THE leaders of two councils have reacted to a damning Care Quality Commission report which rated Worcestershire Acute Hospitals NHS Trust inadequate and placed it in special measures.

Councillor Margaret Sherrey, leader of Bromsgrove District Council, said: “In my experience, as a former nurse, the behaviour of the trust has been absolutely unacceptable.

"They have not listened to their community and its leaders and now look at the position they are in.

“We have watched as the healthcare services at the Alex have been slowly and sneakily dismantled despite the public outcry and continued hard work and care given by staff during a time of such uncertainty.

“Now, under special measures, this trust will be partnered with a higher performing trust and as part of this I hope they realise that their behaviour has been unacceptable.

“It is absolutely essential we stop talking about this – we need action and I hope now the trust has come under scrutiny, that the powers in Westminster give this the attention it deserves and see that our residents in Redditch, Bromsgrove and South Warwickshire get the healthcare that they deserve.”

Councillor Bill Hartnett, leader of Redditch Borough Council, added: “This latest news has sadly come as no surprise and our fears have been confirmed.

“And no wonder – we have a trust which is in £58m of debt, has transferred the maternity services to Worcester behind our backs and refuses to consult with Redditch residents over the health services they want and need.

“Along with the leaders of Bromsgrove and Stratford Council and the local MPs we have recently met with the Secretary of State and the Trust Development Authority.

“But the time to talk is now over – and we need action so we can protect vital health care services for our residents.

“It really is a matter of life and death and I call upon the government to take action as a matter of urgency.”