Rachael Hamilton

IN February, I delivered my annual report to all households across my constituency, updating residents on the work I have done over the past year.

It also gave people an opportunity to highlight their views through a survey on a range of key issues such as public transport and access to local healthcare services.

I would like to thank those who took the time to engage with my survey.

The number of responses I received was fantastic and reflected the sense of pride many have in their communities.

One issue united many, with over four in five respondents stating that they do not support another independence referendum.

The message is loud and clear, communities across the Borders want to see an SNP Government focussed on the real priorities of Scotland rather than another divisive independence referendum.

Sadly, however, Humza Yousaf continues to put the SNP ahead of residents, stating that independence will appear on ‘page one, line one’ of the SNP’s manifesto.

Scottish independence would be catastrophic for people in the Scottish Borders.

Creating a physical border between Scotland and its largest trading partner would be an economic disaster, creating significant uncertainty for businesses.

Another issue which I received strong feedback on was access to local healthcare services. A total of 61 per cent of respondents said that they were dissatisfied with the current situation in the Borders, with many highlighting long waiting times and difficulty in accessing GP and dentist appointments.

As many will know, NHS Borders is facing a budget deficit with cuts to frontline services likely.

While rural health services face unique challenges such as ageing populations and connectivity issues, residents in the Borders deserve access to sustainable and highquality care. I will continue to follow this situation closely and ensure that the Scottish Government provides NHS Borders with the necessary support.

There were also strong calls to help women with Endometriosis in the Borders with 86 per cent of respondents highlighting the need for improved support for women who suffer from this condition.

I will shortly be launching a policy paper which aims to improve treatment options, improve diagnosis times, and increase awareness of endometriosis.

If you have any concerns about a local issue, or would like to highlight something to me, please don’t hesitate to get in touch at rachael.hamilton. msp@parliament.scot