Addressing conference delegates in Blackpool’s Winter Gardens, Dave McCrossen – Usdaw deputy general secretary said: “Delivering health services, free at the point of use, to support people to maintain happy, healthy lives, is a cornerstone of the labour movement and a key aspect of how a Labour Government supports working people and their families. The NHS has improved the health and future of countless people. For those on lower wages, those with chronic health conditions and those who just need to see a doctor, our NHS is the pride of our country and I know we all feel proud to have it. But it is not a perfect system.
“The health sector in this country is facing major challenges. Following 14 years of Tory cuts and mismanagement and the trauma of the Covid pandemic, our NHS is now in crisis. Health service users and health workers alike are worried for the future of the NHS, but there are positives under Labour.
“We have already seen NHS funding restored to 2010 levels, waiting lists are now falling consistently and we are seeing much-needed reform. This, along with ongoing commitments to double the number of cancer screenings, to implement a dentistry recovery plan and to recruit an additional 8,500 mental health staff, shows how Labour will always retain their commitment to an effective healthcare system, free at the point of use.
“We all know it is important to get regular dental checks, but for many people right across the UK, there is just no NHS dentist available. With fewer NHS places available, some people are turning to private dental care or being forced to undertake DIY dental care, at great risk to their own safety and wellbeing.
“Mobile NHS units, similar to those we see for breast screening and blood donation, that could provide check-ups and basic dental care in the community is a great suggestion. It stands to reason that providing ad-hoc dental services in the community, at NHS prices, would be a great support for those who currently struggle to access services.”
Notes for editors:
Usdaw (Union of Shop, Distributive and Allied Workers) is one of the fastest growing unions in the TUC and the UK's fifth biggest trade union with around 360,000 members. Most Usdaw members work in the retail sector, but the union also has many members in transport, distribution, food manufacturing, chemical industry and other trades www.usdaw.org.uk
For Usdaw press releases visit: www.usdaw.org.uk/news and you can follow us on Bluesky @usdawunion.bsky.social and Twitter/X @UsdawUnion