Relive the Highlights from Our Walk on June 16th

On June 16, 2024, hundreds of Newark residents came together to Walk for Urgent Care, marching through our town to demand better healthcare services at Newark Hospital. The energy, unity, and passion on display that day were unforgettable, and we’re so grateful to everyone who participated in this incredible event.But the fight for 24/7 urgent care in Newark is far from over. That’s why we’re inviting you to join us again for another walk on Sunday, October 19th, 2024, from 10 am to 12 pm.Why Are We Walking Again?In June, we raised awareness and gathered over 2,200 signatures in support of extending the opening hours of Newark Hospital’s Urgent Treatment Centre (UTC). While this was a huge step forward, we must keep up the pressure. Newark’s UTC closes at 9:30 PM, and many people, especially families and the elderly, struggle to access care after hours.As Councillor Susan Crosby points out: "Newark’s population has grown significantly in recent years, with thousands of new homes and families moving into the area. We need 24/7 urgent care services now more than ever, and yet our hospital doors remain closed overnight. We’re asking everyone to join us again and demand the healthcare our community deserves."In 2010, the local Accident & Emergency Department closed, with a promise that urgent care would still be available 24 hours a day. But that promise has not been kept, and residents are often forced to travel to hospitals far outside Newark for emergency care. This is not just an inconvenience—it’s a matter of safety and health.How You Can HelpYour voice matters. By walking with us on October 19th, you’ll help amplify the demands of Newark’s residents for better healthcare. Together, we can remind decision-makers that our community will not be ignored.Event Details:Date: Sunday, October 19th, 2024Time: 10 AM – 12 PMStart Point: Newark MarketRoute: Newark Market to Newark Hospital via Bridge St, Baldertongate, Library Gardens, Beaumond Gardens, and London Rd, finishing at Bowbridge Rd near the hospital.Wear white to show unity, and bring your banners to spread the message! WFUC T-shirts will also be available on a first-come, first-served basis.Why Newark Needs 24/7 Urgent CareThe stories we’ve heard from residents since the last walk highlight how critical it is to have round-the-clock care in our town. Dr Neil Ross, who has been a strong advocate for 24/7 services, will be marching again, emphasising: "In 2010, we were promised that urgent care would remain available 24 hours a day. That promise was broken, and today, too many people in Newark are struggling to access care, especially during the night. With the growing population, we need those services now more than ever."Join Us – Together We Can Make a DifferenceThis walk is about more than just a symbolic gesture. It’s about standing together as a community and showing that we care about the future of healthcare in Newark.Share this video from our June 16th walk to remind everyone of our incredible turnout and energy last time.Invite your friends, family, and neighbours to join us on October 19th.Sign the petition for 24/7 urgent care if you haven’t already. Every signature counts!Get Involved and Spread the WordLet’s make this walk even bigger than the last!Spread the word on social media, and help build momentum by sharing your own stories and concerns about healthcare in Newark.The health of our community is in our hands. By coming together, we can ensure Newark gets the 24/7 urgent care it deserves.Let’s keep fighting for a better future for everyone in Newark. Join us on October 19th and help make a difference!