Advice line: voting in May's elections

On 5 May, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland will hold devolved national elections that will determine the government and the health policies that will shape the future of health and social care in each country. There are also local and mayoral elections in many parts of England. 

 

A crucial challenge for the CSP is to gain a better understanding and recognition from decision-makers of the value of health services such as rehabilitation.

 

In the last edition of Frontline members were given a ‘doorstep challenge’ to quiz candidates who come knocking on where they stand. Next the CSP will be launching a #backingrehab campaign to encourage candidates to say that, if elected, they will be advocates for quality rehabilitation in their communities. 

 

There are a number of ways in which your elected representatives can act to promote quality rehabilitation services. For example, they can visit a local service, write an article for their local newspaper, or advocate for rehabilitation services in parliament, assembly and town hall. 

 

By engaging with candidates over the election, and getting them to sign up to the #backingrehab campaign, we hope to get more politicians making pre-election commitments to being advocates for quality rehabilitation services. The CSP will be promoting its core interest in rehabilitation and seeking support from other health bodies and patient groups. Members’ support will be essential for success. We will contact candidates by email, asking them to sign up. But CSP members like you can help by contacting your local candidates as well. Ask them  for their support and keep up the pressure on social media. CSP members in the devolved nations will hear more shortly.