Advocating for Mental Health Reform at the Lib Dem Conference 2025
I am here at the Bournemouth 2025 Liberal Democrat Conference, proud to be part of the committee leading a policy consultation on mental health. Our goal is to develop a comprehensive, evidence-led approach that addresses the urgent needs of our communities. The current state of mental health in the UK is deeply concerning. Suicide rates…
Read MoreCould 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…
Read MoreBBC Radio Poses Searching Questions About the Future of Local Community Hospitals
Click on the image to hear my interview with Charlie from BBC Somerset.[Please note the external noises were not live on the radio, they are from my boisterous puppy as I captured the recording.]
Read MoreQuestions for NHS Somerset on behalf of residents
Here are my questions, on behalf of the residents I represent, for tomorrow’s Adults and Health scrutiny committee at Somerset Council. I plan to ask them unless they have already been addressed (in other questions asked) or in the discussion around NHS Somerset’s presentation. When I was elected, I made it clear that I am…
Read MoreCall for Clarity Before the Cuts
Sarah Dyke MP, Somerset Councillors, Mayors, Glastonbury, Street, Wells Councillors, Hospital League of Friends, and residents are collectively urging NHS Somerset to pause and rethink their plans. 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…
Read MoreJoin a Call for Transparency and Public Engagement for NHS Plans for Community Hospitals
When: Tuesday August 19th, 12.30pmWhere: West Mendip Hospital, Glastonbury Scheduled from 12:30 PM to 2:00 PM, the event will convene community, local MPs, and council representatives who are calling for clarity from NHS Somerset about recent developments. What has led to this? These developments have led to widespread public concern, with multiple MPs and local…
Read MoreHarnessing Community and Creativity: The Future Potential of The Amulet in Shepton Mallet
I was delighted to attend the inaugural business and arts networking event at the Amulet this morning, organised by the dedicated group working to revitalise the building and ensure its future. It was a great opportunity to connect and support their inspiring efforts. Here is what I said: I stand here today with a passion…
Read MoreMonthly round up of Somerset Council news
‘Together for West Somerset Appeal’ Somerset Council gives financial support Somerset Council has contributed £50,000 to the Together for West Somerset Appeal launched by Somerset Community Foundation to support those affected by the July 17th Exmoor coach tragedy. The fund, guided by partners including NHS, local schools, and national agencies, aims to provide immediate and…
Read MoreBeyond the Festival: Somerset Life Dives Deep into the Spirit of Pilton Village
Often, in the big narrative of the festival, Pilton, the village, and its story take a back seat. But that shouldn’t be the case. For me, Pilton and Glastonbury Festival are truly inseparable—one creates the other, and vice versa. There’s an unmistakable creativity, ingenuity, and independent spirit that drives something so unique and extraordinary in…
Read MoreThe future of Somerset Community Hospitals
In recent weeks, the future of community hospital beds across Somerset has become a major concern for residents, local councils, and health advocates. Plans proposed by NHS Somerset Foundation Trust suggest significant reductions and relocations of inpatient beds at facilities including West Mendip Hospital in Glastonbury, Frome Community Hospital, and other sites. These changes are…
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