MP - 'Real investment needed for NHS'

Oldham West and Royton MP Jim McMahon at the Royal Oldham Hospital yesterday

Oldham West and Royton MP Jim McMahon made sure he celebrated the NHS's 70th birthday by spending the day at Royal Oldham Hospital with staff, patients and volunteers.

Yesterday marked 70 years of the National Health Service.

It has transformed the health and wellbeing of the nation and become the envy of the world. 

Times have changed since the NHS first opened its doors 70 years ago, with advancements in pharmaceuticals, diagnostic and procedures which have all contributed to people living longer.

The challenges facing it today are urgent, however, particularly with regard to support for mental health and social care.

Mr McMahon said: “Our NHS is central to community life and the envy of many.

"It faces serious pressures and it’s vital it sees real investment and joined up investment in community services too.

“The NHS was born of a vision of a state which provided decent public services and a net which caught people when they needed it.

"We need real investment if it’s to make another 70 years and continue to care for us all.”

Meanwhile, Oldham's NHS 70th birthday celebrations have got under way with a shout, a cheer and the odd cry at the Shaw Children’s Centre.

Do you have a story for us? Want to tell us about something going on in and around Oldham? Let us know by emailing news@oldham-chronicle.co.uk , calling our Oldham-based newsroom on 0161 633 2121 , tweeting us @oldhamchronicle or messaging us through our Facebook page. All contact will be treated in confidence.