Give your thoughts to panel reviewing King George closures.

Havering residents are being urged to speak up on the controversial King George Hospital closures by the body reviewing the decision.

Health Minister Andrew Lansley charged the independent reconfiguration panel (IRP) with looking into maternity and A&E ward closures at the Goodmayes hospital proposed by Health for north east London (Health4Nel).

Investigators, who are experts in NHS change, must consider whether the proposals “will enable the provision of safe, sustainable and accessible services for the local population.”

There are fears Queen’s Hospital, in Rom Valley Way, Romford, would be unable to cope with the influx of extra patients diverted by the closures.

Mr Lansley ordered the review after referrals from Havering, Redbridge, Barking & Dagenham councils and Outer North East London Joint Health Overview and Scrutiny Committee.

Panel chairman Peter Barrett said: “As part of our review we would like to hear from all interested parties in north east London, particularly those who have new evidence to offer or feel that their voice has not been heard, including patients, local residents, local authority representatives, interest groups, clinicians and other staff.”

Contact the group by email at info@irpanel.org.uk or by calling 020 7389 8046.

Recommendations will be made to Mr Lansley by July 22, who will then go on to make a decision on the changes.

Findings will be published, after consideration by Mr Lansley, on the IRP website: www.irpanel.org.uk