Join the Movement: Walk for Urgent Care in Newark on October 19th!
The need for 24/7 urgent care in Newark has never been greater. As our community grows, so does the demand for healthcare services. With thousands of new homes built and more families moving into Newark, residents face increasing difficulties accessing urgent medical care—especially after 9:30pm when the Newark Hospital Urgent Treatment Centre (UTC) closes its doors.
Earlier this year, we took to the streets in an incredible show of community strength and determination. Hundreds came together to Walk for Urgent Care, demanding extended hours at Newark’s UTC. The energy and passion from that day were inspiring, and we’ve made progress by raising awareness and gathering more than 2,000 signatures on our petition led by Ms. Susan Crosby.
But the work is far from over.
Why Are We Walking Again?
In 2010, Newark Hospital’s Accident & Emergency (A&E) Department was closed despite strong opposition from 70% of the local population. We were promised that a 24/7 urgent care service would replace it, but that promise has never been fully realised. With the UTC closing at 9:30pm and many patients needing to travel to hospitals in Kings Mill, Lincoln, Grantham, or Queen’s Medical Centre for overnight care, residents are left with limited options.
Susan Crosby, Newark & Sherwood District Councillor and leader of the petition for extended urgent care hours, states:
"Our population is growing rapidly, and the existing healthcare services simply can’t cope. Families and elderly residents especially are struggling to access care when they need it most. That’s why we’re asking everyone to come out on October 19th and walk with us to demand what Newark deserves—24/7 urgent care at our local hospital."
The Importance of 24/7 Urgent Care
Medical emergencies don't follow a schedule in a town the size of Newark, with its growing population and ageing demographic. Dr Neil Ross, who will also be marching on October 19th, explains the gravity of the situation:
"We were promised a 24-hour urgent treatment service back in 2010. In the 15 years since, our population has grown dramatically, and the need for medical care has only increased. Yet residents are still expected to travel long distances for overnight care. This isn't just an inconvenience—it’s a danger to our most vulnerable citizens."
Join Us on October 19th
We’re inviting everyone to join us on Sunday, October 19th, from 10am to 12pm, as we march through Newark to show our commitment to the health and well-being of our community. Together, we will send a powerful message to decision-makers that Newark deserves 24/7 urgent care.
Walk Details:
Date: Sunday, October 19th, 2024
Time: 10am – 12pm
Start Point: Newark Market
Route: From Newark Market to Newark Hospital, passing through Bridge St, Baldertongate, Library Gardens, Beaumond Gardens, London Rd, Bowbridge Rd, and Newark Hospital.
What to Bring:
Wear white to show unity.
Bring your banners with messages in support of 24/7 urgent care.
WFUC T-shirts will be available on a first-come, first-served basis.
Most importantly, bring your voice and passion to demand better healthcare for Newark.
Why Your Voice Matters
This isn’t just about statistics or policies—it’s about real people with real lives. As Susan Crosby explains, many residents have shared their personal stories of the challenges they face in accessing timely medical care. The current system is failing too many people, from long waits at GP surgeries to the high cost of travelling for urgent treatment. By walking together, we can amplify those voices and remind decision-makers that the health of Newark residents cannot be ignored.
Get Involved
Sign the petition if you haven’t already done so.
Spread the word about this event by sharing it with friends and family.
Share our videos and stories on social media to help build awareness.
We need everyone who cares about the future of healthcare in Newark to join us. Let’s show that our community is strong, united, and ready for change.
Together, we can push for the 24/7 urgent care that Newark needs and deserves. Join the movement, walk with us, and help make a difference for everyone in our town.
