I AM pleased to reassure Ludlow Advertiser readers that, contrary to the opinion piece published on June 11, NHS Property Services is not a private company but is part of the NHS and wholly owned by the Department of Health. The organisation is responsible for around 10% of the NHS estate which we inherited when the former primary care trusts and strategic health authorities were abolished in April 2013. Other points I’d like to respond to include:
We are wholly accountable under the Freedom of Information Act and offer a wealth of information, including on our website at www.property.nhs.uk
It is not true that our function is solely to make a profit - our responsibilities are clearly set out to:
• Manage, maintain and improve NHS properties
• Create safe, efficient, sustainable health care environments
• Dispose of properties which have been declared surplus to health care requirements by local commissioners
• Ensure all funds from sales of surplus properties are channelled back into the NHS
Ludlow Hospital transferred to NHS Property Services, along with other former primary care buildings and community hospitals. These buildings are held in our stewardship to enable the delivery of local NHS health care alongside other NHS partners.
We are always available to discuss any issues surrounding Ludlow Hospital. We have offered to attend the next Taskforce meeting and are currently awaiting a response.
It is certainly not true that NHS Property Services as the owner is a barrier to the CCG’s ability to commission into the site. We work closely alongside the CCG to support our NHS colleagues in delivering their strategy for services, rather than working independently of it, as suggested.
As regional director I am always happy to answer any queries or concerns, as are my team.
I trust this clarifies any misunderstandings.
MARTIN ROYAL
Regional director
NHS Property Services, Midlands and East