East Lancashire waiting lists drop by 19,161 as NHS data shows improvement
Hyndburn MP welcomes NHS progress and vows to continue fighting for local investment
New figures reveal a significant drop in waiting lists at East Lancashire Hospitals NHS Trust, with numbers falling by 19,161, as part of a wider national reduction of over 86,000 in November 2024.
Hyndburn Labour MP Sarah Smith welcomed the news, describing the data as evidence of progress in healthcare accessibility in the area.
Mrs Smith highlighted her commitment to working on behalf of residents to reduce waiting lists, while also focusing on the future of local services such as Accrington Victoria Hospital.
MP vows continued focus on NHS investments
Sarah Smith said: “This is excellent news and goes to show that this government means what it says.
“I was elected on a promise to reduce waiting lists, and I’m proud to have worked with the government and our local NHS services to make that happen.
“As your MP, I’ve got your back – and I’ll keep fighting to make sure NHS and care services here in Hyndburn and Haslingden are accessible and get the investment they deserve."
Accrington Victoria Hospital and local care
The Hyndburn MP also emphasised efforts to ensure the future of the Accrington Victoria Hospital site serves the needs of local residents, following concerns about previous neglect.
“The last government left our local Accrington Victoria hospital to rot – unsafe, riddled with asbestos, and a danger to staff and patients.
“Meanwhile, Lancashire County Council are looking at closing care homes. It is only this government that is serious about sorting out our local health and care services," Mrs Smith added.
The future of healthcare provision in the area remains a major focus, with Mrs Smith promising to keep pushing for accessible and well-invested services for the benefit of her constituents.