SIR,

Chepstow Labour Party recently had a follow-up meeting with Aneurin Bevan Health Board to discuss their response to the 2,500-signature petition calling for the restoration of the Minor Injuries Unit at Chepstow Hospital, which closed in 2011.

They confirmed to us that the reason for closure was not cost but concerns about safety. In their opinion, staff working at the unit did not see a sufficient variety or volume of cases to ensure that their all-round competency was up-to-date.

They conceded that communication around the closure, and the availability of alternative services, could have been handled better on their part. They are looking to undertake a communications exercise in the Chepstow area to inform people of their options if they incur a minor injury.

We will be meeting them again in June to discuss the possibility of them restoring the Minor Injuries Unit, their communication strategy, and the role of GP surgeries in providing cover for minor injuries sustained during the day.

Meanwhile if readers, many of whom may have signed the petition, wish to express their views to the health board directly, they can do so at: Aneurin Bevan Health Board Headquarters, St Cadoc's Hospital, Lodge Road, Caerleon, NP18 3XQ. You can also call 01633 436700 or email [email protected]">[email protected]

Gerry Rowe

(Chairman Chepstow Labour Party)