Could 140 Years of NHS Experience Be Lost at Just One Community Hospital Due to Cuts?

The recent bed cuts at West Mendip Hospital have led to a difficult and uncertain situation for the hospital’s staff. Eight highly experienced employees, whose combined years of dedication total around 140, are now facing job losses. These staff members have spent years caring for patients and supporting the community, making their potential departure a significant loss for the hospital and those they serve.

While the hospital is exploring redeployment options to retain these valuable staff members, nothing concrete has been arranged yet. No redundancies have been officially announced, but some staff are expressing concerns about the lack of future job security. Many of them have shared feelings of distrust towards the NHS, feeling unsure about the support or plans in place to help them through this transition.

This situation highlights the broader challenges facing our healthcare system—balancing resource limitations with the invaluable expertise of dedicated workers. The uncertainty and lack of clear communication leave staff and the community worried about the future of their local healthcare services. It is urgent that concrete plans and support are put in place to reassure and retain the experienced professionals who play such a vital role in patient care.

Somerset MPs, Councillors, Mayors, Friends / Carer groups and local residents are collectively urging NHS Somerset to pause and rethink their plans to cut inpatient beds at local community hospitals before they have a plan for the future of local health care. There was a strong call for clearer, more transparent communication regarding the proposed cuts to community hospitals and how these changes will impact local communities. ITV, BBC, and three local democracy reporters joined us to help share our message.

Have your say to safeguard our community hospitals: somicb.engagement@nhs.net