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Ipswich MP Jack Abbott calls for urgent action on local mental health services

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During a Westminster Hall debate yesterday, Jack Abbott, MP for Ipswich, raised serious concerns about the quality of care provided by the Norfolk and Suffolk Foundation Trust (NSFT).

The big picture: The NSFT has been under scrutiny for years, with Abbott describing it as "arguably still...the worst performing mental health trust in the whole country" since its creation in 2012.

Why it matters: Mental health services in Ipswich and Suffolk are facing significant challenges, potentially putting patients at risk.

Key points:

  • Abbott highlighted issues with unexpected and unrecorded deaths at the Trust.

  • He criticised the NSFT's "shockingly insufficient internal mortality reporting processes."

  • The MP requested a meeting with the Minister from the Department of Health and Social Care.

What they're saying: Abbott emphasised the need for both justice and change, stating: "The families who have suffered so much deserve justice. And all of my constituents deserve change."

What's next: Abbott has called for a meeting with the relevant minister to discuss improving mental health care in Suffolk.

The bottom line: As the UK grapples with what many describe as a national mental health crisis, Ipswich residents are facing particularly acute challenges with their local mental health services.

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Ipswich teen's marathon bid to repay charity that helped him adapt to UK life

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Osman Abdullah, 19, will tackle the 26-mile course on 27 April to raise money for the charity that supported him since moving to the UK from Sudan.

Why it matters: The Suffolk New College  student hopes to raise £2,000 for the YMCA, which has helped him adjust to life in the UK after arriving from Sudan two years ago.

Osman in his training kit outside the college
Osman in his training kit outside the collegeSuffolk New College

The details: Osman, who studies English (ESOL) and Maths, has been training regularly on the streets of Ipswich in preparation for the event.

"I've never run a marathon before — but the training is going very well. I run with a friend around Ipswich. I also do yoga. I'm really excited by this. The YMCA will be supporting me during the run and I'm determined to complete the course," he said.

By the numbers: Osman has already raised over £600 towards his target and has been completing half marathons in preparation for the 26-mile run.

Support efforts: Suffolk New College has donated branded training kit and will be buying him trainers to support his fundraising effort.

Craig Shimmon, Head of Marketing at Suffolk New College, said: "Hats off to Osman. He is a true inspiration. Supporting him via the donation of training kit is the least we can do."

The college is also staging additional fundraising events, some organised by students.

The bottom line: "I'm so grateful to them and want to raise as much as I can for people who have helped me so much. I really want to give something back to the YMCA, as I lived there and know they need extra help financially," Osman said.

Those wishing to donate to Osman's charity effort can visit his fundraising page on the YMCA England & Wales website.

Suffolk New College

Suffolk New College is a multi-award-winning institution that offers a diverse range of career-focused courses in amazing facilities.

Suffolk New College Ipswich campus
Oliver Rouane-Williams speaking with an elderly couple in the town centre

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