News

Calls for review of paediatric services

Published

8 years ago

November 4, 2016

Withybush Hospital: Conservative AM calls for urgent review into paediatrics

CALLS for an urgent review of paediatric services at Withybush Hospital have been made by a local Welsh Conservative AM.

The calls by Preseli Pembrokeshire AM Paul Davies came as Hywel Dda University Health Board confirmed that it faces ‘renewed and significant workforce challenges at a consultant level’.

Mr Davies said that a review should be undertaken with a view to reinstating 24 hour paediatric services at Withybush. He added that the downgrade to a 12 hour service had been a ‘disaster for the people of Pembrokeshire’.

The latest developments at Withybush Hospital have been triggered by the retirement of a Consultant Paediatrician, and another who is taking maternity leave.

Mr Davies raised the issue in the Assembly with the Cabinet Secretary for Health after tabling an ‘urgent question’.

Speaking outside the chamber, Mr Davies said: “I have long warned that downgrading services would be catastrophic – not just for local services, but for recruitment generally.

“My worst fears have now been borne out, and for the minister to question the motives of a local member in raising these concerns is totally unacceptable.

“It is clear that the decision to move to a 12 hour service has been an unmitigated disaster for the people of Pembrokeshire. That’s why I’m calling for a commitment to reviewing paediatric services at Withybush Hospital, with a view to restoring a 24 hour service.”

Mr Davies added: “When the original changes were made, I warned that downgrading paediatrics would undermine the sustainability of remaining services.

“It’s hard enough to recruit at a consultant level in the Welsh NHS, but the Health Board itself recognises that there is a ‘particular problem’ here in Pembrokeshire.

“That’s why we need to see clear reassurances from the Cabinet Secretary that these services are secure, and in the short term that the government are taking steps to help the Health Board to overcome some of the recruitment challenges they face.”

Responding to Mr Davies’ calls for an urgent review, Mid and West Wales Labour AM Eluned Morgan said: “Paul Davies and the Tories should stop talking down the incredible service that staff at Withybush Hospital give.”

Ms Morgan added: “He may not have noticed, but there is already an issue with specialist medical recruitment in West Wales, and his constant scare-mongering about the safety of the service will do nothing to attract staff to work in Withybush, nor will it give confidence to patients who need treatment in the hospital.

“I am very aware of the concerns of local patients over paediatric services. But the fact is the Health Board is now much more focused on dealing with issues of recruitment as they arise.

“I’m not sure what an ‘urgent review’ would tell us that we don’t already know. Our priority should be to ensure that we attract specialist medical staff to West Wales to sustain and develop care for the future. That is the same position my Labour colleagues have been lobbying for locally for the last few years.

“The Tories don’t have all the answers; it was not that long ago that Labour had to lobby the UK Tory Government to ensure that immigration controls were relaxed so that 10 foreign doctors could be recruited to keep A&E at Withybush open.

“I am in regular discussion with the Health Board about securing local services. I’ll continue to work to ensure we get the right balance of care that works for the people of Pembrokeshire and the wider Hywel Dda area.”

Also in response to the comments made by Mr Davies, a Welsh Government spokesperson said: “The Cabinet Secretary made it clear in the Chamber that he was disappointed that the factual evidence available, alongside the very best clinical advice about the service model is being wilfully ignored.

“The review by the Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health confirms that the new service model has improved outcomes for women and their babies. Denying this is the case creates a climate of fear and uncertainty. This is wholly unnecessary and does a real disservice to the NHS staff providing care to people and families at Withybush.

“Hywel Dda University Health Board is committed to maintaining the paediatric ambulatory care unit at Withybush hospital. Services are available from 10am to 10pm, seven days a week, and local families are being assured that they can continue to access services as they do now and do not need to make changes in how they access care.”

Crime

Begelly man sentenced for carrying metal bar during nightclub fight

Published

2 hours ago

December 23, 2024

Sarah-Jane Absalom

A MAN has been sentenced after approaching a Pembrokeshire nightclub armed with a metre-long metal bar.

Just after 2:30am on July 21, police were called to Main Street, Pembroke, following reports of a large fight involving around 100 people outside ‘Out’ nightclub.

Crown Prosecutor Nia James told Haverfordwest magistrates this week: “Officers were told it was a large fight. They saw Walter Probert, 27, march purposefully towards a parked van.

“The van’s lights were on, and they saw the defendant pull out a long, green metal pole. He took ten steps back towards the nightclub and transferred the pole from one hand to the other.”

Another man approached Probert, removed the pole from his hands, and placed it inside the van.

“Because of the manner in which the pole was used by the defendant, it became an offensive weapon,” added Ms James.

CCTV footage of the incident was shown to magistrates.

Probation officer Julie Norman said Probert had no recollection of the incident.

“He doesn’t remember what he was doing, but he accepts everything that has been said. He was very drunk,” she said.

“He was brought up in the gypsy travelling community and doesn’t have an alcohol issue; he’s just a social drinker. He’s thankful to his friend who took the pole and placed it back inside the van.”

Probert, of the Caravan Site, Kingsmoor Common, Begelly, pleaded guilty to possessing an offensive weapon in a public place. He was represented in court by Mr Tom Lloyd.

“No threats were made by the defendant when he picked it up, but it was a stupid decision,” said Mr Lloyd. “As soon as he was challenged and asked what he was doing, he ceased.”

Probert was sentenced to a 12-month community order, requiring him to carry out 150 hours of unpaid work. He was also ordered to pay £85 costs and a £114 court surcharge. Magistrates imposed a destruction order on the metal bar.

Charity

Set a New Year Challenge and explore Pembrokeshire for animals in 2025

Published

4 hours ago

December 23, 2024

Tom Sinclair

ANIMAL lovers in Pembrokeshire looking to set an exciting goal for 2025 can now sign up for the RSPCA’s fundraising challenges, including the iconic Tour of Pembrokeshire on 24 May 2025.

From scenic bike rides to adrenaline-fueled adventures, the RSPCA is encouraging participants to embrace a challenge that not only benefits their health but also helps animals in need.

Abi Mustard, Events Manager at the RSPCA, said: “If you’re looking for a unique challenge for the New Year, the Tour of Pembrokeshire offers a perfect blend of stunning coastal views, physical endurance, and the chance to make a meaningful impact on animal welfare.”

The Tour of Pembrokeshire is renowned for showcasing some of the most breathtaking routes in Wales, attracting cyclists of all abilities. Participants will navigate challenging climbs, rolling hills, and picturesque landscapes, all while raising crucial funds for the RSPCA’s work in rescuing, rehabilitating, and rehoming animals across Wales.

Abi added: “Every mile cycled and every pound raised makes a difference. You’ll not only experience the beauty of Pembrokeshire but also become part of a dedicated team working to stop animal cruelty and neglect.”

Why Join the RSPCA Tour of Pembrokeshire Challenge?

Personalised support from the RSPCA events team
RSPCA branded cycling jersey once fundraising reaches £50
Access to a dedicated events Facebook group for tips and encouragement
Cheering packs for family and friends on event day

More RSPCA Challenges Across Wales in 2025

Chepstow Half Marathon: 26 January
ABP Newport Wales Marathon: 13 April
Gower Peninsula Challenge: 19–20 July
Snowdon Triple: 18–19 August
Cardiff Half Marathon: 5 October

Whether you’re an experienced cyclist or a first-time fundraiser, the Tour of Pembrokeshire offers an unforgettable experience with a purpose.

To sign up or request a fundraising pack, visit the RSPCA website today and start your journey towards making a difference—for yourself and for animals in need.

Together, let’s make 2025 a year of action, compassion, and achievement.

News

Police close Westfield Pill Bridge over concerns for person’s welfare

Published

4 hours ago

December 23, 2024

Tom Sinclair

FEARS for a person’s safety led police to close Westfield Pill Bridge, near Neyland.

The bridge, on the A477 between Honeyborough roundabout and the Cleddau Bridge, was shut for just over an hour, with drivers advised to seek alternative routes.

The incident took place on Friday evening and was concluded when the person was located safe and well.

A Dyfed-Powys Police spokesperson said: “Dyfed-Powys Police received a call for a concern for the welfare of an individual on Westfield Pill Bridge at around 7:30pm on Friday, December 20.

“The road was closed and reopened at around 8:40pm.

“The individual was located safe and well.”

This is not the first time such an incident has led to a bridge closure.

There have been several previous similar incidents, including on Friday, October 4, 2024, the Cleddau Bridge was closed for about an hour following a call reporting a welfare concern. The closure occurred at around 4:45pm, and the bridge reopened at 5:45pm.

The person involved was taken to the hospital for treatment.

In June, a multi–agency rescue operation unfolded at Neyland Marina after a youth jumped approximately 40 metres from Westfield Bridge into the water below.

Emergency services, including crews from Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service (MAWWFRS) stations in Haverfordwest, Milford Haven, Pembroke Dock, and Carmarthen, were swiftly dispatched to the scene.

According to a spokesperson for MAWWFRS, members of the public were instrumental in rescuing the youth before the arrival of the emergency crews.