VIP visitor for staff and patients

Batley and Spen’s new MP Jo Cox was given a tour of the hospital’s Priestley Unit in Staincliffe.

She was shown around the facility by Steven Michael, the chief executive of South West Yorkshire Mental Health Trust.

Mrs Cox spoke to staff and patients about the work the unit does.

During the Queen’s Speech debate in the House of Commons on Tuesday, she told MPs about her visit to the unit and raised concerns about government policy increasing demand for mental health services.

The Labout MP told the Commons: “The welfare changes implemented over the past five years have put an incredible strain on vulnerable people who need mental health care, and, according to the projection for the next five years, the number of people in that terrible situation will increase and our mental health care services will have to meet an increased demand.”

Mrs Cox will host her first MP’s advice surgery this weekend.

The session will be held on Saturday in the Mayor’s Parlour at Cleckheaton Town Hall from 10am until noon.

She said “I will be holding regular advice surgeries all across the constituency as well as ad hoc specialist surgeries as required.”

Any constituents who would like to raise an issue with their MP can attend the surgery.

Alternatively, call Mrs Cox on 01924 910499.