Devon MP takes action for Derriford Hospital funding

Devon MP Rebecca Smith is taking action by advocating for funding to secure the future of Derriford Hospital's new Urgent and Emergency Care Facility.

Concerned about the uncertainty surrounding the project, she met with the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care on 17 October.

This meeting aimed to push for a funding commitment after the Chancellor's announcement in July raised doubts about the facility's future.

The MP, who has received numerous letters from patients across South West Devon expressing their concerns, wants to ensure that the hospital receives the necessary support to improve patient care.

She is planning to demonstrate the strength of local opinion by leveraging a petition she launched on 24 September 2024, which has already gathered several hundred signatures and continues to gain momentum.

Rebecca emphasised the importance of the new facility, stating: "As I have outlined in my petition, the new facility is essential to treat the sickest patients more quickly, avoid unnecessary admissions, facilitate early discharge and improve outcomes."

Since her election, she has taken several proactive steps to advocate for Derriford, including:

1. Asking pressing questions in Parliament
2. Securing extensive press coverage, including features in the Tavistock Times Gazette, Moorlander, Plymouth Chronicle, and on the front page of the Plymouth Herald
3. Collaborating with local MPs across party lines to apply pressure for support

Rebecca remains committed to campaigning for the hospital and is urging local residents to sign her petition online.

You can sign the petition here: https://www.rebecca-smith.org.uk/campaigns/sign-rebeccas-petition-save-derriford-hospitals-new-urgent-and-emergency-care-facility