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Covid-19: Acquired Brain Injury — [Ms Angela Eagle in the Chair]
24 November 2020
Lead MP
Chris Bryant
Rhondda and Ogmore
Lab
Responding Minister
Helen Whately
Tags
Justice & Courts
Word Count: 3801
Other Contributors: 0
At a Glance
Chris Bryant raised concerns about covid-19: acquired brain injury — [ms angela eagle in the chair] in Westminster Hall. A government minister responded.
Key Requests to Government:
The MP asks for a national neurorehabilitation strategy, a mandatory system for commissioning neurorehabilitation, guarantees that all suspended or furloughed posts will be reinstated, and a coherent arrangement of community neurorehabilitation across the country. He also requests that neurorehabilitation be included in one of the 12 specialities protected during the pandemic.
How the Debate Unfolded
MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said:
Lead Contributor
The MP is concerned about the lack of a national neurorehabilitation strategy, inconsistent commissioning of services across regions, early discharges during the first lockdown leading to gaps in care, and the significant number of people affected by brain injuries each year. He mentions that around 800-900 lives are saved annually due to major trauma centres but many survivors come out with brain injuries. The MP also highlights issues such as families feeling pushed from pillar to post regarding access to rehabilitation services.
Government Response
Helen Whately
Government Response
Paid tribute to Chris Bryant for his work on acquired brain injury, recognized the impact of the pandemic on ABI care, highlighted the importance of neurorehabilitation services, acknowledged the need for better government coordination, discussed regional trauma networks and local commissioning challenges, committed to reviewing a national neurorehabilitation strategy.
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About Westminster Hall Debates
Westminster Hall debates are a chance for MPs to raise important issues affecting their constituents and get a response from a government minister. Unlike Prime Minister's Questions, these debates are more in-depth and collaborative. The MP who secured the debate speaks first, other MPs can contribute, and a minister responds with the government's position.