Readers disagree that children’s and maternity move will offer benefits

Rochdale Infirmary

Rochdale Online readers have aired their views regarding the transfer of impatient maternity and children’s services from the Rochdale Infirmary to the Royal Oldham Hospital.

Earlier this week we reported that although health bosses empathise with concerned mothers and families about the move, they are urging them to see the bigger picture and the benefits the move to Oldham will bring.

We asked our Facebook followers if they agreed that patients will benefit from the transfer of services.

So far 87 people have voted ‘no’ they don’t agree that there will be benefits, whilst 3 people voted ‘yes’ they do agree there will be benefits.

One voter, Dobir Miah, said: “The health bosses have got it wrong.

“They have not listened to the people; they have let the people of Rochdale down.

“We have been deceived and have lost vital services. How can these people sleep at night? Knowing that they have put people at risk?

“A real shame for Rochdale and it's surrounding [areas].

“Let's hope these idiots don't need any treatment.

“There will be no one born in our borough, no A&E and lack of services. Shame on them...”

Doreen Bamford added: “How can cutting and moving services help to improve what care Rochdale people get?

“Soon this town will be a ghost town, not much left in it now.”

Louise Kershaw said: “Oldham is too far away.

“Its alright presuming everyone can drive but the fact is they can’t.

“Its two bus rides there and back and if you have a sick child that’s too much to bare.

“Oldham doesn’t have a good reputation within the community and people have very little faith in the place.

“It’s all very worrying.

“A town the size of Rochdale and Heywood needs its own children’s and maternity services.

“Why is no one listening?”

Although 3 votes were received to say that readers agreed there will be benefits no comments were posted.

To vote in the poll visit: http://www.facebook.com/home.php#!/rochdaleonlinenews 

• http://www.rochdaleonline.co.uk/news-features/2/news-headlines/57707/transfer-of-services-in-bid-to-make-it-better
• http://www.rochdaleonline.co.uk/news-features/2/news-headlines/57558/infirmarys-inpatient-maternity-and-childrens-services-prepare-for-move