Clwyd South MP, Simon Baynes, has shown his support for thalidomide survivors and campaigners by signing a letter to Rt Hon Matt Hancock MP, the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, to support the renewal of the Health Grant provided to thalidomide survivors that is due to come to an end in 2022.
On 27th October 2020, Charlotte Raymond, a member of the office of Simon Baynes MP attended a virtual meeting with Mikey Argy MBE, Parliamentary Campaign Coordinator for Thalidomide Campaigners. Miss Argy highlighted the many ways in which the grant has helped thalidomide survivors and the uncertainty facing those who currently receive the money as the final payment under the existing Health Grant is due to be made in June 2022.
The damage from thalidomide impacts the daily life of survivors as many day to day activities can cause significant pain and can also have an impact on sleep and mental health. The grant money for thalidomide survivors helps with purchasing equipment which maintains independence and ongoing physiotherapy.
Simon Baynes MP said:
“I very much support this important campaign and I am happy to sign the letter to the Health Secretary to help those suffering from the effects of thalidomide. I want to wish the campaigners the very best in their campaign and am proud to support such a vitally important campaign for those suffering with the daily effects of thalidomide.”
