Residents of Ilfracombe are expressing frustration over the decline of local health services, fearing that the town has been overlooked in terms of healthcare provision. During a recent meeting organized by the League of Friends of the Tyrrell Hospital, community members called for the establishment of a new community hospital, the reinstatement of the minor injuries unit (MIU), and a more targeted approach to health funding in areas facing significant deprivation. The meeting highlighted pressing issues, including service closures, inadequate early years funding, reduced pharmacy access, and a shortage of social housing.
The discussion featured a panel of six healthcare professionals and elected representatives who responded to numerous concerns regarding failed funding bids aimed at improving health services in Ilfracombe. Notably, the town ranks in the lowest 3% for health deprivation in England, which amplifies the urgency for action.
Community Anger Over Service Cuts
The recent provisional closure of the MIU at the Tyrrell Hospital by Devon’s Integrated Care Board (ICB) triggered particular outrage among residents, especially given the absence of an ICB representative at the meeting. According to Terry Elliott of the League of Friends, the gathering underscored widespread dissatisfaction with the lack of healthcare support for the town, encompassing both physical and mental health services.
Elliott emphasized the necessity for collaboration among the ICB, Devon County Council, and local NHS leaders: “Health funding has to be channelled to the most deprived areas – and not just sprinkled around every single town in the county.”
Calls for a New Community Hospital
Gloria Satchwell, chair of the League of Friends, articulated a clear demand for a modern community hospital. She stated, “We need a modern purpose-built community hospital – one that can bring health services closer to the people and tackle health inequality. It’s time for action.”
During the meeting, Andrea Beacham, a representative from the One Northern Devon partnership, shared two initiatives aimed at addressing health disparities. The NHS Core20 programme is designed to reduce health inequality, while the Coastal Navigators’ Network focuses on addressing health challenges in coastal towns like Ilfracombe.
Phil Harris, a community development lead for the mental health charity Mind, acknowledged the need for increased funding but also highlighted the town’s strong sense of community. He suggested that an approach known as “asset-based community development” could help address some local challenges by fostering collaboration between residents and charities.
Local officials also voiced their concerns. Frank Biederman, a Devon county councillor, pointed out that the forthcoming reorganization of councils into unitary authorities might provide an opportunity to direct more funding to rural and coastal areas like Ilfracombe. Meanwhile, Sara Wilson, Ilfracombe’s county councillor, stressed the importance of enhancing early years education across the county, despite recent investments in special educational needs.
Elliott reiterated the urgent need for investment in health services, describing the stark contrast between Ilfracombe and other communities that have received better healthcare facilities. “There has been investment in South Molton, Bideford and Tiverton hospitals, so why not Ilfracombe?” he asked.
He pointed out the outdated condition of the Tyrrell Hospital, which has not seen significant investment for years. “New modern equipment won’t fit in the current spaces and it can’t accommodate certain clinics because of this,” he noted.
As the community continues to advocate for better health services, the urgency for action remains clear. Residents are determined to ensure that Ilfracombe receives the support it requires to address its health challenges effectively.
