PODIATRY SERVICES

That this House applauds the work of podiatrists in the community; recognises that podiatrists help to keep people mobile, active and healthy; believes that, in so doing, they improve the quality of life and independence of vulnerable people; welcomes their work, which often prevents further illness, thus saving NHS resources; is concerned that, despite such work, podiatry services are often among the first to be cut back due to budgetary constraints; calls on the Department of Health, primary care trusts and local commissioners fully to recognise the importance of podiatry in keeping the population mobile and preventing more complex and costly health problems; and commends the Society of Chiropodists and Podiatrists on organising their Feet Matter lobby day on 31st January 2007, at which over 100 parliamentarians had their feet checked and discussed these issues with podiatrists.