Sussex faces worrying GP shortages as Lewes MP calls on govt to rescue local health services

Lib Dem MP for Lewes, James MacCleary, said new alarming data revealed the real crisis in access facing GP patients, with people in his constituency suffering as a result of the Conservative Party's handling of the NHS.

James recently met with the Chief Executive of NHS Sussex and senior staff to discuss the urgent need for investment in healthcare facilities across Seaford, Polegate, and Willingdon. The discussions focused on proposals for the Seaford Health Hub and improving healthcare services in Polegate and Willingdon. He also stressed the importance of replacing the outdated health centre on Dane Road in Seaford and called for financial support to fund the Polegate and Willingdon health hub, where two sites have planning permission but currently lack funding.

Following the meeting, James wrote to the Health Secretary, urging immediate action to support local GP services and ensure healthcare workers have the proper resources and facilities they need.

James said: "The Conservative Party's disastrous legacy on the NHS has left our area dealing with a postcode lottery, where we don't have enough GPs and local health services are struggling to cope. The current GP shortage is deeply concerning for patients, and people in Sussex are bearing the brunt of this crisis.

"I have heard countless stories from patients and their loved ones who are desperately worried that the care they need won't be there for them. We cannot allow this intolerable situation to continue. One of my key campaigns is to get local investment in health services to provide adequate facilities for health workers, no wonder there's a shortage of GPs when they don't have the space to work in.

“The government must bring forward a Budget to save the NHS this Autumn, ensuring our local health services get the support they need. I will keep pushing the government every step of the way until that is delivered.”

Notes: The data used by the BBC can be found here. And the BBC report here.