A FORUM on the future of the NHS drew an audience of nearly 100 people to Crackington Haven, Bude on Saturday (February 4).

Speakers Dr Graham Garrod, GP; Christine Dayus, UNISON organiser; Dr Martin Morse, retired NHS clinical director; and Baroness Judith Jolly, Liberal Democrat member of the House of Lords discussed the Health and Social Care Bill, which proposes a major restructuring of the NHS.

The discussion was moderated by Janey Comber, a member of Just Desserts, which organised the meeting.

Dr Garrod said the NHS faces a crisis and needs change and a re-focus. NHS funding has increased and the population is ageing.

He initially had great hopes for the bill, but "It's got incredibly complicated and hard for anyone to follow" and the Royal College of General Practitioners now oppose it. However, he said he has to work with the changes it brings.

He is keen to communicate better with the hospitals, and his main hopes are to continue to maintain standards and provide good service. He fears that the bill may increase management rather than decrease it.

See this week's edition of the 'Post' for the full report, and a round up of the area news and sport.