The question session focused on the pressing issue of Stepping Hill Hospital's repair needs in Stockport, brought forth by Lisa Smart, MP for Hazel Grove. The debate highlighted the challenges faced by the hospital, including a significant backlog of repairs threatening patient care.
Chronological Breakdown:
- Lisa Smart's Inquiry:
- Primary Question: She inquired about the governmental plans to fund repairs at Stepping Hill hospital.
- Statistics Presented: Mentioned a £134 million repairs backlog and a £19.9 million significant risk backlog impacting patient services.
Current year's funding allocated to Stepping Hill hospital for outpatient facility replacement.
- Minister's Response:
- Capital Funding Commitment: Acknowledged ongoing support with a recent allocation of £11.5 million for outpatient facility replacement.
- Future Plans: Highlighted a broader funding grant of over £4 billion for integrated care boards and a £750 million estate safety fund, emphasizing the government's commitment to improving healthcare infrastructure.
- Personal Commitment: Expressed willingness to visit the hospital to assess the situation firsthand.
Reported repairs backlog at Stepping Hill hospital.
- Karin Smyth's Contextual Input:
- Comparison to Past Government: Criticized previous governments for the current state of healthcare estates.
- Future Commitments: Assured a projected £1 billion allocation for critical backlogs and maintenance, and mentioned ongoing development of a comprehensive 10-year capital plan.
Debate Type Specifics: This question session was typical of Parliament’s role in holding the government accountable for local constituency concerns, showcasing collaborative efforts across party lines.
Significant risk backlog affecting patient care at the hospital.
General funding for integrated care boards to prioritize capital projects.
Estate safety fund capturing the poorest quality hospitals for next year's initiatives.
Allocated for critical backlogs and future maintenance projects next year.
Outcome
The session concluded with a reinforced governmental pledge toward hospital repairs and infrastructure improvement in Stepping Hill, while also showcasing cross-party cooperation in addressing public health concerns. The highlighted statistics and commitments underscored the government's attention to healthcare infrastructure, though the definitive timeline for resolving the backlog remains under scrutiny.
Key Contributions
Raised concerns about Stepping Hill's significant £134 million repairs backlog.
Acknowledged systemic estate issues from prior government administrations.
All content derived from official parliamentary records