Julian Knight MP has welcomed the Prime Minister’s commitment to support good management in Solihull’s local NHS following progress in outcomes for patients.
After a long period of financial difficulty the Heart of England NHS Foundation Trust (HEFT), is preparing to merge with University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust (UHB). HEFT currently runs Solihull Hospital, as well as several other local hospitals and community services. Previous managers at HEFT had run up a deficit of £29.5 million in the five months to October 2015 until the UHB leadership took over the management.
Julian recently met with the Minister to seek much needed progress in the merger process, as well as obtain assurances about the provision of services across Solihull; certainty for the future of Solihull Hospital; and improving outcomes and experiences for patients.
Speaking after Prime Minister’s Questions, Julian Knight said:
“The improvements in outcomes at the Heart of England Trust is testament to the dedication and professionalism of our NHS staff, and the leadership shown by Dame Julie Moore and Jacqui Smith.
“I am delighted to have been able to work with the new management team, Minsters and the Prime Minister to support our life-saving, local services.”
In response to his question in the House of Commons, Theresa May said:
“I am very happy to join him and pay tribute to the work that has been undertaken by University Hospitals Birmingham in support of Heart of England Foundation Trust. We do want to see strong management across the health service.
“I understand there are still a number of practical and financial issues to resolve in this issue and I would encourage all of those involved to make progress on this important matter. I congratulate those NHS staff who have seen that improvement and worked hard to ensure that improvement takes place.”