Scrutiny of health services called for by local Labour candidates
Author: Rosie Harvey Coggins
Waiting times of more than a year for local health services have been found in an investigation by the I newspaper into menopause treatment services. Wait times at Burton and Derby hospitals were 3rd highest in the country, with their average wait time being 479 days from GP referral. The NHS target time is 18 weeks.
Labour Party candidates from the Lichfield District have called for an improvement to these services.
Rosie Harvey-Coggins, Labour Party candidate for St. John’s, Lichfield said: “Getting early access to these services can be life changing for so many women. Almost one million women leave employment due to menopause symptoms. Negotiating with workplaces to implement menopause friendly working policies is part of the important work I have already undertaken but more needs to be done to ensure that women who are suffering symptoms including joint pain, depression and disturbed sleep can get the correct care.”
Sharon Taylor, Labour Party candidate for Boney Hay and Central, Burntwood says: “Every woman’s journey through menopause is a very personal one. It can be very isolating, affecting all aspects of your life, your mental health, your ability to work, friendships and relationships. But it doesn’t have to be like that. Menopause is now reasonably well understood, but sadly the information isn’t reaching the women who need it.
I have experienced the gap in menopause support myself with no NHS services locally, this is why with two other local women, we founded a monthly Menopause Support Group. It’s so important to know that you are not alone, to talk about what you are going through and to be signposted to the support you need.”
Women in Burntwood and the surrounding areas who are interested in attending the Burntwood Menopause Support Group can find out more details on Facebook at https://www.facebook/groups/burntwoodmenopausesupport
The Labour candidates have agreed to ask Lichfield District Council’s Overview & Scrutiny Committee to investigate how these life changing services can be improved.
Sources as follows:
https://inews.co.uk/women-menopause-appointments-2025-2275134
https://www.tuc.org.uk/menopause-work
