Members of the Bromley Labour Team joined with Councillors, faith and community leaders at Bromley Council’s civic service to mark Holocaust Memorial Day this morning.
As we were reminded by those speaking, In the face of the current rise in antisemitism, hate crime and other forms of prejudice, both in the UK and internationally, it is more important that ‘never again’ are not just words but a pledge for action.
We share with those attending from across our community the continued commitment to remember and honour the six million Jewish and other victims of the Holocaust, of other genocides and those who survived, by continuing to call out and reject such prejudices and hate today and in the future.
We are incredibly sad to hear that Cllr Keith Onslow has passed away over the Christmas period.
Our deepest condolences are sent to his family, friends and the Conservative Group.
Cllr Simon Jeal, who has sat on the Pensions Committee which has been chaired by Cllr Onslow, said “Keith was a dedicated Councillor and Chairman, going above and beyond in his efforts to do the best for Bromley’s pension scheme members.
“I deeply respected his acumen and hard work chairing the committee over many years and appreciated his insights and pensions expertise, he will be remembered and very much missed.”
Many residents have told me how worried they are about the future of Chartwell Ward at the PRUH. It is our specialist cancer and haematology ward and a service that families in our local community have relied on for years, my own included.
At the latest Health Scrutiny Sub Committee, I challenged senior NHS leaders about early plans to close the ward and move patients to Denmark Hill.
As someone with personal experience of the care provided on Chartwell Ward, I know how important it is to have specialised treatment close to home. For many families, it is a lifeline.
Moving care to Denmark Hill might look tidy on a spreadsheet, but it does not reflect the reality for Bromley residents. It is far harder to reach in an emergency and the risks to patient safety have not been properly considered.
Bromley residents deserve safe and reliable care when they need it most.
Taking this ward away from our borough would put unnecessary pressure on patients and their loved ones at an already difficult time, and it would weaken the emergency pathway that has supported our community for decades.
Unfortunately Kings Collect NHS Foundation Trust – who manage the PRUH – are committed to their plans to close the inpatient unit. They are now seeking engagement with patient groups on how best to manage this change.
Your stories matter
Many local people have already shared their experiences with me and together they make a powerful case for keeping this ward in Bromley.
If you have concerns, experiences or stories you would like me to raise, please email tony.mcpartlan@bromley.gov.uk.
