Commons Sense

Hansard-based summaries and metrics

<-- Back to petitions

Privatisation of York Hospital’s Emergency Department

P002654 - 24 March 2021

Presentations: 1
Presenters: 1
View full transcript on Parliament.uk -->

At a Glance

This petition concerning privatisation of york hospital’s emergency department was presented to Parliament once by 1 MP.

Issue Summary

The petition concerns the opposition to the privatisation of the minor injuries unit in York Hospital’s emergency department, which is currently proposed to be outsourced to a private company called Vocare.

Action Requested

The petitioners request that the Government recognise the proposal as ill-conceived and poorly timed, prevent the outsourcing to the private sector, and revise these plans only after publishing its White Paper and subsequent Bill on NHS reorganisation.

Key Facts

  • 14,191 residents of York Central signed the petition.
  • The proposal is by Vocare, a profit-making subsidiary of Totally Plc.
  • The Royal College of Emergency Medicine states that the emergency department should control its front door.
  • Clinical governance has not adequately considered patient pathways, clinical networks, and staff supervision.
  • The Health Secretary expects to bring forward a White Paper on NHS reorganisation.

Presentation Timeline

MPs presented this petition on the following dates. Each card shows the presenters and any recorded remarks.

Presented
24 March 2021
Rachael Maskell Labour (Co-op)
York Central
I rise to present this petition on the privatisation of York Hospital’s emergency department on behalf of my constituents in York Central. When staff working in York Hospital’s emergency department were informed that Vocare—a profit-making subsidiary of Totally Plc—wanted to take over the running of the minor injuries unit, they were deeply disturbed, not least as we are in the midst of a pandemic, in which the staff have gone to extraordinary lengths to serve my community. I therefore thank the 14,191 residents of York who in just three weeks signed a petition online and in person to state clearly that their minor injuries unit must stay in the NHS—an incredible response. I am glad that intense discussions have ensued and trust that our NHS will remain in public hands. The petition states:
▸ Assessment & feedback
Summary accuracy