Local NHS to set up health advice line in response to Walleys Quarry data publication

Staffordshire and Stoke-on-Trent health leaders have responded to public concerns around recent news of data reporting at the Walleys Quarry site by setting up a resident’s health advice line.

Odours from the Walleys Quarry landfill site have affected residents and businesses across Newcastle-under-Lyme, and parts of Stoke-on-Trent, for several years. Recently, there have been questions raised around the accuracy of the hydrogen sulphide monitors around the Walleys Quarry landfill site.

The resident’s health advice line, which goes live from 8am tomorrow (Saturday 7 October), will not be providing clinical diagnosis but will give advice for patients with health concerns related to the issues from Walleys Quarry; it can also provide information and signposting to the right service.

Dr Paul Edmondson-Jones, Chief Medical Officer at NHS Staffordshire and Stoke-on-Trent Integrated Care Board said: “An announcement of this nature will give the public concerns. 

“The local NHS, alongside the GP Federation and the Local Medical Committee, has been swift to set up a resident’s health advice line. 

“While the phone line is not there to provide treatment, those with health concerns related to the issues from Walleys Quarry can ring and speak to a health professional who can offer advice. 

“However, the advice line is not a replacement for the urgent access to local healthcare in your area.

“I am thankful to our local partners who have reacted quickly to ensure we have put the necessary infrastructure in place to support our residents.” Patients who have health concerns related to the issues from Walleys Quarry can contact the Walleys Quarry resident health advice helpline on 01782 651652.  The operating hours are between 8am and 8pm: Saturday 7, Monday 9 and Tuesday 10 November. On Sunday 8 November, the advice line will be in operation from 10am to 2pm.