The Farming Community Network (FCN) is one of the charities which supports farmers and people in agricultural roles during difficult times. They are a vital listening ear when people are struggling.
FCN help farmers and farming families find a positive way forward through any issues they may be having including animal welfare, financial concerns, family mediation and mental ill-health.
To get in touch call their confidential Helpline (03000 111 999) and e-Helpline ([email protected])
As we head into the New Year it is disappointing that so many ‘key workers’ have been persuaded to strike. It is surprising that nurses and paramedics in particular, professions built on trust and saving lives - are prepared to put those lives at risk.
Considering that public spending on health has increased year on year, (currently £180.2 billion per annum – 7% of GDP), the apparent lack of resources and inability to award pay rises to the more deserving, should be challenged.
It is clear we have a growing unhealthy and aging population which has increased demand for health services. Why are we so unhealthy?
The NHS is the world’s fifth largest employer; it is worth asking who is in overall charge of this vast estate, and do they have the right qualifications.
The Department of Health and ministers can no longer assert their authority over NHS England. It is not widely known that the body charged with regulating the new NHS market, Monitor, is run by an executive team drawn almost entirely from the private sector, Management Consultants – KPMG and McKinsey in particular.
McKinsey has been caught up in major scandals, unrelated to the NHS. They are no longer considered a gold standard Management Consultancy, so perhaps their involvement should be reviewed.
Voters and the media will always direct their anger at politicians rather than these bureaucrats if A&E services fail to deliver. We should remember it was Tony Blair who “made the NHS a black hole and wasted BILLIONS”, by throwing money and Frank Dobson at it, and cutting back on medics – with disastrous results - he has much to answer for.
Today the NHS is awash with money, but how it is spent and by whom needs addressing, including recognising the current model does not prioritise those who are truly sick or those who look after them.
Many problems lie ahead but we must remember our problems are miniscule compared with what others face around the world. Our hospitals are not being bombed by Putin, our children and not dying of malnutrition.
We should be thankful for what we have.
Happy New Year.