SOS Dorset NHS

6.53.00am GMT Mon 25th Jan 2010

HEALTH chiefs have moved to scotch rumours that they plan to close minor injury units in North Dorset.

NHS Dorset, the primary care trust responsible for units at Shaftesbury, Blandford, Wimborne and Sherborne community hospitals, has reassured residents that there are no plans to close the facilities.

The trust says the units are particularly useful during the current cold weather, dealing with injuries sustained when people slip on ice.

In response to rumours about possible closure Liberal Democrats started a petition to save the centres in Blandford, Shaftesbury and Wimborne, speculating that trust finances indicated cuts were imminent.

Prospective parliamentary candidate Emily Gasson, who campaigned successfully against possible closure of Wimborne's unit four years ago, launched a campaign called SOS North Dorset NHS in response to the latest perceived threat.

She said "I will not stand by and let them cut our local health services."

Deirdre Selwyn, NHS Dorset's area manager for community hospitals, said: "We understand why people have been concerned about these recent rumours, but there is absolutely no truth in them.

"What we are doing is reviewing the services provided by the units to ensure they are of high quality and meeting the needs of local people.

"We do this routinely for all the services we provide.

"I urge residents in North Dorset not to worry. The units will continue to provide the service they value so much."