Recently I took part in a House of Commons debate over the proposed closure of Cygnet House in Long Stratton.

Cygnet House was specially built just seven years ago to look after elderly people in South Norfolk suffering with various forms of dementia including Alzheimer's.

Norfolk and Waveney Mental Health Partnership NHS Trust is proposing to replace Cygnet House and four other units across Norfolk, which together provide some 65 residential places, with a 28 bed hi-tech specialist unit at the Julian Hospital in Norwich.

Cygnet House offers the very best care to some of the most vulnerable people in South Norfolk. According to the Alzheimer's Society, any move can make someone with dementia worse. Also friends and relatives, many of whom are elderly and frail themselves, will find it more difficult to visit loved ones.

I am still not satisfied with the answers given by Health Minister Stephen Ladyman during the debate or Pat Holman the chief executive of the mental health trust. I am meeting Pat Holman later this month with concerned relatives of patients at Cygnet House to ask further questions.

Model railways

WELL CHUFFED: Richard Bacon was  transported back to his childhood when he visited the 1066 Model railway show, held in Roydon Village Hall at the weekend. He is pictured with Terry Johnson and Deryk Featherstone.

I was transported back to my childhood last Saturday when I visited The '1066' Model Railway Show held at Roydon Village Hall. In its sixth year, the Show is ably organised by The Diss and District Model Railway Society, attracting model railway buffs from all over the country.

I enjoyed looking at the ten layouts, reflecting railways at different times and locations as well as the stands offering equipment and memorabilia.

What I found most impressive was the extraordinary attention to detail these enthusiasts put into their models. They can spend months and even years getting just the right look.

School Visit

There are over 70 schools in South Norfolk and I spend a lot of time visiting them. It is by far the best way of finding out what is going on. It's also something I really enjoy so I was delighted to drop in on Pulham Primary School last Monday. I thoroughly enjoyed talking with the children about my work as a Member of Parliament. Headteacher Mr Peasley runs a good school and the children are a bright lot.

ABOVE: Richard during his  visit to Pulham Primary School

 I was shown a survey conducted by Year 6 children on what they think of the tests they have to do. They have sent this to Education Minister Charles Clarke. Food for thought, Charles!

▪ Need to see your MP? You can make an appointment to see Richard by calling 01379 643728.

 

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