Sutton and Merton Primary Care Trust

3.15.21pm GMT Tue 19th Jun 2007

Commenting on the Healthcare Commission's report into the self-assessment of services carried out by the local healthcare providers, the Epsom and St Helier University NHS Trust, South West London and St George's Mental Health Trust and Sutton and Merton Primary Care Trust

Tom Brake said, "The bad news is that the PCT's damning self-assessment clearly reflects the many weaknesses identified by the Healthcare Commission inquiry into learning disabilities services at Orchard Hill PCT.

"The good news is that the action plan drawn up by the PCT to address these failings should make the vast majority of services compliant when the next report is produced. If this is not the case, then heads will have to roll."

Tom Brake added, "Whilst the results for Epsom and St Helier University NHS Trust are clearly better than the PCT's, I hope they have been equally self-critical in their assessment. Anecdotal evidence from cases raised with me suggests that there is still scope for improvements in food and nutrition, the hospital environment and how patients and relatives are dealt with".