Glyn Davies, Montgomeryshire’s MP has reported on the future strategy of the Powys Branch of Kidney Foundation Wales following a meeting this week. The meeting was convened following the recent death of the Branch Chair, Trudy Baynes-Hill, and the recent opening of the dialysis unit at Welshpool Hospital.
Glyn Davies, who has served as secretary to the local branch since its establishment said:
“The Powys Branch, under the leadership of Trudy Baynes-Hill was set up to campaign for a renal dialysis unit in Montgomeryshire. All of us involved were greatly saddened by Trudy’s recent death, and look on the recent opening of the temporary dialysis unit at Welshpool Hospital as a monument to her dedication and commitment.
“The branch decided to remain in existence, at least until a permanent unit is built at the hospital, programmed to be completed next year. It was also decided to work with the North Wales Local Health Board to establish a ‘Renal Patient’s Forum’ in Montgomeryshire, which could take over our work in the future.
“The local branch has about £20,000 on deposit as a result of generous donations from local people. We decided to hold discussions with the North Wales LHB before deciding how to invest the money, which is to be used to “enhance the patient experience”. We need to decide whether to invest in the temporary unit or wait until the permanent unit comes on stream next year. Anyone interested in joining our branch, or participating in a ‘patient’s forum’ should contact me at my constituency office.”
