SAM Rowlands, Member of the Welsh Parliament for North Wales, remains concerned over lack of permanent funding for a specialist cancer nurse in Wrexham.
Wrexham MP, Sarah Atherton, feared for the future of the Metastatic Cancer Nurse at Wrexham Maelor because of the Welsh Labour Government’s underfunding and started a petition calling for the post to be retained. Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board have since announced the position has been extended until March 2025.
Mr Rowlands, Shadow Minister for Health said: “I am obviously delighted to hear that funding has been found for this very important position at Wrexham Maelor Hospital but like Ms Atherton I still remain very concerned that the role still remains under threat.
“The Metastatic Cancer Nurse has a really extremely important role providing support to cancer patients and their families and these days where we hear of more and more delays for patients in North Wales it is vital to keep that post.
“The Welsh Government is responsible for running the NHS in Wales and receives £1.20 for every £1 spent per person on healthcare in England. However, last year, the Welsh Government spent only £1.05 per person meanwhile our NHS continues to struggle.
“I would urge people to sign the petition and keep the pressure on the health board and the Welsh Government.”
Ms Atherton, a former nurse, said: “I know how vital the support provided by specialist Metastatic Cancer Nurses is to cancer patients and their families at the most difficult of times. The incredible nurse at Wrexham works with patients in co-ordinating their treatment and care, provides emotional and psychological support for cancer patients and is a direct point of contact for any questions or concerns.
“While I appreciate BCUHB’s recognition of the strength of feeling on this issue, this only offers short-term relief. The indispensability of this role warrants permanent funding, sparing it from recurring uncertainties.“
“I’m calling on everyone to sign and share my petition. Add your voice in the fight for a permanently funded, full-time Metastatic Cancer Nurse to remain at Wrexham Maelor Hospital.”
To access the petition go to Save Wrexham’s Metastatic Cancer Nurse.
