Save our baby unit!

THE FIGHT against proposed cuts at Wythenshawe hospital's premature baby unit was given a boost with the launch of the "Save Our Baby Unit" (SOBU) campaign.

Health workers, activists and local residents at the launch were furious at the cuts, which managers call "Making It Better". As Lynn Worthington explained in opening the meeting, they're making it a sight worse.

Management want only a "stabilisation cot" to remain at Wythenshawe, with neonatal services "concentrated" in central Manchester, Oldham, etc. But more maternity services will be sent to Wythenshawe if cuts are made at other hospitals. Management want every seriously ill premature baby to be airlifted miles across the city! Even babies aren't safe from this market-obsessed government.

SOBU agreed to tackle "local" MP Paul Goggins, who's voted for every "cut the NHS" proposal of his government, and the councillors who oversee the same cuts being put into practice.

As Lynn said: "They claim to represent us. They're not likely to do that but we'll make it a damn sight harder for them to ignore us!" SOBU agreed to affiliate to Keep Our NHS Public, and to support all moves towards a national anti-cuts demonstration, linking campaigns across the country.

People at the meeting took petitions to build the campaign. We're producing more leaflets, window posters, petitions and "what you can do" campaign tips.

For more details of future meetings, ring 07769 611320, 07914 089230 or email manc_sfe@hotmail.com.