Statement on Withnell Health Centre - 18 January 2024

Craig Harris, chief operating officer at NHS Lancashire and South Cumbria Integrated Care Board (ICB), said: “As the public body responsible for commissioning GP services in Lancashire and South Cumbria, we’d like to provide an update in relation to the situation at Withnell Health Centre.

“A decision on the approach to be taken in relation to the procurement option was due to be made today at our primary care commissioning committee meeting, however the committee has agreed to defer a formal decision on the procurement route until further advice is sought.

“The Provider Selection Regime (PSR), which is the national guidance we have to adhere to, was published on the 1st January 2024 and we are one of the first ICBs in the country to apply this. During the meeting, a few points were raised by committee members that we need to seek legal clarity on before going forward.

“We know this isn’t an ideal situation, but we’d like to reassure the local population that we are still on track with the time frames that were originally set. We remain committed to securing the best outcome for Withnell Health Centre and its patients within the legal guidance we are required and permitted to consider.

“Securing high-quality services for our local population remains a priority for the ICB.”

A summary of the key decisions from the Primary Care Commissioning Committee on 18 January 2024 is available on this webpage.