04/07/2026
RE TORBAY HOSPITAL
In a professional capacity, I have been asked a few times recently what my stance is on the current situation surrounding Torbay Hospital. This is it:
I don't work from hearsay or gossip, however convincing it may sound. I work from evidence, facts and transparency. That's how I've always approached complex issues and it's how I'll continue to approach this one.
A lack of communication creates uncertainty. Uncertainty creates rumours. Rumours create fear. That doesn't help the public or the people working within our NHS.
If significant changes are genuinely being proposed, then they should be evidenced. If they're not, then that should be made equally clear. Either way, people deserve openness and honesty.
I'd encourage anyone with an interest in this issue to read the available documents, ask difficult questions, keep a paper trail and distinguish clearly between what is fact and what is speculation. There is nothing wrong with challenging organisations. In fact, it's often necessary. But those challenges should be based on evidence wherever possible.
One sentence can completely change public perception. Saying "Pathology is closing" is very different from saying "There are discussions about relocating pathology services." Precision matters, especially when people's health and livelihoods are involved.
I also believe that every meeting relating to significant public decisions should be properly recorded. Unanswered questions should be noted, followed up and, where appropriate, shared publicly. Transparency builds trust.
If someone doesn't answer a question, there are usually only two possibilities. They don't know the answer, in which case they should find out or direct you to someone who does. Or they do know the answer but choose not to answer. If that's the case, it's very reasonable to ask why.
This isn't about taking sides. It's about making sure that public debate is based on evidence, openness, accountability and respect for the people who are ultimately affected.
I will always challenge where I believe challenge is needed, but I'll do so fairly, proportionately and in pursuit of the truth.
I challenge, but only for the good of all.
Have a great weekend 😊💕
