQC’s Chief Inspector of hospitals, Professor Sir Mike Richards, along with the Trust Development Authority and other local MPs shortly to see what the way forward actually is.”
