Hundreds Petition to Save Hollybank Stroke Unit

Over 600 people have signed a petition urging Walsall Healthcare NHS Trust to reconsider the closure of Hollybank House, a stroke rehabilitation centre in Willenhall. The trust plans to relocate services to West Park Hospital in Wolverhampton, citing that Hollybank House requires a substantial £500,000 upgrade to meet regulatory standards.

Lead petitioner Dianne Bettridge expressed strong opposition to the move, highlighting concerns that transferring services out of Walsall will create significant difficulties for stroke patients and their visitors. She emphasized the desire for stroke rehabilitation, including beds, to remain within the borough, allowing residents to stay close to home during their recovery.

Despite these concerns, the trust stated that keeping Hollybank House open is not a viable option due to the building's condition and associated costs. They propose a new model focusing on improved "at home" rehabilitation, assuring that no staff will lose their jobs and that the quality and safety of patient care will remain the top priority.