Grenfell survivors’ NHS support service faces funding cut

In 2018, NHS England allocated £50 million to support the community’s recovery efforts, funding a service dedicated to those affected by the tragic fire in June 2017. To maintain this vital support, the Integrated Care Board (ICB) has submitted a bid seeking an additional £1.8 million, according to reports from the Local Democracy Reporting Service.

The fire that occurred in June 2017 resulted in the deaths of 72 individuals. The Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) has announced that it will reach decisions on any charges before the 10th anniversary of the incident, which falls on 14 June 2027. Meanwhile, local authorities are focused on ensuring continued care and support for survivors and the bereaved.

Lucy Knight, who serves as the lead member for adult social care and public health on Kensington and Chelsea council, emphasized that “no-one should be left worrying” about the future availability of care services. She acknowledged that the upcoming period may be particularly challenging for the community and cautioned against altering the current care model simply to reduce costs unless it remains capable of meeting people’s needs.

A cross-party motion at the council called for the ICB and the local NHS trust to prioritize survivors and bereaved families, urging NHS England to confirm long-term funding commitments. Representatives from both the ICB and Central and North West London NHS Foundation Trust, which operates the service, are scheduled to attend a council scrutiny meeting in December to discuss ongoing arrangements. According to a recent update from the service, support will “not simply stop,” and the ICB reiterated its commitment to shaping future care plans with input from local people, aiming to finalize proposals promptly. NHS England also expressed its support for efforts that ensure affected individuals continue to receive necessary care