Jake Berry

OVER the last few weeks I’ve received hundreds of emails from local residents concerning the future of our NHS, many of which have been in response to campaigns from pressure groups such as 38 Degrees and the Labour Party.

I want to make clear that I believe fully in the NHS and its values and I would like to assure everyone in Rossendale that despite what you may hear from my political opponents, the Government is committed to a tax-funded NHS, free at the point of use, wherever and whenever you need it.

Despite tight public finances, the Government has actively supported the NHS’ own plan for the future. That is why it is providing the additional £10 billion of investment per annum in real terms by 2020/21 – compared to 2014/15.

Since 2010 we have also reduced the amount of managers and invested in the frontline so there are almost more than 23,400 extra clinical staff, including over 10,000 more doctors and over 6,500 more nurses on our wards since May 2010.

There are 51,000 nurses in training and the Government is making sure that by the NHS will have over 11,000 more doctors, including consultants and GPs by 2020.

Our changes to student funding will enable universities to provide up to 10,000 additional nursing, midwifery and allied health training places by 2020.

With the demands of an aging population we need a strong properly funded NHS but we can only do this if we have a strong resilient economy to pay for it.

Locally, it was an absolute pleasure to be able to join the 9th Ramsbottom St Philip’s Scout Group in Stubbins to help celebrate their 50th anniversary the other weekend. Thank you to everyone for putting on such a lovely event; it was incredible to see just how many people had been involved over the last 50 years, many of who now live all over the world, all with very fond memories of their time with the Scouts.

I also paid a visit to Northern Primary School in Bacup. It’s a great school with a lovely atmosphere and good results, it’s just unfortunate that it’s located near a bend on a busy road with narrow pavements and limited parking. Many parents have told me that it’s only a matter of time before there is a serious accident which is I why I wanted to see what we can do to help.

I met with the Headteacher, Mrs Marr, local Councillor Peter Steen and the Road Safety Officer from the County Council. I’m pleased to report that they will now be looking at a number of options such as new signs, speed indicators and extra enforcement to try and improve safety around the school. (See page 31)

Finally, after my recent visit to meet with the Friends of Whitworth Library I was really pleased to hear that the National Careers Service and the Citizens Advice will shortly be holding regular drop in sessions there. Huge thanks to everyone involved with the Library group for the work that they are putting in to ensure a sustainable future for this well used local facility.

As your MP for both Rossendale and Darwen, I represent around 90,000 people across East Lancashire. If you ever need my help or want to let me know about a local issue, please get in touch with me either by phoning 01706 215547 or email me at jake.berry.mp@ parliament.uk