Dr Neil Shastri-Hurst MP, Member of Parliament for Solihull West & Shirley and former trauma surgeon, is calling for enhanced Emergency Department (ED) services in Solihull.
In November 2024, Neil wrote to the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care to ask for his support in securing more provision for healthcare within the Solihull Borough. Throughout the General Election campaign, Neil had numerous conversations with residents who expressed deep concern about local provisions, especially regarding ED services.
The letter explained that in the most recent quarter, there was an average of 14% more attendees at EDs than 10 years ago, meaning that residents are experiencing longer waiting times. It noted that in August 2024, 65.4% of patients at Birmingham and Solihull ICB spent less than four hours in major A&E departments, which is markedly below the NHS’ target of 95%. With the Government’s planning reforms likely to increase the Borough’s population size, and exacerbate demand, adequate healthcare infrastructure must be put in place to support a growing population.
Neil has secured a meeting with the Chair of the Birmingham and Solihull Integrated Care Board to discuss the current healthcare provisions. He has also asked the Secretary of State for Health to meet with him so he can outline the urgent need for better provision within the Solihull Borough.
Additionally, Neil launched a petition for Solihull A&E, in order for constituents to show their support for this important campaign.