Calls for inquiry over collapse of OneNorwich Practices

OneNorwich Practices, which also runs the Norwich walk-in centre, has announced it can only afford to continue running until the end of the year and will be going out of business in the coming months.

NHS bosses say its services are not in jeopardy and new providers will be found to continue them after the company ceases.

However, calls are now being made for a full inquiry into how the company ended up in its financial position.

Lucy Galvin, who represents the Green Party on Norwich City Council said: "We need an inquiry into what has happened.

"Serious concerns were raised that the board has been chaotic, that there were no clear pathways for finance, and that there was a huge turnover of staff and poor management.

"The directors of OneNorwich have questions to answer about how this collapse came about, when the problems were first known, and who will be held to account."

Meanwhile, Norwich South MP Clive Lewis has called for more clarity over how patients will be affected by the collapse.

The company currently runs the GP practice on Rouen Road, the walk-in centre and Norwich's vulnerable adults service - as well as helping refugees access health services.

But bosses at NHS Norfolk and Waveney say these will continue beyond the closure, with new providers currently being sought for them.

Labour MP Clive Lewis and North Norwich candidate Alice Macdonald outside the Norwich walk-in centre (Image: Norwich Labour)In a joint statement with Alice Macdonald, Labour's parliamentary candidate for Norwich North, Mr Lewis said: "This is very concerning news.

"Staff and patients need to know exactly what this news will mean for them.

"We will be urgently seeking reassurances from the ICB that a clear plan of action is in place so people have the health services they need and there is clarity for staff over their jobs."