26-04-2025
Letter: Powys Health Board refuses to listen to the public
We are rapidly running out of time to restore Llanidloes Hospital to its core role of providing medical care for the local community.
Last autumn, Powys Teaching Health Board (PTHB) implemented what they described as a temporary (six-month) policy of removing medical services at the site in order to address serious problems of bed-blocking in Welsh hospitals, by using the hospital as a de facto care home.
This was done despite almost universal opposition to the plans from all sections of the community.
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All political parties, current and previous health staff including GPs, and many others spoke passionately and knowledgeably about why this 'temporary' repurposing was unwanted and inappropriate.
PTHB essentially refused to listen.
The Welsh Government replaced Community Health Councils with the current body, Llais.
Llais is supposed to have its finger on the pulse of the community relating to health and care matters, and ensure that PTHB is appropriately responsive to local needs and wishes.
Unfortunately, there was no evidence during last year's 'consultations' that Llais had sought or heard any representation from the local community.
And now, when they should be consulting with the public in south Montgomeryshire to ensure that their voice is given due weight, there is more silence.
If you live within the catchment affected by the presence (or absence) of the hospital in Llanidloes, and have a view on the matter, please contact governance@ and/or as soon as possible.
