Procrastination is the thief of donations

Now the PCT is continuing this practice with plans for the smaller hospitals.

Both Littlehampton and Zachary Merton Hospitals have people in this area for many years.

Both were able to take patients needing convalescent nursing after operations, or periods in the larger hospitals, or when recommended by GPs.

The NHS provides funds for major equipment and staff at each hospital, but the extra comfort and welfare of the patients and staff began to be provided by dedicated volunteers of their Leagues of Friends, who fund-raise and also receive annual membership fees, donations from charitable folk and from relatives of those who received all the care and attention possible in the hospitals during their stay, together with some legacies.

Now, with further procrastination from the PCT, since Littlehampton Hospital was demolished and planned to rise phoenix-like from the ashes (or in this case, the rubble), Zachary Merton has continued to serve the public, but with rumours abounding as to its future '” closure when Littlehampton is ready to receive patients, keeping open its 24/28 beds for longer-term patients, etc.

One can only speculate as to when Littlehampton will actually open, but on past performance, it is unlikely to be in under three years.

The continuing uncertainty and rumours of closure have led to donations and bequests to Zachary Merton's League of Friends being severely diminished, and so we will be unable to offer the same level of support as previously for the next two to three years.

As treasurer, I sincerely hope that the PCT will make a formal decision about the hospital's future, and that residents of Zachary Merton's catchment area, who have hesitated to donate or bequeath to our group because of this uncertainty, will now continue to support us.

David Beckingham, treasurer, Zachary Merton Community Hospital League of Friends, Cleeves Court, Rustington

NOTE: All letters must include a name and address which can be withheld by request.

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