Call for statement on St Andrews

Cllr Sally Keeble, WNC Labour Group Leader, last night called on the Council Leader for a statement on the Council's dealings with St Andrews.

Following the closure of parts of the hospital and concerns about its future, she asked Cllr Mark Arnull at the most recent Council meeting (27 November) to set out what discussions had taken place and thought given to the care and employment consequences of changes at the hospital.

In particular she asked:

• What thought had been given to ensuring there were provisions locally if patients discharged from St Andrews were not able – or did not want – to return to their home authorities elsewhere in the UK.

• What the impact would be on the many people employed at St Andrews and what help could be provided for them to find alternative jobs.

“St Andrews is an iconic institution in Northampton, and a national provision,” she said. “The children’s and dementia care services have closed. Sadly also the much-loved Workbridge is scheduled to close. Concerns have also been raised about the future of the institution which many think is ‘too big to fail.’

“It’s important the Council has plans in place, should the unthinkable happen, to support people with the consequences.”

Council Leader Cllr Mark Arnull agreed he would give a written response.

Workbridge - the much-loved centre at St Andrews now scheduled for closure