Welsh Lib Dems call for more Community nurses

3.01.11pm UTC (GMT +0000) Wed 12th Dec 2007

Nurse care in the community

Welsh Liberal Democrat Health Spokesperson Jenny Randerson will today call for more investment in community-based nurses, to ease the burden on overstretched hospitals and offer specialist healthcare where it is needed.

Mrs Randerson said: "Nurses keep the NHS running, but they are often undervalued. Community-based specialists such as neo-natal nurses provide a vital service, but there simply aren't enough of them to meet minimum standards. Not one neo-natal unit in Wales operate to the recommended minimum nursing levels.

"Specialist nurses can work closely with GPs to tackle conditions such as Diabetes in the community. Nobody wants to go to hospital unless it is absolutely necessary.

"Under the previous Labour government, numbers of district nurses went down. I'm pleased the Government is investing in school nurses, but more must be done to improve community healthcare. If Labour and Plaid are serious about making Wales healthier, they must inject some funding into this undervalued sector."

Notes/Nodiadau:

The National Assembly for Wales:

1. Recognises the important contribution of specialist Nurses and allied professions such as physiotherapists to a healthier Wales.

2. Calls for a greater emphasis on the training and appointment of community-based Nurses to ensure more people can be treated in their community without the need to attend hospital.

NDM3836

Kirsty Williams (Brecon and Radnorshire)

Add as new point at end of Motion:

Notes the 27% shortfall in neo-natal nurses required to meet recommended minimum standards in Wales, and recognises the vital role community neonatal nurses have in helping parents make the transition from hospital to home.

Ends/Diwedd