Having had many constituents contact me about the potential cut to the Metastatic Cancer Nurse role in the Maelor Hospital, I wrote to Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board (BCUHB) earlier this month to raise my concerns. In their response, which I received a few days ago, they outlined that they would carry on funding this role for a further three months. However, this does not secure the long-term future of the post.
As a former nurse who returned to the wards during the pandemic, I know how hard our NHS staff work. Even more so, I fully understand and appreciate the vital support and guidance these metastatic nurses provide to patients during some of the most difficult times. With Welsh cancer waiting times in 2023 revealed as the worst year on record and only 52.9% of patients starting treatment within two months of a diagnosis – well below the 75% target - cancer patients are continually being let down by the Welsh Government. It is deeply troubling that this cut is being considered by the Health Board due to financial challenges.
The Welsh Government, who are responsible for our NHS, consistently argues that they do not receive enough money from the UK Government to sufficiently fund health services in Wales. This is simply untrue. The Welsh Government has the money available and in fact, receives £1.20 for every £1 spent per person in England. Yet, the Welsh Government choose to spend only £1.05 per person.
Despite receiving £18billion a year from the UK Government to run Wales and an additional £170million in the Chancellor’s Spring Statement, the Welsh Government neglects our health services. Instead, they allocate £32million to a 20mph policy, £52million to Cardiff airport and £120million to increase Senedd members.
I have written to the Minister for Health and Social Care to press for more funding to be provided by the Welsh Government to ensure that the Metastatic Cancer Nurse remains in post permanently so that they can continue providing invaluable support to patients in Wrexham. In addition, I will be exploring other avenues to make sure that Wrexham patients do not miss out on this vital lifeline. I will keep residents updated via my website and social media.