Two of the major Primary Care Trusts (PCTs) funding the homeopathic hospital in Tunbridge Wells have given notice of their intention to withdraw funding from the service, as part of a cost-saving exercise designed to save £9.6 million.

Both South West Kent and Maidstone Weald PCTs (which merged on 1 October to form West Kent PCT) have said that in the future, patient referrals will be considered by an 'Individual Treatment Panel' which will "ensure that the treatment recommended is evidence-based". This is likely to mean that getting homeopathic treatment in these areas will become extremely difficult.

A vigorous campaign opposing the cuts is underway with support from local GPs and patients. The campaigners meet weekly and hand out posters, information and encourage people to sign a petition every Saturday in Tunbridge Wells. The British Homeopathic Association is fully behind the campaign to protect the services, which if cut would only save the PCT involved around £160,000.

If you would like to support the campaign, please email sbuckingham@trusthomeopathy.org for further information.