Steve Darling: Good news for the Bay

Last week brought more than sunshine to our bay.

NHS Devon announced it would not proceed with its plans to remove pPCI cardiac care from Torbay Hospital. This is a deeply significant win for Torbay, and it belongs to every resident who stood up, spoke out, and helped steer this outcome.

From the beginning, I made it clear that the proposal to relocate these life-saving services to Exeter was unacceptable. Expecting someone in the midst of a heart attack to travel so far would put lives at risk. That is why I launched a campaign, standing with the people of Torbay to protect our care.

We rallied together. Thousands signed my petition. I raised concerns directly with NHS bosses and government ministers. I also worked closely with Caroline Voaden and Martin Wrigley, who were powerful allies throughout. But this campaign was not led by politicians; it was driven by people.

Whether you signed a petition, wrote to decision-makers, shared information online or joined local meetings, your efforts made a difference. I thank you sincerely.

The next step lies with NHS Devon, who must develop a new cardiology strategy. They’ve committed to basing it on sound clinical evidence and strong public engagement. That work is due in July, and I will stay involved every step of the way to make sure Torbay is not left behind.

While this decision marks an important step forward, it is clear that Torbay’s healthcare system still needs real investment and sustained attention. 

In a recent debate in Westminster, I spoke about the urgent repairs needed across Torbay Hospital. Only a small portion of the estate meets modern standards. Repeated sewage leaks and unsafe conditions have raised alarm bells. These are not minor issues. They affect staff wellbeing and patient safety.

Torbay needs targeted capital funding to fix these problems and deliver the care our residents deserve. We also need a fairer funding model that recognises the extra challenges coastal and rural communities face. It’s vital that we maintain the integrated health and care services that prevent hospital admissions in the first place. This fight is not over, and I will continue to push hard for these resources.

Another important issue debated in Parliament last week was assisted dying. I know this is a subject that stirs strong emotions. Many of you contacted me with thoughtful reflections and powerful personal stories. I want to thank every person who took the time to write to me.

After careful consideration, I chose to vote against the bill at its final reading. This was not an easy decision. I know some of you will welcome the result, and others will feel disappointed. I respect both perspectives.

When the bill was first introduced, I supported it at Second Reading to allow for wider debate. I do believe in people’s right to autonomy at the end of life, informed in part by my father’s final days. While he received compassionate care in Torbay, I know there are circumstances we wish had been different.

However, as discussions progressed, my concerns grew. With significant gaps in palliative and social care, I worry some might feel forced into this choice out of desperation rather than true consent. I have also spoken to hospice professionals at Rowcroft and others, who raised concerns about ethical safeguards, service delivery and future governance.

I believe any policy change in this space must come with stronger protections and far greater scrutiny. The bill now moves to the House of Lords. If it returns to the Commons, I will continue to engage constructively and push for greater investment in end-of-life care.

If you want to get involved or need assistance, please do reach out. You can contact me via steve.darling.mp@parliament.uk or call 07908 349347. For the latest updates, visit torbaylibdems.org.uk/newsletter.