Tom Gordon MP Champions Local GPs and Calls for Urgent Funding to Improve Access

This week, Tom Gordon, Liberal Democrat MP for Harrogate and Knaresborough, spoke in a debate on GP access in the House of Commons, highlighting both the urgent challenges faced by local GP practices and the outstanding commitment of doctors serving the community.

During the debate, Tom firstly raised concerns about barriers that are preventing GPs from delivering the care patients need. He cited ongoing work with local Liberal Democrat councillor Hannah Gostlow to address healthcare issues in Knaresborough, focusing on a case in which a well-staffed GP practice is unable to operate at the capacity they want due to a lack of consulting rooms.

Despite coping well with high demand and continuing to see a significant number of patients, many local practices are being held back by inadequate infrastructure - namely, a shortage of consulting rooms. It’s a clear example of how insufficient funding is directly limiting GP practices’ ability to deliver the care patients need and deserve.

During the debate, Tom expressed frustration that committed staff are unable to fully meet patient needs due to avoidable constraints. He emphasised the urgent need for increased investment to ensure GPs have the facilities required to operate effectively and keep up with rising demand.

In addition to raising these concerns, Tom used the opportunity to highlight the exceptional dedication of GPs in his constituency. He specifically acknowledged Dr Viv Poskitt, a local GP and newly elected Liberal Democrat town councillor, who has provided him with direct insights into the everyday challenges faced by primary care professionals.

Commenting, Tom said: 

“It’s simply unacceptable that GP practices in my constituency - and no doubt many others across the country - have the staff ready and willing to meet rising demand yet can’t put them to work because of something as basic as a lack of space. This is a failure of planning and funding, and its patients who suffer as a result.

“GPs are the backbone of our NHS. They can’t keep delivering high-quality care without the right support - this means not just more staff, but the proper facilities and resources to do their jobs effectively.

“I’ll keep fighting to make sure our local services get the investment they need and that the dedicated professionals working in them are properly recognised, valued, and supported.” 

Councillor Hannah Gostlow added: 

“I have seen firsthand the pressure on our community in Knaresborough when development comes without the investment in infrastructure. GPs are working flat out to care for patients, but they’re being held back by problems that could be fixed with the right investment. 

“We’re not asking for luxuries - just the space and resources to meet growing communities and therefore demand and give people the care they deserve.”

ENDS