£4m fund to boost access to surgeries

sustainable over the long term.”

Dr David Kelly, local GP and Chair of NHS North Kirklees CCG, added: “We know from national surveys that some patients in north Kirklees have experienced problems accessing GP appointments.

“The new funding means that more appointments will be available in our area.

“I would encourage all local people to have a say by filling in the CCG survey”.

Thelma Walker, MP for the Colne Valley, said: “I will always welcome more funding for our GPs who are the first point of call for people when they are ill or in need of assistance.

“Many of my constituents have told me they have not been able to get an appointment to see a doctor for several weeks.

“If this funding reduces waiting times, that can only be a good thing.

“I am keen to hear from clinicians to see if this funding is enough to allow them to fulfil the needs of their patients and would encourage them to contact my office on Thelma.Walker.MP@parliament.uk”

Patients’ views are being gathered until November 6 and people are encouraged to have their say by accessing the survey online at: http:// www.smartsurvey.co.uk/s/ExtendedGPAccessKirklees

Alternatively, email: amanjot.aujla@ northkirkleesccg.nhs.uk or phone 01924 504938 for a paper copy of the survey.

Feedback will be used by each CCG to help them develop their plans for increasing the number of appointments within their own area to meet the needs of the local population.