The local NHS has published a new guide to help people in mid and south Essex understand what proposed changes to services could mean for them.

The Frequently Asked Questions document outlines how each area in mid and south Essex could be affected by proposed changes to community hospital and maternity services.

The proposals will affect local services differently depending on where people live.

To understand what people in each part of mid and south Essex think about the proposals, a consultation is currently ongoing.

Dr Matthew Sweeting, System Medical Director for NHS Mid and South Essex Integrated Care Board (ICB) said: "We want to make sure that everyone understands what our proposals will mean for their area. That's why we have published these FAQs based on some of the questions we have had.

"It's important that people understand that services across allmid and south Essex are part of this consultation, and it isn't just one area or one service that could see changes.

"We want to encourage everyone to take a look at what we are proposing and to complete a survey to let us know their thoughts."

The proposals have been developed by local clinical leaders and other health experts. 

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The report directly references the proposals facing St Peter's - reiterating that this outpatient services are to remain in the Maldon District.

It also references the proposal to permanently moving a freestanding midwife-led birthing unit from Maldon to Braintree.

So far, over 3,500 people from across mid and south Essex have completed a survey. 

The survey remains open until 4 April 2024. You can find out more about the proposals on the consultation webpage.