KONPNE campaign news – photos, videos, updates, media articles – from January 2020 to NOW
(For KONPNE Campaign activity for the ten years 2010 to December 2019, click here)
Monday 15th May 2023 – Disregard in West Yorkshire
Further to our post below (9th May) regarding the very poor response from NENC Integrated Care Board to a public question, it appears that West Yorkshire ICB have read the same operational manual…… Collaboration and transparency, where are you??…..
Click here to read about the public questions and (lack of) response in Yorkshire ….
Tuesday 9th May 2023 – Poor response from new “Integrated Care Board” in North East
“North East and North Cumbria Integrated Care System” (NENC ICS) has been responsible for commissioning all health care in the region since July 2022. There are, of course, major difficulties with this organisational system, and these are identified on our webpage here.
The Board of the ICS meets every two months and, on reading the Agenda and papers for 28th March 2023 Board meeting, members of KONPNE were shocked to see the number of services in the region which, following CQC inspections, “require improvement” and, also, the required overall “efficiency” target of £48.4 million – all evidence of underfunding and the Governments strategic run down of NHS provision. Click here for the “Integrated Delivery Report” – scroll to item 8:1 on page 96
>> OUR QUESTION: With regard to this important issue, we submitted the following question to the March 2023 ICS Board meeting:
“Keep Our NHS Public North East (KONPNE) is a group of people who strongly believe that the NHS should remain a public service.
Members of KONPNE are very concerned to read in the North East North Cumbria ICB: Integrated Delivery Report February 2023 (Agenda Item 8.1) that a number of services within the ICS are inadequate, according to the CQC. We are aware that the Board have noted this.
Please detail, specifically, what the Board’s plans are for addressing this situation, given the requirement for the ICB to meet an overall efficiency target of £48.4 million”
>> THE VERBAL FEEDBACK to our question at the meeting was astonishing in both content and brevity. The person who made the response (we remain unsure who it was, as no surname or role was provided) seemed keen to assure that there was nothing to see here, as follows:
No services were rated as OVER-ALL inadequate; North East Ambulance Service was rated inadequate in part and a support package has been put together to look at elements of that (yes – but our question asked for specific details, which we need to know about)
There is a need for Enhanced Surveillance of some services (yes….details…?)
KONPNE notes that CQC rated a number of other services as “requires improvement” (this issue wasn’t developed in the response – it would have been a good opportunity to update on the actions regarding these services, instead of closing the question down)
Apparently the requirement to bank £48.4million in efficiency savings (flowery name – we know this as BUDGET CUTS) won’t affect the budgets of the services which require improvement (- so end of subject there, apparently no need to expand on that point….)
And the so-called “efficiency savings” / cuts will be made on “prescribing and CSE packages of care” (information about the effects of this and action plan regarding these services would have been useful).
Thus, in short, we feel this to be a minimal and superficial reply to an important issue, deserving of a considered and respectful verbal response. Click here to watch the video of the verbal response (click on the image for 28th March, go to 3:28 on the timer slide at the bottom of the video, and don’t blink), and click here to read the Minutes of the meeting (go to page 23).
>> As for the WRITTEN FEEDBACK to our question…. o dear, o dear…. the following, ….err….exceptionally brief written response was received from the ICB on April 23rd 2023, three weeks after the meeting….. what can we say…..:
“Thank you for your question.
None of the 11 provider organisations in the ICB are rated as inadequate overall. In North East Ambulance Service’s (NEAS) recent inspection, they were rated as inadequate for Well Led but overall as requires improvement. NEAS are being supported by the ICB to work through the actions identified by the CQC.”
>> KONPNE: Obviously, “North East and North Cumbria Integrated Care Board” need to do better regarding public involvement. We read on the ICB website that “The ICB is committed to providing clear and accessible public information to build understanding and trust….. The ICB will provide good quality accessible information that meets the needs of all people in our communities”. There’s some way to go, then. We will, of course, be writing to the ICB regarding their paucity of response and seeking more information about these issues.
>> PUBLIC INVOLVEMENT: And while we’re about it – some issues for the Board to develop around the PROCESS of public accessibility to the Board meeting…. that is, if true public involvement is to be welcomed….
1) We need to know who is speaking? Important for all verbal reports, but especially for the response to the public question! 2) The time period between the publication of the Agenda and the cut off date for the receipt of questions to the Board was NIL for both the November 2022 and January 2023 Board meetings and ONE DAY for the March 2023 meeting. Given that the Board meets every two months, this window for submitting a question is either non-existant or ridiculously small and is an indisputable barrier to involvement 3) We query why a question from the public to the Board must be based on the Boards’ Agenda? We require an openness and willingness to engage with the patient agenda regarding Board activity 4) Placing questions from the public at the very end of the meeting gives a message of reduced importance and can, furthermore, add another barrier to engagement for people with certain health or attentional difficulties. It is useful to note that questions from the public are at the start of the local full Council meetings. 5) An option to ask the question in person and a right to reply would be welcomed 6) Space is required on the agenda for receipt of petitions.
We will be contacting the ICB about these issues as a matter of priority.
UPDATE 15.5.23:
– We have contacted all seven Healthwatch organisations in the NE, so that they are aware of our concerns.
– NENC ICS have been in touch to offer a meeting to discuss our concerns – this is a positive development, we intend to accept this offer and will keep you updated.
Friday 5th May 2023 – Transport to the Northern March for the NHS
We have been invited by Leeds KONP and Yorkshire Health Campaigns Together to join a Northern March for the NHS on Saturday 1st July 11am at Leeds Town Hall. A steel pan band will play outside the Town Hall from 11-12 and there will be craft activities for children. A samba band will lead the march off at 12 to return at 1pm for a rally.
If you would like to attend, please email us (this weekend) at konpnortheast@gmail.com and we can include you in our travel plans (train or car shares, depending on numbers). All welcome!
Leeds KONP website: https://leedskeepournhspublic.wordpress.com/
Thursday 4th May 2023 – Health campaigning over the summer
Good discussions at the monthly KONPNE meeting this evening, and great to see our Campaign plans shaping up for the next few months; the Agenda included an update on NHS privatisation in the North East, campaign work regarding the North East and North Cumbria Integrated Care System, updates on collaborative work with “We Own It” regarding private contracts, planning for the “Threads of Survival” art installation in the North East in July and August 2023, feedback on our questions to the “Integrated Care Board”, updates on liaison with North East Councillors, info re the North March and Rally for the NHS, and our stall at the Durham Miners Gala, updates on national events and petitions, and much more….
CLICK HERE
to read the notes from the meeting (these are open, and available for all to read)
Our next meeting will take place on Thursday 1st June at 7pm via Zoom – Please add the date to your diary – ALL WELCOME. Zoom joining details and more info is here
Saturday 29th April 2023 – Tyne and Wear May Day March and Rally
Solidarity from all at KONPNE. May Day reminds us of the importance of collective action – crucial in the past and crucial in 2023 when people are struggling day to day as a result of the cost of living crisis and at a time of savage public sector cuts and pay injustice.
We stand in solidarity with all staff working in the NHS who are striking for fair pay, safe staffing levels and for the future of our NHS.
Angela Robinson, retired nurse, addressed the rally in Newcastle city centre on behalf of KONPNE – many thanks to the May Day Committee for inviting us to speak and for organising.
Sunday 23rd April 2023 – Privatised eye surgery?
Following discussion at this months KONPNE meeting, it was agreed that we find out more about pathways into eye surgery – there appears to be a recent growth in private organisations taking referals (and making money) from eye surgery.
A “Freedom of Information” request has been sent off today – we will keep you updated:
Dear Sir/Madam
We have recently been discussing the role of large private companies in the provision of cataract surgery for NHS patients. It has come to our attention that opticians can make referrals for surgery, often bypassing local NHS Ophthalmology Departments and seemingly using different criteria for referral.
Would you please address the following questions as a Freedom of Information request?
– What criteria are there for NHS patients qualifying for cataract surgery?
– Are all relevant professionals required to work to the same cataract surgery qualifying criteria?
– Do opticians receive a fee for making a referral for cataract surgery?
Thank you for your assistance. (signed) Co-ordinator Keep Our NHS Public North East
No cuts or cash-driven closures | Fair pay for all NHS staff | A fully-funded, universal, publicly owned and publicly provided National Health Service
Sunday 23rd April 2023 – Private beds in NHS hospitals
Part of that slippery slope…..and privatisation by the FRONT door.
Whilst, for a long time, private patients have been treated in NHS hospitals, we are concerned by recent reports that NHS Trusts are increasingly promoting expensive private healthcare at their hospitals – effectively offering patients the chance to jump NHS waiting lists. Take Northumbria Healthcare NHS Trust, for example. On their private treatment website NorthumbriaHealth, they blatantly outline that “as we move forward we aim to position ourselves in the market more strategically as a provider of private healthcare for those living in Northumberland, North Tyneside and beyond.” https://www.northumbria-health.co.uk/vision-values/
Earlier this year, Margaret Greenwood MP put forward an Early Day Motion (EDM 805) calling on the government to put an end to NHS facilities being used to provide services to private patients, referencing the provision in the Health and Social Care Act 2012 for NHS Foundation Trust Hospitals to make up to 49% of their money out of treating private patients. We will see how this progresses – but probably not very far, given the current Government.
In the interim, we needed to sample the temperature about this issue locally, and have sent off “Freedom of Information” requests to three prominent North East NHS Trusts – Northumbria Healthcare NHS Trust, Newcastle Hospitals NHS Trust, and South Tyneside and Sunderland NHS Trust. We will keep you updated.
——-
Our FOI – NB: the three FOIs were slightly different to match with the circumstances of the individual Trusts:
Dear xxx NHS Trust
FREEDOM OF INFORMATION REQUEST
I am writing on behalf of the campaign group “Keep Our NHS Public North East”, and your response will be shared.
We would be grateful if you would please provide information relating to the following:
– the names of private healthcare organisations utilising xxx NHS Trust beds / consultation or treatment rooms
– the relationship / partnership arrangements between xxx NHS Trust and private healthcare organisations utilising Trust hospital beds / rooms
– current level of private activity, as a percentage of the whole
– current income through private treatments, as a percentage of the whole
– the envisaged future uptake of private treatments
– copies of your modelling / impact assessments re the effect of increased private treatments on the waiting time for NHS treatments
We appreciate that the whole NHS organisation is under great pressure at the present time, and we thank you for your attention to this important issue.
Signed xxx Keep Our NHS Public North East
——-
More information is on our website page here
Friday 14th April 2023 – Huge support for North East Doctors strike demo
No doubt about it – today, as always, the City of Newcastle shows a huge support, good wishes, thanks and solidarity to our North East medics. And some puzzling questions – Where IS Steve Barclay? What IS the Government doing to resolve the pay dispute? Where is the workforce plan? Why aren’t they at the negotiating table? And a clear message to our medics – we are proud of you and we stand alongside you. We stand with all NHS staff who are fighting not only for fair pay, but for the safety of us all and for the future of our NHS. We send solidarity from KONPNE to all public sector workers.
Click here to go to the Workforce page
Thursday 6th April 2023 – Campaign discussion and planning
Monthly Campaign meeting this evening (always the first Thursday at 7pm, via Zoom) and a packed agenda and constructive discussions and planning….
CLICK HERE
to read the notes from the meeting – these are open for all to read
and please join us at the next KONPNE meeting in May…. Thursday 4th May (this time at 7.30pm as a one-off change to the time, due to it being election day….) The meeting is open to ALL supporters of the NHS. Log on details are here.
Saturday 25th March 2023 – Tynedale Transformed / Hexham Debates
Out and about this morning, with a trip along the Tyne Valley to Hexham for a panel discussion on “Health – Having Your Say”, organised by Tynedale Transformed in partnership with The Hexham Debates.
The panel comprised Jude Letham (Co-ordinator, KONPNE), Professor John Dark (Cardiothoracic Surgery, Newcastle University) and Professor Jenny Cozens (retired Professor of Psychology and Public Governor of Northumbria Healthcare NHS Trust), chaired by Penny Grennan (Tynedale Transformed), along with many comments, questions and discussions from the floor.
Workforce issues, impact of Brexit, continuity of care, use of nurse banks (instead of agency staff), rural stresses, social determinants of ill health, poverty, hospital decision-making structures, underfunding of the NHS, recruitment and retention of clinical staff, NHS and migration, PFI contracts, NHS privatisation, administration costs, management systems, waiting lists, social care, increasing personal resilience, social prescribing, RCN nurse demands, NHS strikes, taxation, education, public health, health promotion…. a two-hour session and much was discussed, varied views expressed by panellists and the floor but – hey – that is what a debate is about. Many thanks for inviting KONPNE to take part, to the panellists for taking the hot seat, to Penny Grennan for Chairing and to Tynedale Transformed / Hexham Debates for organising. We need to Keep Our NHS Public,
Wednesday 22nd March 2023 – Question to the Integrated Care Board
“North East and North Cumbria Integrated Care System” (NENC ICS) has been responsible for commissioning all health care in the region since July 2022. There are, of course, major difficulties with this organisational system, and these are identified on our webpage here.
The Board of the ICS meets every two months, the next meeting being on Tuesday 28th March 2023 – the Agenda and associated papers are published beforehand and are available on the web (click here). On reading the Agenda and papers for the forthcoming meeting, members of KONPNE were shocked to see the number of services in the region which, following CQC inspections, “require improvement” and, also, the required overall “efficiency” target of £48.4 million – all evidence of underfunding and the Governments strategic run down of NHS provision.
Members of the public are invited to submit questions to the ICS Board meeting, and the following question was submitted to the Board meeting by KONPNE. We will feedback.
“Keep Our NHS Public North East (KONPNE) is a group of people who strongly believe that the NHS should remain a public service.
Members of KONPNE are very concerned to read in the North East North Cumbria ICB: Integrated Delivery Report February 2023 (Agenda Item 8.1) that a number of services within the ICS are inadequate, according to the CQC. We are aware that the Board have noted this.
Please detail, specifically, what the Board’s plans are for addressing this situation, given the requirement for the ICB to meet an overall efficiency target of £48.4 million.”
Thank you
(signed)
Co-ordinator, Keep Our NHS Public North East
No cuts or cash-driven closures | Fair pay for all NHS staff | A fully-funded, universal, publicly owned and publicly provided National Health Service
www.konpnortheast.com facebook.com/NHSPublicNorthEast twitter.com/KONPNorthEast konpnortheast@gmail.com
Email sent to NENC ICS Corporate Services 22nd March 2023
CLICK HERE
for the “Integrated Delivery Report”, described above – scroll to item 8:1 on page 96
Tuesday 21st March 2023 – Allelujah
Introducing “Allelujah”, the newly-released Alan Bennett film about healthcare for older people and the future of a NHS hospital, starring Jennifer Saunders, Judi Dench and Russell Tovey – 24 screenings at Tyneside Cinema, Newcastle-upon-Tyne and also shown at other venues throughout the North East throughout March and April
….. plus tonights post-screening panel discussion with Jude Letham (KONPNE Co-ordinator) and North East health specialists Prof Claire Nally, Prof Louise Robinson and Dr Ellie Bond provided an insightful end to the evening. The panel discussion focused around death, aging, care of elderly people and NHS cuts and closures. Many thanks to Tyneside Cinema, Andy Jones of the Dead Good Film Club, and all panellists for an intriguing film (with a twist….. we won’t do a spoiler!) and a thoughtful discussion. It was good to be involved.
Saturday 11th March 2023 – SOS NHS National Rally, London
SOS NHS DEMONSTRATION – END THE NHS CRISIS – SUPPORT THE STRIKES
On Saturday 11 March thousands marched through the streets of London to show their support for the NHS and striking workers.
Great delegation from our friends at Save South Tyneside Hospital Campaign – wonderful that you were able to represent the North East.
Thursday 2nd March 2023 – KONPNE speaks
Much discussed and planned at tonights Campaign meeting
CLICK HERE
for notes from the meeting – these are open for all to read
But we need more assistance – and if we had more people involved we could do even more….
CLICK HERE
for over twenty actions you could get involved in, for details of our next Campaign meeting (6th April 2023 at 7pm) and for a video of our 2022 Campaign.
Don’t be shy!!
CLICK HERE
for information about our next meeting
Saturday 25th February 2023 – NHS Privatisation Kills
Members of KONPNE remember the 557 people who have died because of NHS privatisation, Parliament Square, 25th February 2023
We Own It organised todays action to highlight the disastrous effects of privatisation on our NHS. The action was inspired by a recent University of Oxford study which estimated that outsourcing (the provision of NHS services by private providers) led to 557 avoidable deaths between 2014 and 2020. 557 campaigners assembled on Parliament Square, each representing an avoidable death. Every demonstrator held a single white rose. After speeches from UNISON’s Vice-President Amerit Rait and the study’s author, Ben Goodair, we marched to the Department of Health and Social Care to hand deliver 557 letters to the Health Secretary, Steve Barclay, warning the Health Secretary of the dangers of privatisation.
CLICK HERE
to read the We Own It report on the Feb 2023 action in Parliament Square
CLICK HERE
for the We Own It video of the day
and
CLICK HERE
to read the research (Goodair and Reeves, 2022) which links preventable deaths with outsourcing (scroll to the “We Own It” section)
We were told that outsourcing was ‘the most efficient way to provide services’ and, for over a decade, the ideology of privatisation has been gaining a strong foothold in our NHS. But many people always knew that this wasn’t true, and now they’ve been proven absolutely right. NHS leaders now have to face the facts: privatisation fails our health. Please add your name to the petition and demand that local health leaders in the North East and North Cumbria commit to end outsourcing in our NHS now…..and then share it with family and friends
CLICK HERE
to sign the “We Own It” petition
—-
Saturday 18th February 2023 – One Clear Message
Defend the Right to Strike: Newcastle march and rally
Called by Newcastle upon Tyne TUC and Peoples Assembly North East – an impressive range of speakers…..and one clear message
Liz Blackshaw, TUC Northern Regional Secretary: “Defending the right to strike is critical. This Government is not listening – we need a Government that makes sure working people are not sacked for asserting their rights”
Mark Hugall, CWU Newcastle Amalgamated Branch Secretary: “Today we stand together to make a better future for everyone”
Jamie Driscoll, North of Tyne Mayor: “Nurses are taking action for the first time in one hundred years…..they say the public doesn’t support the strikes – but it is the public who are on strike….”
Sarah Dodsworth, Regional Director, RCN Northern, Yorkshire and Humber: “We need to defend the right to strike – we need to make things better for our children and our childrens children”
Miles Elliott, Unison, Ambulance Workers: “Going on strike is a difficult decision as there is an acute staffing crisis and the staff who remain are under more pressure – but the Government response is dereliction of duty”
Simon Elliott, PCS Regional Secretary: “There is a crisis in the civil service. In a survey of members, 40,000 members are using food banks”
Adam Hansen, UCU Northumbria Branch Chair: “Thousands of staff are on zero hour contracts, and many staff work extra hours. Enough is enough……it is important to stand up for our rights, including the right to strike. Stand up, stand proud, stand together”
Alex Snowdon, NEU Regional Chair: “Together we are stronger – when we co-ordinate our actions we are a powerful force”
Jan Shortt, General Secretary, NPC: “We offer our solidarity and support for as long as you need it”
Karen Lockney, North East Peoples Assembly: “We need to fight inequality and hate – the Government are running scared of working people and we will not be silenced. Our ancestors won these rights and they cannot be taken away now”
Jude Letham, Co-ordinator, Keep Our NHS Public North East: “We stand with all NHS staff who are fighting not only for fair pay, but for the safety of us all and for the future of our NHS. It is clear that if you want a NHS, you will need to become a NHS activist. We send solidarity from KONP North East to all public sector workers, and we’ll see you on a picket line soon”
Martin Levy, Tyne and Wear Association of Trades Councils: “One very clear message is given today – we continue to join together to defend our right to strike”
CLICK HERE
to go to our Workforce page for info about local NHS strikes and resources
Friday 17th February 2023 – Your help is needed
Please help us to develop our Campaign activity further over the coming months.
All of our supporters give freely of their time and expertise; no-one is paid. Expenses such as transport costs and parking charges are also paid willingly by the person concerned, and all this will continue.
We do, however, have a range of financial outgoings for a number of Campaign items and costs such as leaflets, posters, printing costs, banners, badges, room hire, Zoom, display materials, copies of the Health Campaigns Together newspaper (distributed free), annual membership of national KONP, and domain / website hire. After 12 years with a handheld megaphone, our big purchase in 2022 was a portable PA system (our voice will be heard even louder), and we have exciting Campaign plans for 2023 which will involve some financial outlay.
Click here to see our activity over the past year 2022!
And we could do more!!
If you are in a position to help financially with either a one-off donation or a monthly standing order, then this would be a HUGE help. All contributions are very gratefully received, however small.
Please CLICK HERE
to go to our DONATE page
All help is greatly appreciated, and every penny is used wisely in our campaign to Keep Our NHS Public.
Saturday 11th February 2023 – More than an AGM
Good to be at the national KONP AGM today – a mammoth 5 hr session, but the time flew by…. the pace was good, full involvement of members and some very interesting speakers. Events like this enable a sharing of experiences, help to set a sense of direction and provide a space to meet up with the wider Health Campaign community – thus much more than a dry business-orientated AGM….
The event was attended by reps from many Campaign groups from all over the country – and we were pleased that KONPNE were invited to do a 2 – 3 minute resume of our campaigning activity. This was presented by John Whalley
CLICK HERE
to read this brief presentation.
We will post links to the AGM minutes, when these become available
Monday 6th February 2023 – Picket line of strength at Newcastle RVI
A picket line of strength…..and absolutely no doubt that the public are also standing strong and supporting striking nurses at the RVI this morning. Cars, buses, taxi horns a plenty, and many thanks for the sustenance provided by passers by (it was calm, sunny….but damn chilly) and especially to the very kind member of public who parked opposite, set up a trestle table, and invited all to come over for a hot tea / coffee / cuppa soup throughout the day – his one comment: “Nurses were there when I needed you – this is the very least I can do…..”
John Whalley (KONPNE) and Rehana Azam (RCN National Officer) and a very strong picket line at the RVI Newcastle upon Tyne
Members of KONPNE were proud to stand with the RCN and we remember: NHS staff are striking for fairness regarding pay, our health, and the future of #OURNHS
Also great to meet up with long-time KONPNE supporter and fellow activist Rehana Azam, now a national officer with RCN. Rehana: “All of our members here today don’t want to be on a picket line. They are brilliant at their jobs and want to be back on the wards….but we need the Government to listen to what our members are saying. It is not safe on the wards. We need is the Government to invest in the NHS and in the nursing profession.”
We remember Rehana from the Darlo Mums organisation of the 999 Peoples March for the NHS – walking from Jarrow to Parliament in 2014… with music from Billy Bragg in London….
Thursday 2nd February 2023 – An active year ahead
Much discussed and planned at tonights Campaign meeting – and we still finished on time! Excellent chairing from Jude! Its looking like an active year ahead….
CLICK HERE
for notes from the meeting – these are open for all to read
But we need more assistance – and if we had more people involved we could do even more….
CLICK HERE
for twenty actions you could get involved in, for details of our next Campaign meeting (2nd March at 7pm) and for a video of our 2022 Campaign.
Don’t be shy!!
Wednesday 1st February 2023 – Protect the Right to Strike: TUC March and Rally, Newcastle upon Tyne
If you want a NHS, then you need to support the NHS Strike actions….and protect the right to strike.
Amazing scenes at Grey’s Monument today as thousands of people gathered in support of the right to strike – a HUGE march and rally – one of the biggest in Newcastle for a long, long time. Important to march together to show our teachers, firefighters, civil servants, rail workers, NHS workers and countless others that we support their action to defend pay, jobs and services. A clear message was sent to the government that we will not be ignored.
KONPNE were proud to be there and we remember: NHS staff are striking for fairness regarding pay, our health, and the future of #OURNHS
28th January 2023 – National Day of Action: The NHS Crisis is a Crisis of Government – Grey’s Monument, Newcastle-upon-Tyne
The Tory Government are quick to blame everyone and everything but themselves for the current crisis they have created in our NHS. Health Secretary, Steve Barclay told already exhausted NHS staff to work even harder if they want a pay rise. We believe it is Steve Barclay and the Conservative Government who should be working harder to fix the current NHS crisis that is now costing lives at an unprecedented rate. The NHS Crisis is a Crisis of Government,
A great turn out today at the SOS NHS event at the Monument in Newcastle upon Tyne – much assistance from members of KONP North East, Unite Community and North East Peoples Assembly – all demanding an end to the crisis and showing support for striking NHS staff…. and much support from people in the town centre!! Many sign ups on the information stall, hundreds of leaflets distributed and many conversations.
15th January 2023 – John Kennedy
It is with huge sadness that we inform you that our friend and colleague John Kennedy died on 11th January 2023.
John served as a valued member of the KONPNE Steering Group and health campaigner for a number of years and, to the end, he was pushing for a better health and social care system and for better pay and terms and conditions for workers within it. In his final weeks, John’s hospice room was a hub for debates with nursing staff, visitors, and volunteers on the importance of keeping the NHS public, the importance of strikes and the need for Unions.
At KONPNE, we remember John’s indomitable spirit, his energy and his wry sense of humour and he is hugely missed. Our sincere and deepest condolences and thoughts are with Ann and his family at this time.
5th January 2023 – …..And into the New Year
A very constructive meeting this evening – planning the Campaign for the New Year and beyond, with a range of national, regional and individual actions. If YOU care about the future of our NHS, there is an action for you to get involved in…
CLICK HERE
for notes from tonights planning meeting – these are open notes, and available for all to read
CLICK HERE
for details of current actions. This link also provides details of our next meeting via Zoom on Thursday 2nd February 2023 – ALL WELCOME
31st December 2022 – 2022 VIDEO….That was the year that was…..
Longsands, Tynemouth, 2022
New Year Good Wishes from all at KONPNE !!
CLICK HERE
to watch a short video log of the NHS Campaign in the NE throughout 2022….
and THIS IS YOUR INVITATION to join in with us in 2023!!!!!!!
We give our sincere thanks to all NHS staff, and we also thank all KONPNE supporters for persistence in fighting for a publicly funded, publicly provided and publicly accountable NHS, which is available to all.
We’ll be back in the New Year to join forces and to continue the fight. See you then – and wishing all a very happy and healthy New Year
x KONPNE
25th December 2022 – Christmas Day card deliveries to Keyworkers
KONPNE outside the Freeman Hospital on Christmas Day – MANY MANY THANKS to all NHS Staff
We all know it – but perhaps we don’t think about it….?
NHS staff provide comprehensive, expert healthcare and support 24 / 7 x 365 cover. All days and all nights, Christmas Day included. Surely THAT is worth saving??
We need to halt the steady erosion of our NHS. Join us with the Campaign in the North East….click here for details of the January meeting.….and, between now and then, wishing you a happy and healthy time at Christmas
KONPNE x
23rd December 2022 – Card deliveries to GP surgeries across the region
Our thanks go to the many health professionals working at GP surgeries across the NE. You are, more often than not, the first port of call and have the superhuman task of managing an ever-increasing patient list and ever-increasing demands at a time of service cuts, closures, staff shortages and slashed funding. We delivered our Thank You cards to a representative number of practices and, to EVERYONE in Primary Care across the region, we offer an unreserved and sincere THANK YOU.
21st December 2022 – Sincere thanks to NHS staff in Sunderland
A busy lunchtime – with the team at KONP Sunderland and District meeting, greeting and providing seasonal Thank You cards to nurses, receptionists, cleaners, physios and emergency response staff at Sunderland Royal. The NHS staff working in Sunderland make an impressive team, and we give our sincere thanks.
20th December 2022 – Clear statement to this “Government”
KONPNE solidarity with @RCNNorthern @theRCN picket at Newcastle RVI and North Tyneside General on the second day of the RCN Strike.
#FairPayforNursing KONPNE and, indeed, the vast majority of people in the country stand with NHS Staff – it can’t be made any clearer than that. More info is here
18th December 2022 – Festive KONPNE at North Tyneside General
This won’t shorten the waiting list, or improve working conditions, or put money in the wage packet – but our KONPNE Christmas Thank You cards for NHS staff are a small way of demonstrating a sincere Thank You, and were very well received by surprised North Tyneside General Hospital staff this morning. A sincere THANK YOU to all NHS staff in North Tyneside.
Final opportunity this year: Join us in giving out special edition KONP Christmas ThankYou Cards to NHS staff…. it’s the very least we can do……Wednesday 21st December at 12 noon at Sunderland Royal Hospital (meet at bus stop on Chester Road). Your assistance is welcomed.
17th December 2022 – North Shields Rally 2 for NHS Staff
Members of KONPNE were pleased to support the second in a sequence of two rallies in North Shields supporting the NHS strikes, hosted by the National Shop Stewards Network (NE). All trade unionists, patients & health workers were invited to speak on the open mic.
Craig Thompson, GMB North Tyneside, Assistant Branch Secretary: “This strike is not solely about wages. It is about safety, waiting lists, ambulances, shortage of doctors and nurses. This is a planned route to privatisation and must not happen”
Graeme Cansdale, RMT: “This demoralisation and underfunding is linked with the marketisation of our public services. Profit, the primary motive, is literally killing people”
John Hoare, Unite the Union Not for Profit branch: “The media vilifies anyone who stands up – not just political leaders, but also Union leaders. The National Shop Stewards Network brings together Trade Unionists from across the board, and that is what is now needed”
Caroline Cansdale, Unison North Tyneside: “Social care is an essential part of the picture. There is an need for additional funding”
Jude Letham, Co-ordinator, Keep Our NHS Public North East: “One of the easiest ways to encourage privatisation in the NHS is to underpay and overwork NHS staff. We are standing alongside the nurses on the picket lines”
John Whalley, Keep Our NHS Public North East: “The NHS runs on the goodwill of staff – working longer hours to provide adequate cover, staying on late to write up notes, covering shifts at short notice, facing up to very significant personal risks throughout the recent pandemic. If we’re not careful, this goodwill will be lost forever”
William Jarrett, National Shop Stewards Network, North East: “The NSSN stands in complete solidarity with NHS workers and all workers engaged in industrial action. Our purpose is to link and unite their struggles and to coordinate wherever possible”
17th December 2022 – 7am: frosty weather and a very warm response at the Freeman Hospital, Newcastle
Frosty weather and a warm response – up at 7am to catch the early shift and the departing night shift…. our KONPNE Christmas Thank You cards were very well received by staff at Newcastle’s Freeman Hospital. Our sincere thanks go to you for all you have done over the past year.
15th December 2022 – Pay Justice for NHS Staff
Proud to stand alongside nurses and supporters outside the Royal Victoria Infirmary, Newcastle upon Tyne this afternoon, and outside North Tyneside General Hospital this evening. The Royal College of Nursing are striking for pay justice AND ALSO for the integrity of our healthcare system and for the future of the NHS. We stand with NHS Staff.
14th December 2022 – A huge Thank You to NHS staff in Durham
What can we say to our NHS staff at the end of the year that was? Or maybe, at times, actions speak louder than words? A Christmas card won’t shorten the waiting list, or improve working conditions, or put money in the wage packet – but it is a small way of demonstrating a sincere Thank You.
KONPNE Santa’s were at the University Hospital of North Durham this lunchtime, and our KONPNE cards were very well received by staff. A sincere Thank You to all at Durham.
Join us in giving out our KONPNE Christmas ThankYou Cards to NHS staff over the next few days…. it’s the very least we can do……
Saturday 17th December at 7am – Freeman Hospital, Newcastle, meet at bus stop by main gate
Sunday 18th December at 7am – North Tyneside General Hospital, North Shields, meet at bus stop on Rake Lane
Wednesday 21st December at 12 noon – Sunderland Royal Hospital, meet at bus stop on Chester Road
….. and another action – we will be supporting the nurse picket lines in Newcastle and North Tyneside tomorrow – click here for info
10th December 2022 – Inspiring speakers at North Shields rally in support of NHS strikes
Dr Helen Groom (KONPNE) and Dr Pam Wortley (SHA and KONP)
An amazing @NSSN_AntiCuts North Shields #NHSStrikes rally! Speakers included Michelle Barrett-Ruecroft (RCN), Craig Toft (Unite), John Harrison (DPAC), Dr Pam Wortley (SHA), John Hoare (Unite) and Dr Helen Groom (KONPNE). Many thanks to William Jarrett (NSSN-NE) for organising and hosting.
Dr Helen Groom:
“What horrifies me is that over the last few years, as a country, we seem to believe that there’s nothing we can do to stop the increased privatisation of the NHS. We can. We need to start giving our politician’s very clear and unambiguous messages. WE (and that should include you) DEMAND that the government: 1. Pay Nurses properly: without fair pay, staffing shortages will cost lives 2. Invest in a fully publicly owned NHS & guarantee free healthcare for future generations”
Dr Pam Wortley:
We need -emergency investment to rebuild #OurNHS -deliver pay justice to all health and care workers @NHSStaffVoices -end private interests in the NHS
….and we do it all again next Saturday, same place! Saturday 17th December 2022, 1pm at Bedford Street, North Shields. Make sure that you show your support for NHS staff – this Rally is about supporting fair wages, the integrity of our healthcare and the future of the NHS.
Click here for event details
1st December 2022 – Campaign dates arranged for the run up to Christmas
A lively discussion at the monthly KONPNE meeting this evening, together with updates about recent actions, and a number of Campaign dates in the diary for the run up to Christmas – information about the local Integrated Care System, dates arranged to deliver Christmas Thank You cards to hospital staff, our solidarity and support confirmed for the RCN Nurses Strike, discussions around hosting the national touring art exhibition in the summer of 2023, and our ongoing Campaign with We Own It against outsourcing in the NHS.
Click here for notes from the meeting – available for all to read.
Our next meeting will take place on Thursday 5th January 2023 at 7pm via Zoom – all are welcome, and information about this is here.
In the interim, there is much happening – look out for our emails, plus updates are posted here
25th November 2022 – KONPNE responds to the draft strategy for the NHS in the North East
The local “Integrated Care System” (now responsible for all NHS commissioning in the North East and North Cumbria) is in the process of developing a strategy which set outs ambitions and goals for the future. The ICS invited feedback from the public and all stakeholders on their initial draft, and we responded accordingly – KONPNE supporters felt that there are a number of important issues to develop further in this document, including *the need for the NHS to be the default provider of services, to work towards decreasing outsourcing *a commitment to providing a free and comprehensive health service to all *no private sector representation on NHS decision-making bodies *Emergency Care for all – no need to be registered with a NE GP *thorough assessment of needs prior to discharge *commitment to nationally agreed pay and conditions for staff, and commitment to work alongside Unions.
CLICK HERE
to read our feedback to the local ICS
&
CLICK HERE
to read the ICS draft strategy 2022
19th November 2022 – Brisk November Campaigning Walk….
Out and about for a brisk campaigning walk along the Whitley Bay > Cullercoats promenade, refuel at the wonderful Cullercoats Coffee (where else), and then on to North Shields town centre with the megaphone, plus many conversations in support of OUR NHS and NHS STAFF, plus great to have sign ups to the new WE OWN IT petition.
PLEASE SIGN THE NEW PETITION HERE – this goes to the leaders of local health services, highlighting the recent research from Oxford University which links NHS privatisation to 557 deaths – this outsourcing needs to STOP NOW.
CLICK HERE
to sign the petition
12th November 2022 – SOS NHS
Powerful speeches at SOSNHS 2022 Conference today….. over twenty speakers including
**Dr Tony O’Sullivan, Co-Chair @keepnhspublic: “Nurses are striking for the safety of patients and the integrity of the NHS, as well as fair pay and conditions”
**Kate Osborne MP (Jarrow) @KateOsborneMP “This year history has been made – 300K nurses have voted to strike. As always, I will join them on the picket line. We will ensure that they win”
**Rachel Bannister @JustTreatment “Anger creates energy. We need to fight to end the outsourcing of care to private profiteers”
Info: https://sosnhs.org/
12th November 2022 – Response from Gateshead Council
A question was recently put to Gateshead Council regarding the new “Integrated Care System” – this is now responsible for commissioning all healthcare in the NE. This system fragments the NHS and and there remain a number of important issues to be worked on.
Good to see the commitment of Gateshead Council in supporting a “free, universal, comprehensive NHS, based on clinical need” and the thorough response from Cllr Caffrey. KONPNE are aware that many Councillors in the North East are supportive and stand by the NHS. There are, however, a number of issues associated with the Councils response to our question which, we feel, require development. Read the question from KONPNE, the Council response and our comments here
Many thanks to Tony Dowling, Gateshead resident and Chair of North East Peoples Assembly, for putting this question to the Council.
11th November 2022 – Feedback needed asap to ICS re draft Strategy
North East and North Cumbria Integrated Care System has produced a draft strategy, and are inviting responses by Thursday 25th November 2022. Please view this document and email your comments. There are a number of important issues to consider highlighting, including *the need for the NHS to be the default provider of services, to work towards decreasing outsourcing *a commitment to providing a free and comprehensive health service to all *no private sector representation on NHS decision-making bodies *Emergency Care for all – no need to be registered with a NE GP *commitment to nationally agreed pay and conditions for staff, and commitment to work alongside Unions. Click here (and scroll to part 2) to read more about our concerns.
It is crucial that your views are made clear to the ICS.
CLICK HERE
for links to the ICS Draft Strategy and ICS email address
9th November 2022 – Mandate for strike action
The Royal College of Nursing have just been given a massive mandate for strike action to take place.
“Nurses will be striking for their pay, your health and the future of the NHS” @Pollytoynbee
5th November 2022 – Britain is Broken: Peoples Assembly National Demonstration, London
Remember, remember the 5th of November – this autumn the cost of living crisis has reached new peaks – raised food, heating, lighting, fuel and mortgage costs in the context of wage freezes, all brought about by an incapable Government lacking in strategic direction. Members of KONPNE were proud to join with Peoples Assembly North East at the national march and rally in London to make it clear to the Government that we won’t pay for their actions. The message is straightforward and clear: Wages up, bills down, Tories out.
Thousands join with the North East contingent to ensure a straightforward and clear message: Tories Out – Not Fit to Govern
Speakers Mick Lynch and Dr Andrew Mayerson | KONPNE meet up with national KONP Co-Chair Dr Tony O’Sullivan
Dr Andrew Mayerson, A & E doctor:
“I love the NHS and we are in deep, deep trouble right now.
I come from the States, the land of private healthcare, where you have to use your credit card to pay for healthcare, where medical care is routinely denied because the insurance company just says no – and that is the direction that the Tories are marching our NHS. That is why I’m here fighting for it because I believe so firmly in the NHS as the best model of healthcare anywhere in the world.
Every generation must fight for the NHS and this is our time to fight back for it, to save it. It’s worth it and we need to do this”.
Click here to hear the full speech on video
#CostOfLivingCrisis
#WagesUpBillsDown
And many thanks to all at Peoples Assembly North East for arranging the coach and for the great company on the way down to London. https://twitter.com/peepsassemblene
3rd November 2022 – KONPNE meeting
KONPNE members say THANK YOU; Leeds conference, October 2022
Much discussed at tonights meeting, held via Zoom – including our recent questions to full Council meetings across the NE, joint work with “We Own It” regarding procurement, feedback from the conference in Leeds, information about the forthcoming Peoples Assembly march and rally in London, joining info re the SOS NHS conference, planning for the “Threads of Survival” exhibition and Christmas events. Notes from the meeting plus links etc are posted here – these are open, and for all to read.
Our next meeting is on Thursday 1st December at 7pm via Zoom – please join us – there is a role for YOU. Zoom joining details are here
22nd October 2022 – Northern Health Campaign Groups meet in Leeds
Many thanks to John, Gilda, Nick and all at Leeds KONP for organising todays event in Leeds – a very warm welcome, excellent discussions and contacts made with other northern health campaign groups, and superb presentations from Dr Sally Ruane (Deputy Director of the Health and Social Policy Research Unit at De Montfort University, Leicester), Dr Colin Hutchinson (Chair of Doctors for the NHS and Calderdale Councillor), Felicity Dowling (Save Liverpool Womens Hospital Campaign), Rachael Tomlinson (Disabled People Against Cuts) and Adrian O’Malley (Unison).
Dr Colin Hutchinson delivered a detailed presentation, highlighting that the ICS Board is required to provide core clinical services – any other service is dependent on money left over, hence the further development of a postcode lottery. He further clarified his position that current cuts to funding will impact on patients and staff, probably both, with fewer treatments, patients travelling further, reduced access to treatments aby increased eligibility criteria and waiting lists, coupled with the possible ditching of national agreements on staff pay and conditions.
Dr Colin Hutchinson speaking, together with conference chair Dr John Puntis
Strong images from the Leeds Conference – October 2022
Five KONPNE members attended – a very useful day indeed. Updates from the day will be provided at the November KONPNE meeting. Thanks once again to all at Leeds KONP.
North East in Yorkshire
20th October 2022 – “We Own It” launch new petition against NHS privatisation
An impressive “We Own It” petition launch, with over 300 participants….and the action and underlying rationale for the petition is crystal clear – we need you to sign the petition to demand that local NHS leaders commit to end NHS outsourcing BECAUSE 557 deaths are 557 too many.
We were told that outsourcing was ‘the most efficient way to provide services’ and, for over a decade, the ideology of privatisation has been gaining a strong foothold in our NHS. But many people always knew that this wasn’t true, and now they’ve been proven absolutely right. A new national research study has found the evidence to be crystal clear: preventable deaths of 557 people have been linked to the outsourcing of NHS services. Ben Goodair, the Oxford academic behind the research, told over 300 people at the petition launch rally this evening: “My research found that wherever privatisation increased, deaths from preventable causes also increased. It is clear that there is a connection there”.
NHS leaders now have to face the facts: privatisation fails our health.
Please add your name to the petition and demand that local health leaders in the North East and North Cumbria commit to end outsourcing in our NHS now…..and then share it with family and friends
CLICK HERE
to sign the “We Own It” petition
and
CLICK HERE
to receive leaflets to distribute to houses on your street
Thank you for everything you do to protect our NHS from privatisation.
…..and read about the findings of the Goodair and Reeves research study (University of Oxford):
LSE British Politics and Policy (3rd August 2022) Areas of England with increased outsourcing of NHS services have more deaths of people with treatable conditions
The Lancet (July 2022) Outsourcing health-care services to the private sector and treatable mortality rates in England, 2013–20: an observational study of NHS privatisation
OpenDemocracy (29th June 2022) NHS privatisation linked to 557 ‘treatable’ deaths in five years
The Mirror (29th June 2022) ‘Treatable deaths’ rise under privatised NHS services, study finds
The Guardian (29th June 2022) NHS privatisation drive linked to rise in avoidable deaths, study suggests
13th October 2022 – Public Question Time at Gateshead Council
NHS campaigners in the North East are putting formal questions to seven North East councils to determine their stance on the new “Integrated Care System” – given that the ICSs are under instruction from NHS England, our local Councillors are our representatives regarding this new programme, and we need to ensure that they are accountable in standing up for our NHS.
Health campaigners have already questioned five local Councils, and today was the turn of Gateshead Council. Our thanks go to Tony Dowling, KONPNE supporter and chair of North East Peoples Assembly for presenting the following question:
I speak on behalf of “Keep Our NHS Public North East”.
Further to the deeply flawed Health and Care Act 2022, you will be aware that “North East and North Cumbria Integrated Care System” is now responsible for commissioning all healthcare for Gateshead from 1st July this year.
There are potentially a number of problematic areas associated with the new Integrated Care System, and some of these difficulties may be addressed and remedied locally through attention to the wording of the Constitution of the new “North East and North Cumbria Integrated Care Board”.
Issues that need to be clearly stated within the Constitution include:
– the ICS commitment to maintain a comprehensive health service, free at the point of need, and accessible to all residing in the area
– the need to exclude representatives from private sector organisations on any ICS board or committee; this issue is noted in the Constitution, but there is a “let-out” clause which allows private sector involvement
– a commitment that NHS providers are the default providers of health services
– vigorous scrutiny, transparency and accountability with all new contracts
– a commitment that anyone who needs emergency care while present in Gateshead will receive the necessary treatment, whether or not they are registered with a GP in the county
– a commitment that the Integrated Care Board will include a Councillor from each local authority; the current Constitution identifies one elected member to represent 14 local authorities covering a population of 3 million. Locally, three additional Council officers are identified for the Board, but these are not elected members. There also need to be representatives from the range of health professionals and patient groups. This presence will uphold local democracy and transparency
– a commitment to hold all meetings of Boards and Committees in public, making papers available, and welcoming questions from the public
– the requirement for the full assessment of health and care needs, and availability of social supports, prior to a patients discharge from hospital
– the need for all NHS providers within the area to adhere to nationally agreed pay, terms and conditions, as negotiated with NHS staff Unions
I would be grateful if you would please outline what Gateshead Council is doing with regard to each of these issues when in contact with officers of the Integrated Care System, and please confirm the Council’s stance is to support the principle that the NHS must be comprehensive, universal and free at the point of use and based on the clinical needs of patients – not on the new Integrated Care Boards’ financial considerations.
Councillor Lynne Caffrey responded to the question, and this response will be posted here shortly.
The Council agenda and draft minutes are here: https://gateshead.moderngov.co.uk/ieListDocuments.aspx?CId=140&MId=3195
How does your Council shape up…….? Click here to read about our questions to seven full Council meetings across the region this year….
13th October 2022 – North East and North Cumbria ICS replies
We have, at last, received a response from the local ICS regarding our concerns.
CLICK HERE
to read our initial email (26th June 2022)
&
CLICK HERE
for the response from NENC ICS (13th October 2022)
We are grateful for the detail in this response, although remain very concerned about much of the content. We will be considering this further and, of course, discussing with supporters.
6th October 2022 – Planning the Autumn and Winter campaigns
An energising discussion, creative thinking, and lots of action planned at tonights KONPNE meeting – always the first Thursday at 7pm via Zoom. All are welcome.
There’s a lot going on. To find out more about the “Enough is Enough” rally, interventions by Save South Tyneside Hospital Campaign, our formal questions to seven NE full Council meetings, our joint work with “We Own It” regarding the local Integrated Care System, the “Threads of Survival” exhibition, the forthcoming Peoples Assembly march and rally, and the Leeds and SOS NHS conferences…. then click here to read the notes from the meeting and/or BETTER STILL !!!!!….. join us at the next monthly KONPNE meeting on Thursday 3rd November 2022 at 7pm – information is here, and there is a role for YOU
1st October 2022 – Enough is Enough in the North East
…. and Hairy Biker demands that we Keep Our NHS Public
Great to join North East Peoples Assembly and the Enough is Enough campaign for the Day of Action rally this afternoon at Grey’s Monument, Newcastle-upon-Tyne. A huge attendance, huge support, and a clear message from speakers representing a range of Unions, plus Ian Lavery (MP), Jamie Driscoll (North of Tyne Mayor), Tony Dowling (Peoples Assembly), Stand Up To Racism, Tom Pickard (North East poet) and Si King (Hairy Bikers TV chef and presenter)….
North of Tyne Mayor Jamie Driscoll said: “Enough is Enough. People are asking for is a pay rise that stops them from losing money. It is not even a real pay rise, it is just keeping up with inflation. I don’t think its too much to ask that for the people we clapped for on a Thursday night, the people that keep this country running, the people that keep us safe, the people that put food in the shops, for them to be able to pay their bills.”
Hairy Biker supports Keep Our NHS Public NE
HAIRY BIKER Si King joins with KONPNE (and 1,500 others!) at todays Rally
Speaking to KONPNE after the rally, Hairy Biker Si King commented “Many of my family and friends work in the NHS here in the North East. We need to be calm, be informed, go into the community and tell it like it is. Truth will prevail”.
ENOUGH IS ENOUGH: We demand ** a real pay rise ** slash energy bills ** end food poverty ** decent homes for all ** tax the rich
Click here to read the report in the Chronicle
INFO: click here for the Enough is Enough website
30th September 2022 – We Own It, KONPNE and Unite
Thank you to Unite Community (Tyne & Wear and Northumberland Branch) for the invitation to speak at todays Branch meeting – there was an opportunity to outline the current demands facing the NHS, present major concerns about the new “Integrated Care System” (click here for info) and describe the forthcoming NHS anti-privatisation Campaign hosted by the national Campaign group “We Own It”. This specific Campaign will comprise a number of actions throughout the coming 12 months; KONPNE are joining with North East “We Own It” members and now, after this afternoons vote, to be joined also by Unite Community (Tyne & Wear and Northumberland). Great to have you on board!
Other groups in the North East have also expressed an interest in joining in with this specific unified Campaign as equal collaborators. Please rest assured that we will be passing all contacts and expressions of interest to the staff at “We Own It”, who will be arranging a virtual meeting and discussion with all interested individuals and groups in the North East and North Cumbria regions. Watch this space – we will be in touch with further details.
If you, or your group, would like to find out more or would like a speaker to address your meeting, please contact “We Own It” at info@weownit.org.uk or “Keep Our NHS Public North East” at konpnortheast@gmail.com
21st September 2022 – Questions in Northumberland
NHS campaigners in the North East are putting formal questions to seven North East councils to determine their stance on the new “Integrated Care System” – given that the ICSs are under instruction from NHS England, our local Councillors are our representatives regarding this new programme, and we need to ensure that they are accountable in standing up for our NHS.
Scroll down on this page for our contacts with Durham, Sunderland, and Newcastle Councils, and to read about a DISGRACEFUL response from North Tyneside Council.
Today, though, we faced Northumberland County Council in a…. pre-meeting meeting?? Unusually, Public Question Time for Northumberland County Council takes place immediately before the full Council meeting – it is not part of the formal full County Council meeting AND, unlike the full County Council meeting, there is no live stream…. It will be interesting to learn from the Council as to why they have decided to manage public questions in this way as it does appear to minimise the importance of public questions, reduces accessibility and accountability, and may serve to decrease local democracy. We feel that Northumberland County Council would do well to follow the example of the other six city / borough / county Councils in the North East by scheduling questions from the public as an integral part of the full Council meeting.
Moving on to our question at this rather random “pre-meeting meeting”…..Many thanks to KONPNE supporter Ed Bober from Morpeth, who put the following question to the Council:
“What is Northumberland County Council doing to promote local participation and scrutiny of decision-making by Integrated Care Systems and to ensure that the Integrated Care Systems do not permit private sector representatives to participate in decision making on its board, committees, or other bodies with delegated powers?”
Given that it was a pre-meeting meeting, there is no official video record from Northumberland County Council and, unless we have missed it, there appears to be no link to public questions and responses on the Council website….. the record of the proceedings is all….. very… vague. Rest assured that our question did definitely happen!! …and there was definitely a response!! We have asked for a written copy of the Council response, and also details as to where public questions and responses may be viewed. Fortunately, a KONPNE supporter in the public gallery made a video, and this is posted here.
Read our commentary on the Northumberland meeting PLUS…… How does your Council shape up…….? Click here to read about our questions to seven full Council meetings across the region this year….
Ist September 2022 – KONPNE speaks
Our monthly meeting tonight – and much discussed; click here to read the notes from the meeting.
Meetings always take place on the first Thursday of the month at 7pm via Zoom – please join us on 6th October. Everyone is welcome. More information about the meeting and the Zoom link is here.
31st August 2022 – Help with our admin, monitoring and scrutiny
KONPNE is a busy regional NHS campaign group – and we can do even more campaigning with your help….
There are a number of background routine tasks and jobs that need to be done – everyday tasks that keep the Campaign ticking over – but which are also VITAL in providing a strong structure for our campaign work.
Some of these tasks are “one-off” and others are monthly commitments – but each one would take less than an hour or two… honest. Please contact us at konpnortheast@gmail.com if you are able to assist and wish for more information – we will provide the support and information to help you get started….
This month, we need help with
> updating our email address list of all Councillors in the North East (going on to the Council websites, and updating our word doc, so that we have email contacts for all new Councillors post-May 2022), This is a one off job!
>New “North East and North Cumbria ICS Board” – one or two people to research the meeting joining process, observe (online) the new ICS Board meeting, and feedback to our October meeting
> Research the “North East and North Cumbria ICS” strategy / operational policy / aims
> Our blog (on this website here) needs an injection of energy – please be a “one off” guest contributor and write about your NHS and campaign-related thoughts / reflections / experiences and musings. Maybe you have attended an event recently, or have reflections on campaigning
> Our campaigning in the North East primarily covers five local authorities (Northumberland, Newcastle, North Tyneside, Gateshead and County Durham….Sunderland KONP cover Sunderland, and Save South Tyneside Hospital Campaign covers South Tyneside) …..PLUS there are a number of meetings (as yet unspecified) connected to the new Integrated Care System. We need one person from each of the five areas to keep a monthly check / have a general awareness of their Council and NHS minutes and meetings, and to keep us updated regarding discussions and decisions regarding the NHS in their area, as identified in these minutes. This monthly task is more straight-forward (and not as onerous) as it sounds! Please contact us for more info if you are able to help with this valuable work.
4th August 2022 – Monthly KONPNE meeting
Another lively Campaign discussion and planning meeting this evening – notes from the meeting are here – these are open and available for all to read.
Our next meeting will take place on Thursday 1st September 2022 – always the first Thursday of the month at 7pm . All are welcome, and more information is here
3rd August 2022 – Email to Chair of Health and Wellbeing Board, North Tyneside Council
Given the three shameful “responses” (if you can call them that) from North Tyneside Council (see 22nd July 2022, below), KONPNE has today emailed Cllr Karen Clark, Chair of North Tyneside Health and Wellbeing Board, regarding our original question which, to date, has remained unanswered. We have also copied in all North Tyneside Councillors, and have provided details about our concerns. We will update all of our supporters when a reply is received.
Our email to Cllr Clark is here, and the information sheet which spells out our concerns is here
22nd July 2022 – Three unsatisfactory responses from North Tyneside Council – KONPNE members are following this up
North Tyneside Council, democracy and the NHS – is there anyone at home? Or is it all smoke and mirrors?
On 11th July 2022, KONPNE submitted a question to North Tyneside Council, for their response at the full Council meeting scheduled for 21st July 2022. This followed Council protocols around transparency and accountability. Our question to the Council centred around the new “North East and North Cumbria Integrated Care System”, which is now responsible for making decisions about treatments and commissioning health services in this geographical area – there are huge concerns about the ICS and the impact on local democracy and the further privatisation of the NHS.
NOT ONLY (1) have North Tyneside Council seen fit to disallow, without reason, our question at the July 2022 Council Meeting (see below, scroll to 14th July), AND (2) have totally ignored our subsequent request that this decision be reconsidered (click here – we are still awaiting a reply) …. BUT ALSO (3) they have now followed this up with a totally inadequate and disturbing written response.
Whilst we expected a considered reply to our question about the Integrated Care System (ICS) from a Councillor, one of our elected representatives, instead we have received an anonymous “response” from the NT Council HQ at Silverlink. Forwarded to us by a Personal Assistant to the Director of Children’s and Adult Services, it would be good to know who actually wrote this response, as it does appear to reflect a copy and paste job from the ICS website, coupled with a reluctance to respond to (or attempt to side-step) our actual questions, and ending with what appears to be a very disturbing total disregard for the future of our NHS.
There are only 4 Local Authority representatives on the Integrated Care Board (ICB), despite the ICS covering 14 Local Authorities across North Cumbria and the North East – and 3 of these reps are unelected Council Officers…..so much for democracy? The response received from North Tyneside Council gives the impression that there is absolutely nothing amiss. We believe that representation at this level is important, as the ICB has ultimate authority regarding all future health contracts across the region, and sets the tone and direction of travel. It is also important to note that the ICB comprises people appointed by the Chair (who is, himself, appointed by NHS England) and, so, our one Councillor is the one and only elected representative of 3 million people across North Cumbria and the North East – we hope that s/he factors in some time for sleep at night. Obviously, tokenism springs to mind. We believe that the ICB should include a Councillor from each Local Authority, not just one representative covering all 14 Local Authorities.
And, of course, our fundamental concern is around the ongoing insidious privatisation of our NHS. It is totally unacceptable to read the dismissive statement in the final paragraph from North Tyneside Council that it will “continue to use its influence to ensure that contracts are awarded to providers who will deliver the best services to the residents of the borough”. There is NOTHING in the NT Council response to confirm the Councils commitment to a publicly-funded and publicly provided NHS. The North East and North Cumbria ICS Constitution should include a clear commitment that NHS providers be the default providers of health services, care and treatment and, as contracts with private sector companies come up for renewal, the default position is that they be awarded to NHS providers. We believe that our Councils and Councillors need to be clear in their support for this stance.
Our original questions remain unanswered by North Tyneside Council:
What is North Tyneside Council doing to promote local participation and scrutiny of decision-making by the ICS and to ensure that the ICS does not permit private sector representatives to participate in decision making on its board, committees, or other bodies with delegated powers?
What will North Tyneside Council do to encourage the ICS to end the outsourcing and privatisation of NHS services?
Our original statement and question to North Tyneside Council is here and the North Tyneside Council response is here. We believe that the Councils response is shameful and we are, of course, following this up. We will keep you informed.
More information about “Integrated Care Systems”, private sector involvement, the composition of the Board, our Campaign so far, and about “North East and North Cumbria ICS” in particular is here.
18th July 2022 – Message received – loud and clear
We need the new “North East and North Cumbria Integrated Care System” signed up to the pledge – no private companies on ICS Boards. Members of KONPNE were pleased to join in with the “We Own It” initiative and, in total, a HUGE 1,562 people (1,501 by electronic letter and 61 in writing) across the NE and Cumbria contacted the Chair of the new Board to demand the pledge: NO PRIVATE COMPANIES ON ICS BOARDS.
The message was received loud and clear by Sir Liam Donaldson, Chair of the Board, who recently left a message on their new ICS website – click here
The message makes interesting reading, but no absolute assurance – there is a “let-out clause”….
CLICK HERE
and scroll to Part 10 to read more about our huge concerns about the composition of the ICS Board, and specifically about the let out clause. This is a fundamental issue, and a principle is at stake – the ICS is now responsible for commissioning all healthcare in our region.
A start has been made. A huge number of people in the North East and Cumbria now know about this issue, hundreds have contacted the ICS about it, and NENC ICS know that we are closely scrutinising their operational structures and decision-making processes. There is absolutely no place for private sector healthcare on ICS Boards and Committees.
14th July 2022 – North Tyneside Councillors in hiding??
Given all the difficulties associated with the “North East and North Cumbria Integrated Care System”, we submitted a question on 12th July 2022 for the North Tyneside Council meeting scheduled for 21st July – but received an email response from the Council on 13th July 2022, stating that our question was not accepted for the Council meeting and will be referred to Council officers for a response.
“The Chair of Council considered your question for the Council meeting 21 July 2022 and decided that it be referred to officers to respond to you directly. Your question will NOT be considered at the meeting next week”.
Strange…. but true. Of course, we have immediately emailed the Council on 14th July for more information about this decision. We feel that it is our democratic right to put questions to our elected representatives at a full Council meeting, and we await their response. We will keep you updated.
In the interim, click here to read our VERY REASONABLE and APPROPRIATE question to North Tyneside Council, and click here for information about ICSs. BTW, North Tyneside Council please note: Durham, Sunderland and Newcastle Councils have all provided responses to our questions…. scroll down to 6th July and 22nd June.
11th July 2022 – NHS; Rain AND shine
A message to poet Harry Gallagher and musician JohnE Thornton: A person at the “Keep Our NHS Public” rally at the Monument in Newcastle upon Tyne on Sat 2nd July says that you were both superb. Unfortunately she couldn’t shelter in a shop doorway when the heavens opened during the poetry set BUT, out of respect, she just stood there and got soaked. She said when she walked away her clothes were slapping against her. She was meeting her daughter in a café for lunch and, before that, she needed to go and buy £50 worth of new DRY clothes. Fandom can be expensive!!
KONPNE: To the person at the Rally – it is GREAT that you were there…..and stayed!! KEEP IN TOUCH – We need to KEEP OUR NHS PUBLIC, rain AND shine….
Harry and JohnE – as always – THANKYOU
FULL REPORT on the Rally?? Scroll down to 2nd July!!
9th July 2022 – Durham Miners Gala
The Durham Miners Gala returned after a two-year break due to the Covid-19 pandemic. The 2022 Gala was dedicated to all key workers – carers and bus drivers, delivery workers and nurses, shop staff and teachers, everyone who had risked (and still are risking) their lives to keep society functioning throughout the pandemic and beyond.
Over the past five Gala’s, supporters of KONPNE have distributed KONP leaflets and Health Campaigns Together newspapers across the site and helped at the Health Campaigns Together stall, and this year was no exception. Although it was baking hot in the marquee, one of the happy perks of campaigning by the side of the stall was that it proved to be a focal point for all our NHS friends and supporters – local and from across the country – and also a place to make connections with people who, we know, we will work together with in the future…. here’s to the future….!
Holly Johnston, a nurse and member of the GMB Union, spoke to the Gala crowds. Holly has been a nurse for 18 years and is currently a nursing sister at a cancer hospital. She nursed cancer patients during the pandemic and she, herself, was hospitalised after she contracted Covid. She continues to suffer the effects of long Covid, and is still unable to return to her previous full-time hours. “I am extremely proud of the work all key workers do. It is people like us who have kept the country going, but we are now facing attacks on our conditions. There has never been a more important time to join a trade union. We must use our collective power to force change” – Holly Johnston.
7th July 2022 – KONPNE meeting
Monthly campaign meeting for KONPNE – always the first Thursday of the month @ 7pm….
The notes from this meeting are here – these are open, and available for all to read!!
The next meeting will take place on Thursday 4th August at 7pm – ALL WELCOME!
Further information and Zoom codes are here
6th July 2022 – Formal question at full City Council meeting – Newcastle
Further to our report below (22nd June 2022), NHS campaigner and Newcastle resident Clare Bethell continued KONPNE’s planned sequence of putting formal questions to seven Councils in the North East. The aim is to determine each Councils stance on the new North East and North Cumbria Integrated Care System (NENC ICS), which is responsible for commissioning all health care in the region, as from 1st July 2022. We have massive concerns about this new system – see our webpage here.
Clare put the following question to Newcastle City Council at tonights full council meeting:
“I speak on behalf of “Keep Our NHS Public North East”.
Further to the deeply flawed Health and Care Act 2022, “North East and North Cumbria Integrated Care System” is responsible for commissioning all healthcare for the City of Newcastle upon Tyne from 1st July this year. There are potentially a number of problematic areas associated with the new Integrated Care System, and some of these difficulties may be addressed and remedied locally through attention to the wording of the Constitution of the new ” North East and North Cumbria Integrated Care Board”.
Issues that need to be clearly stated within the Constitution include
– the ICS commitment to maintain a comprehensive health service, free at the point of need, and accessible to all residing in the area
– the need to exclude representatives from private sector organisations on any ICS board or committee
– a commitment that NHS providers are the default providers of health services
– vigorous scrutiny, transparency and accountability with all new contracts
– a commitment that anyone who needs emergency care while present in Newcastle will receive the necessary treatment, whether or not they are registered with a GP in the area
– a commitment that the Integrated Care Board will include a Councillor from each local authority and representatives from the range of health professionals and patient groups; this will uphold local democracy and transparency
– a commitment to hold all meetings of Boards and Committees in public, making papers available, and welcoming questions from the public
– the requirement for the full assessment of health and care needs, and availability of social supports, prior to a patients discharge from hospital
– the need for all NHS providers within the area to adhere to nationally agreed pay, terms and conditions, as negotiated with NHS staff Unions
I would be grateful if you would please outline what Newcastle City Council is doing to promote these issues when in contact with officers of the Integrated Care System, and please confirm that Newcastle City Council upholds the principle that the NHS must be comprehensive, universal and free at the point of use and based on the clinical needs of patients – not on the new Integrated Care Boards financial considerations.”
Councillor Karen Kilgour, Deputy Leader of the Council, replied on behalf of Newcastle City Council. Councillor Kilgour confirmed that the Council has a role to play regarding the ICS, but no power to set commitments on behalf of the ICS. She confirmed that Newcastle City Council does have some influence as to how the ICS evolves, and have suggested amendments to the Constitution of the new ICS. She confirmed opposition to any privatisation of the NHS and charging of any form, and confirmed that the move to the ICS won’t change peoples right to treatment in the city – people in the city who need emergency treatment will be able to access it, regardless of address. Councillor Kilgour stated how she has raised many issues and concerns regarding the ICS via the Local Government Association, and will continue to do so.
Clare Bethell, KONPNE campaigner, concluded her question with the following statement:
“We are aware that plans from NHS England outline a much-reduced Councillor and public involvement in decision-making regarding our future health services. This is a huge cause of concern as this does, of course, lead to a direct reduction in local democracy. This situation is both appalling and a disgrace. Please know that we, as Newcastle residents, want a publicly-funded and publicly-provided NHS, and that we support and expect our Councillors to stand up, to ask awkward questions, and to fight to protect our NHS. As from yesterday, we have all benefitted from 74 years of public healthcare – and we need our Councillors, now, to play your part in ensuring that the NHS remains for future generations. Thank you.”
KONPNE awaits Councillor Kilgours above response in writing, and will link her response in full here. The meeting was livestreamed, and this may be viewed on Youtube here (go to minute 18.16 in the bottom right hand corner of the Youtube screen). To reiterate: “KONPNE supports and expects our Councillors to stand up, to ask awkward questions, and to fight to protect our NHS.”
2nd July 2022 – Morpeth celebrates and protests
Excellent joint work by KONP / Morpeth and Pegswood Labour Party Branch – a great joint team action, out and about in Morpeth to celebrate 74 years of NHS healthcare – and to protest some of the key features of the new “North East and North Cumbria Integrated Care System” (NENC ICS). This new body is now responsible for all health commissioning in the region and, yes, not many people had heard about it….
There was an excellent response from the Morpeth public – all leaflets went, the NHS birthday card was covered in messages, and many people scanned the poster/board’s QR codes and sent emails on the spot to the Chair of the new NENC ICS. Unsurprisingly, many people were outraged. It’s OUR NHS. It is not, as yet, totally privatised – but this new ICS holds many dangers.
For info about “Integrated Care Systems” – go to our ICS page here
Does your party or group want to get involved / need a speaker at your Zoom / require more information??? Contact KONPNE at konpnortheast@gmail.com
2nd July 2022 – The Integrated (?) Care (?) System (?) commences in the North East and Cumbria
Yesterday saw the start of the deeply flawed and curiously named “Integrated Care System” – it is a sad day that we now no longer have a “National Health Service” but, instead, 42 localised and stand-alone “health systems”….. together with their much baggage and many, many problems – see here
North East and North Cumbria Integrated Care System is now responsible for commissioning all healthcare across the region – a “development” which is hugely significant but one which is not widely known nor reported on.
So…to inform and enlighten…health campaigners and community organisations took it upon themselves and were out in force in Newcastle-upon-Tyne city centre, to get across HUGE concerns. Hosted by “Keep Our NHS Public North East”, we thank speakers from a wide range of community organisations – Dr Helen Groom (Patients Not Passports), John Harrison (Disabled People Against Cuts), Sean Fahey (North East Pensioners Association), Angela Robinson (NHS Nurse – retired), Caitlin Southern (North East Peoples Assembly), Dr Gerard Reissmann (Newcastle GP – retired), Jan Shortt (General Secretary, National Pensioners Convention) and Jude Letham (Keep Our NHS Public North East). Watch this space and our social media for quotations and resumes of the speeches. Many thanks, one and all.
North East Poet Harry Gallagher was, of course, greeted very warmly. His book “Northern Lights” is a love letter to the people of the North, a region often buffeted and battered by stormy conditions – this new “North East and North Cumbria Integrated Care System” being no exception. Harry Gallagher, the People’s Poet, engaged the crowd with his dry humour, brutal honesty, and passionate conviction...and, starting and ending the rally, we were also very fortunate to welcome musician JohnE Thornton. JohnE has worked in the NHS for 10 years, and is now well-known on the Newcastle and coastal scene for the music gigs he hosts and plays in. Many, many thanks to both Harry and JohnE.
We mustn’t forget that Tuesday next week marks 74 years of healthcare from our NHS. There is no celebratory gateau this year…we reckon 42 separately baked, cut-price cupcakes would be a more accurate motif….but that menu can be changed. Please sign the petition, email the Chair of the ICS, liaise with your local Councillor, contact your MP, link up with your Healthwatch, get involved in our actions and speak up – we need to fight to reinstate our NHS.
….and, so, it is now over to all people living and working in the NE to get involved with the Campaign and to continue the fight in this region. Click here for details of the Integrated Care System….and please be active – click here to find details about our forthcoming Campaigns.
If you want an NHS, you need to be an NHS activist.
26th June 2022 – HUGE CONCERNS: KONPNE contacts Chair of NE Integrated Care System
There are, of course, HUGE concerns regarding the curiously-named “Integrated Care System” – a misnomer, if ever there was one.
It is a sad day indeed that there is no longer a unified national health service but, rather, a collection of 42 separate health divisions across England, each responsible for making decisions about treatments and commissioning services for their geographical area. “North East and North Cumbria Integrated Care System” (NENC ICS) is now responsible, as from 1st July this year, for the healthcare in the North East.
CLICK HERE
to read todays email from Jude Letham (KONPNE Co-ordinator) to Sir Liam Donaldson (Chair of NENC ICS), with cc to Sam Allen (Chief Exec, NENC ICS)
and
CLICK HERE
for our ICS webpage. It is crucial that we all stand up for the NHS regarding this.
22nd June 2022 – Formal questions to two full Council meetings – Durham and Sunderland
North East and North Cumbria Integrated Care System (NENC ICS) is responsible for commissioning all health care in the region, from 1st July 2022. We have massive concerns about this new system – see our webpage here.
NHS campaigners in the North East are putting formal questions to seven North East councils to determine each Councils stance on this development – given that the ICSs are under instruction from NHS England, our local Councillors are our representatives regarding this new programme, and we need to ensure that they are accountable in standing up for our NHS.
We started off with Durham County Council this morning, and also Sunderland City Council this afternoon.
KONPNE campaigner Dr Lawrence Welch presented the following to Durham County Council – click here for the Council papers and the link to watch the stream via youtube.
“I speak on behalf of “Keep Our NHS Public North East”.
Further to the Health and Care Act 2022, “North East and North Cumbria Integrated Care System” will be responsible for commissioning all healthcare for County Durham from the beginning of July this year, and I am aware that plans from NHS England outline a much-reduced Councillor and public involvement in decision-making regarding our future health services.
Please outline what Durham County Council is doing to promote local participation and scrutiny regarding decision-making, and please confirm that Durham County Council upholds the principle that the NHS must be comprehensive, universal and free at the point of use and based on the clinical needs of patients – not on the new Integrated Care Boards financial considerations”.
The audio quality on the IT livestream was very poor (on our laptop, at least), so we wait until receipt of the Council minutes to see the exact response…but we were able to make out that the Council claims that they are working towards enabling as much commissioning and resources as possible at the County Durham level, were engaged with the Integrated Care System at a County level, and were also involved in an Integrated Care Plan with South Tyneside, Sunderland and the ICS. The person speaking on behalf of Durham County Council concluded that they are “engaged positively with the ICS”.
Laura Murrell, Secretary of Sunderland and District KONP submitted the following question to Sunderland City Council – click here for the Council papers and here for the link to to the live stream
“The North East and North Cumbria Integrated Care System” (NENC ICS) will be responsible for commissioning all healthcare for Sunderland from the 1st July 2022.
I believe it will result in a much-reduced involvement by councillors and the public in decision-making regarding our future health services. However, private companies can be members of the ICS Board and its other bodies, so they will be able to participate in decisions about how the ICS budget is spent and what services will be delivered to whom and by whom, increasing their influence and making it more likely that they will provide NHS services.
Please could you explain what Sunderland City Council is doing to promote local participation and scrutiny regarding decision-making by the ICS; to ensure that the ICS does not permit private sector representatives to participate in decision making on its board, committees or other bodies with delegated powers; and what it can do to encourage the ICS to end the outsourcing and privatisation of NHS services.”
A response was made by Councillor Kelly Chequer, on behalf of Sunderland City Council. Councillor Chequer confirmed that there will be no private sector representation on the Integrated Care System Board in this region and that there are, indeed, seats for four local government representatives. Involvement in local decision-making and health scrutiny are in place, as is involvement with the regional Integrated Care Partnership with Sunderland, South Tyneside and Durham. Councillor Chequer confirmed that she has written to Sam Allen (CEO of North East and North Cumbria ICS) to confirm the need for a genuine involvement in healthcare planning.
===
….. so, there is much for Councillors (and Campaigners) to follow up on. We await the verbatim responses from the two Councillors, and will report on these and link these here. There are, of course, huge outstanding issues and concerns regarding the new “North East and North Cumbria Integrated Care System” – see here – and it is crucial that Durham, Sunderland and all North East Councils engage with the ICS and fight to retain the NHS.
Great work by KONPNE campaigner and Durham resident Dr Lawrence Welch, and by NHS campaigner Laura Murrell, Secretary of Sunderland and District KONP.
>> Next up is KONPNE campaigner and Newcastle resident Clare Bethell who plans to present a question to Newcastle City Council on Wednesday 6th July at 6pm – Clare and the KONPNE team are in the process of formulating the question and will let you know when this has been accepted. Watch this space.
18th June 2022 – Who’s NHS? OUR NHS
KONPNE and thousands make it clear to Johnson et al… It’s OUR NHS and we NEED to keep it PUBLIC. Proud to support the TUC Demo in London yesterday
The Guardian (18th June 2022) Thousands march in London over cost of living crisis
The Guardian (18th June 2022) ‘It’s awful actually’: voices from the cost of living protest in London
Royal College of Midwives (17th June 2022) Midwives rally to the cause and demand better for workers in mass London protest
11th June 2022 – Campaigning by Metro
PROUD TO STAND UP FOR THE NHS on the WE OWN IT day of action on Saturday. IT IS OUR NHS – not big business / American corporations / multinationals with shareholders….. Tyneside campaigners travelled the Metro with stops at Whitley Bay, North Shields and Byker….and gaining many more signatures for the email to the Chair of “North East and North Cumbria Integrated Care System” (the body now responsible for health contracts in the NE). We need to keep private corporations away from NHS Boards.
HAVE YOU SIGNED?????? NOT TOO LATE – CLICK ON OUR “INTEGRATED CARE SYSTEM” PAGE HERE AND SCROLL TO ACTION 2 ….. IT WILL TAKE YOU 2 MINUTES!!!!
6th June 2022 – Demanding Better; Join the Fightback
Many thanks to Peoples Assembly North East for inviting KONPNE to speak at the public meeting this evening. alongside John Harrison (Disabled people Against Cuts), Fran Heathcote (Public and Commercial Services Union) and John Woodhouse (Communication Workers Union).
Solidarity. NO to cuts and privatisation.
Peoples Assembly is one of our longstanding campaign partners, and does a great job in encouraging joint actions amongst organisations in the North East.
INFO: https://www.facebook.com/PANorthEast/
2nd June 2022 – KONPNE meeting
Monthly campaign meeting for KONPNE – always the first Thursday of the month @ 7pm….
Please click here for the notes from this meeting – these are open, and available for all to read.
The next meeting will take place on Thursday 7th July at 7pm – ALL WELCOME!
Further information and Zoom codes are here
14th May 2022 – Shut Hassockfield Down
It’s time we made the UK a welcoming, supportive and kind place that welcomes those who are forcibly displaced, no matter where they come from. No one chooses to be a refugee. The health needs of refugees can be considerable, given recent trauma, displacement and separation, and places such as Hassockfield serve to intensify symptoms. It is time the Government abolishes its hostile policies, and closing immigration prisons like these is the first step in doing so.
It was important for supporters of KONPNE to be present today and to stand in solidarity with many other groups and individuals against this abhorrent facility.
Mary Kelly Foy, MP for the City of Durham: “I am fundamentally opposed to the detention of vulnerable refugees. Instead of this dehumanising process, I echo the call of human rights activists that asylum claims should be resolved in the community without the trauma of detention.”
Agnes Tanoh, “Women for Refugee Women”, started a petition against the new detention centre that has now been signed by over 16,700 people. She said: “I know how detention destroys a woman, because I was locked up for over three months at Yarl’s Wood detention centre, before the Government accepted that I am a refugee. I witnessed the suffering of vulnerable women while I was there. The Government promised to reduce its use of detention because of the harm it causes, but they broke this promise by opening Derwentside detention centre – the first one to open in over seven years. Protest is an act of solidarity. Together we have one strong and loud voice”.
CLICK HERE for the No to Hassockfield Campaign, HERE for the report in the Northern Echo, HERE for the video from Rochelle, and HERE for our NHS and Migration website page
12th May 2022 – KONPNE speaks
It is always good to catch up with like-minded people at our monthly KONPNE campaign meeting. The agenda tonight comprised information and planning around a huge range of NHS-related issues. One thing is for sure – we are never stuck for issues to talk about. Please click here for the notes from our meeting – including updates on Hassockfield protest, Durham Gala, TUC march and rally, local groups, petitions, questions to local councils, Integrated Care Systems, and more….
Our next meeting will take place on Thursday 2nd June – all welcome, and please click here for details.
23rd April 2022 – Three questions to put to candidates in the forthcoming Council elections
Knock knock….
At this time of the year, we can guess who’s there….
Here’s three key questions to put to prospective Councillors – or, indeed, all Councillors even if they are not facing an election this year….and if there is no knock on the door, please click here for email addresses of current Councillors….
WE NEED COUNCILLORS WHO ARE ACTIVE IN PROTECTING OUR NHS!!
a) What will you do to encourage local NHS commissioning services to keep healthcare within the NHS? (Over the last decade, £96 billion has been paid to private companies for NHS services – privatisation puts profits before patients).
b) How will you work to increase democracy in local health structures? (The Health and Care Bill reduces the contributions of councillors and local people on NHS decision-making bodies)
c) What are you doing to fight for fair pay for all NHS staff? (The current pay offer of 3% is derisory and unacceptable. It is not surprising that there are 100,000 vacancies in the NHS – an average nurse in the UK has lost 20% of income over the past 10 years)
….and please let us know responses at konpnortheast@gmail.com – thank you!
20th April 2022 – Order NOW!!
𝐍𝐇𝐒 𝐔𝐍𝐃𝐄𝐑 𝐒𝐈𝐄𝐆𝐄 The fight to save it in the age of Covid – Edited by John Lister (Health Campaigns Together) and Jacky Davis (KONP), with a foreword by Michael Rosen….
Published 19 May 2022 and PRE-ORDER NOW from merlinpress.co.uk
14th April 2022 – “Rebuild Our NHS” Campaign – out and about in Wallsend and Tynemouth
Further to the KONPNE Campaign meeting last week, today saw our first leafletting session of the “Rebuild Our NHS” campaign. We made a very good start in Wallsend town centre and in Tynemouth – and the challenge now is for much further distribution, far and wide. We need your help.
Please click here to order free leaflets from “We Own It” – these will be posted to your address, for you to deliver to houses in your street or locality, or for you to distribute via an organisational street stall, etc.
You can read up on the background to ICSs on our website here and remember: If we don’t fight to protect our NHS, we will always lose. But if we fight we have a chance of winning.
14th April 2022 – Socialist Health Association
Great to be invited to speak at tonights SHA North East meeting, alongside Coral Jones from London. Much discussion and many ideas generated regarding possible ways forward, especially with regard to challenging some of the issues associated with the proposed Integrated Care System. It will be great to carry out further Campaign work together in the future.
7th April 2022 – Monthly KONPNE campaign meeting
Discussions and planning regarding the “We Own It” Rebuild Our NHS campaign, Integrated Care Systems, asking questions at forthcoming Full Council meetings, Livi, digital access to health, Hassockfield and TUC demonstrations, and the start of a KONPNE activists WhatsApp group = a busy meeting. The notes from this meeting are here – these are open and available for all to read.
Our next monthly meeting will take place on Thursday 12th May at 7pm via Zoom – this is a week later than usual due to the local elections. Please join with us – all welcome. Further information about this meeting and details for joining via Zoom is here.
2nd April 2022 – Cost of Living March and Rally, Newcastle-upon-Tyne
Today’s Cost of Living Crisis demonstrations is the fourth in a series of protests organised by the People’s Assembly, and supported by trade unions, community, and campaign groups, including KONPNE. As the Tories’ cost of living crisis continues, we continue to protest.
We must not let the Tory government make us pay for their Cost Of Living Crisis – collectively we must continue to fight back and force the changes we need.
Crucial that we join forces to keep up the pressure on the government.
Many thanks to North East Peoples Assembly for organising. Contact: peoplesassemblyne@gmail.com
Read the report in the Chronicle here
24th March 2022 – Rebuild Our NHS; Get Private Profiteers Out
Great that John Whalley, KONPNE Steering Group member, was invited to speak as one of the panellists at the national launch of the new “We Own It” Campaign. Rebuild our NHS is one of the most ambitious campaigns ever launched by WOI, and will enable unprecedented pressure to be placed on local NHS leaders to kick private companies out of local NHS bodies and put local people first.
Locally, this Campaign will involve supporting people in the North East and North Cumbria to send 3000 emails to the chair of the “North East and North Cumbria Integrated Care System” (ICS) + leafletting + newspaper and radio coverage. The same actions will also take place, regionally, with regard to the other 41 ICSs across England.
At the national launch rally this evening, NHS campaigners from across the country spoke about why action on the local level is effective. Pamela Sloan who helped stop the closure of a local A&E in Chorley reminded us: “mosquitoes are tiny, but together they can run a mighty buffalo mad”. Len Hockey, a Unite workplace rep, spoke about how they won their fight to get Serco-employed hospital workers in London insourced into the NHS just last month. Mike Forster and Louise Irvine spoke about how they won fights in Huddersfield (West Yorkshire) and in Lewisham (South East London) respectively, to save their local hospitals. Speaking about health campaigning in the North East, John Whalley highlighted the recent successful “SOS NHS” day of action; the event, at Longsands, Tynemouth, centred around raising public awareness and engagement, and involved speakers, local musicians, poets and public participation in a “sand sculpture” – this beach event was a “first” for KONPNE….
KONPNE will be prioritising the Rebuild Our NHS Campaign over the next few weeks. To get involved immediately, please use this link https://weownit.org.uk/find-my-nhs then add your postcode and send the prepared email to the ICS chair….and please share this link with your family, friends, colleagues and contacts on your social media too. KONPNE will also be arranging some local events to get this message out to the public – we will let you know places and times.
9th March 2022 – Surfing in North Tyneside?
Moving away from Longsands to a very different kind of surfing….North Tyneside Clinical Commissioning Group has recently commissioned Northumbria University to carry out a survey relating to residents access to digital technology. The researchers comment that “we want to gather as much information on digital technology use to inform a digital plan for North Tyneside. This information will also be used to help to shape how people access future services. When referring to digital technology, we mean the devices used to access the internet, including smartphones, tablets, laptops, desktop computers, smart speakers, etc.”
Whilst there is a place for digital technology in public services, it is crucial that quality of healthcare is not undermined. The prolonged underfunding of the NHS, staff shortages, and the ongoing cuts to services, coupled with the Covid pandemic, have all impacted on the NHS, and the increased use of digital technology must not be used as an inadequate quick-fix. Nor must it be used as a backdoor for increased NHS privatisation. We are aware that, in early 2020, the very same North Tyneside CCG awarded the private company “Livi” an initial contract to carry out virtual consultations in Primary Care. This company has very recently been given a 5 year contract, and all is undoubtedly part of a very slippery privatisation slope: Livi claims to be Europe’s largest digital healthcare provider – see here.
So, North Tyneside residents, please fill out the survey at the following link: https://northumbria.onlinesurveys.ac.uk/resident-survey
Question 34 is freetext, and supporters of KONPNE have recorded their huge concern about the health inequalities that may be heightened through increased digital technology (some patients can’t use such technology, or can’t afford to use it), the decreased continuity of care brought about through virtual consultations with private health companies, and the misdiagnoses (symptoms are more accurately assessed at a face-to-face consultation). And, of course, the reality that many digital healthcare platforms are underpinned by finance from private companies, all eager to placate the shareholder… Other supporters may wish to highlight these and other important issues.
5th March 2022 – We Won’t Pay for the Crisis
Many thanks to North East Peoples Assembly for inviting KONPNE to speak at today’s Cost of Living Crisis Rally in Newcastle – inflation and rising prices are squeezing wages with no pay rise in sight for healthcare staff, all working tirelessly within services which face relentless cuts or privatisation. This Government does not care.
Speakers included Matt Perry (UCU), Steve Swainston (PCS NEC),Tay Pitman (Green Party), Bill Corcoran (NUFC Fans Food Bank), Tony Dowling (People’s Assembly) and Jude Letham (KONPNE).
Jude Letham, KONPNE Co-ordinator, Cost of Living Crisis Rally in Newcastle, 5th March 2022: “Please do not leave campaigning for the NHS to someone else. If you want an NHS, you must become an NHS campaigner. Start this week: sign the SOS NHS petition, follow KONPNE on social media and talk to family and friends about what is happening to the NHS”
Click here for the news coverage and video from The Chronicle
4th March 2022 – Some excellent news….
KONPNE sends huge congratulations to the striking workers at Barts Hospital who have now won their long fight to be brought back in house. Hundreds of cleaners, porters, security guards and domestic staff are to benefit from NHS pay, terms and conditions – these staff will be transferred across to join the existing Barts Health staff as NHS employees under the Agenda for Change (AfC) conditions – clickherefor info.
Outsourced workers at St George’s Hospital have also won sick pay alongside their NHS colleagues after prolonged pressure from the GMB union too.
The truth is that campaigning works, Government’s and organisations can and often are forced to make U-Turns and are occasionally even pushed from office. Public consciousness can and does frequently shift and arguments are won.
Never give up the fight….
3rd March 2022 – KONPNE speaks
Wide-ranging discussions and planning at tonights meeting – feedback on the “SOS NHS” campaign and actions of last Saturday, updates on the Health and Care Bill and a possible refocus away from the Parliamentary process and onto local “Integrated care Systems”, North Tyneside CCG survey, Patients Not Passports update, discussion around campaign funds, and dates for future speakers and rallies. It’s looking like a busy Spring and Summer ahead! The notes from this meeting are here – open for all to read.
Our next meeting will take place on Thursday 7th April at 7pm via Zoom – please join with us – all welcome. Further information about this meeting and details for joining via Zoom is here.
28th February 2022 – in todays Chronicle…….
and also on Chronicle Live – click here
26th February 2022 – Proud to stand up for #OURNHS in Newcastle, Tynemouth and Sunderland
WE DEMAND:
(1) Approve emergency funding of £20 billion to save lives this winter
(2) Invest in a fully publicly owned NHS & guarantee free healthcare for future generations
(3) Pay staff properly: without fair pay, staffing shortages will cost lives
Scroll down for reports ⇓
26th February 2022 – “SOS NHS” at Seaburn Beach, Sunderland 3pm
TO #OURNHS, with 
from Seaburn
Congratulations to all at the KONP Sunderland and District group for this absolutely amazing piece of artwork!!
Created as part of the SOS NHS national Day of Action, this took residents and visitors to Seaburn by surprise, and led to many conversations.
Whose NHS?
#OURNHS
CLICK HERE
to read the article in the Shields Gazette
TO #OURNHS, with from Tynemouth
All Photos with kind permission of Mark Husmann
Part of the SOS NHS national Day of Action (click here for details),
WE DEMAND:
(1) Approve emergency funding of £20 billion to save lives this winter
(2) Invest in a fully publicly owned NHS & guarantee free healthcare for future generations
(3) Pay staff properly: without fair pay, staffing shortages will cost lives
Organised and supported by local residents and by “Keep Our NHS Public North East”, the beach event at Tynemouth was a first for KONPNE!!
A celebration of #OURNHS, but with a very serious message relayed through a mix of superb music, poetry, speeches and a HUGE human sculpture in the sand for #OURNHS….all buffeted by a gentle wind, much sun (especially early on) and a little chill (especially towards the end). Many thanks to all who turned up to make the event so successful…..
Speeches:
**Dr Helen Groom (Retired GP, NHS campaigner and member of the “No to Hassockfield Campaign”) **Julia Charlton (Retired Nurse Tutor / Academic) **message from Gail Ward (Disabled People Against Cuts / Protect Tynedale NHS) **Joe Kirwin (Councillor and chair of North Tyneside health scrutiny committee) **William Jarrett (Unite, Newcastle Hospitals Branch) **message from a GP **Tony Dowling (North East Peoples Assembly) **Sean Fahey (North East Pensioners Association) **Jude Letham (Keep Our NHS Public North East)
Poetry:
**Harry Gallagher – Cullercoats poet. His book “Northern Lights” is a love letter to the people of the North, a region often buffeted and battered by stormy conditions but which in the end always prevails
**Joan Hewitt (Award-winning Tynemouth poet. Joan read a poem by Michael Rosen, whose treatment during a Covid- induced coma and long recovery left him with enormous gratitude to NHS staff.
fantastic acoustic sets:
**Pete Shaw – Artist and singer songwriter, Pete has appeared at the Cambridge Folk Festival, Brampton Live, WOMAD and many other festivals and venues across the UK. He is locally loved for his brilliant guitar- playing , warmth and cheeky humour
**Jimmy Ince – well-known and loved on the northeast music scene for his acoustic versions of standards, recents and rap, all delivered with a highly-individual twist.
and special thanks to:
**Mark Husmann – photographer extraordinaire
**Joan Hewitt – for boundless energy in event planning and organisation
CLICK HERE
to read the report from Chronicle Online
…..and the curtain falls on Longsands….until another day…..
Read Joan’s guest blog about the poetry at Longsands on our blogpage here
and some quotes and transcriptions of some of the speeches here
This event was one of 85 events taking place across the country today. Click here for the article from National KONP
26th February 2022 – “SOS NHS” at the Monument; 12 noon
All photos with kind permission of Davy Ellis
National Day of Action for the NHS
STAND UP FOR THE NHS: Part of a national Day of Action for the NHS, and co-hosted by NE Peoples Assembly and KONPNE, the “SOS NHS” Rally in Newcastle demanded that the Government
> Approve emergency funding of £20 billion to save lives this winter
> Invest in a fully publicly owned NHS & guarantee free healthcare for future generations
> Pay staff properly: without fair pay, staffing shortages will cost lives
In 2010, after a decade of investment, our NHS was delivering its best-ever performance: after more than a decade of austerity – despite heroic efforts by staff – it has sunk to its worst-ever. The problems were there before the pandemic but have been deepened by the continued high level of Covid infections. We need emergency funds to save lives now.
Our line up of speakers, covering a wide range of health service topics, included**Dr Pam Wortley (Socialist Health Association) **Roger Nettleship (Save South Tyneside Hospital Campaign) **message from Gail Ward (Disabled People Against Cuts / Protect Tynedale NHS) **Sean Fahey (North East Pensioners Association) **Grace Dowswell (Psychologists for Social Change) **Dr Helen Groom (Retired GP, NHS campaigner and member of the “No to Hassockfield Campaign”) **Stacey Richardson (NHS Staff Voices, North East Peoples Assembly) **Jude Letham (Keep Our NHS Public North East) **with David McAllister (acoustic guitar and vocals). Many thanks to Tony Dowling (North East Peoples Assembly) for introducing the speakers.
Thank you to all. Events took place all over the country, and it is CRUCIAL we continue to work in a concerted manner to overcome the policies and actions of this regressive Government. More info:https://sosnhs.org
26th February 2022 – Fresh air is free
A busy day ahead….. three events…..
26th Feb 8.30am kicked off bright n chilly with an early-morning leafletting session outside the Labour Party Conference. This took place at the Helix Centre, Newcastle city centre; this futuristic, blue, angular high rise campus opposite St.James Park seems a very impressive environment and is part of Newcastle University but at the end of the day is only bricks and mortar – importantly, its crucial for us to keep the UCU pensions and deteriorating pay and working conditions in sight.
Great to speak with Labour Party members in the queue – many expressed their solidarity – but it would have been even better inside!! KONPNE had asked Labour North for a table inside the venue (to provide information, display posters and chat with delegates regarding health campaigning in the north, the privatisation of services in the region, the Health and Care Bill etc etc) and were quoted £250 !!!…. reduced to £200 on our appeal !!!…. but all totally out of reach for a Campaign group. We made the decision to stand outside for free, have thawed out now, but appeal once again: we are all in this together, we need to join forces and work collaboratively in fighting for #OURNHS and PLEASE, next year, lets share ideas around a table and a coffee?
Great to meet up with our friends in the Socialist Health Association.
26th February 2022 – “SOS NHS” in Gosforth
Wonderful for the NHS to have the continued support of East and West Gosforth Labour Party Branches – Party members leafletted and spread the word about NHS privatisation to people on the busy Gosforth High Street. A BIG THANKYOU to all involved.
And if you care for the NHS, this Campaign belongs to us ALL – KONPNE as an organisation does not align itself with any one specific political party, and we are happy to support all individuals or groups who support a publicly funded and publicly provided NHS and wish to get involved. Please get in touch with us at konpnortheast@gmail.com… we are happy to update you on the latest details and point you towards the most appropriate resources.
Many thanks, once again, to all in Gosforth.
25th February 2022 – All sorted for tomorrow…..
Info is here
21st February 2022– Supporting UCU
It is crucial that we step forward to show our respect, support and solidarity with our University and College academics and staff. They are experiencing devastating cuts to pensions and deteriorating pay and working conditions; in healthcare, these people teach and supervise trainee doctors and other health professionals.
This morning, members of “Keep Our NHS Public North East” were proud to support NewcastleUniversity UCU members and also to promote our “SOS NHS” events at both King’s Gate, Newcastle University and outside the main medical building in Framlington Place. Solidarity.
19th February 2022 – 1000 leaflets in one morning….
Joan, Jude and Clare from Keep Our NHS Public North East…..And what a great reception we got this morning giving out leaflets in Whitley Bay and Cullercoats— from cafes, shops, beauty parlours and chemists! One passerby took leaflets from us and did four streets herself!
We asked a family on the seafront to take our photo and a 1 min video on the phone; two turned out to be professional photographers – at the coast for their nonegenarian mum‘s birthday – and passionate about the NHS. Watch this space for their proper photos arriving soon!
See you next Saturday 26th February 2022 2.30pm SOS NHS at Longsands Beach, Tynemouth, near the Grand Hotel. Events also in Newcastle and Sunderland – click here for details….
15th February 2022 – “SOS NHS” gathers force across the NE
KEEP THE DATE: Saturday 26th February 2022. The Day of Action is taking shape across the NE – please contact us at konpnortheast@gmail.com if you are able to assist with organisation and/or leafletting, before the day or on the day itself.
More info is here
9th February 2022 – Discussions in Consett
Great to be invited by NW Durham CLP to present an update on the Health and Care Bill, which is currently going through Parliament. This Bill, if passed as it stands, marks the end of a national health service, sets up a postcode lottery for care, and will lead to growing health inequalities and increased privatisation. Much discussion and information on ways forward (see here), and many thanks to Andy for arranging.
KONPNE are regularly invited by groups and organisations to present updates on campaigning work for the NHS, and to provide information about ways of getting involved. We are not aligned to any political party, and we are pleased to help out wherever possible – click here for further information, and contact us at konpnortheast@gmail.com
3rd February 2022 – KONPNE Zoom
Good discussions and planning at our monthly Campaign meeting – focussing on Livi privatisation in North Tyneside, the Health and Care Bill, campaign activity by KONP Sunderland and District, and the forthcoming SOS NHS National Day of Action. Many thanks to all who attended – it was good to see you. The notes from the meeting are here, and are available for everyone to read – our meetings are open, and all are welcome.
Our next meeting is on Thursday 3rd March (always the first Thursday), at 7pm via Zoom. All are welcome! Click here for more info and joining details.
26th January 2022 – KEEP THE DATE: 26/2/22
WE DEMAND:
(1) Approve emergency funding of £20 billion to save lives this winter
(2) Invest in a fully publicly owned NHS & guarantee free healthcare for future generations
(3) Pay staff properly: without fair pay, staffing shortages will cost lives
The details of local North East events planned by KONPNE will be posted here (if your group or organisation is also planning an event for the Day of Action, please let us know, and we will be pleased to publicise)
17th January 2022 – Contacting the Lords
YOUR ASSISTANCE IS URGENTLY NEEDED.
The Health and Care Bill is currently being debated in the Lords, and we need your help in emailing up to 5 Peers. This is a very straight-forward and quick task. Please go to our page here and scroll to Part 3 for guidance.
We need to stop private companies from sitting on NHS Boards and we need to ensure that NHS Trusts (and not private companies) are the default position when commissioning future services.
Please do all that you can to support this crucial action, and please get your family, friends and all contacts involved….it is not an understatement to say that the future of our NHS lies within this Bill.
Thank you, KONPNE
15th January 2022 – Fight to protect the right to protest
Kill The Bill National Day of Action – Rally at the Monument, Newcastle upon Tyne.
Is there anything more deserving of protest than a plan to infringe the right to protest?
Voting on the Police and Crime Bill takes place in the Lords next week and THIS BILL MUST BE STOPPED. KONPNE were proud to speak at the Kill The Bill Rally in Newcastle today, and many thanks to North East Peoples Assembly, Stand Up to Racism North East, Resist Ncl and Extinction Rebellion North East for organising the event. A great turn out – and, now, we expect our representatives in London to do the right thing by voting to uphold democracy and human rights.
Jude Letham, Co-ordinator, spoke on behalf of KONPNE. Click here to watch (most of) the speech on video, and click here for a written version
Click here for more info about the Police and Crime Bill
KONPNE Co-ordinator Jude Letham speaks at the Kill the Bill Rally, 15th January 2022
6th January 2022 …..And into the New Year
Our first KONPNE meeting of 2022 – and much campaigning to plan and action. Our planning and discussions included **an update on lobbying individual members of the House of Lords re the Health and Care Bill, **the latest developments regarding the Livi privatisation in North Tyneside Primary Care brought about by North Tyneside CCG, **our question to North Tyneside full Council meeting taking place on 20th February, **campaigning work regarding healthcare to refugees, **the online rally “SOS – NHS” hosted by a number of Campaign groups (incl KONP) taking place on 19th February, and the Covid Public Inquiry hosted by national KONP.
Notes and links from this meeting are freely available to all to view, and are here.
Our next meeting will take place on Thursday 3rd February 2022 at 7pm and ALL ARE WELCOME. Make it your New Year resolution to stand up and fight for the reinstatement of a publicly provided NHS. Your help is needed, and rest assured that you will be made to feel very welcome. Zoom log in information is here.
31st December 2021 – New Years Eve 2021
NEW YEARS EVE: Behind the NHS tinsel and glitter is the reality of life and death – 24/7 operating, assessing, measuring, scanning, recording, medicating, exercising, washing, cleaning, feeding, transporting – and we give our heartfelt thanks to all NHS workers for caring for us in many varied ways over the festive period and throughout the year….
Some say that the NHS is a system or organisation – but we know that it is our friends, relatives, the guy next door, the woman in the cafe and that person up the street who want to do their very best – not “angels” or “heroes”, but people with families and homes who have their own share of happiness and joy and stress and sadness and who, at work, are caring and hardworking professionals who want to make a difference.
Throughout 2022, the Government now need to match this by providing a good working environment – and not running down our services; by ensuring adequate staffing – and not diminishing our workforce; and by paying a fair wage – and not a low wage.
Behind the tinsel and glitter, that is the reality. 2021 has been a long and difficult year, and we give our sincere thanks to all NHS staff. We also thank all KONPNE supporters for their persistence in fighting for a publicly funded, publicly provided and publicly accountable NHS, which is available to all. Thankyou for being part of the team in 2021 – and we’ll be back in the New Year to join forces and to continue the fight. See you then – and wishing all a very happy and healthy New Year
xx Keep our NHS Public North East
24th December 2021 – Festive Greetings!
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Festive Greetings!
Thank you very much for all your support this year and our best wishes for a happy and healthy 2022
*********************
21st December 2021 – KONP contacts Police Commissioner Cressida Dick
Further to the People’s Covid Inquiry earlier this year, Dr Tony O’Sullivan and Dr John Puntis (Co-Chairs of National KONP) have written to Police Commissioner Cressida Dick re Governments gross negligence and misconduct in public office, requesting that she authorises an investigation of the facts from the Inquiry with a view to considering prosecutions. Misconduct in public office is an offence under common law defined as where there is wilful neglect of duty ‘to such a degree as to amount to an abuse of the public’s trust in the office holder.’ The report also suggests there may be the offence of corporate manslaughter. Click here to read the letter and for further information – and watch this space….
12th December 2021: Further privatisation by North Tyneside CCG
Article in the national newspaper “Health Campaigns Together”, published today
More info is on our website here
9th December 2021: Cartoons received from Awry
Many thanks to cartoonist Awry for the pictorial response to recent goings-on in North Tyneside. It is clear to many people, perhaps with the exception of North Tyneside Clinical Commissioning Group, that North Tyneside CCG should not be wasting taxpayers money by contracting out to international private, profit making healthcare companies with shareholders….and for North Tyneside CCG to describe these predatory private companies as being part of a rosy and cosy “NHS family” is, itself, laughable…. if it wasn’t such an appallingly serious issue.
“North Tyneside CCG, following an evaluation exercise, has extended the Livi pilot contract while it procures a ‘Complementary GP Video Consultation Service’ for North Tyneside”. North Tyneside CCG website (September 2021)
KONPNE disagrees with North Tyneside CCGs warm and glowing portrayal of private providers as being part of a rosy and cosy “NHS family” (North Tyneside CCG: “Livi: Complementary GP Video Consultation Service Pilot Evaluation” page 33). The reality is, of course, very different. We strongly object to the insidious privatisation of the NHS: North Tyneside CCG should not be wasting taxpayers money by contracting out to private, profit making companies with shareholders.
Read more about this issue, our KONPNE response to the CCG commissioning, and national press reporting here
2nd December 2021: Winter in the NE – and the Campaign heats up
Our final KONPNE meeting of the year – but no slowing down…in fact, the Campaign heats up – good to have feedback about initiatives in the North East, and also conversations about our future campaigning regarding “Livi” in North Tyneside, and the Health and Care Bill. The notes from our meeting tonight are here.
No KONPNE social gatherings are taking place this Christmas due to Covid – but our thoughts are with all over the festive period, and as we move into the New Year. And, of course, our Campaigning does not stop. Please click here to find out how you can assist over the Christmas period.
All are welcome to launch our 2022 Campaigning at the 6th January 2022 KONPNE meeting, commencing at 7pm, and lasting for 1 hr 30mins – log in details are here. We meet on the first Thursday of every month.
1st December 2021: Findings of The People’s Covid Inquiry are published
Today, The People’s Covid Inquiry organised by national Keep Our NHS Public presented their final and completed report.
In the absence of a formal public inquiry into the pandemic, The People’s Covid Inquiry began in February 2021, took place over 9 sessions and concluded it’s hearings in the summer. It covered all aspects of the government’s handling of the pandemic and heard testimony from a wide range of people and organisations. These included previous government advisors and key academics, as well as frontline workers and bereaved family members. The Inquiry was chaired by world renowned human rights barrister Michael Mansfield QC who, together with a panel of experts, delivered their findings and recommendations on all main aspects of the pandemic to date.
The Full Report and an Executive Summary are on our webpage here
27th November 2021: No stopping the Campaigners from East and West Gosforth
It is always great to get support from local groups and organisations and, today, campaigners from East and West Gosforth Labour Party branches held their usual monthly street stall on Gosforth High Street. In the wake of Storm Arwen, it was decided to do without a table – it would have blown away! The action focused on protecting the NHS from privatisation, and especially the current atrocious Health and Care Bill. Party members gave out a fair number of KONP leaflets, despite the awful weather.
A big THANKYOU to all involved. Whilst individual supporters of KONPNE may have a personal membership of one of the wide range of political groups and organisations, KONPNE as an organisation does not align itself with any one specific political party. We are happy to welcome and work alongside any individual or group who support a publicly funded and publicly provided NHS. A range of leaflets are available for individuals or organisations to buy and distribute (very cheaply, at £9 for 500, or £15 for 1000). Please get in touch with us at konpnortheast@gmail.com if you as an individual, or with friends, or as a member of your organisation are willing to host a street stall, hand out leaflets or post through the letter boxes in your street… we are happy to update you on the latest details and point you towards the most appropriate resources
6th November 2021: NE England Global Climate Day of Action
Great to join with “Patients Not Passports”, “Medact, health professionals and members of the public at todays march and rally in Newcastle upon Tyne. No doubt about it – climate change is a (life or death) health issue….
Many thanks to the organisers of todays very successful event. Click here for coverage in the Chronicle.
4th November 2021: KONP meets – locally and nationally
Monthly meeting this evening – but much shortened (30 mins) and at an earlier time, so that supporters may attend the national KONP online rally. A brief discussion on plans to support the forthcoming climate change march and rally in Newcastle, plus updates on the campaigns re Livi and the Health and Care Bill.
Notes from the KONPNE meeting this evening are here
A link to the national KONP rally is here – some powerful speeches. Rally hosted by “Keep Our NHS Public”, “NHS Workers Say No” and “NHS Staff Voices”
All are welcome at the 2nd December KONPNE meeting – next month at the usual time of 7pm, and lasting for 1 hr 30mins – log in details are here. We meet on the first Thursday of every month.
1st November 2021: Emails to three North East MPs
Further to the very successful campaign actions in the North East on Saturday (see post below, 30th October) regarding the Health and Care Bill, KONPNE has today written to Ian Levy MP (Blyth), Richard Holden MP (NW Durham) and Dehenna Davison MP (Bishop Auckland). We await their responses, which we will share with all supporters.
“Dear ………………………………..MP,
As part of the national day of action against the Health and Care Bill, “Keep Our NHS Public North East” and “We Own It” supporters and friends held a very successful public event in ……………………………………… on Saturday.
An account and photos are on the Keep Our NHS Public North East website at https://konpnortheast.com/news/
Posts are also on facebook and twitter as follows – (we provided the social media links re the three specific locations)
We are counting on you to oppose this Bill or, at the very least, to support multiple amendments to the Bill which address two major flaws which place our NHS at great risk. Information relating to this was provided to your office after the action, and I also attach a copy for your convenience.
Members of “Keep Our NHS Public North East” await your response
I thank you for your attention
Keep Our NHS Public North East”
The information provided to each of the three MPs is here
30th October 2021: Halloween: Private companies are sucking the lifeblood of the NHS
“We Own It” national day of action against the Health and Care Bill
What’s so scary about the Health and Care Bill? It sounds harmless, right? Don’t be fooled – this legislation has real fangs, and will further drive privatisation into our NHS. This Bill will drain more resources, power and money away from the NHS and into the hands of the likes of billionaire Virgin Care owner, Richard Branson.
Today – some lively street theatre in three locations across the North East – all with a very important message. Supporters of KONPNE and “We Own It” dressed in Halloween costume to get the point across – but this really is now a matter of huge concern, and your assistance is needed.
The Health and Care Bill is currently making its way through Parliament; if passed, this will make it harder to get the treatment that people need. The Government calls it “integrated care”, but it really means cuts to NHS services and more profit for private companies. It is crucial that all MPs now show their real support for the NHS, and vote against this Bill. After each action, we hand-delivered a letter to each of the three MPs at their constituency office. Read this letter here.
Many thanks to all supporters of KONPNE and “We Own It” who took part in Blyth, Consett and Bishop Auckland, and to the many residents who asked questions, provided their views and showed their support.
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FIRST STOP – Blyth, Northumberland – when voting this time round, it is crucial that Ian Levy MP stands up for the NHS
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SECOND STOP – Consett, North West Durham – Richard Holden MP needs to vote to STOP further NHS privatisation:
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AND THE THIRD STOP – Bishop Auckland, County Durham – Dehenna Davison MP needs to vote against the Health and Care Bill to ensure NO MORE CASH FOR CRONIES.
NHS R.I.P ? Time is running short. A real-life horror story.
Information about the Bill and what you can do to help is on our website here
KONPNE has strong links with the national “We Own It” organisation. Information about “We Own It” is here
27th October 2021: No Borders in the NHS – Whitley Bay
This morning, KONPNE were proud to support the Newcastle group of “Patients Not Passports” in campaigning against the charging of asylum seekers and refugees for NHS services.
Pictured outside the iconic Whitley Bay Dome, Clare Bethell from the “Patients Not Passports” group said: “My work with asylum seekers with Care for Calais has shown me that migrants and asylum seekers in need of health care will not use the NHS for mental health issues, pregnancy or infectious diseases care because they know that they will be sent a bill for thousands of pounds. When they don’t pay, our hospital trusts send the debt collectors after them. When they try and register with GPs they are often asked for a myriad of documents to prove who they are and where they live, which they don’t have. They then become more unwell and need more care than they would have done. We must stop patient charging in the NHS and return to an NHS with no Borders.”
#patientsnotpassports #medact #nobordersinthenhs #refugeeswelcomehere #setherfree #migrantsorganise #careforcalais #NEAR
More information about the “Patients Not Passports” week of action is here and information about the Hostile Environment is on our webpage here
25th October 2021: No Borders in the NHS – RVI, Newcastle
Today, members of KONPNE joined together with Medact North East to support the “Patients not Passports” National Week of Action. Our action outside the RVI attracted considerable attention and support from patients, visitors and staff.
Our NHS was founded on the principle of universal healthcare, free at the point of use for everyone – regardless of background, nationality, or ability to pay. The government’s Hostile Environment means this is no longer the case. What we see as a result is people deterred from seeking the care they need, outright denied treatment on the basis of the documents they have, questioned about their entitlement to care because of how they look, the colour of their skin, or their so called ‘foreign sounding name’, and people being forced to choose between incurring huge debts, regularising their immigration status, or their good health.
We remember and honour all those whose lives have been destroyed by these racist Hostile Environment policies. October marks four years since the introduction of upfront charging for migrants in the NHS, and two years since the deaths of 39 Vietnamese migrants who were found in a lorry in Essex. We remember Nasar Ullah Khan, who died after being denied treatment for heart failure. We remember Elfreda Spencer, who died because she could not pay £30,000 upfront for chemotherapy. We remember Kelema Mulat, who died following a 6 week delay in breast cancer treatment. We remember Elvis, who died of coronavirus without help because he was too scared of being charged or deported if he came forward for treatment. We remember all whose lives have been made disposable at the hands of Britain’s hostile border controls—their bravery, their struggles to survive and their campaigns for a better world.
Today, in Newcastle, we joined forces with others across the country to make a very clear message: no borders in healthcare. The NHS must treat #PatientsNotPassports.
CLICK HERE
to read the report from the Chronicle
More information about the “Patients Not Passports” week of action is here and information about the Hostile Environment is on our webpage here
12th October 2021 *Save the Date* – NHS v Vampires Halloween Special: Saturday 30th October
We will be taking part in the ‘We Own It’ Day of Action to oppose the “Health & Care Bill” (or “NHS Corporate Takeover Bill”, as it is more accurately known).
Find out more about the ‘We Own It’ Day of Action here
On Saturday 30th October, campaigners are asked to take a selfie (wearing a Richard Branson mask or vampire teeth) at a local landmark, alongside a message about private health companies sucking the life out of the NHS, and then to post it on social media with tags to ourselves.
….. or, alternatively, members of KONP North East Steering Group will be briefly visiting Blyth (10.30am), Consett (12.30pm) and Bishop Auckland (2pm) – please join us for a group photo – more details plus addresses (for photos) are on our events page here.
Find out more about the Bill on our website here
Photo: KONPNE action last year: Blood-sucking private companies at Grey’s Monument, Newcastle October 2020
Much discussed at tonights meeting, including further Campaign plans to fight against the provisions of the Health and Care Bill, and an update on Livi – the privatisation in North Tyneside Primary Care.
The notes from this meeting are here, and are open to all to read.
Our next meeting will take place on Thursday 4th November (always the first Thursday of the month) – details are here
3rd October 2021 – New briefing re Health and Care Bill
A brand new (October 2021) “Health Campaigns Together” briefing re the Health and Care Bill ishere– please feel free to circulate electronically, print off, or order copies from healthcampaignstogether@gmail.com – and circulate far and wide……
20th September 2021 – North East United
Great on-line public meeting this evening, hosted by North East Peoples Assembly, to build support for the 3rd October protest of the Tory Party Conference in Manchester. Speakers included Laura Pidcock, Daniel Kebede NEU President and Ben Chacko Editor of Morning Star and, additionally, KONPNE Co-ordinator Jude Letham spoke about the current situation regarding the NHS.
The Tories are back in Manchester for their annual conference at the beginning of October and, to coincide with this, there will be a national demonstration and march in Manchester on Sunday 3 Oct, which North East People’s Assembly will be joining, Members of KONPNE will also be present, to fly the KONPNE banner among the many thousands of people who are expected on the day. Book your ticket on the coach from Newcastle, organised by Peoples Assembly – £25 waged / £15 unwaged – clickhere
18th September 2021 – Gosforth campaigning against the Health and Care Bill
Thank you to East Gosforth Labour Party for inviting us to join them in campaigning against NHS privatisation and, in particular, the Health & Care Bill 2021. The branch had purchased leaflets from National KONP and set up their stall on Gosforth High Street.
Several members of the public were very keen to talk about the difficulties of getting face to face GP appointments – a situation which will undoubtedly be worse if the Health & Care Bill is passed.
Seethis pageof our KONPNE website for information about Integrated Care Systems, the Health & Care Bill and action you can take.
Please contact us at konpnortheast@gmail.com if you would like to arrange a similar event. KONPNE is not aligned to any political party, and we will do our best to support any organisation who believe in the need to return to a publicly-provided and publicly accountable NHS.
8th September 2021 – Protect the NHS – scrap the Health and Care Bill
– the national KONP online rally, part of the fight-back against Bill.
What a line up! Julie Hesmondhalgh, Actor, Michael Rosen, Writer, Dr Tony O’Sullivan (KONP), Jonathan Ashworth MP Shadow Secretary of State for Health, Alia Butt (NHS Staff Voices), Steve Cowan, Council Leader, Mark Ladbrooke, Chair Socialist Health Association, Cat Hobbs, Director of We Own It, Holly Turner (NHS Workers Say No), Dr Philippa Whitford MP (SNP), Dr David Wrigley (BMA), Dr Sonia Adesara (KONP), John Lister, Health Campaigns Together.
5th September 2021 – 5 MILLION PEOPLE WAITING: FUND OUR NHS
Crucial that we support the “We Own It” petition and campaign, launched this week.
Over 5 million patients in England alone are waiting for treatment right this second. The government has been underfunding our NHS for 10 years. And now, instead of investing in our NHS, it is propping up the private sector by paying them £10 billion (£200 million in shareholder profits) to run private hospitals using NHS staff to treat NHS waiting list patients. This is not a solution. NHS staff should be working in NHS hospitals.
We are calling for the government to commit to new funding for our NHS in its autumn budget update.
Sign the “We Own It” petition here, and please circulate the petition link to all contacts. More info on hospital waiting lists is on our webpage here.
4th September 2021 – Care and Support Workers
In Newcastle city centre this afternoon, and a big shout out to Care and Support Workers Organise and their national day of action for..
**£15 ph **renationalise care **full sick pay **better terms and conditions in the workplace …plus more
2nd September 2021 – Autumn campaigning
Our monthly meeting tonight (always scheduled for the first Thursday of the month at 7pm), and another interesting discussion and planning session for activity over the next few weeks…..also great to spend time in the company of like-minded people…. and great to see new faces – we are an open and inclusive group, and everyone is welcome.
Tonight, the focus was on the Health and Care Bill, with feedback following our events in August, and much planning for September and beyond. There is much happening. Notes of our discussions are here.
Our next meeting will be on Thursday 7th October at 7pm, and ALL ARE WELCOME. More info, including Zoom joining info is here.
29th August 2021 – Door-to-door in Whitley Bay
Great to have the support of Joan, Liz, Helen and Sophie who leafletted the leafy suburb of St.Marys, Whitley Bay, today. All four of you are stars, and you definitely deserve that cappuccino. Special mention to Liz Smith (pictured by the tree), a supporter of KONPNE and passionate about OUR NHS; Liz survived a congenital heart defect through receiving the second open-heart surgery in the UK carried out in 1956 and done, of course, through our wonderful NHS. Well done, Liz, and well done NHS ❤
More information about the Health and Care Bill is here, leaflets may be purchased (very cheaply) from the national KONP website here …and please let us know where you are leafletting: we are at konpnortheast@gmail.com THANK YOU ❤
28th August 2021 – Campaigning in Consett
The Health and Care Bill is currently going through Parliament and, if passed, it will UNDOUBTEDLY lead to >> MORE American-style privatisation of our health service across the country >> BIGGER roles in decision-making for private healthcare companies (an exec of Virgin has already taken a seat on the Bristol health board) >> MORE contracts to private businesses, without checks and balances >> DECREASED local democracy / decision-making (ie our local North East councillors will have reduced say in health planning).
More info – click here
IT IS CRUCIAL THAT YOUR MP REPRESENTS YOUR VIEWS IN PARLIAMENT. Good to be in Consett today, hearing the views of many residents – an overwhelming public vote for a publicly-funded and publicy-provided NHS. Hundreds of information leaflets circulated to local residents, many conversations, and around 50 letters signed and delivered to local Tory MP Richard Holden….we await his response….and demand that he supports our NHS in the parliamentary vote.
Pix – KONPNE delivering the Consett letters to the office of Richard Holden MP | Great to be joined by Andy Plant (Secretary, NW Durham Labour Party), pictured with Jude Letham (Co-ordinator. KONPNE)
14th August 2021 – Health and Care Bill at the Monument
Further to the recent leafletting sessions outside the RVI, the Freeman and North Tyneside General, last Saturday saw members of KONPNE at the Monument in Newcastle, with great support from our friends at Morpeth and Pegswood Branch Labour Party. Many interesting conversations, plus hundreds of leaflets distributed, plus around 50 letters to local MPs….. a very successful session.
More info is here: there was absolutely no doubt in Newcastle that this Bill must be stopped….
9th August 2021 – This week – North Tyneside General Hospital
Another leafletting session for KONPNE, this time at North Tyneside General Hospital ….and great to have support from members of North Tyneside Momentum.
It is crucial that as many people as possible know about the Health and Care Bill which is currently passing through Parliament …. and do something about it. Please click on our bespoke webpage here to find out how you can help….
5th August 2021 – KONPNE speaks
Much to discuss at tonights monthly meeting – including updates about activity in South Tyneside and Sunderland, Morpeth, North Tyneside, Blyth and Newcastle, plus the latest on the “NHS Data Grab” and the “Health and Care Bill” (plus Integrated Care Systems…)
The notes from the meeting are here.
Wherever you live, you are welcome to join in with the discussions and campaign planning at our next meeting – or to sit back and listen… whatever suits you best. The important thing is that you are there.
KONPNE meets monthly via Zoom on the first Thursday of the month at 7pm – our next meeting is on Thursday 2nd September: ALL WELCOME. More info and the Zoom joining code is here
29th July 2021 – Health and Care Bill must be opposed
Today: leafletting outside the Freeman Hospital, Newcastle-upon-Tyne. There is absolutely no doubt that the Governments “Health and Care Bill 2021”, and its inherent “Integrated Care System” will hurt staff and patients throughout the country, if Parliament votes it in after the summer recess. The staff at the Freeman do a brilliant job, and it is crucial that they know about the bill – plus patients and visitors.
This Bill must be opposed. More info about the Bill, the Campaign, and what you can do is here.
28th July 2021 – Much support in Benton, Newcastle-upon-Tyne
Great to be invited by Benton Branch Labour Party to address and lead a discussion on “Integrated Care Systems” and the current “Health and Care Bill”. Much interest and support, many questions, and a thoughtful discussion about ways forward and campaign involvement at tonights Branch meeting via Zoom.
Whilst KONPNE members are, individually, members of a range of political groups or none, KONPNE as an organisation is not affiliated to any one specific political group. We are happy to present a talk or lead a discussion with any group who wish to find out more and join in the Campaign. More info is here – please do not hesitate to contact us at konpnortheast@gmail.com
22nd July 2021 – Sunny day, dark news
Outside the RVI gates for a busy two hours this lunchtime – and time very well spent, providing leaflets and information about the “Health and Care Bill 2021” to the many NHS staff, visitors and day patients.
If this Bill is voted in by Parliament, it will UNDOUBTEDLY lead to >> MORE American-style privatisation of our health service across the country >> BIGGER roles in decision-making for private healthcare companies (an exec of Virgin has already taken a seat on the Bristol health board) >> MORE contracts to private businesses, without checks and balances >> DECREASED local democracy / decision-making (ie our local North East councillors will have reduced say in health planning)
More info regarding the Health and Care Bill (including the leaflet handed out today) is here
Many thanks to all who helped today. It was a hot one!
COME AND JOIN US IN HANDING OUT LEAFLETS – this government is hellbent on involving the private sector in our health service further AND IT NEEDS TO BE STOPPED NOW. Next week, we will be outside the gates at the Freeman Hospital on Thursday 29th July 2021, 12 noon – 2pm…. Can you spare a couple of hours? Your assistance would be very much appreciated, so….see you there? Thank you
17th July 2021 – North East v private healthcare companies
