Sussex Defend the NHS is a Brighton-based network of campaigners, health workers and trade union activists. Our organisation is not affiliated to any political party.
WHAT DO WE STAND FOR?
We stand for a publicly funded, publicly provided, publicly accountable NHS. This is the most efficient and cost effective way to provide universal healthcare free at the point of need.
We oppose changes that undermine, reduce and fragment our National Health Service, recognising that these are commercially driven by companies seeking to profit from public funds.
We believe in an NHS that treats all staff and patients fairly: we stand up against racism in the workplace and for the rights of migrants to access free treatment. We support an increase in funding to improve staffing, bed availability and everyone’s access to care.
We are seeking an end to privatisation and a restoration of the founding principles of the NHS. Therefore we want the NHS Bill (www.nhsbillnow.org) passed by parliament.
Nye Bevan, founder of the NHS, said: “The NHS will last as long as there are folk left with the faith to fight for it”. We, and many others across the country, are those people.
WHAT DO WE DO?
We support all NHS, health and social care workers who want to defend their jobs from cuts and privatisation, and who want to improve their pay and the services they provide.
We research, publicise and challenge the privatisation of health and social care.
We hold public meetings, film screenings and stalls to raise awareness.
We organise rallies and marches when action is needed.
We monitor and question the health policies and decisions of local Clinical Commissioning Groups, NHS Trust Boards and Brighton and Hove City Council and we lobby for change.
We work with other groups to make sure migrants have full access to healthcare.
We actively support other campaigns defending public sector services.
WHO DO WE WORK WITH?
National NHS campaigns including Keep Our NHS Public, Health Campaigns Together, We Own It, Just Treatment, Medact and Docs not Cops.
Local trade union branches and the Brighton and Hove Trades Council
Regional groups across Sussex including Hastings, Eastbourne and Chichester.
Save Brighton General Campaign
Living Rent Campaign
People Before Profit
BSUHT BME Network
Stand Up To Racism
Black Lives Matter
HOW DO I GET INVOLVED?
You can keep in touch with our activities via Facebook and Twitter and by signing up for our monthly newsletter and calendar by providing your contact details below.