The NHS Mid and South Essex Integrated Care System have been working to confirm the full membership of the community hospital consultation working group - who will help review feedback related to the closure of Maldon's St Peter's Hospital.

The proposed changes threatened to relocate St Peter's Stroke and Maternity beds across Essex, as well as move ambulatory services out of the hospital to an alternative local location.

Following a three-month-long consultation, 5,000 survey responses and four consultation hearings, the decision was made just twelve days ahead of the decision date to delay the final-decision for six months.

This decision aims to "allow further engagement" with the local population, as well as enable the NHS "to develop comprehensive solutions" to address the needs of local communities. 

The delay means there will be no immediate changes to the provision of community hospital beds or ambulatory care services. All services are expected to continue while the engagement process is ongoing.

An independently chaired working group is now being confirmed.



Save Maldon's Medical Services Group peaceful protesting at the Maldon District Council Offices in September. (Credit: Chloe Brewster)

The group will look at viable options in detail, review consultation feedback, and ensure the final decision reflects a broad range of perspectives.

A range of stakeholders, including local authorities, Healthwatch representatives, members of the Save Maldon Medical Services campaign group and NHS staff, are expected to be involved.

Thurrock Councillor James Halden has been appointed as the Independent Chair of the working group.

The terms of reference for the group are currently being developed with the Chair, which will outline the objectives, responsibilities, and timeline for the working group to ensure a focused and collaborative approach. 

This will be shared onto the NHS Mid and South Essex website once ready.

You can register to receive updates on the progress of the working group via NHS Mid and South Essex's Virtual Views engagement platform.