Coalition cuts evident at my hospital visit

Never was I more glad of the NHS than earlier this month, when I needed an ambulance to take me to hospital for what turned out to be a rare and unusual procedure.

The skills of the consultant, anaesthetists, registrars and doctors were used to the full that day and I'm eternally grateful.

Each and every one of the staff involved contributed towards my current state of recovery, including the cleaners who were set to do 15 shifts in a row to cover for emergency absences.

The additional stress that was placed on all the valuable and skilled staff was exacerbated by the fact they were trying to find cover for ill colleagues, several of whom were still coming in despite being unwell.

Staffing levels were dangerously low and I was told that there were times when a good shift was one when no-one died. Well I was that good shift, I didn't die.

But I don't want the thought that your mother, your father, your daughter, son or friend might face a bad shift because of this government's disastrous health and social care policy.

The number of staff on wards, including cleaners, porters, catering and nursing assistants, are far fewer than they were a few years ago.

Add to that the fact that many of them have more responsibilities for less money and you've got a toxic combination.

So next time you hear Jeremy Hunt lambast these people, who care so much, for not caring enough, ask yourself how much you could care when your work and responsibilities have doubled but your wages have not.

And next time you visit your GP, consider whether the service you get is likely to improve when a profit-hungry private company gets involved.

Remember, your MPs voted to place you and yours in this dangerous position.

Henry Bellingham and Liz Truss, both of whom I've lobbied, voted for the Bill which places those we love in a far higher danger of being part of a bad shift or at the receiving end of a race for higher profits.

Jo Rust

Norfolk