ONCE again the older person is discriminated against. So often we are told what is good for us, and again made to feel guilty for getting old and sometimes given the disgusting title of ‘bed blockers’. I know from experience, not anecdotal, the wonderful and caring work of the staff and their relationship to their patients and families on the GP Ward.

We older people are of a generation that values the hospital ward, the security of knowing the staff are fully trained and the importance this gives in the care of the patient, and the reassurance it gives to families and friends.

Maybe, the people who are instigating the changes have not read the Black Report, “inequalities in health”. This may broaden their minds especially pages 147-148.

In their so called plans for the future use of the GP Ward, were the patients, families and the community consulted? Or was it done by a management that just sees pounds, shillings and pence before their eyes?

Since the market economy and the purchaser provided was introduced into the NHS, trusts always appear not to be able to balance their books.

You cannot market health in the same way as you produce cars on a conveyor system.

Revd Canon Paul Brothwell Stourport