THE future of Portland Hospital is to be discussed at a public meeting – and residents are invited to attend and ask questions in advance.

As recently revealed by the Echo, Portland Hospital’s minor injuries department and X-ray facilities are to remain closed for the foreseeable future, prompting further concerns among the community after beds were axed from the hospital in 2018.

A public listening event about local healthcare services has now been called by Portland Hospital Development Group and is being held at Easton Methodist Church Hall on Wednesday February 8, from 7pm until 8.30pm.

Local healthcare bosses will be in attendance and organisers say it is an important opportunity for leaders to hear from residents about their experiences accessing and using public services, with a particular focus on healthcare.

Questions can be submitted in advance by contacting Island Community Action – details below. As well as Portland Hospital, questions are welcomed on topics including local pharmacy services, dentistry and general healthcare services relevant to people living on the island, as well as in Wyke Regis.

At the event will be Patricia Miller of NHS Dorset Integrated Care System – an organisation which comprises representatives from the NHS, local councils and voluntary groups - all of which are working in partnership to improve the health and wellbeing of people in Dorset. Also at the meeting will be Dawn Dawson of Dorset HealthCare.

Organisers have extended their thanks to healthcare figures who have confirmed attendance so far.

Residents are now being encouraged to put forward any questions they may have in advance of the event; please note the deadline for submitting a question is Monday February 6 and only those made in advance can be addressed at the meeting.

Questions can be submitted to Island Community Action via email:  office@islandcommunityaction.org.uk or Facebook Messenger, via the Island Community Action Facebook page: www.facebook.com/islandcommunityaction

Letters can be addressed to ICA, The Easton Centre, Portland DT5 1EB.

The meeting is being held at Easton Methodist Hall,  7 Reforne, Easton, Portland DT5 2AL.