Parishioners in demo to save London hospital
Parishioners from several churches joined a massive demonstration on Saturday, against healthcare cuts which threaten to close accident and emergency and maternity wards at the Whittington Hospital in north London.
More than 5,000 people took part in the protest, including politicians from all mainstream parties, patients, and live musicians including Red Jen Matthias’ band and The Whittington Wildcats jazz band. There were famous faces from the stage as well, as actors Bill Paterson and Juliet Stevenson holding placards.
Experts at the British Medical Association believe the plans, part of a £500million funding cut to London’s hospitals, “do not hold up to
scrutiny” and threaten to “dismember” the Whittington.
The NHS Trust in Islington insist the cuts will not compromise patients, who will instead be treated at the Royal Free in Hampstead or in newly built GP health centres.
But a parishioner from St Mellitus Catholic Church in Tollington Park, said: "The BMA have said that the proposed cuts could puts lives at risk. We are hoping and praying that the Whittington can be saved."