Wrexham’s MP launches petition amid concerns over potential cuts to Metastatic Cancer Nurse role

Wrexham’s Member of Parliament has launched a petition amid concerns about a potential cut to the Metastatic Cancer Nurse position at the Wrexham Maelor Hospital.

Sarah Atherton MP has written to Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board (BCUHB) after being contacted “by a large number” of constituents concerned about the future of the role.

Earlier this month the Senedd was told that the “health board had indicated that a metastatic breast cancer nurse position that has been vacant since last summer is now under review due to financial constraints.”

The Senedd was also told that the specialist nurse positions at the hospital support patients with metastatic breast or colorectal cancer.

In a response to Ms Atherton the Health Board confirmed that this post is being funded for a further three months whilst an evaluation is carried out on the service.

After this, the Health Board will decide on the permanent funding for the post.

Ms Atherton has now raised concerns that the cut could be made at a time when cancer waiting times in North Wales are struggling to reach the 75 per cent target.

Ms Atherton also recently wrote 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 in Wrexham remains in post and permanently funded so that they can continue to provide invaluable support to local patients.

Sarah Atherton MP commented: “As a former nurse, I know first-hand the crucial role Metastatic Cancer Nurses play in providing support and guidance to patients and their families battling cancer.

“It deeply concerns me and many constituents to hear of the potential cut to the Metastatic Cancer Nurse position in Wrexham.

“It’s worrying that despite receiving substantial funding from the UK Government, the Welsh Government, which is responsible for running the Welsh NHS, continues to choose to waste money on vanity projects.

“What residents need is a government that prioritises funding our NHS health over unnecessary expenditures such as £34million on the 20mph speed limit, £120million on more Senedd members, and handing £19,200 per year to illegal migrants coming to Wales.

“I have launched a petition in order to send a strong message on behalf of the women of Wrexham to save Wrexham’s Metastatic Cancer Nurse, and I urge you to join me in this fight.”

You can view the petition here.