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Healthcare campaigners make a stand as new States is sworn in

Healthcare campaigners were in Jersey's Royal Square to highlight to new States Members the shortcomings in local services.

The 'Silent Stand for Better Healthcare' was organised by the Sophie Reid Neurological Association, inviting anyone whose suffered delays or difficulties getting care to take part.

It was timed to coincide with the 49 newly-elected politicians arriving in the square to be officially sworn in to office in the Royal Court.

The campaigners are demanding that the next government listens to people who have faced inadequate care, and prioritises improvements.

Sophie Reid, who was diagnosed with a brain tumour in 2024, told Channel 103:

"We thought if there are lots of here then at least they will be able to see how many of us there is and they might actually realise that patient voices matter when they are making their new decisions.

"We need to stand together as patients so that people know that we are serious about making change and being heard.

In particular, the Sophie Reid Neurological Association is pushing for an overhaul of neurological care following the findings of the Royal College of Physicians that confirmed the service is significant over-stretched and under-resouced.

'Overstretched' neurology department following under-experienced managers

Sophie wants a public, independent review of Jersey's healthcare system.

"We are collecting signatures for a petition that we are planning on taking to the Chief Minister and the new Minister for Health, when that is decided, so that we can create some lasting impact."

Her message to States Members is:

"If anyone wants to reach out and see how we can work together, we are keen for collaboration.  We are not here to knock you for what you are not doing, or what you are doing.  We want to be supportive. That is why I set the charity up, so we can support the Health Department and make better changes for patients in Jersey.

More from Jersey News from Channel 103

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